Appliance doors are among the most touched surfaces in the house, and fingerprints show on all of them. A regular wipe prevents grime from setting, and a few techniques make the shine last.
Know your finish
Stainless steel has a grain, and enamel or painted finishes do not. Stainless fingerprint-resistant coatings need especially gentle cleaning, so check the manual for approved products.
The basic method
- Dampen a microfiber cloth with warm water and a drop of washing-up liquid.
- Wipe in the direction of the grain on stainless steel.
- Rinse the cloth and wipe again with plain water.
- Dry and buff with a second dry cloth.
Tough smudges
A cloth dampened with a diluted vinegar solution lifts greasy marks from stainless steel. Avoid vinegar on painted or enamel finishes, and never use abrasive pads.
Don’t forget the details
Clean handles, control panels, and door seals. Use a barely damp cloth around buttons, and dry immediately to protect electronics.
Finish with a thin polish
A tiny dab of mineral or baby oil on a cloth, buffed along the grain, helps repel fingerprints. Use sparingly, and wipe off the excess. A minute’s work each week keeps the kitchen looking crisp.
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