Wash soon after use, since acids and salt in food residue can etch the finish if they sit. Hand washing is also the gentlest route for favorite pieces.
How-to
How to Clean Stainless Steel Utensils
Wash stainless steel utensils by hand or in the dishwasher, then fix water spots, heat tint, burnt-on food and rust with simple household methods.
Stainless steel utensils rarely wear out; they usually just look tired. Water spots, a film of dried food and rainbow tinting from heat are the most common complaints, and almost all of them come off with soap, a soft cloth and a thorough dry. Rust spots and burnt-on residue need a little more effort, though not harsher tools.
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Five steps to wash stainless utensils by hand
- Rinse each utensil right after cooking to remove loose food before it dries on.
- Wash with warm water and mild dish soap, using a soft sponge or microfiber cloth.
- Pay attention to crevices, such as the bowl of a spoon and the base of the handle.
- Rinse under running water until no soap remains, because leftover soap leaves streaks.
- Dry right away with a clean cloth, since air drying leaves mineral spots.
Putting stainless utensils in the dishwasher
Most stainless steel sets are dishwasher safe, but the maker's care instructions come first; some makers add notes such as drying them promptly to avoid water spots. A mild detergent is the usual advice.
- Loading: leave space between pieces so water reaches every surface.
- Mixing metals: keep stainless apart from silver in the same load, since contact can discolor them.
- Rinsing first: take off heavy food, because baked-on residue can mark the finish.
- Drying cycle: turn it off if the machine allows, as heat can discolor the steel.
- Unloading: take the pieces out soon after the cycle ends and hand-dry any damp ones.
Matching the stain to the fix
A baking soda paste is the workhorse: mix baking soda with a little water until it is about as thick as toothpaste, then rub it on with a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge, moving with the grain of the metal. Rinse well and dry. For mineral spots, equal parts white vinegar and water works; spray or soak for several minutes, then rinse and dry. Rinse thoroughly after any acid so it does not sit on the steel.
| Problem | Usual cause | Fix to try |
|---|---|---|
| Cloudy water spots | Minerals in hard water | Vinegar and water, then dry |
| Rainbow tint | Heat exposure | Baking soda paste, rub with grain |
| Burnt or sticky residue | Cooked-on food or grease | Hot soapy soak, then paste |
| Orange rust spots | Iron contact, standing water | Baking soda paste or vinegar soak |
Polishing, and what to keep away from the finish
Once utensils are clean and dry, a polish brings back the shine: spray a little stainless polish on a soft cloth and buff until the metal looks bright, following the label. A drop of olive or mineral oil on a cloth also reduces streaks. Scratches from stirring in the pan are a separate topic, covered in using metal on stainless steel.
- Steel wool and scouring pads: they scratch and dull the surface.
- Abrasive powders: use the baking soda paste instead.
- Chlorine bleach: it can discolor the steel and some makers warn against it.
- Appliance cleaners: use one only if its label says it is safe for cookware and utensils.
Storing them so they stay clean
Make sure each piece is completely dry before it goes away, since trapped moisture causes spotting. Hang them from their handle holes or keep them in a holder or a divided drawer so they do not rub against other tools. Utensils with one-piece handles and smooth surfaces have fewer joints for residue to collect in.
See our recommendations on which utensils for stainless steel cookware to buy.
Frequently asked
Why are my stainless steel utensils turning grey or dull?
A grey or cloudy look usually comes from a film of mineral deposits or dried residue rather than damage to the steel. Wash with warm soapy water, try a vinegar and water solution for the minerals or a baking soda paste for residue, then rinse and dry right away.
Is it safe to use a stainless steel cleaner on utensils?
Only if the label says it is safe for cookware and utensils. Some stainless cleaners are made for appliances and may not be food-safe, so read the label and rinse well afterward.