The Easiest Way to Shine Stainless Steel Using Olive Oil — Swan Hill Cleaning Tips from the Pros

August 22, 2025

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At O’Shea Cleaning & Support Services, Swan Hill’s most trusted commercial cleaning team, we know that keeping your workspace or facility looking its best often comes down to the little details. One of the most common challenges we hear from our clients is how to keep stainless steel looking streak-free and polished.


Here’s our insider tip: you can make stainless steel shine beautifully using something you probably already have in your kitchen — olive oil.


Why Olive Oil Works on Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is tough, but it’s also notorious for showing fingerprints, smudges, and water marks. Commercial stainless steel cleaners work well, but they can be pricey and full of harsh chemicals. Olive oil, on the other hand, is a natural, affordable, and eco-friendly alternative.


Olive oil creates a light, protective layer that helps resist fingerprints and gives stainless steel a glossy, professional finish. This makes it perfect for offices, schools, hospitality kitchens, or aged care facilities in Swan Hill that want to maintain a high standard of presentation.


How to Polish Stainless Steel with Olive Oil

You only need two things:

  • A clean microfibre cloth (we recommend the same high-quality cloths our O’Shea team uses)
  • A small amount of olive oil (any variety will do)

Step-by-step:

  1. Clean the surface first – Wipe the stainless steel with warm, soapy water or a mild cleaning spray to remove dirt and grime.
  2. Dry completely – Stainless steel polishes best when dry.
  3. Apply olive oil – Put a small drop on your microfibre cloth (less is more).
  4. Polish with the grain – Gently buff the surface, following the direction of the stainless steel grain.
  5. Wipe away excess – Use the clean side of your cloth to remove any leftover oil.

In just a few minutes, your stainless steel will look like it’s had a professional polish — without the cost or chemicals.


Where This Tip Works Best

We use this method regularly when providing commercial cleaning services across Swan Hill, Lake Boga, and nearby areas. It’s great for:

  • Office kitchens and appliances
  • Restaurant and café counters
  • School canteen benches
  • Aged care facility kitchens
  • Stainless steel fixtures in reception areas


Need More Than a Quick Polish?

While olive oil is a fantastic DIY stainless steel hack, there’s no substitute for a thorough, professional clean. At O’Shea Cleaning & Support Services, we go beyond surface shine. From deep commercial cleaning to window cleaning, car detailing, and NDIS & aged care cleaning, we make sure your space looks spotless and feels welcoming.


If you’re a business, school, or facility manager in Swan Hill looking for reliable, professional cleaners who genuinely care, give our friendly team a call on 03 5000 1705 or email enquiries@osheaservices.com.au.

We’ll keep your workplace sparkling — stainless steel and all.

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