The best thing to clean stainless steel appliances is a cleaner made for stainless steel, paired with a soft microfiber cloth. That combination can lift fingerprints, grease, and everyday smudges while helping you avoid scratches and streaks. The right pick depends on whether you want a ready-to-use spray, a bundled cloth, or a multipack for regular care.
Below, we compare five stainless steel sprays by their stated features, intended uses, and practical trade-offs. Always check your appliance manual first, especially if the surface has a special coating or finish.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Notable feature | Pack size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bar Keepers Friend Stainless Steel Cleaner & Polish Spray | All-around appliance care | Includes a microfiber cloth | 15 oz + cloth |
| LIBMAN Stainless Steel Cleaner, Polish and Protectant | Routine cleaning and polishing | Designed to leave a protective barrier | 16 oz |
| Bar Keepers Friend Cleaner & Polish, 2-Pack | Keeping a spare bottle on hand | Two spray bottles | 16 oz each |
| Rock Doctor Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish | Several metal surfaces | For stainless steel, chrome, and aluminum | Single spray |
| Stainless Steel Spray for Appliances, 2-Pack | Unscented appliance care | PFAS-free formula; spray onto a cloth | Two 8 fl oz bottles |
Our Picks: Best Thing To Clean Stainless Steel Appliances reviews
1. Bar Keepers Friend Cleaner and Polish: Best All-Around Kit
This ready-to-use spray is designed to clean and polish stainless steel appliances, with a microfiber cloth included in the package. Its stated uses include removing fingerprints, oily marks, grime, and food debris from appliance surfaces. The spray nozzle is intended for targeted application, which can help you avoid misting more area than you need.
For routine care, apply the spray as directed and wipe with the included soft cloth. The product description also suggests a damp, non-scratch sponge for stubborn grime. Follow the appliance maker’s care instructions, and avoid using a rough pad that could mark the finish.
Compared with the LIBMAN spray, this pick comes with a cloth instead of focusing as strongly on a protective barrier. It is a practical choice if you want a simple starter set for a refrigerator, dishwasher, or other stainless exterior. The main limitation is that the included cloth may not be enough if you clean several appliances at once; keeping a second clean cloth nearby can help with buffing.
Pros:
- Includes a microfiber cloth for wiping and buffing.
- Designed to lift fingerprints, grease, and everyday grime.
- Spray nozzle allows targeted application.
- Can be used on a range of household metal appliances, according to the product description.
Cons:
- Only one cloth is included.
- Stubborn grime may need extra attention with a damp, non-scratch sponge.
Verdict: Choose this kit if you want a versatile stainless steel spray with a cloth included for everyday appliance cleaning.
2. LIBMAN Stainless Steel Spray: Best for Regular Polishing
LIBMAN’s 16-ounce spray is made for stainless steel appliances and sinks. The product description says it lifts fingerprints, water spots, smudges, and grease, while polishing the surface. It is also designed to leave a protective barrier intended to help resist new marks.
The trigger bottle is made for a spray-and-wipe routine: apply the cleaner, wipe thoroughly with a clean microfiber cloth or towel, then buff gently. Its listed uses include refrigerators, dishwashers, ovens, microwaves, range hoods, and stainless steel sinks. The formula’s protective-shine focus makes it a reasonable fit for busy kitchens where fingerprints return quickly.
Unlike the Bar Keepers Friend kit above, this bottle does not list an included cloth. You will need to supply your own. The product description says it is made in the USA, but it does not provide details about the protective barrier’s ingredients or how long it lasts, so treat the finish as routine care rather than a permanent shield.
Pros:
- Designed to clean and polish in one step.
- Made for appliances and stainless steel sinks.
- Protective barrier is intended to help resist fingerprints and water marks.
- Convenient trigger spray for quick wipe-downs.
Cons:
- No cloth is listed as included.
- Requires thorough wiping and buffing for the intended finish.
