Interesting point about rubbing alcohol—I hadn't thought of using it for appliances, but it makes sense given its quick evaporation. I've mostly stuck with vinegar and dish soap myself, partly because I prefer avoiding stronger smells or chemicals around the kitchen. But you're right; the vinegar smell can linger a bit longer than I'd like, especially if I'm prepping for guests or clients.
One thing I've found helpful is adding a few drops of essential oil—like lemon or lavender—to the vinegar solution. It doesn't completely eliminate the vinegar scent, but it masks it nicely and leaves a fresher aroma behind. Still, your rubbing alcohol suggestion intrigues me... I might give that a try on stainless steel surfaces next time. Have you noticed any issues with finishes or coatings after repeated use? That's always my main concern when trying something new on appliances.
"Have you noticed any issues with finishes or coatings after repeated use?"
I've used rubbing alcohol on stainless steel appliances quite a bit, and haven't noticed any finish issues yet. But I'd be cautious around vintage or painted surfaces—those can be surprisingly delicate... learned that the hard way!
But I'd be cautious around vintage or painted surfaces—those can be surprisingly delicate...
I've actually had some trouble with rubbing alcohol on brushed nickel finishes. Thought it was safe until I noticed a weird dull patch forming... lesson learned. Stainless steel seems tougher, but yeah, vintage or painted stuff—definitely risky territory!
lesson learned. Stainless steel seems tougher, but yeah, vintage or painted stuff—definitely risky territory!
I've seen rubbing alcohol mess up brushed nickel too—definitely not as forgiving as stainless steel. Honestly, I've found diluted vinegar safer overall, but even then, gotta test it first. Anyone tried baking soda paste on brushed finishes? Curious if that's gentler...
I've actually tried baking soda paste on brushed nickel before—worked okay, but you gotta be super gentle. A little too much scrubbing and you could dull the finish. I'd say it's safer than alcohol for sure, but still test in a hidden spot first.
"Honestly, I've found diluted vinegar safer overall, but even then, gotta test it first."
Agreed on vinegar being safer overall, but curious if anyone's had luck with lemon juice diluted in water? Heard mixed things about citrus on brushed finishes...
