How to clean stainless steel pots without scratching?

How to Clean Stainless Steel Pots Without Scratching

• Rinse First: Start by rinsing your pot with warm water to remove loose food particles. This prevents any abrasive particles from causing scratches during cleaning.
• Use Mild Soap: Add a small amount of mild dish soap and warm water. Mild soap helps lift grease and food without damaging the surface texture.
• Choose a Soft Cleaning Tool: Always use a soft sponge or cloth. Non-abrasive microfiber cloths or soft sponges are ideal. Avoid steel wool or scouring pads because they can scratch the stainless steel.
• Clean in Circular Motions: Gently scrub the surface using circular motions. This method avoids concentrated pressure in one spot, reducing the risk of scratching.
• Tackle Stubborn Spots Gently: For areas with burned-on residue, mix a little baking soda with water to form a paste. Apply this paste with your soft sponge, and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, gently rub the area in a circular motion. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers even with this paste.
• Rinse Thoroughly: After cleaning, rinse the pot with warm water to remove any soap or baking soda residue. Make sure no cleaning solution is left, as residue can dull the stainless steel finish over time.
• Dry Immediately: Use a soft cloth to dry the pot immediately after rinsing. This helps prevent water spots and maintains the pot's polished look.
• Avoid High Heat or Prolonged Soaking: Do not soak stainless steel pots for a long time in water with soap. Prolonged exposure can lead to discoloration and can reduce the natural sheen of your pot.
• Regular Maintenance: For best results, clean your pots after each use. This routine maintenance prevents buildup that might require more vigorous cleaning later.