The best stainless steel cleaner can be hard to find. However, having the right information will ease your search and help you choose the perfect model for you and your needs.
In this article, I will tell you all the secrets about these cleaners and also I will teach you exactly how to follow a complete buying guide that will help you decide on the purchase.
Table of Contents
Why Buy Stainless Steel Household Items?
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I am sure that you already have your house full of stainless steel items that you don’t realize owning them.
For those of you who don’t know why an object cost more than others but also for people who intend to buy new appliances, let me tell you why stainless steel is a material worth taking into consideration:
- Strong material: It is an excellent choice for heavy-duty kitchen equipment, storage areas or cutlery;
- It is resistant to corrosion: Compared to other metals, stainless steel is not very likely to rust. Most stainless steel kitchen cutlery is even dishwasher safe.
- Non-reactive: Stainless steel won’t react when in contact with acids from citrus or tomatoes. This means that you won’t alter the taste of the food you cook.
Why Should You Buy A Special Cleaner?
As stated above, stainless steel is an amazing compound due to its durability and rust resistant. However, it has its minuses just as any material. When it comes to stainless steel, if not treated properly, you will be able to notice water spots, smudge marks and fingerprints.
You might say that any cleaner might do, but that is wrong and I will tell you why.
Many cleaners contain harsh chemicals such as chlorine bleach or ammonia, which will destroy the beautiful finish the stainless steel has.
Furthermore, if you use cleaners specifically produced for this kind of surface, you will protect the stainless steel for future water marks or other ugly spots and you will have to clean them less often.
Stainless Steel Cleaner Types
Like all cleaners, the ones designed for stainless steel surfaces can also be found in more than one type. Let’s give them a quick glance before moving on to the next chapter.
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Spray/Aerosol
This is the most frequently seen type of cleaner. They are easy to use. All you have to do is activate the spray pump and release the cleaner particle directly onto the surface. After that, with a clean microfiber cloth, wipe down everything.
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Solution
Just as the spray model, the solution also requires a microfiber cloth. However, to use this, you will have to wet the cloth directly and then clean the surface.
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Powder
This type of cleaner is usually best for polishing purposes. The way it works is by applying the powder on a hard surface. The next thing you will have to do is to buff it in. When you finish the task, you simply rinse the surface.
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Cream
Cream cleaners are a very popular choice when it comes to cleaning stainless steel surfaces. You simply need a very small amount of cleaner to make your appliances sparkle.
If you require to eliminate an old grease stain and want to use a cream cleaner, I suggest you let the cleaner rest on the stain for a couple of minutes before you start wiping it off.
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Wipes
Finally, the wipes require no extra cloth or no extra rinsing. You simply take them out of their box and start the cleaning process. When you are done cleaning, just throw the wipe away.
The minus of this type of cleaner is that not all models are biodegradable. Moreso, if you don’t close the box’s lid after using the wipes, they will run dry and you won’t be able to use the remaining ones.
What Are The Best Stainless Steel Cleaners?
The stainless steel cleaners are from brands such as Weiman, Scotchgard or Rejuvenate due to their great polishing features and their capacity of removing fingerprints.
However, other brands such as Therapy or All-Clad should be taken into consideration thanks to their natural ingredients.
But, why don’t you look at all the products and their highlights below?
