Author: James Dudra, Founder and Formulator of Therapy Clean | 20+ Years of Experience · 200+ Cleaning Product Formulations
Noticing rust spots on your stainless steel appliances? Don’t panic — surface rust is surprisingly common, even on premium appliances from brands like GE, Whirlpool, and KitchenAid. While stainless steel is corrosion-resistant, it’s not fully rust-proof. The good news: with the right technique and products, you can safely restore your appliances without damaging the finish.
Table of Contents
- Why Does Stainless Steel Rust?
- What You’ll Need to Remove Rust
- Step-by-Step: How to Remove Rust from Stainless Steel
- What Not to Do
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Key Takeaways
Why Does Stainless Steel Rust?
Despite the name, stainless steel can rust when its protective layer is compromised. This passive layer — made of chromium oxide — shields the metal from moisture and air. But exposure to harsh chemicals, abrasive tools, or even salt from fingerprints can weaken this barrier and lead to surface oxidation.
Luckily, most rust spots are cosmetic and easy to remove at home. What matters most is using a gentle, non-damaging method to avoid worsening the problem.
What You’ll Need to Remove Rust
- 🥄 Baking soda
- 💧 Water
- 🧽 Soft-bristled brush or cloth (no steel wool!)
- 🧴 Stainless steel-safe cleaner (like Therapy Clean)
- 🔒 Microfiber cloth for polishing
Optional: For extra shine, finish with a stainless steel polish after rust removal.
Step-by-Step: How to Remove Rust from Stainless Steel
- Create a paste by mixing 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water.
- Apply the paste directly to the rusted area using a soft cloth or brush.
- Scrub gently in the direction of the grain — not in circles.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove residue.
- Dry immediately with a soft microfiber cloth.
- Apply a stainless steel cleaner like Therapy Clean to recondition the surface and prevent future rust.
Pro Tip: If the rust persists, repeat the process or consult your appliance’s brand support page for guidance. GE, Whirlpool, KitchenAid, and others may offer specific cleaning advice for your model.
What Not to Do When Cleaning Rust
- ❌ Don’t use steel wool or wire brushes — they can scratch and worsen rusting
- ❌ Avoid chlorine bleach, ammonia, or alcohol-based cleaners
- ❌ Don’t scrub against the grain — this dulls the finish and leaves swirl marks
- ❌ Never let baking soda or any cleaner sit for too long — rinse promptly
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use vinegar to remove rust?
While vinegar can help dissolve rust, it’s acidic and may degrade the stainless finish if left too long. If you try it, use sparingly and rinse thoroughly.
Why does my stainless steel rust in the first place?
Surface rust often forms due to moisture, salt (from fingerprints or cooking), or cleaning with harsh chemicals that strip the protective coating.
Can I prevent rust from coming back?
Yes — clean regularly with a non-toxic stainless steel cleaner and always dry your appliances after wiping them down.
Is baking soda safe on all stainless steel appliances?
Yes, as long as you use a soft cloth and rinse thoroughly. It’s gentle, non-toxic, and highly effective for rust and stain removal.
Should I check with my appliance brand before cleaning?
Absolutely. Most brands like GE and KitchenAid offer cleaning guidance online. Always verify product compatibility with your manufacturer.
Key Takeaways
- ⚠️ Stainless steel can rust when its protective layer is damaged
- 🧽 A baking soda paste is a safe, effective way to remove surface rust
- ✨ Always scrub in the direction of the grain and rinse thoroughly
- 🚫 Avoid steel wool, bleach, or abrasive chemicals
- 🌿 Finish with a stainless steel-safe cleaner to prevent future rust
Conclusion
Surface rust doesn’t mean your appliance is ruined — it just needs a little TLC. With a baking soda paste and a stainless-safe cleaner like Therapy Clean, you can safely restore your stainless steel’s shine while avoiding harsh chemicals.
Want more tips for maintaining a streak-free kitchen? Check out our Ultimate Stainless Steel Cleaning Guide for appliance-specific care and product recommendations.
Shop smarter: Therapy Clean Stainless Steel Cleaner & Polish is USDA BioBased, plant-powered, and designed to clean without compromise.