Verdict: Pick LIBMAN if you want a larger single bottle focused on routine cleaning and a fingerprint-resistant finish, and already have a suitable cloth.
3. Bar Keepers Friend 2-Pack: Best for Keeping a Spare
This two-bottle set is a good match for households that clean stainless steel often or want one bottle in the kitchen and another elsewhere. The spray is described as a non-scratch cleaner and polish for stainless steel and other metal surfaces. It is intended to remove fingerprints, grease marks, smudges, light residue, water marks, and everyday grime.
The product description calls out a streak-free finish and a formula that helps repel dust and light soils. It lists uses across kitchens, laundry rooms, garages, and outdoor cooking areas, as well as certain bathroom metal fixtures. For best results, spray and buff with a microfiber cloth as directed.
Compared with the single-bottle Bar Keepers Friend option, this package provides more cleaner but does not list a cloth. It may be less convenient if you are trying stainless steel spray for the first time and do not already own a suitable cloth. Since it is a multipack, consider whether you have a cool, appropriate place to store the extra bottle.
Pros:
- Two 16-ounce bottles provide a backup supply.
- Designed to clean, shine, and protect metal surfaces.
- Lists uses in kitchens, laundry rooms, garages, and outdoor cooking spaces.
- Intended to leave a streak-free finish without greasy residue.
Cons:
- No microfiber cloth is listed as included.
- A two-pack may be more than you need for occasional cleaning.
Verdict: Choose this set if you already like spray-and-buff cleaning and want two bottles for regular use in more than one area.
4. Rock Doctor Cleaner and Polish: Best for Multiple Metal Types
Rock Doctor is a spray cleaner and polish described for stainless steel, chrome, and aluminum. Its intended surfaces include refrigerators, dishwashers, microwaves, ovens, and other metal appliances. The formula is described as using natural oils and solvents to clean and protect metal, while helping remove dust, dirt, grease, and fingerprints.
Application is straightforward: spray, wipe with a soft cloth, and polish. That multi-metal use could be handy if your kitchen has more than one type of metal finish. As with any cleaner, check the manufacturer’s instructions before using it on a special finish, and test a small, less visible area first if you are unsure.
The product data supplied for this article lists this item as unavailable, so availability may vary. Its description does not specify a bottle size or include a cloth, which makes it harder to compare the amount you receive with the other options. If it is not available, the Bar Keepers Friend multipack also lists uses beyond kitchen appliances.
Pros:
- Designed for stainless steel, chrome, and aluminum.
- Spray-and-wipe application is simple to use.
- Intended to help clean and protect metal surfaces.
- Listed for several kitchen appliances.
Cons:
- Availability may vary.
- The supplied product details do not state the bottle size or list an included cloth.
Verdict: Consider Rock Doctor if you need one spray for several metal types, but check availability and surface-care instructions before choosing it.
5. Stainless Steel Appliance Spray, 2-Pack: Best Unscented Option
This two-pack is designed for stainless steel appliances and is described as unscented and PFAS-free. The product information lists refrigerators, ranges, dishwashers, and range hoods, along with sinks, grill grates, and restaurant prep tables. It is intended to tackle fingerprints, smudges, and cooking grease while leaving a light finish to help resist future marks.
One useful detail is the application method: shake the bottle, spray the cleaner onto a dry cloth, then wipe along the grain. Applying it to the cloth rather than directly to the appliance can help you control where the product goes. The two smaller bottles may also suit someone who wants one in the kitchen and another in a separate work area.
The supplied product data lists this item as unavailable, so check whether it can be purchased before settling on it. Each bottle is smaller than the single 16-ounce options, and the description does not mention a cloth. If unscented cleaning is a priority, this product has a clear stated advantage, but the availability limitation may make another pick more practical.
Pros:
- Described as unscented and PFAS-free.
- Two bottles can be kept in separate locations.
- Instructions specify applying the spray to a dry cloth.
- Listed for steel, aluminum, and chrome surfaces.
