A stainless steel splashback can make your kitchen look sleek and modern, but keeping it clean? That’s another story. Fingerprints, grease, and water spots love to show up on that shiny surface. The good news is, with the right approach, you can keep it looking spotless without too much effort. Let’s go through some simple and effective ways to clean and maintain your stainless steel splashback.
Everyday Cleaning: Quick and Easy
If your splashback isn’t too dirty, a daily wipe-down can stop grime from building up. Warm water and a microfibre cloth are usually enough to remove light stains and dust. Just dampen the cloth, wipe the surface, and then dry it with another clean cloth to avoid streaks. Simple, right?
For a little extra cleaning power, add a drop of mild washing-up liquid to the water. This will help break down grease without harming the stainless steel. Just make sure you rinse with clean water and dry the surface properly watermarks can be a pain!
Dealing with Grease and Stubborn Stains
Kitchens are messy places, and sometimes a splash of sauce or a greasy fingerprint refuses to budge. When that happens, try white vinegar. It’s a lifesaver for cutting through grease. Just pour a little onto a cloth, wipe in the direction of the grain, and then rinse with water. The smell disappears once it dries, but if vinegar isn’t your thing, diluted washing-up liquid works too.
Another trick? Bicarbonate of soda. If you’re dealing with a really stubborn stain, make a paste with water and bicarbonate, apply it gently with a soft cloth, and wipe it off. It’s gentle but effective—no scratches, no fuss.
Getting Rid of Streaks and Fingerprints
Nothing is more frustrating than cleaning your splashback only to be left with streaks. Stainless steel loves to show them off. The best way to avoid this is by drying the surface immediately after cleaning. A dry microfibre cloth works wonders for buffing out streaks and bringing back that shine.
If fingerprints are a regular problem, a tiny bit of baby oil or olive oil on a soft cloth can help. Wipe it lightly across the surface, and you’ll see an instant improvement. Just don’t overdo it—you don’t want an oily residue collecting dust.
What to Avoid When Cleaning Stainless Steel
Not all cleaning methods are splashback-friendly. Some can actually cause damage over time. Here’s what to steer clear of:
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Abrasive pads or steel wool – They might remove dirt, but they’ll also scratch the surface. Once stainless steel gets scratched, it’s hard to fix.
- Bleach and harsh chemicals – Stainless steel can react badly to strong cleaners, leading to dull spots or even corrosion.
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Too much water – Sounds strange, but leaving water on the surface for too long can cause streaks and marks. Always dry it off properly.
Keeping It Clean for Longer
Once your splashback is gleaming, the trick is keeping it that way. A quick daily wipe-down makes a big difference, but here are a few extra tips:
- If you cook a lot, give it a proper clean once a week to stop grease from building up.
- Always clean in the direction of the grain this prevents streaking and keeps the surface looking smooth.
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If you want to go the extra mile, there are stainless steel cleaners available that add a protective layer. Not essential, but handy if you want that extra shine.
