Splattering grease mars the appearance of once shiny stainless steel finishes on counters, appliances and stove tops. Because stainless steel is sensitive to harsh chemicals and abrasives, you must be careful about how you remove grease from these surfaces. Start with the mildest cleaning method possible and work your way up to more stringent cleaning methods only when necessary.
Wipe the surface with a soft, lint-free rag that has been wet with hot water. Always rub with the grain in the stainless steel and never against.
Dilute a bit of mild soap, such as dish detergent, in a bucket of hot water and wipe the stainless steel with a soft, clean rag. Don't squirt the soap directly onto the problem area as undiluted soap can be difficult to remove.
Wet a soft cloth with white vinegar or club soda and wipe the surface with it to remove any particularly stubborn grease spots or streaks. Acetone, rubbing alcohol and mineral spirits also work well on stainless steel's more stubborn stains, but test these chemicals in a discreet area first to make sure they won't harm the finish on your stainless steel surface.
Rinse the surface thoroughly with a damp cloth soaked in cold water when you are done cleaning, and dry it with a soft cloth to prevent unsightly water spots.
Fill a small sink or a small bucket with white vinegar.
Soak grease-stained stainless steel pots and pans in the vinegar for 30 minutes.
Wash the cookware in hot, soapy water after it has soaked and then rinse thoroughly with cold water. Towel dry your cookware to avoid water spots.