Some questions don’t go away. For instance, folks continue to ask about the best way to clean stainless steel appliances. I don’t claim to be an expert on this topic, so I’ve been researching to see what appliance sales people and cooking pros recommend.

I found some very helpful information on a favorite site, www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com, that sums up what most sales people and pros suggest. So here you go, all you stainless steel owners—three ways to get those appliances to shine.

TURN TO VINEGAR. This couldn’t be more simple. Just fill a spray bottle with distilled white vinegar and spritz it onto the appliance. Wipe gently with a microfiber cloth, being sure to wipe in the direction of the brushed grain.

BAR KEEPERS FRIEND® is another good tool. You can use it on almost everything. But it’s especially effective on stainless steel appliances. It now comes in liquid as well as powder form. Sprinkle some on a wet (but not dripping) cloth and wipe away, again, being sure to wipe in the direction of the grain. Finish by wiping the surface clean with another clean and wet cloth. You want to be careful not to leave the cleaner’s film on the surface too long, as it could lead to discoloration.

One caution, however: While this is a great method for deep cleaning stainless steel appliances every once in a while, it’s not recommended for consistent use. This is because not all stainless steel finishes are created equal. Certain finishes may not be ideal candidates for frequent cleaning with Bar Keepers Friend®. (Your appliance’s user manual should have guidance on surface maintenance. And you can also perform a spot test in a hidden area.)

STEAM IS A COST-EFFECTIVE AND EFFICIENT METHOD as well. It’s especially good for those tough-to-clean areas of your appliances (door handles, nooks and crannies, hinges and other hardware, for instance). And you can’t find a better way to deal with hardened messes; steam shows built-up gunk who’s boss! Steaming is a great way to deep clean without scrubbing, which will keep your stainless steel looking like new for years to come!

If you don’t have a steamer, wet a kitchen towel with scalding water and place it over the mess for a minute or two before scrubbing. Obviously you’ll want to wear gloves for this.

But back to the hand-held steamer. Typically associated with removing wrinkles in clothes, they’re remarkable for not just appliance cleaning, but for cleaning all sorts of things. This multi-use feature makes investing in one a smart move. And more sales pitch: Steam vapor is naturally sanitizing and deodorizing. When it penetrates surfaces, it destroys mold spores, germs, viruses, dust mites, and bacteria (without chemicals!). Could there be a “greener” (or less expensive) approach to cleaning?

One good steamer available is made by PURE Enrichment. It retails for $50, but you’ll find it on amazon.com right now for half price plus shipping. The ad description says “Fast-Heating Clothes Steamer with Ergonomic Handle and Easy-Fill Water Tank for 10 Minutes of Continuous Steam.” (I’m wondering if I could talk my hubby into a late Valentine’s gift?)