- Best Overall: Weiman 12 oz Spray Stainless Steel Cleaner
“pH neutral formula; protects black stainless steel; polishing features; no fingerprints; scratching resistant.” - Best Budget: Sprayway 15 oz Aerosol Stainless Steel Cleaner
“No scouring; no acid or abrasives; no greasy film; polishes, protects, cleans.” - Best for Sinks: HOPE’S Perfect Sink 8.5 oz Cream Stainless Steel Cleaner
“Water repellant; restorative; removes stains; multi-surface; cleaner & polish.” - Best for Grills: Goo Gone 24 oz Spray Stainless Steel Cleaner
“Biodegradable; grease remover; super-strength gel; safe on food-prep; citrus power; reduces smoke/flare-ups.” - Best for Refrigerators: Weiman Wipes Stainless Steel Cleaner
“pH neutral formula; leaves protective barrier; scratching resistant; brilliant look; no fingerprints.” - Best for Kitchen: Therapy 30 Wipes Stainless Steel
“Streak-free; brilliant shine; non-toxic; most effective ingredients; most effective ingredients; superior results.” - Best for Stove Top: Weiman Gas Range CookTop 12 oz Spray Stainless Cleaner
“Heavy-duty formula; non-abrasive; restores natural color; no hard scrubbing; removes tough stains.” - Best for Rust: CLEAN MY STEEL 8.5 oz Stainless Steel Cleaner
“Rust removal; corrosion-free; safely brings back shine; 5 minutes clean; no fingerprints.” - Best for Water Spots: Magic 17 oz Aerosol Stainless Steel Cleaner
“Stay Clean Technology; resists fingerprints; no smudges; protect & polish; cleans & shines.” - Best for Boats: MEGUIAR’S 5.64 oz Cream Stainless Steel Cleaner
“Removes oxidation and stains; anti-corrosive polymers; premium polishing agents; mirror-bright shine.” - Best for Pots and Pans: All-Clad 12 oz Powder Stainless Steel Cleaner
“Waterproof plastic container; powder cleanser; natural minerals; environmentally safe ingredients.” - Best for Elevator Doors: Therapy Premium 16 oz Spray Stainless Steel Cleaner
“Plant-based formula; microfiber cloth; one step cleaning; stylish spray bottle; removes streaks.” - Best for Fingerprints: Scotchgard 17 oz Aerosol Stainless Steel Cleaner
“One step cleaning; streak-free shine; long-lasting shine; no fingerprints; no smudges.” - Best for Cutlery: Weiman 8 oz Cream Stainless Steel Cleaner
“Anti-tarnish formula; rejuvenates dull silver; brilliant shine; ammonia-free; non-scratch formula.” - Best Scratch Removal: Rejuvenate Stainless Steel Cleaner
“Scratch remover; step by step instructions; microfiber cloth; fine abrasion pads; blending lube.”
Best Stainless Steel Cleaner Comparison Chart
I have created the next stainless steel cleaner comparison chart for a very specific purpose. I want you to check out all the items that are prepared for discussion. See what makes them different and what brings them together.
Top 15 Best Stainless Steel Cleaner Reviews in 2021
The best stainless steel cleaner reviews section is here. Read everything with attention. I have added the pros and cons just so you get the full disclosure of each product.
1. Weiman 12 oz Spray Stainless Steel Cleaner
(Best Overall)
The first cleaner I want to talk about is from Weiman and, in my opinion, it brings together all features a stainless steel cleaner should have.
It has a gentle formula with a neutral pH that cleans fast, leaving the surface shiny and bright. Furthermore, it offers a protective shield that lasts.
With its help, you will be able to remove fingerprints, grease, haze and possible residues. More importantly, you will be able to use it on black stainless steel and prevent smudges.
Key Features:
- pH neutral formula
- Protects black stainless steel
- Polishing features
Pros
- Easy to use
- Powerful and gentle at the same time
- Polishing features
- Versatile
Cons
- Comes in pack of 2
Product Specifications:
| Product dimensions | 8.4 x 6.8 x 1.5 inches |
| Item weight | 2.08 ounces |
| Polishing feature | Yes |
| Brand | Weiman |
Let’s see this video to collect more understandings:
2. Sprayway 15 oz Aerosol Stainless Steel Cleaner
(Best Budget)
Let me tell you about a stainless steel cleaner that is cheap and effective. Manufactured by Sprayway, this cleaner was created to be used on multiple surfaces. This is possible due to its free acid formula that contains no abrasives.
