Regular Windex shouldn’t be used on stainless steel because the ammonia in it can harm the metal. The stainless steel can be cleaned with glass cleaners or rubbing alcohol.
For cleaning stainless steel, Windex advises against using their product. Ammonia is present in Windex. Additionally, repeatedly cleaning stainless steel with ammonia-based window cleaner can harm the material’s glossy finish or promote the growth of rust.
In order to keep your shiny surfaces shining, let’s find out if this is a good idea or if there are other, more effective options.
Can You Use Windex to Clean a Stainless Steel?
While some people disagree, many people advise using all-purpose cleaners like Windex for stainless steel. All the information you require regarding Windex and cleaning stainless steel with it can be found here.
An all-purpose cleaner for hard surfaces that works on various surfaces is called Windex. In addition to being used to clean glass surfaces and kitchen countertops, it can also be used to kill insects, clean patio furniture, and remove stains.
There are many different types of Windex products, and each one should be used in the way that best suits its intended use.
Is It Safe to Clean Stainless Steel With Windex?
Regular Windex shouldn’t be used on stainless steel because the ammonia in it can harm the metal. Although ammonia-free Windex can be used to clean stainless steel, it is best to avoid taking a chance because it is difficult to predict how a cleaner will interact with stainless steel.
Making a choice among various stainless steel cleaners is challenging because of the unpredictability of these products; depending on whether they contain ammonia or not, they might work or they might harm your appliances.
Abrasive cleaners should not be used, according to many stainless steel appliances’ cleaning instructions. Wipe in the direction of the metal grains when using Windex to clean stainless steel. After cleaning stainless steel with Windex, you can also use oil as a type of conditioner for it.
What to Use to Clean Stainless Steel Surfaces
Most stainless steel products come with a care manual, so there probably is a particular “best” cleaner available for the make and model of your appliance.
Since they not only clean but frequently also add a protective layer of mineral oil to protect the surface of the stainless steel appliance, there are specific stainless steel cleaners that meet all the criteria for cleaning these metallic surfaces.
I personally like the Therapy stainless steel wipes, a solvent-free cleaner that uses coconut oil to clean and polish stainless steel surfaces.
But if you don’t have any specific stainless steel cleaners on hand, there are a few better alternatives to using Windex.
- Apply some mild dish soap mixed with warm water to a soft cloth and use it to wipe the stainless steel appliance. Then rinse and dry.
- with warm water and baking soda. Apply it, rinse it off, and then use a soft cloth to pat it dry. Granules of baking soda are not abrasive, so they won’t scratch the finish of stainless steel.
- A great cleaner for stainless steel is equal parts water and vinegar. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe it on, rinse it off, and then dry.
- When it comes to daily touch-ups, a damp microfiber cloth is typically all that is needed. Sometimes the simplest solutions are the best.
DIY Cleaning Solutions
The best and safest stainless steel cleaner might not be the most recent and innovative commercial cleaner. Numerous techniques exist for cleaning stainless steel without using potentially harmful commercial cleaners!
You can test out the effectiveness of these homemade cleaners on your own appliances, but always remember to do a spot test on stainless steel before using any cleaner on it.
Vinegar and Olive Oil
Two microfiber cloths, white vinegar, and olive oil are required. Examine the stainless steel closely to discover the grain. Dirt, grease, and grime can be removed by dabbing vinegar on a microfiber cloth and rubbing it against the grain.
After letting the vinegar dry, dab some olive oil on a second microfiber cloth. To spread the oil, rub the surface counterclockwise to the grain.
This simple procedure will effectively clean, shield, and polish the stainless steel.
Dish Soap and Baby Oil
Dish soap, baby oil, warm water, and three microfiber cloths are required for this DIY cleaner
Warm water should be used to dilute one teaspoon of dish soap in one quart. Wipe the surface with a damp microfiber cloth after applying the cleaning solution.
One quart of water should be mixed with one teaspoon of dish soap. Clean microfiber towels can be used to wipe away the residue after being moistened with fresh, warm water. Work with the grain to incorporate the baby oil after allowing the finish to dry.
Conclusion
The cleaning agent Windex is not advised for use on stainless steel. Since it contains ammonia, it gradually erodes the metal’s top layer, causing a decrease in gloss or even the eventual appearance of rust.
However, if your mother-in-law is making an unexpected visit and you are doing an emergency clean up, and must use Windex, try using ammonia free Windex. I would still advise you to err on the side of caution even though Windex won’t immediately corrode your appliances if used occasionally.
Your stainless steel appliances will remain spotless for many years if you use a microfiber cloth and a small amount of mild soap.
FAQs
What is the Best Thing to Clean Stainless Steel?
1. In a fresh spray bottle, add white vinegar.
2. Your stainless steel appliance with water.
3. Using a microfiber cloth, clean up.
4. Once it is clean, dunk it briefly in some olive oil.
Can I Use Glass Cleaner on Stainless Steel?
Avoid using ammonia-containing glass cleaners. Even if you thoroughly rinse, it’s still not a good idea to use Windex to remove obstinate fingerprints from stainless steel surfaces.
Does Windex Leave Streaks on Stainless Steel?
If you don’t properly rinse the surface after using Windex or another cleaning product, it could leave unsightly stains. Many eminent homeowners advocate oils, especially those who champion eco-friendly or natural goods like vinegar or baking soda. It’s impossible for essential oils to harm stainless steel.