When polishing various metals, it’s essential to understand that each metal type has different polishing methods. Even though it’s a good idea to polish your metals often, it’s essential to know that you’ll use different methods and products when polishing stainless steel compared to something like brass. Here’s how polishing stainless steel differs from other metals.

Polishing Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is used in kitchen appliances, furniture, most factory machinery, and buildings. Clean your polished steel with a soft cloth and dish soap to remove dirt and other debris. Use some olive oil on a dry cloth to wipe the surface down for a shiny finish. Compared to the cleaning methods used with other metals, this is much cleaner and more organic.

Stainless Steel Compared To Aluminum

Even though stainless steel doesn’t need much maintenance, aluminum requires more specialized care. To maintain the aluminum’s lust, you’ll need to use unique products to remove tarnish and rust. There are two methods you can use: an aluminum polisher or homemade remedies (such as lemon juice or baking soda.)

Stainless Steel Compared To Brass

Brass is primarily popular with jewelry making, cookware, home décor, and even musical instruments. Brass is nice, but it can corrode if it doesn’t have something to protect it from the elements. The upkeep for brass doesn’t need to be done often, but excessive cleaning can cause the brass to tarnish faster. Compared to stainless steel, brass is not something that needs cleaning often. If anything, it’s better to let it age out and clean once in a while.

Stainless Steel Compared To Copper

Copper is another popular metal primarily used for household items. Copper is a metal that needs constant cleaning, or else it’ll tarnish quickly. Compared to stainless steel, copper can resist rust a little better; however, stainless steels finishes are higher than copper and also recycled more. Another key difference is that copper is more expensive to build with compared to stainless steel.

Stainless Steel Compared To Silver

No, stainless steel and silver are not the same. Silver is less shiny than stainless steel and is used more in home decorating pieces and cutlery. Although silver is easy to polish, it can also tarnish in between uses and cleaning. When stainless steel is polished, it adds more shine and durability compared to silver.