Quck answer
To remove scratches from stainless steel, follow these steps:
1. Clean the surface with a mild detergent and warm water to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Use a soft cloth or sponge to apply a stainless steel cleaner or polish. Rub the cleaner gently in the direction of the grain.
3. If the scratches are shallow, you can try using a non-abrasive compound or toothpaste. Apply a small amount to a soft cloth and rub it onto the scratch in a circular motion.
4. For deeper scratches, use a stainless steel scratch removal kit. Follow the instructions carefully and apply the product to the affected area.
5. After removing the scratches, rinse the surface with water and dry it thoroughly.
Remember to always test any cleaning or polishing product on a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the whole surface.
Stainless steel is a strong and resilient material, and the chromium in the alloy helps protect it from rust and adds to its hardness. However, stainless steel has a low carbon content, which affects its hardness. Although stainless steel is hard, it is still susceptible to scratches and scuffs, which can ruin its smooth and pristine finish.
Scratches are Inevitable
During regular use, it is inevitable that your stainless steel appliances, countertops, or sink will get scratched. Luckily, the same vulnerability that causes the scratches also allows you to remove them using various techniques. It is important to start with gentle abrasive methods and gradually increase the intensity until the scratch disappears. The goal is to remove the scratch without creating new ones or damaging the finish unintentionally.
Notice the horizontal “grain” on this stainless steel refrigerator door.
Image Credit:
Image © Fix Lovely.Blogspot.com
Ensure It’s Genuine
Before you begin, make sure that your stainless steel is genuine and not a simulated version. Also, check if it has been clear-coated to make it resistant to fingerprints.
Genuine stainless steel is non-magnetic and easily collects fingerprints. Most stainless steel has a brushed finish with a linear “grain” that runs in one direction. Pay attention to the direction of the grain, as all cleaning and polishing should follow that direction. Never work against the grain when trying to remove a scratch.
Before you start working on the scratch, thoroughly clean the surface of the stainless steel to remove any dirt or oily residue. Use a vinegar solution followed by a thorough rinse, or use a cleaning product specifically designed for stainless steel. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and always rub in the direction of the grain.
Sinks endure the most wear and tear among stainless steel surfaces.
Image Credit:
Image © Cosmos Granite and Marble
Removing a Scratch from Stainless Steel
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Things You’ll Need
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Soft microfiber cloth or sponge
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Non-abrasive cleanser, such as Bon Ami or Comet
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Soft toothbrush
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Whitening toothpaste
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Wet-dry sandpaper, 400- to 600-grit
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Sanding block
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Stainless steel polish
Removing a Minor Scratch with Cleanser
The gentlest way to remove a scratch from stainless steel is to use a non-abrasive cleanser. These cleansers come in powder or semi-liquid form. If you choose the powder form, mix it with water to create a thin paste.
- To remove a scratch on stainless steel, dampen a cloth or sponge with cleanser and vigorously rub in the same direction as the grain of the metal. Check progress by rinsing the cleanser with a wet sponge.
- If the scratch is removed, apply stainless steel polish or olive oil. If not, try a slightly more abrasive method.
Using Toothpaste to Remove a Scratch
Ordinary whitening toothpaste has mild abrasiveness that can help remove scratches on stainless steel.
- Apply toothpaste to a soft-bristle toothbrush.
- Brush over the scratch, following the metal’s grain. Check progress by wiping away the toothpaste with a wet cloth or sponge.
- Continue brushing and add more toothpaste if needed.
- If the scratch is removed, clean the area and apply stainless steel polish or olive oil. If not, try a more aggressive approach.
Removing Deep Scratches in Stainless Steel
If toothpaste doesn’t work, use extra-fine wet/dry sandpaper to sand out the scratch. Practice in an inconspicuous spot first and use a sanding block for even pressure.
- Wet the sandpaper and keep it wet as you work.
- Dampen the scratch area with a sponge and keep it wet as you work.
- Sand the scratch lightly in the direction of the metal’s grain.
- If the scratch is not removed, try a slightly coarser sandpaper. When the scratch is gone, switch back to finer sandpaper and blend with the rest of the stainless steel.
- Wipe the sanded area with a wet cloth or sponge, moving in the direction of the metal’s grain.
- Dry the area with a soft towel or cloth.
- Finish by polishing with stainless steel polish or olive oil.
Tip
If you prefer, you can purchase a stainless steel repair kit that includes all the necessary components. One popular brand is the Scratch-B-Gone kit, which includes abrasive pads, a sanding block, a polishing cloth, and sanding fluid.
