There are many ways to remove scratches from stainless steel products. However, be careful when using these methods, as you do not want to make the scratches on your steel worse.
5 Ways to Get Scratches Out of Stainless Steel
This article outlines how to use non-abrasive cleaners, clean with whitening toothpaste and baking soda, and use a stainless steel repair kit.
1. Non-abrasive Cleaners
The difference between abrasive and non-abrasive cleaners is that non-abrasive cleaners are diluted. Non-abrasive cleaners come in powder and liquid forms. Basically, the non-abrasive cleaner will fill your lines and smooth out your surface.
Some examples of non-abrasive cleaners are Bar Keepers Friend and Method Stainless Steel Clean + Polish. If you’re using a powder cleaner, mix it with water to create a paste. From there, take a damp cloth and rub toward the direction of the grain. After you’re done, use a clean, damp cloth to wipe off any excess paste.
You will want to check if your scratch has disappeared. If it hasn’t, repeat the process until the scratch is gone. If you want it to shine after you clean the space, you can apply some polish or olive oil.
2. Whitening Toothpaste
Whitening toothpaste is actually a mildly abrasive cleaner. This method can be used on light to semi-deep scratches. Before you apply your toothpaste, ensure your stainless steel surface is clean and ready to go.
Apply the toothpaste to the scratched area and rub it in with your finger or a toothbrush. You’ll want to go with the grain when rubbing in the toothpaste. When you’re done, take a damp cloth and remove the toothpaste from the surface. Repeat this process until the scratches are gone. Apply some stainless steel polish or olive oil after cleaning to get a shine.
3. Baking Soda Paste
Baking soda is a common household item that may help you clean stainless steel. Baking soda is also slightly abrasive, so use this cleaner with care. Since baking soda comes in powder form, you’ll want to mix it with water before applying.
Once you’ve mixed them together, you can apply some of the paste to your stainless steel. Use a damp cloth to scrub in the direction of the grain. Once the scratch has gone away, wipe off the remaining paste with a damp towel.
4. Stainless Steel Repair Kit
Many people invest in a stainless steel repair kit. These kits help you get rid of any scratches you may come across. Scratch B Gone is a popular item for those who need to remove the scratches on their steel. The packaging outlines how to use this product.
Which pad you use will depend on how deep your scratch is. Once you determine the pad you need, you’ll take the handle on the pad, move it over the scratch, and apply the shine formula. Move the handle along the grain, repeating this motion until the scratch is gone. You can then clean the area using a microfiber cloth.
5. Sandpaper for Deep Scratches
Sandpaper can help you remove deep, stubborn scratches from your stainless steel. When using this method, be sure to wet the sandpaper first, then apply a rubbing compound. Be sure to never sand against the grain and note that this only works for uncoated stainless steel, so don’t try it on any other types of metal.
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