Another great aspect about this item is that it doesn’t only clean the stainless steel but also has polishing properties. All without leaving any greasy film behind.
Key Features:
- No scouring
- No acid or abrasives
- No greasy film
Pros
- Gentle formula
- Versatile
- Great value for money
- Can be purchased in more than one package type
Cons
- Has a chemical smell
Product Specifications:
| Product dimensions | 2.7 x 2.7 x 10 inches |
| Item weight | 1.25 pounds |
| Polishing feature | Yes |
| Brand | Sprayway |
3. HOPE’S Perfect Sink 8.5 oz Cream Stainless Steel Cleaner
(Best for Sinks)
I don’t know about you, but one of the things I am totally obsessed with is having my kitchen sink clean all the time. As easy as it seems when talking about it, it is more easily said than done. This is especially true if you have a stainless steel model.
For me, the best way to offer my sink a “spa treatment” is using this cleaner from HOPE’S. Not only does it clean, but it also creates an invisible water barrier. Why this is important, you might ask.
It matters because this will make future cleanings easier. The beauty about this cleaner is that it also offers polishing features, giving your sink the same beautiful appearance a waxed car has.
Key Features:
- Water repellant
- Restorative
- Removes stains
Pros
- Multi surface
- Good also for china sinks
- Brilliant shine
- Stain removal
- Rust removal
Cons
- You need to buy 4 bottles
Product Specifications:
| Product dimensions | 9.33 x 8.39 x 2.83 inches |
| Item weight | 8.5 ounces |
| Polishing feature | Yes |
| Brand | The Hope Company |
Watch this video to know more:
4. Goo Gone 24 oz Spray Stainless Steel Cleaner
(Best for Grills)
This cleaner is special. It is special because it starts as a spray and ends up as a gel. It returns great results, without being toxic. This means that you can clean the grill just before using it.
With this cleaner, you will be able to remove grease in just a few minutes. Furthermore, it is a biodegradable cleaner that has the ability to reduce both smoke and flare-ups.
Lastly, you can clean both the indoor and outdoor grills with its help.
Key Features:
- Biodegradable
- Grease remover
- Super-strength gel
Pros
- Easy to use
- Almost no smell
- Powerful cleaner
- Good value for money
Cons
- The bottles can leak
Product Specifications:
| Product dimensions | 11 x 8.5 x 2.4 inches |
| Item weight | 1.5 Pounds |
| Polishing feature | No |
| Brand | Goo Gone |
Watch this video to know more about the product:
5. Weiman Wipes Stainless Steel Cleaner
(Best for Refrigerators)
Wipes are very easy to use. You just have to take on out of the pack and do your job in a matter of seconds.
I like to use these for my refrigerator because, let’s be honest, there are always fingerprints on stainless steel fridges. So, after I cook and finish with the food preparation, I just take a wipe out and clean the fridge door.
So, I want to say that, with these wipes, you will eliminate fingerprints, streaks, and possible residues. Furthermore, you can use them on other surfaces such as ovens, trash cans or microwaves.
Key Features:
- pH neutral formula
- Protective barrier
- Scratching resistant
Pros
- Cleans and polishes
- Good for black stainless steel
- Versatile
- Gentle formula
Cons
- Not very environmentally friendly
Product Specifications:
| Product dimensions | 3.2 x 6.6 x 8.2 inches |
| Item weight | 1.4 pounds |
| Polishing feature | Yes |
| Brand | Weiman |
6. Therapy 30 Wipes Stainless Steel
(Best for Kitchen)
Look at your kitchen. You have found the best kitchen cabinet cleaner and now you have to handle the stainless steel surface. You want a versatile cleaner, right? So, I advise you to also look for a non-toxic solution for this.
Therapy is known to work only with natural ingredients, so is no surprise that their wipes are also made in this way.
The idea is simple. You just have to take a wipe out and clean the surface you want. No scrubbing, no rinsing. Just cleaning done in a matter of minutes.
