Whether on a kitchen splashback, a sink, bathroom taps, a hob or even a metal piece of furniture, cleaning with unsuitable household products or abrasive tools can end up leaving stains in the long run. Unsightly marks and light scratches. Fortunately, it is entirely possible to use what you have on hand to get rid of superficial scratches that tarnish the surface in question. And for deep scratches, if not making them disappear, you can at least reduce them and reduce the dull effect that accompanies them.
Before treating scratches on metal…
Before even trying to fade the scratch in question, start by carry out careful cleaning of the surface to be treated. In fact, the presence of crumbs and other residue could damage it even more. To do this, avoid using an abrasive cleaning product and use a soft cloth (such as a microfiber cloth) or a sponge. This way, you won’t risk scratching the metal.
In the case of stainless steel, do not hesitate to identify the direction of the grain by observing the stainless steel very closely. Very often, the grain runs along the metal surface lengthwise. However, this is not systematic, hence the importance of making sure. You will then just have to clean following the direction of the grain with your white vinegar or household vinegar for example. Once the surface to be treated is clean and dry, you can move on to the anti-scratch treatment.
How to remove scratches from metal? Time for tips!
1) Toothpaste against scratches on metal
A basic white toothpaste can help fade most of the scratches. This is also the reason why it is already commonly used on spectacle lenses, mobile phone screens or even induction hobs. He is very effective against scratches of all types ! To use, place a dab on a damp microfiber cloth and dab it onto scratches following the direction of the grain. Then let it dry and rinse with clean water. Repeat as necessary, then apply olive oil or metal polish in a small amount to add shine.
2) Cigarette ash
Cigarette ash helps fade scratches on glass in no time, but it can also be used to make metal surfaces look like new. To do this, you will first need to moisten a soft, lint-free cloth, then sprinkle fine ash on it. You can then use your cloth to gently rub the scratch, always following the direction of the grain. If necessary, you can repeat the operation until it disappears completely. Finally, proceed to rinsing and drying, always gently.
3) Clay stone against metal scratches
Clay stone or silver stone is not only a good degreaser. It is indeed also a product that can help to polish light scratchesbut also to restore shine to tarnished metal. To do this, take a little material with your damp cloth, then proceed with the application following the direction of the grain. To help you be precise, you can wrap the cloth around your finger. If necessary, repeat the application, then rinse and dry the treated surface thoroughly.
4) Glass wool on the scratched surface
Do you have very fine glass wool? In this case, you have everything you need to get rid of unsightly scratches! To do this, gently rub the metallized surface while making small circular movements. Above all, keep a very light hand here! In fact, the goal is not to further damage the damaged surface.
5) Very fine sandpaper to polish the metal
In the case of a deep scratch, there is not much you can do, but you can always try using a very fine sandpaper. If you are unsure about which grain to use, do not hesitate to ask a professional. Once equipped, you can moisten the scratched area. It is also essential that it remains moist during the entire treatment and he goes the same for your sandpaper. Pass your wet sandpaper over the damaged surface, again following the direction of the grain. Sand until the scratch is completely gone, then dry the treated area well with a soft cloth.
6) Car polish
You can get it at a DIY store, on the Internet or a store that sells automobile accessories. Try to find polish, a scratch eraser, polishing red or even scratch eraser paste. There is a whole host of products specialized in reducing scratches on car bodies. You can then divert these products from their original use to remove light scratches from metal in your kitchen or bathroom. All you need to do is take a few drops of product onto a soft cloth and rub with the grain using small circular motions until the scratch disappears. Finish by rinsing the surface.
Good to know: If you can’t find any, wood polish will also do the trick!