How to Repair Scratched Coating on Stainless Steel Fridges

Avoid caustic chemicals when cleaning stainless steel.

Stainless steel appliances are commonly regarded as an attractive part of a modern kitchen. Stainless steel refrigerators, stoves and other appliances are known for their bright and shiny appearance, but the surface is also prone to scratches and other damage. If your kitchen is home to a stainless steel fridge, it makes sense to learn how to remove those scratches and keep it looking great.

Things You'll Need

• Sponge
• Cloth
• Detergent
• Non-abrasive cleanser

Instructions

1. Fill a bowl with warm water. Add a mild dish detergent and stir until it forms a sudsy mixture. Dip a sponge in that soapy mixture.

2. Sponge the soapy mixture over the surface of the stainless steel refrigerator. Rub the sponge over the surface in the direction of the grain. Dry the fridge thoroughly when you are done.

3. Apply a small amount of a non-abrasive cleaner to the damp sponge. Rub the sponge over the scratched areas in the direction of the grain. Rinse the excess cleanser away with a sponge or cloth, then dry the surface with a soft cloth.

4. Apply a small amount of a commercial preparation designed to remove scratches from stainless steel. You can find these products at stores that sell stainless steel appliances and also on the Internet.

5. Replace the refrigerator door panel if it is heavily scratched or otherwise damaged. Heavy scratches require professional cleaning, which can be more costly than simply replacing the damaged panel.

References

• Stainless Steel Sinks: Cleaning Stainless Steel
• Stainless Steel Information Center: Frequently Asked Questions