From your kitchen sink to cookware, refrigerators to stovetops… stainless steel is quite a beauty when it’s spotless. Here are some agents you can use to help keep your stainless steel products shining like they’re brand new.

1. Warm water. Many stainless steel products just need some warm water to replenish the shine it has lost. Simply rinse in your sink with a cloth and your favorite detergent. Make sure you dry thoroughly to avoid leaving behind water spots.
2. Mild, non-abrasive cleaning powders, such as Comet or Ajax. These will help break up tougher stains that the first option cannot. These are great for stainless steel grills, Panini makers, and waffle irons, too. The best results are achieved using the powders with warm water, soft bristle brushes, or cloths. Carbon steel brushes and steel wool can lead to rust formation. Once they’re clean, rinse with clean hot water.
3. White vinegar. Place in a spray bottle and apply onto dirty surfaces, then wipe dry with a cloth. The acetic acid in vinegar breaks down the oil left by fingertips, as well as stains resulting from heat and hard water. Dry thoroughly to prevent a film from forming on the surface.
4. Glass cleaner. If fingerprints are the culprit, these can easily be removed with products such as Windex. Apply the cleaner and wipe clean with a cloth or paper towel, then follow up with a rinse of warm water.
5. Rubbing alcohol and various other chemical solvents. If there’s a sticky film present on your stovetop hood or grill, it’s most likely due to the stainless steel coming into contact with grease or other contaminants. Pour a small amount of rubbing alcohol onto a cloth and rub until the spots disappear. Rinse with warm water and dry.