Though tempting, do not use abrasives on this bacteria-resistant, durable, and sleek material.

Treat scratches on stainless steel as soon as they are discovered to prevent them from becoming more unsightly.

Whilestainless steel doesn’t rust easily, it can discolor if grime or bacteria become trapped in the scratches.

Removing scratches on a stainless steel refrigerator

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Learn how toget scratches outof stainless steel with the following steps and bring the metal back to its shine.

Always consult the user’s manual for recommendations.

The polishes provide temporary coverage that can be reapplied each time after you clean.

Materials for cleaning stainless steel surfaces

The Spruce / Sarah Lee

A clean surface will make the scratches that need attention more visible.

It is crucial to find that grain and follow it as you buff out the scratches.

Working against the grain will cause damage that is nearly impossible to reverse.

Cleaning the surface with warm soapy water

The Spruce / Sarah Lee

Choose a Buffing Compound

There are numerous commercial stainless steel scratch removers on the market.

Buff the Scratch

If using a commercial compound, follow the label directions.

Clean Away the Paste

Use a dampened microfiber cloth to wipe away the paste.

Identifying the grain on the stainless steel surface

The Spruce / Sarah Lee

Clean the surface with vinegar and a damp microfiber cloth to remove all of the grit.

Then polish the surface with oil to bring back the shine.

Always try the tips for removing light scratches before you move on to this stronger cleaning method.

buffing compounds to use on stainless steel

The Spruce / Sarah Lee

Deep scratches can be tough to remove or minimize, especially on coated stainless steel.

For uncoated stainless steel, you might risk trying a commercial stainless steel scratch repair kit.

Hairline scratches can occur on stainless steel over time as part of normal wear and tear.

Applying cleaning paste with a microfiber cloth

The Spruce / Sarah Lee

Cleaning a stainless steel surface with vinegar spray

The Spruce / Sarah Lee

Polishing the stainless steel with oil

The Spruce / Sarah Lee