See full version: How to Clean Stainless Steel on a Boat
The most common—and incorrect—assumption about stainless steel is that it’s hands-off. In spite of it’s name, however, this metal is prone to stains and other problems if you don’t clean it effectively. But that doesn’t mean you’ll need to slave away to keep it protected—not if you know the best way to clean stainless steel, that is.
These three tips alone should give you the foundation you need to deal with a wide range of stainless steel problems on your boat. But this metal, like any other part of your boat, can have more challenges that you may not foresee in the long run. more
The best way to protect your boat’s stainless steel over time is simple. Give it a quick wipe-down with Stainless Steel Cleaner frequently. Simply add this step to your current boat cleaning routine. Because Stainless Steel Cleaner also protects after cleaning, it will do you a lot of good and make sure that the metal on your boat looks virtually the same the next time you clean your boat. more
Hard water should never be used to clean stainless steel as it leaves behind stains or spots that are quite challenging to remove and you may never completely eliminate. These cleaning methods also apply to other stainless steel appliances in your kitchen, like the microwave, dishwasher, and sink. here
If you already own stainless appliances, you know about this problem, but if you are considering getting them, this is your warning. One of the most important reasons for cleaning a stainless steel fridge is if left alone, dirt, dust, and grime will put your best appliances at risk of rusting.
When cleaning stainless, there are certain cleaning products you want to avoid, including oven cleaner, ammonia, or other chlorine-based cleaners. Avoid using anything abrasive such as steel wool or other scrubber pads as they will scratch the finish. more
Instead, use one of our inexpensive cleaning solutions for cleaning your fridge and freezer. If you do end up needing commercial cleaners to restore the shine, stick with the Weiman line for the best results.
One of the reasons stainless steel appliances are so prevalent in kitchens is because they are rust and corrosion resistant. Although they may look nice, don’t let the term stainless fool you, as these appliances seem to be a magnet for stains. The two biggest culprits are water stains and fingerprints, but even they aren’t that big of a problem once you learn how to clean a stainless steel refrigerator.
Before you use any type of cleaning product on your appliances, Rochelle Wilkinson of Dirt Detectives Cleaning Services in Phoenix, Maryland, says to consult the specific item's manual for a safe ingredient list. "Know your products before you apply something to your new $2,000 fridge," she says. "You don't want to ruin your appliance, nor do you want to apply anything to a gas stove or oven that is flammable." Though it may not cause a fire when applied, residue left near the open flame can lead to trouble once you turn up the heat. here
Whatever you do, be sure to avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cloths.
Even if your owner's manual doesn't mention them, Leanne Stapf—the Chief Operating Officer at The Cleaning Authority—says you should never use alcohol or glass cleaners on your appliances; they will leave streaks and can discolor the surface layer. Instead, she suggests using products like baking soda that can revive dull stainless steel. "[Apply] a small amount of baking soda onto a damp soft cloth and buff it out," she says, adding that you should make sure to rinse the surface well to avoid leaving any streaks behind. Wilkinson agrees, adding oil-based formulas and WD-40 to that banned list. "Any oil left on the surface will instantly grab any dust particles floating through the air," she says, noting that it will immediately make your surface look dull and dirty again. "Not to mention, as soon as you touch an appliance with a thick oil applied, you leave behind fingerprints—and now your hands are oily." more
If you want to take a do-it-yourself route, try Wilkinson's go-to method, which involves dish soap, two microfiber rags, and a round microfiber wax applicator. "Soak the first rag with hot water and add a drop of dish liquid. Dawn Platinum ($4.89, target.com) is the best choice, as it cuts through grease," she says. "Starting at the top of the appliance, go left to right in circles, removing any built-up food, fingerprints, or creams that may have been applied prior." When you're done, she suggests taking the second rag and adding warm water to rinse the solution away. "Then, while the surface is still damp, take the round microfiber wax applicator sponge and—starting at the top—wipe left to right to dry the appliance," she concludes. The secret, she says, is that the sponge absorbs the moisture and then the microfiber cloth buffs the surface, giving your appliance a nice polish.
Stainless steel appliances are popular because of the sleek, modern look and high-end feel, they bring to the kitchen. However, they generally show spills and fingerprints more easily than some of their glossier counterparts—which means keeping up with a cleaning and polishing routine is a must. That's why we spoke with two experts to find out the best ways to clean your stainless steel gadgets. Ahead, what they had to share.
Be prepared.
Periodically remove your propeller(s), check for fishing line wrapped around the prop shaft, then grease the prop shaft with a high-quality, high-pressure marine-formula grease like Yamalube ® Marine Grease or Molybdenum Grease. This will help make it easier to get the prop off next time, especially in saltwater. When re-installing your propeller, make sure to torque the prop nut to the manufacturer’s specification, and always use a new cotter pin rather than re-using the old one.
Steve Pennaz on propellers here
Beware corrosion.
If you’ve noticed a decrease in your boat’s performance, but your outboard checks out fine, you’d do well to suspect your prop. Suspended grit, sand and silt in the water slowly eat away at your propeller’s edges. When this happens, your prop may look perfect, but the worn edges can seriously degrade performance.
Cleaning Your Propeller, Pt. 2 here