Key Features:
- Brilliant shine
- Streak-free
- Non-toxic
Pros
- Natural ingredients
- Very easy to use
- Good value for money
- Shiny surfaces
Cons
- If you don’t close the cap, the wipes will get dry
Product Specifications:
| Product dimensions | 8.19 x 6.14 x 2.99 inches |
| Item weight | 1.2 Pounds |
| Polishing feature | Yes |
| Brand | Therapy |
7. Weiman Gas Range CookTop 12 oz Spray Stainless Cleaner
(Best for Stove Top)
If you want the best stove top cleaner, you are in luck. Why? Because this Weiman model is among the top solutions on the market. Let me tell you exactly why that is.
First of all, it has the power to dissolve any film or soil. Moreso, it will remove any water spots without any hard scrubbing.
If you think that this is not enough, you should also know that this is a versatile cleaner, that can also be used to clean sinks, bathtubs or spas.
Key Features:
- Heavy-duty formula
- Non-Abrasive
- Restores natural color
Pros
- Sparkling clean surfaces
- Versatile
- Multi-surface
- Effective and gentle formula
Cons
- More expensive than similar products
Product Specifications:
| Product dimensions | 9.13 x 7.52 x 1.85 inches |
| Item weight | 12 Ounces |
| Polishing feature | No |
| Brand | Weiman |
Watch this video to know more about the product:
8. CLEAN MY STEEL 8.5 oz Stainless Steel Cleaner
(Best for Rust)
I hope you will not have to deal with any rust on your stainless steel surfaces, but if you do, I wish to tell you about the solution I find best for the task.
I find this better than others because of its capacity to do deep rust cleaning and not only surface one.
I know that the whole idea of stainless steel is not having to deal with rust issues, but truth be told, sooner or later all stainless steel surfaces will be put under this pressure. So, the best thing to do is to be ready for when this happens.
Key Features:
- Rust removal
- Corrosion-free
- Safely brings back shine
Pros
- Brings shine back
- Multiple packaging options
- Light scrubbing
- Organic soft cleaner
Cons
- You need to wait for 10 minutes for best results
Product Specifications:
| Product dimensions | 6 x 2 x 2 inches |
| Item weight | 5 ounces |
| Polishing feature | Yes |
| Brand | Clean My Steel |
9. Magic 17 oz Aerosol Stainless Steel Cleaner
(Best for Water Spots)
This cleaner works with using something known as ‘Stay Clean Technology’. But what does that mean?
It means that not only does it remove water spots or other ugly stains, but also will protect your stainless steel surfaces and will prevent other future watermarks or fingerprints.
The good part about this cleaner is its versatility. You can use it on any stainless steel surface you can think of. Microwave, ovens, bbq, sinks. Just name it and this cleaner will handle the task.
Key Features:
- Stay Clean Technology
- Resists fingerprints
- No smudges
Pros
- Easy to use
- Convenient
- Eliminates grease
- Polish features
- Versatille
Cons
- Comes only in pack of two
Product Specifications:
| Product dimensions | 2.5 x 5 x 9.75 inches |
| Item weight | 2.68 Pounds |
| Polishing feature | Yes |
| Brand | Magic |
10. MEGUIAR’S 5.64 oz Cream Stainless Steel Cleaner
(Best for Boats)
If you are the lucky owner of a boat, then you know that in order to keep it looking pretty, you will need some good cleaners. When it comes to the stainless steel surfaces of your boat, you will not find a better friend than this one from Meguiar’s.
It has the power to remove any oxidation or stain. Furthermore, it contains anti-corrosive polymers that will remain active and will protect the surface against corrosion.
I don’t exaggerate when saying that you will have a mirror-bright shine after cleaning your boat with this product.
The last thing I want to add is that you can use it in more than one way. You either use a lower-speed polisher, a drill attachment or simply clean the boat by hand. The results will be satisfying nevertheless.
