How NOT to Clean Stainless Steel Sinks - How This Common Cleaner Causes Rusting

Say no to Steel Wool to Clean Stainless Sinks!
This is an interesting little cleaning tidbit that I just learned the other day. Are you a fan of steel wool for cleaning your stainless steel sinks? Well, after reading this, you might find a new cleaning pad to rely on.

The problem with cleaning your stainless steel sinks with steel wool is the fact that the steel wool can easily break down, allowing small bits of the steel to imbed into the sink. This inferior grade of steel can then rust! So, cleaning your stainless sink with steel wool could actually cause tiny bits of rust to form all over the surface of your sink...maybe causing you to think that your sink itself is rusty, when it actually isn't.

How SHOULD I Clean my Stainless Sink?
What to use instead? Switch from steel wool to natural scrubbers. Did you know, for instance, that you can use natural loofah to clean with? You can! It's a good, natural and non-toxic scrubber that is sink-friendly too. Or, you can find stainless-safe scrubby sponges at supermarkets now - just remember to clean with the grain of the stainless steel to prevent a lot of scratching and marking.

My all-time favorite way to get a stainless sink sparkling is by using either liquid or powder Barkeeper's Friend. People roll their eyes at this suggestion...until they try the stuff. It is now one of my favorite all-purpose cleaners and I use it all the time! If you can't find a retailer that carries Barkeeper's Friend cleanser, order it online from their website or Amazon. It is SO worth it! (And cheap...a few bucks a bottle.)

Reader's Question - Cleaning Fingerprints off Stainless Steel Appliances

Ah yes, the fingerprint prone stainless steel appliance! They look chic in your kitchen, but those smudgy fingerprints really wreck that distinguished look you were going for. Do you relate to this email sent in by Bev?
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Hello,

I was wondering if you or your readers have any good tips for removing those pesky finger prints off of stainless steel appliances? Cleaning has become a nightmare since getting these new toys!

Thank you,

Bev

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Hey Bev,

I have a great solution for you that's not only effective, it's natural! (Oh, and did I mention cheap??) You probably already have this ingredient nestled in your pantry - olive oil! Just a tiny amount on a soft cloth or paper towel will work wonders at removing those fingerprint disasters that are smudging up your gorgeous appliances. Literally just a few drops is all you need.

Give it a go and let me know the results, okay?
Take care,
Christina