How to Keep Black Appliances Shiny

Black appliances set a stylish mood in the kitchen; sleek and shiny, they work well with any color cabinets and make a statement against clean white walls. However, that statement can be interrupted by fingerprints, streaks and stains that can mar that sleek surface. The best way to keep black kitchen appliances clean and smudge-free is regular upkeep, and most of the cleaning can be done with supplies already in the pantry.

Appliances look their best when their surfaces are solid. Using harsh scrubbing pads, like steel wool, can scratch the smooth surface, so avoid using those on the outside of appliances. Scratches and dents will be visible on an otherwise pristine surface, so taking proper care of these appliances is essential to keep up their appearance.

Cleaning up black appliances is a two-step process. The first step is to get the surface clean; the second is to get it streak-free. Cleaning these appliances can be done in a number of ways, depending on the level of streakiness or dirt buildup you are dealing with.

If the surface is still relatively clean and just has dust or streaks on it, wipe the surface down with a wet washcloth. Add a few drops of liquid dish soap or use soapy water to get at tougher stains or food debris. After scrubbing carefully with a washcloth or a microfiber cloth, rinse out the soap and wipe the surface down again with the wet cloth.

As explained by Bond Cleaning in Adelaide, a mixture of 1/2 water, 1/2 vinegar in a spray bottle is another great way to get at buildup. Spray directly onto the surface, then wipe with a cloth until clean. This can be done in conjunction with dish soap if it's needed.

Rubbing alcohol can also be added to a water and vinegar mixture in similar proportions for extra cleaning power. Proceed with caution, however; rubbing alcohol is flammable and its fumes can make a person ill. Be sure to have plenty of ventilation and make sure all surfaces have been washed with plain water afterward. Also look out for areas with different materials, like keypads, that may not be compatible with rubbing alcohol.

For very hard-to-get areas, add 1/2 cup of baking soda to a spray bottle that's equal parts water and vinegar. Spray over the entire surface and let it dry overnight. The next day, wash off the remaining residue with a soapy, wet cloth.

For tough stains or food debris, it's best to soak the stain until it can be gently rubbed off. Use the spray bottle of your cleaning solution to saturate the buildup, let it soak for five to 10 minutes, and then wipe at it with a washcloth. Many appliance makers also provide a cleaning and polish solution for purchase. It's less expensive to use household ingredients, but these products and other appliance cleaning solutions are available to make life easier.

Even after cleaning and rinsing the surface of your appliances, there may still be streaks and fingerprints. As explained by Better Homes and Gardens, a good next step is to dry and buff the surface with a microfiber towel. Wipe off any remaining liquid, then buff in a circular motion until the surface is perfect and shiny.

This type of cleaning should be done every couple of weeks, but no less than once a month, to keep black kitchen appliances not just clean but beautiful as well.