Cons:
- Availability may vary.
- Each bottle is smaller than the 16-ounce single-bottle options.
- No cloth is listed as included.
Verdict: This is worth considering if you want an unscented, PFAS-free formula and can find it available, but its smaller bottles may not suit frequent whole-kitchen cleaning.
How to Choose a Stainless Steel Appliance Cleaner
Match the cleaner to your appliance finish
“Stainless steel” appliances can have different finishes and care requirements. Check your appliance manual before using a new spray, especially on fingerprint-resistant coatings, brushed surfaces, or other special finishes. If the manufacturer allows the cleaner, try it on a small, less visible spot first.
Decide whether you need cleaning, polishing, or both
Some sprays are positioned as cleaners and polishes, while others also emphasize a protective barrier intended to resist future smudges. If you mainly need to remove fresh fingerprints, a simple spray-and-wipe product may be enough. If you want a polished look, choose a formula that specifically describes a polishing step and plan to buff with a clean cloth.
Choose a bottle size that fits your routine
A single bottle may be a sensible choice for occasional cleaning or a smaller kitchen. A multipack can be convenient if you clean often or want to keep a bottle in more than one place. Compare the amount in each bottle, not just the number of bottles, and think about whether you have room to store an extra supply.
Check what comes in the package
A microfiber cloth is useful for applying or buffing cleaner without a rough surface. The first Bar Keepers Friend option in this guide lists a cloth, while the other product descriptions do not list one. If a cloth is not included, use a clean, soft cloth that is suitable for your appliance’s finish.
Consider how you prefer to apply the spray
Most of these picks use a spray-and-wipe method, but the unscented two-pack specifically says to spray onto a dry cloth. Applying cleaner to a cloth can give you more control around handles, edges, and nearby surfaces. Follow the directions on the bottle rather than assuming every formula should be used the same way.
Think about scent and other stated formula details
If you prefer to avoid fragrance around your kitchen, look for a product that clearly identifies itself as unscented. One option here also describes its formula as PFAS-free. Do not assume a cleaner has a particular ingredient profile unless the product information states it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best thing to clean stainless steel appliances?
A cleaner made for stainless steel and a soft microfiber cloth are a practical starting point. For an easy kit, the first Bar Keepers Friend option includes a cloth. Always check your appliance manual before using a cleaning product.
Can I use stainless steel cleaner on every appliance surface?
No. A product may be intended for stainless steel but still not be suitable for every coating, finish, or part of an appliance. Check the manufacturer’s care instructions and the cleaner label, and avoid using it on surfaces the label does not name.
How do I help prevent streaks?
Use a clean, soft cloth, apply only as much product as the directions call for, and wipe or buff the surface thoroughly. If the product directs you to apply it to the cloth, follow that method. A separate dry cloth can be useful for a final buff.
Should I wipe stainless steel with the grain?
The appliance manufacturer’s instructions should come first. The unscented two-pack in this guide specifically directs users to wipe along the grain. If you can see a brushed pattern, wiping in its direction is a sensible way to follow that product’s instructions and avoid uneven-looking strokes.
Can I use these cleaners on stainless steel sinks?
Several products in this guide list stainless steel sinks among their intended uses. Check the specific label and your sink manufacturer’s care instructions before applying a cleaner, especially if the sink has a special finish.
Do I need a special cloth?
A soft microfiber cloth is a convenient choice for wiping and buffing stainless steel. One product in this guide includes a cloth; the others do not list one. Avoid rough scrubbers unless the cleaner and appliance instructions specifically allow them.
Final Recommendation
For a straightforward starting point, Bar Keepers Friend Stainless Steel Cleaner & Polish Spray with the included cloth is the most convenient all-around pick in this comparison. Choose LIBMAN if you want a larger single bottle with a stated focus on protective shine, or the Bar Keepers Friend two-pack if you prefer keeping extra cleaner on hand. Whichever you choose, follow the product directions and your appliance manual to protect the finish.