How To Remove Tarnish From Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is basically an alloy of iron, nickel and chromium, and serves as the best - most affordable alternative for these metals. Stainless steel is strong and is used in making sanitary items, utensils, jewellery and a lot more. But one issue that arises with this alloy is that it gets tarnished and turns black, losing its chrome shine.

If your chains, bracelets, taps, utensils or anything else made of stainless steel has turned black too then read on and find easy solutions to removing the tarnish from steel easily.

How Does Stainless Steel Get Tarnished

Even though this alloy of the above mentioned three metals does not get rusted, it does get corroded on exposure with oxidising elements for a long period of time. And this further makes the metal stained or tarnished and sometimes it may also lead to rusting.

Therefore it is advisable to keep the stainless steel clean and free from general corrosion by using a glass cleaner. But if the situation has already gone out of hand then below are some things that will help you control it.

Cleaning Food Stuck On Stainless Steel Pans

• So, to clean food off your stainless steel utensil, first wash it carefully with water like you normally do.
• Then dry it with a cotton cloth or towel.
• Next heat the utensil, add some water to keep the stain soaked and then add 4 tablespoons of salt and 2 tablespoons of baking soda.
• Now turn the heat higher and keep the flame max.
• After the water starts to boil, switch off the gas and scrap off the stain or burns using a wooden spatula or a thick sponge.
• Finally, clean with dishwashing soap and towel dry.

Cleaning Stainless Steel Appliances

• Start by cleaning the surface of the appliance with a wet towel with some dishwashing liquid on it.
• This would make the process a lot easier and will be great for the initial cleaning of the appliance.
• Remove any food particle that’s stuck on the surface of the appliance using a nylon scrub.
• Further, you can also polish your appliance to prevent it from getting in contact with oxidising elements and reducing chances of scratches.
• You can use olive oil, lemon oil or baby oil for polishing and buff of the excess using a dry cloth or towel.

Cleaning Stainless Steel Jewellery

• To clean your chains and other pieces of jewellery, you will have to soak them inside a bowl of warm water, 1 tablespoon vinegar(vinegar for beauty) a dishwasher detergent for about 15 minutes.
• After the water cools down take out the jewellery and then wipe it with and toothpaste.
• Yes, you read that right! Take some toothpaste on an unused toothbrush and then scrub the jewellery lightly.
• Once it's clean rinse it with water, dry and store it safely.

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Cleaning Hard Tarnish Stains On Stainless Steel

• Some surfaces get severely corroded and then you have to use a few stronger methods to clean them.
• For example, the steel sinks get dirty so easily and quickly and if you have to clean them then you will have to use a combination of baking soda and vinegar.
• Just spread baking soda over the surface, rub using a sponge and then pour some vinegar over it scrub the surface again and then rinse with water.
• Lastly, dry with a towel and you’re done!

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So, which one of these methods do you think are effective? Comment down below and let us know. Stay tuned to Her Zindagi for more such pieces.