Cleaning Stainless Steel

• Half the cleaning battle is in keeping off fingerprints and streaks, both of which can plague stainless steel utensils. Scratches, too, can be a problem. To avoid those, do not use abrasive cleaning products on your stainless steel. And, when rubbing the steel, rub with the grain, or surface finish, and not against it.
  
  Your first approach in keeping your stainless clean involves a simple, soft terrycloth and some water for the cleaning. Then buff it dry with a paper towel to avoid streaks setting in. For dealing with fingerprints, you can use glass cleaners. And to really put on a shine, try a little baby oil. But be sure to wipe the oil off thoroughly with a clean dry paper towel.
  
  In washing off stains, dishwashing detergent generally does the job. Just rinse with warm water and shine with a paper towel. If the streaks are stubborn, a dab of olive oil can get rid of the problem. And olive oil can help mask any scratches your stainless steel has endured. Club soda can also be used to remove stains and streaks. For particularly stubborn, heat-based stains, use a little vinegar. Simply pour the vinegar onto your terrycloth and rub. Vinegar contains a natural acid that not only cleans, it also adds to the shine.
  
  Also try making a paste out of water and either bicarbonate of soda or baking soda. These are gentle and non-abrasive cleaners. Allow the paste to sit on the utensil for several minutes. Then scrub it away.