WHY YOU SHOULDN'T USE MINERAL OIL ON STAINLESS STEEL
Stainless steel appliances can give any kitchen a sleek and modern look. However, they require proper maintenance to look their best. If left unprotected, they can attract fingerprints and smudges.
You may have heard that you can use mineral oil on stainless steel; that’s a myth that needs to be debunked. Instead, you should use a non-toxic, food-safe sealant to protect your stainless steel kitchen appliances. Let’s talk about why.
WHY MINERAL OIL ISN’T GOOD FOR STAINLESS STEEL
While many people use mineral oil as a cheap way to add shine and remove fingerprints, it’s actually counterproductive in the long run. Here are several reasons why using mineral oil on your stainless steel appliances is not ideal.
First, mineral oil is not from a renewable source. If you’re someone who cares about the environmental impact of products you use, that may be a factor. It is also relevant that mineral oil is not biodegradable.
Second, an initial application of mineral oil might add a shine to your stainless steel appliances. However, the oil may build up over time and leave a filmy, oily coating on the surfaces where it is applied.
As you might expect, the buildup of mineral oil can lead to additional problems. For example, it makes fingerprints more likely, not less. That’s because oily surfaces tend to attract and hold fingerprints. While the initial appearance might be good, you are likely to find that frequent application is necessary as new fingerprints appear.
Finally, oily surfaces can attract dust, dirt, and pet fur to your appliances. Applying mineral oil might seem like a good idea but you’re almost certain to regret it.
THE BEST WAY TO CARE FOR STAINLESS STEEL
Now, let’s talk about the best way to care for stainless steel appliances to keep them looking their best.
Cleaning stainless steel is simple. You don’t need a fancy cleaner—the best and most cost-effective method is to use mild soap and water. Dish soap may be a good choice because it can cut through grease. Most appliances in a kitchen attract some grease, whether from cooking splashes or not-so-clean hands that make their way around the kitchen.
If there are stubborn spots or particles on your stainless steel, do not use abrasive cleaners or steel wool, which can scratch your appliances. Instead, use a little elbow grease to avoid damage. You may also try softening hardened particles with hot water before wiping them with a soft cloth.
Once your appliances have been washed, you can wipe them dry with a clean cloth. Then, you should treat them with a sealant that can prevent fingerprints and stains.
SimpleCoat is ideal to use on stainless steel because of its unique properties:
- SimpleCoat is nontoxic and NSF certified.
- It is food safe and safe to use around your kids, family and pets.
- It repels dirt and lint.
- It removes fingerprints instantly and forgives new fingerprints, which means you won’t need to clean your stainless steel as frequently as you did before.
- It is useful for removing water spots, streaks and hard water stains.
- It protects your appliances from food debris and creates a hydrophobic seal that allows sticky food to wipe clean—ideal for kitchens with kids who always seem to have sticky fingers!
- It minimizes the appearances of scratches and dull surfaces, extending the aesthetic life of your appliances.
- It gives your stainless steel appliances a glossy, like-new shine.
- Apply SimpleCoat to a clean, lint-free cloth (we provide one with your purchase of SimpleCoat) and wipe it over the surface of your stainless steel refrigerator, stove or dishwasher.
- Using a second clean, lint-free cloth, wipe away the excess product.
