How to Get Rid of Stains on Stainless Steel

Quck answer

Discoloration on stainless steel can be removed using a few simple methods.

1. Baking soda paste: Create a paste by mixing baking soda with water. Apply it to the discolored area, scrub gently with a soft cloth, and rinse thoroughly.

2. Vinegar solution: Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the stainless steel, let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe it clean with a cloth.

3. Lemon juice and salt: Make a paste with lemon juice and salt. Apply it to the discoloration, scrub gently, and rinse well.

Remember to always test these methods on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure they don’t damage the stainless steel.


Stainless steel cookware is a popular choice for kitchens because it is durable and easy to clean. However, it can sometimes become discolored with rainbow hues or white spots. Fortunately, these stains can be easily removed, restoring your cookware to its original stainless state.

Use Distilled White Vinegar

Vinegar is a versatile cleaning agent that is gentle on various surfaces. To remove blue or rainbow hues from your pan, apply vinegar to the affected area and scrub gently with a nonabrasive cloth or sponge. Rinse off the vinegar with water and dry the pan.

If you have small white water spots in your pot or pan, you can also use vinegar. Mix 1 part vinegar with 3 parts water, boil the solution in the pan, let it cool, and then wash and dry the pan as usual.

Try Tomato Sauce

Surprisingly, tomato sauce can also be used to remove stainless steel discoloration. The acidity of tomatoes makes the sauce effective for this purpose. Simply pour tomato sauce into the discolored pot or pan, making sure to cover all the stained areas. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, then clean and dry the pan.

Tips to Prevent Stains

To prevent discoloration of your stainless steel cookware, wash it with nonabrasive brushes or cloths and dry it immediately after washing. Avoid using harsh scrubbers like steel wool, as they can scratch the surface. When cooking with salt, add it after the water has started boiling to avoid pitting corrosion. Let cold foods warm up a bit before placing them in the pan, and preheat the pan before adding oil and food to prevent sticking.

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