How do you fix scratches on stainless steel appliances?

In order to repair scratches on stainless steel appliances, use a commercial "scratch eraser" or sand the steel surface and fill the scratches with rubbing compound. To complete the repair by sanding, purchase a sanding block and sheets of 400- to 600-grit sandpaper.

Commercial kits are sometimes easier to use, but experts claim that the sanding technique can produce superior results.

1. Sand down the surface
Apply a polish that is approved for stainless steel. This lubricates the surface. Working with the grain of the steel, sand the surface of the appliances to eliminate the scratches. Instead of sanding back and forth, sand in just one direction to avoid adding further scratches. Work on one section until it is satisfactory, then move on to other scratched portions. Fill remaining scratches with rubbing compound.
2. Use a stainless steel repair kit
Repair kits and commercial products eliminate scratches from stainless steel appliances so they look new again. Scratch removers or "erasers" are helpful for this purpose, and special sanding kits contain everything needed to remove scratches. When using unfamiliar products, start with the back or side of the appliance until the technique is perfected, then move on to more conspicuous areas.

If there are any dents in the appliance, these techniques will not work. Instead, the owner must call a repair service or replace the product.