Here’s a super easy recipe for stainless steel polish you can make in about one minute with just three common ingredients.
This natural, non-toxic cleaner removes fingerprints, smudges, streaks, dirt, and grime with minimal effort. It works on all stainless steel appliances — refrigerator, dishwasher, stove, microwave, coffee maker, toaster oven, and more — leaving a shiny, streak-free finish.
I use it throughout my kitchen because it reliably restores a clean, smudge-free look. If you prefer natural cleaning solutions, this is one of the best stainless steel cleaners I’ve tried.
How to make homemade stainless steel polish
Step 1: Add 1/2 cup olive oil to an 8 oz (or larger) spray bottle
Use a funnel to pour the oil into the bottle. Tip: choose a bottle that’s compatible with essential oils — glass, stainless steel, or plastics labeled PET #1 or HDPE #2 are good options. Any olive oil will work; there’s no need to use a premium cooking oil.
Step 2: Add 1/2 cup white vinegar
The vinegar helps cut grease and dissolve grime, balancing the oil for an effective polish.
Step 3: Add 20 drops of essential oil
My preferred blend is 10 drops lemon and 10 drops sweet or wild orange. Citrus oils are especially effective at cutting through grease and leaving appliances sparkling. Other citrus options include grapefruit, lime, bergamot, tangerine, petitgrain, and mandarin.
Step 4 (optional): Add a label
Print a label on regular paper or full-sheet label paper. Attach it with packing tape to make it water-resistant and durable. Before applying, wipe the bottle with rubbing alcohol so the label adheres cleanly.
Stainless steel polish recipe
1/2 cup olive oil
1/2 cup white vinegar
10 drops lemon essential oil
10 drops sweet or wild orange essential oil
(optional) printable label for your bottle
How to use the stainless steel polish
- Shake well to combine the ingredients.
- Spray lightly onto the stainless steel surface. Works well on refrigerators, stoves, microwaves, dishwashers, toasters, coffee makers, and similar appliances.
- Wipe with a soft cloth, following the grain of the stainless steel for the best, streak-free result.
More essential oil cleaning recipes you might like
DIY dusting spray
All-surface floor cleaner
Mold & mildew spray
Toilet cleaning fizzies
Homemade shower cleaner
Natural dishwasher detergent
Homemade disinfecting spray
Streak-free window and mirror spray
Kitchen and bathroom cleaning wipes
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Please note: Products mentioned in this article have not been evaluated by the FDA. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified medical professional regarding your care.
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