Remove Black Spots on Stainless Steel (Explained)
One of the most effective methods is to use a vinegar and water solution. Simply mix equal parts vinegar and water in a bowl and apply it to the spots with a cloth.
The Author
Every person who owns a home probably has at least one or two pieces of stainless-steel cookware.
Stainless steel is a popular choice for many because it is durable and easy to care for.
However, one downside to stainless steel is that it can develop black spots which is very difficult to remove.
Living in a house with expensive stainless-steel appliances can be a bit of a nightmare.
Not only do you have to worry about smudges and fingerprints, but you also have to deal with the occasional black spot.
Black spots on stainless steel are usually caused by heat or water damage, and they can be very difficult to remove.
In this article, we will show you a few simple tips on how to get rid of black spots on your expensive stainless-steel cookware.
What Causes Black Spots?
There are a few different things that can cause black spots to form on stainless steel.
It is mostly caused by heat. If you leave your cookware on the stovetop for too long, it can cause the steel to oxidize and turn black.
Another common cause of black spots is water damage. If your cookware is not properly dried after being washed, it can develop spots as well. Some other reasons why black spots might form include:
- Using the wrong cleaning products
- Scratches or abrasions in the finish
- Exposure to salt or other chemicals
How to Remove Black Spots
Fortunately, there are a few things that you can do to remove black spots from your stainless-steel cookware.
Here are some ways that will help you to remove black spots from your stainless-steel cookware.
Vinegar and Water
One of the most effective methods is to use a vinegar and water solution. Simply mix equal parts vinegar and water in a bowl and apply it to the spots with a cloth.
Let it be there for a few minutes before wiping it. You can see that the spots will start disappearing.
Baking Soda and Water
Another way to remove black spots is to use baking soda and water paste. Mix a small amount of baking soda and water until it forms a paste.
Apply the paste to your cookware. Let it be there for few minutes then wipe it with clean cloth and wash it with water.
Commercial Stainless-Steel Cleaner
If you are still having trouble removing the black spots, you can try using a commercial stainless-steel cleaner.
These cleaners are designed specifically for removing tough stains from stainless steel.
Follow the instructions on the cleaner and apply it to the spots with a cloth and wash it with warm water.
Steel Wool Pad
If the spots are still not coming off, you can try using a steel wool pad.
Scrub the spots gently with the steel wool pad until they start to fade.
Be sure to rinse the cookware well after scrubbing to remove any steel particles that may be left behind.
Preventing Black Spots
The best way to deal with black spots is to prevent them from happening in the first place.
Here are a few tips that will help you to prevent black spots from forming on your stainless-steel cookware:
Wash your cookware regularly with soap and water
Make sure to wash them as soon as you’re done using them, the later you wash them the harder the spots will be to remove.
Avoid using harsh cleaning products
Avoid using harsh cleaning products or abrasive pads when cleaning your cookware.
Harsh chemicals can damage the finish on your cookware and abrasive pads can scratch the surface be careful not to scratch the surface of your cookware.
Do not use Metal Utensils
Use wooden or silicon utensils when cooking with stainless steel cookware. And try to never use mental utensils while cooking in stainless steel cookware.
Dry your cookware thoroughly after washing it
The best way to deal with black spots is to prevent them from happening in the first place.
One of the best ways to do this is to make sure that your cookware is properly dried after being washed.
Use a clean cloth to dry it off, and make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies.
You can also let it air dry. Water spots are one of the most common causes of black spots, so it is important to dry your cookware thoroughly before storing it.
Use a stovetop protector
Another good way to prevent black spots is to use a stovetop protector.
A stovetop protector is a piece of silicone or metal that you place on top of your stove to protect it from scratches and other damage.
Stovetop protectors can also help to prevent black spots by absorbing some of the heat from your cookware.
Use a Stainless-Steel Cleaner
Finally, you can try using a stainless-steel cleaner to help prevent black spots.
Stainless steel cleaners are designed to protect your cookware from heat and water damage.
They can also help to remove any dirt or grime that may be building up on your cookware.
Do not leave your cookware on the stovetop for too long
Do not leave your cookware on the stovetop for too long as it will cause the steel to oxidize and will ruin your stainless-steel cookware.
Final Thought
First of all, try to avoid black spots by washing your cookware regularly and drying it thoroughly after each use.
And never use metal utensils on your stainless-steel cookware if you want it to last longer.
After following these things if black spots do appear, you can try using baking soda and water or a commercial stainless-steel cleaner to remove them.
For tough stains, you can try using a steel wool pad. If you take proper care of your stainless-steel cookware, it will last for years.
If you are still having trouble removing the spots, you can try using a commercial stainless-steel cleaner.
