The Household Cleaner That's Actually Damaging Your Stainless Steel Appliances

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

Everyone wants a sparkling kitchen that's spotless and clean. But if your go-to for wiping your stainless steel appliances is Windex, you could actually be doing more harm than good. In fact, there are many items you shouldn't be cleaning with Windex, and stainless steel is one of them. Over time, the ammonia in the popular glass cleaner can slowly erode the protective chromium oxide layer on stainless steel appliances. It doesn't just act as a protective layer — it's also what keeps the appliance looking glossy and polished. Since that's the biggest appeal of stainless steel appliances, the last thing you'd want to do is damage the finish and dull their shine. 

The polished finish, sleek modernity, and smudge-resistant surface make stainless steel appliances the star of a modern kitchen. However, unlike glass or ceramic, it's not meant to be cleaned with Windex. Repeated use of Windex or any ammonia-based products on stainless steel appliances can lead to dulling, tiny dents or pits that make the surface look rough and worn, and eventually even rust. No cleaning hack is worth sacrificing the finish of your pricey appliances. 

It's not hard to see why Windex has become an all-purpose cleaner for many households. Its streak-free finish and quick, easy application make it an appealing choice. Plus, it's common to assume that cleaning products made for glass are safe for stainless steel — even cleaning expert Martha Stewart herself shared Windex as one of her major cleaning hacks for stainless steel appliances on "The Today Show" in 2021. So, if you've been using it to clean your stainless steel appliances, it's time to break that habit. 

What makes this problem a sneaky one is that the damage starts gradually. It's not something that happens overnight. Each wipe may seem harmless and satisfying thanks to the streak-free finish, but it could be subtly compromising the finish of your appliances. Additionally, the cleaning product's ammonia content is why people are ditching Windex for safer alternatives. This is likely why SC Johnson, the company behind Windex, currently provides ammonia-free Windex. That said, Windex isn't your only option — there are also plenty of safe alternatives to keep your appliances looking shiny.

There are plenty of stainless steel-safe products and cleaning methods to keep appliances shining like new. Look for products from brands like Weiman and Bar Keepers Friend that are specifically formulated for use on stainless steel. If you're wanting something less chemical-based, then opt for a cleaner derived from eco-friendly ingredients like this Therapy Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish.

For a simpler and more economical approach, you can DIY your own cleaner. In fact, some of the best cleaners to use on stainless steel appliances are products that are likely already in your home. Some experts swear by vinegar and plain ol' filtered water for DIY cleaning. To wipe stainless steel surfaces down, a microfiber cloth is a must for a streak-free clean. All it takes are the right products and right approach to keep your stainless steel appliances looking brand new — no Windex required.