Key Features:
- Removes oxidation and stains
- Anti-corrosive polymers
- Premium polishing agents
Pros
- You can use it in more than one way
- Premium quality
- Mirror-bright shine
- Protects against future corrosion
- One step cleaning
Cons
- Not suitable for other purposes
Product Specifications:
| Product dimensions | 3.75 x 3.75 x 2 inches |
| Item weight | 7.7 ounces |
| Polishing feature | Yes |
| Brand | Meguiar’s |
Watch this video to know more about the product:
11. All-Clad 12 oz Powder Stainless Steel Cleaner
(Best for Pots and Pans)
When it comes to cooking, the worst part is cleaning the pots and pans. However, this chore can be done more pleasantly if you have the right help. And for me, there is no better cleaner for my stainless steel pots than this All-Clad one.
Its powder formula is powerful but will not affect the quality of your cookware. Can be used not only on stainless steel ones but also on the aluminum cookware. Furthermore, don’t be afraid to use it on the models that have polished or brushed exteriors.
Finally, all the ingredients in this cleaner are natural and therefore safe for the environment.
Key Features:
- Waterproof plastic container
- Powder cleanser
- Natural minerals
Pros
- Clean storage
- Good for polished exteriors
- Works also on aluminum cookware
- Powerful cleaner
- Nice smell
Cons
- This cleaner cannot be used for copper and nonstick cookware
Product Specifications:
| Product dimensions | 2.5 x 2.5 x 7 inches |
| Item weight | 1.2 pounds |
| Polishing feature | Yes |
| Brand | All Clad |
Watch this video to know more about the product:
12. Therapy Premium 16 oz Spray Stainless Steel Cleaner
(Best for Elevator Doors)
I am sure that when you have to clean big surfaces of stainless steel such as elevator doors you want a powerful, yet gentle cleaner. You are in luck because I have just the thing for you.
This Therapy cleaners is a plant based one that smells of delicate lavender. However, the results are amazing. To make your life even better, you will also receive a 16 x 16 in. microfiber cloth.
This means that all you have to do is spray the area and wipe it all out. You will be able to see your reflection once you are done.
Key Features:
- Plant-based formula
- Microfiber cloth
- One step cleaning
Pros
- Natural ingredients
- Removes smudges
- Removes fingerprints
- Good for outdoor surfaces
- Comes with a cloth
Cons
- If you are not careful it can leave streaks
Product Specifications:
| Product dimensions | 4 x 2.75 x 8.5 inches |
| Item weight | 1.2 pounds |
| Polishing feature | Yes |
| Brand | Therapy |
13. Scotchgard 17 oz Aerosol Stainless Steel Cleaner
(Best for Fingerprints)
I am sure that you will agree with me that seeing fingerprints on stainless steel is a total no-no. Also, it is only natural to agree with me once more, that no matter how hard you try, it is impossible not to touch the surfaces and leave the grease from your fingers.
The good news is that technology has offered us cleaners suited to remove fingerprints and provide long-lasting protection and shine. One of these cleaners is provided by 3M and is called Scotchgard.
It is easy to use, powerful and versatile. Moreso, it can be purchased at a great price. Can you wish for more?
Key Features:
- One step cleaning
- Streak-free shine
- Long-lasting shine
Pros
- Versatile
- Removes fingerprints
- Good value for money
- Polishing capabilities
- Longer shine
Cons
- Comes only in packs of one bottle
Product Specifications:
| Product dimensions | 2.59 x 2.59 x 8.59 inches |
| Item weight | 1.32 pounds |
| Polishing feature | Yes |
| Brand | Scotchgard by 3M |
Watch this video to know more about the product:
14. Weiman 8 oz Cream Stainless Steel Cleaner
(Best for Cutlery)
You have read about the best stainless steel cleaner for pots and pans, so it is only natural to discuss the top model for cutlery.
Before I move on to the specifications, I want to say that this cleaner from Weiman is great for stainless steel and can be found among the best silver cleaners.
