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Cleaning

Removing Brown Blemishes From Stainless Steel Cooktops

Brown discoloration on a stainless steel cooktop may appear when improper cleaners are used or when rust starts to form. Mild solutions can eliminate these marks, while harsh chemicals like bleach should be avoided because they may harm or discolor the steel.

By Sage Campbell8 steps

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Remove brown spots, and polish the stainless steel to avoid streaks.

Remove brown spots, and polish the stainless steel to avoid streaks.

A stainless steel stovetop has a clean, polished look that can make stains and spots stand out. Brown spots may show up on the stainless steel surface when the wrong cleaning products are used, or when rust starts to develop. These marks can be removed with gentle cleaning solutions. Strong chemicals, such as bleach, should not be used at any point, since they may damage or discolor the stainless steel.

Step 1

Mist the whole stovetop with glass cleaner. Make sure the brown spots are fully coated.

Step 2

Use a paper towel to wipe away the brown spots. If the stains are old, this step might not remove them entirely.

Step 3

Place 1 drop of liquid dish soap on each brown spot.

Step 4

With a wet toothbrush, scrub the liquid dish soap along the direction of the stainless steel grain. Keep working until the brown spots are gone.

Step 5

Soak a clean cloth in white vinegar and rub it across the stainless steel stovetop. The white vinegar helps neutralize the liquid dish soap and also helps lighten any brown spots that remain.

Step 6

If brown spots are still visible, sprinkle baking soda over them.

Step 7

Use a damp terry cloth to rub the baking soda into the brown spots. The raised nap of the terry cloth helps scrub the stovetop. Continue until the stains are completely removed.

Step 8

Rinse the stovetop with water and dry it thoroughly with a clean cloth. Buff the surface with a clean cloth to polish it and prevent water streaks.