According to the Stainless Steel Information Center, organic solvents can also be used to remove fresh fingerprints and oils and greases that have not had time to oxidize or decompose, the preferred solvent being one that does not contain chlorine. Acetone, methyl alcohol, and mineral spirits are acceptable.
Many commercial cleaners compounded from phosphates, synthetic detergents, or alkalies are available for cleaning severely soiled or stained surfaces. But the fact that a label states “for stainless steel” is not necessarily a guarantee that the product is not abrasive, not acidic, or is low in chloride, so take care.
If the steel has a hairline finish, in which the grain is continuous and runs the length of the surface, scratches may be sanded over with a light grit or pumice; otherwise, scratches should be removed only by a specialist.
If the steel has a hairline finish, in which the grain is continuous and runs the length of the surface, scratches may be sanded over with a light grit or pumice; otherwise, scratches should be removed only by a specialist.