But what makes it so great? The first thing that comes to mind is its ammonia free formula which has anti-tarnish features. Furthermore, it has the power to restore the cutlery to their initial shine.
Key Features:
- Anti-tarnish formula
- Rejuvenates dull silver
- Brilliant shine
Pros
- Versatile
- Restoring features
- Ammonia free
- Good for jewelry
- Long lasting shine
Cons
- You will need to buy a separate microfiber cloth for best results
Product Specifications:
| Product dimensions | 1.5 x 2.9 x 7.9 inches |
| Item weight | 8.11 Ounces |
| Polishing feature | Yes |
| Brand | Weiman |
Watch this video to know more about the product:
15. Rejuvenate Stainless Steel Cleaner
(Best Scratch Removal)
Before going on further, you should know that this kit is suited for non coated stainless steel surfaces. If you are not sure what kind of stainless steel you are about to clean, read their instruction manual.
But, if you have a non-coated stainless steel surface, this kit will be a dream come true for removing scratches. Moreso, it has the power also to remove discolored areas, rust and minor gouges.
Don’t worry about not knowing how to use everything because you will get complete instructions along with the kit.
Key Features:
- Scratch remover
- Step by step instructions
- Microfiber cloth
Pros
- Great kit
- Removes scratches
- Amazing price
- Comes with precise instructions
- Easy to use
Cons
- You will need to buy an extra cleaner
Product Specifications:
| Product dimensions | 1.5 x 3.5 x 6.25 inches |
| Item weight | 0.01 ounces |
| Polishing feature | Yes |
| Brand | Rejuvenate |
Watch this video to know more about the product:
Best Stainless Steel Cleaner Buying Guide
You have read the best stainless steel cleaner reviews and now it is time to make a decision. As promised at the beginning of the article, I will help you ease your decision making and teach you what aspects to take into consideration before spending your money.
By doing so, you will get exactly the product you want and not anything else. So, let’s start.
Surface You Need To Clean
The first thing you should think of is how many stainless steel surfaces you have to clean. If you only need to clean your sink, then you should buy a small bottle of cleaner.
However, if you have a stainless steel stove top and a stainless steel refrigerator, the situation changes.
A Bottle Or A Full Box?
Speaking of quantities, some manufacturers let you buy more than one bottle of cleaner. They offer premade boxes that contain 2 or more bottles. You might want to buy a small box and don’t have to worry about running out of cleaner.
Smell
Some cleaners have a very strong perfume fragrance, others have a neutral smell and of course, some cleaners have a repugnant chemical scent. Think of what you would prefer and read the cleaner’s specifications before you spend your money on it.
The last thing you need is to buy a bottle and can’t use due to its smell
Formula
Another aspect to take into consideration, if not the most important one, is the cleaner’s formula. Most of the cleaners contain chemicals, but there are also models that have only natural ingredients.
Choose according to your needs and preferences.
Polishing Capabilities
Not all cleaners are also good for polishing. Some of them only have the power to remove the stains. Again, think only of your specific case. Don’t spend your money on a cleaner that polishes if you don’t need one.
Type
Finally, buy the type of stainless steel cleaner that you feel more comfortable to use. As you could see, you can choose from spray/aerosol, solution, powder, cream or wipes.
FAQs
Still have questions about the best stainless steel cleaner products? Here are the most frequently asked ones. They might be exactly what you are looking for.
My Top Pick
I hope that you found this article helpful and now you are better informed about stainless steel cleaners than you were a few minutes ago.
Before letting you go, I want to specify that I stand by all 15 stainless steel cleaners presented today. However, I am human and therefore I do have preferences and my number one pick remains Weiman 12 oz Spray Stainless Steel Cleaner.
Even so, I do have to admit that for fast cleaning I always have a pack of Therapy 30 Wipes Stainless Steel. The reason for that is because they are natural and can be used even when there is food around.