How to Remove Rust and Food Stains From Stainless Steel

Before You Begin

Stainless steel is a steel alloy that contains a minimum of 10.5 percent chromium. Chromium gives the steel its corrosion resistance. Rather than oxidizing and discoloring when exposed to air or water, chromium reacts to form a thin protective coating on stainless steel. Although this protective layer can be scrubbed away, the protective film quickly reforms, which is why stainless steel surfaces seem indestructible in a kitchen.

This shiny material can be scratched fairly easily. This is less problematic with a matte-finish surface, like that found on some sinks, but shiny stainless steel requires some care to remove stains without scratching the finish.

Examine your stainless steel surface and determine if it has a grain pattern. While the metal itself is solid, the process by which the manufacturer polished the surface may leave it with faint directional scratches. Whenever you scrub a stainless steel surface—even if using so-called "non-scratch" pads—try to gently rub the stains in the same direction as the grain already present on the surface.

How to Remove Stains With Steam Cleaning

Many stains will be lifted from stainless steel by the action of steam vapor. 

1. Heat Water

   Heat water to boiling in a kettle with a spout that will allow you to pour the hot water safely.

2. Place Towel on Surface of Stain

   Place a paper towel or microfiber towel over the stained surface.

3. Pour Hot Water on Towel

   Pour enough of the boiling water onto the paper towel to wet it. Allow the steam to work for five to 10 minutes.

4. Rub Surface Along the Grain

   Once the surface has cooled, rub the surface with the paper towel, moving with the direction of the grain. If this does not remove the stain, try the next solution. 

How to Remove Stains With Baking Soda and Dish Soap

Baking soda mixed with liquid dish soap can make a good paste to gently rub out stains. Baking soda is a very fine abrasive that is unlikely to seriously scratch the stainless steel surface.

1. Mix Baking Soda and Dish Soap

   Apply the mixture of baking soda and liquid dish soap to a microfiber cloth or another soft cloth, then rub at the stain, moving back and forth in the same directions as the grain in the metal. 

   Warning

   • Do not use standard abrasive cleaners on stainless steel and prevent them from contacting the metal.
   • Never use steel wool, wire brushes, or other abrasive cleaning tools on stainless steel. Non-scratch vinyl scrubbing pads can be used. 

2. Rinse and Towel Dry

   After rubbing, rinse the stainless steel surface thoroughly and towel it dry. Examine the surface. If this has not removed the stain, try the next technique.

How to Remove Stains With Vinegar

1. Pour Vinegar on the Surface

   Pour a little white vinegar or apple cider vinegar onto the stained surface.

2. Let Sit

   Let it sit for a few minutes; the gentle acid in the vinegar may lift out the stains.

3. Rub Stain in the Direction of the Grain

   Rub the stain with a soft cloth, following the grain of the steel.

4. Rinse and Towel Dry

   Rinse thoroughly and dry the surface with a clean towel. Examine the stained area; if discoloration still is present, you should consider a commercial product.

As a last resort, if the stains still do not budge, try a stainless steel cleaner and polisher. Barkeeper's Friend is one such powder formula that can clean without excessive scratching. Follow the directions, rinse thoroughly, and towel dry.