Through regular use and cleaning, stainless steel knives can become scratched and dull. Extreme heat and exposure to acidic liquids can diminish the shine of stainless steel and knives used on hard surfaces quickly lose their edge. You can, however, restore resilient stainless steel knife blades to work and look great in a matter of minutes.
Clean the knife blade and handle thoroughly with hot soapy water and a soft sponge. Dry the knife completely.
Spray the stainless steel knife blade with a thick layer of cleaner-polish. Fold a heavy duty scouring pad in half over the dull spine of the blade. Pinch the scouring pad down onto the sides of the blade.
Slide the knife blade back and forth while the scouring pad is held in place. Move the knife slowly and press hard to scour the surface of the steel. Wipe the knife blade clean with a soft cloth.
Sharpen the edge of the blade with a knife sharpener. Apply honing oil to the blade, if it is recommended by the manufacturer of the sharpener. Clean the knife with hot soapy water and the soft sponge again to remove oil and steel shavings.
Coat the knife blade with a thin layer of the stainless steel cleaner and polish. Buff the stainless steel blade with a soft or microfiber cloth until it shines.