Refrigerators Metalik with a metal coating look stylish, but require special care. Unlike plastic models, the slightest fingerprints, grease splashes and dust are visible on the glossy or matte metal surface. Improper cleaning can leave scratches, streaks or even damage the protective layer. How to return the refrigerator to its original shine without risk?
Many housewives are faced with a problem: standard detergents leave white streaks, and aggressive chemicals corrode the coating. Meanwhile, the manufacturer Metalik recommends using only gentle compounds and soft materials. This article contains proven cleaning methods, from improvised means to professional chemicals, as well as mistakes that spoil the appearance of equipment.
The peculiarity of metal refrigerators is their multi-layer coating, which protects against corrosion, but is sensitive to abrasives. For example, powder cleaners or hard sponges wear away the top layer, causing dull spots to appear over time. Another problem is condensation, which forms on a cold surface in hot weather and leaves marks. Proper cleaning not only improves the appearance, but also extends the life of the equipment.
If your refrigerator Metalik has lost its former shine, do not rush to blame the manufacturer. In 90% of cases, improper care is to blame. Below are step-by-step instructions for different types of stains, from fresh stains to old grease, as well as tips on choosing tools.
1. What products are suitable for metal coating
First rule: no abrasives. Metallic (especially models with a glossy surface, for example Metalik MF-320S or Metalik Premium Steel) cannot be cleaned with powders, soda or melamine sponges. They scratch the protective layer, and over time the refrigerator becomes dull. What then should you use?
The manufacturer recommends:
- 🧴 Special sprays for stainless steel (for example, Weiman Stainless Steel Cleaner or Top House). They contain silicones that polish the surface and repel dust.
- 🧽 Mild liquid soap (children's or for dishes) - diluted in warm water (1:10). Suitable for regular cleaning.
- 🍋 Natural acids: vinegar (9%) or lemon juice diluted with water (1:1). They remove grease and disinfect, but require rinsing.
- 💧 Distilled water —for final rinsing to avoid streaks from hard water.
Important: refrigerators Metalik coated Anti-Fingerprint (for example, series Metalik Noir) cannot be cleaned with products based on ammonia or chlorine - they destroy the protective layer, and the surface ceases to repel prints.
If you are not sure about the composition of the product, check it in a small area on the side or back of the refrigerator. Apply a drop, wait 5 minutes and wipe. If there are no stains or dull marks left, you can use it.
2. Tools: do's and don'ts
Even the safest product will ruin the coating if you use the wrong tools. For metal refrigerators Metalik suitable:
- 🧻 Microfiber cloths is the best choice. They do not scratch and absorb moisture well.
- 🧽 Sponges with a soft side (for example, for washing cars). The hard side is only for removing burnt-on fat (carefully!).
- 🧼 Suede wipes - ideal for final polishing of glossy surfaces.
- 🎨 Soft brushes (for example, art or for makeup) - to clean joints and relief elements.
Prohibited:
- 🚫 Metal scrapers or knives - leave deep scratches.
- 🚫 Hard brushes (including for grilling) - washes the coating.
- 🚫 Paper towels - can scratch and leave lint.
- 🚫 Old rags with buttons or zippers sewn on.
For models with metal texture (for example, Metalik Retro) it is better to use napkins with short pile - they penetrate into the recesses of the relief. And for smooth surfaces (Metalik Mirror) spray and microfiber are suitable.
Remove products and shelves from the access area|
Disconnect the refrigerator from the network (optional, but safer)|
Wipe the surface with a dry cloth to remove dust|
Prepare means and tools|-->
3. Step-by-step instructions: how to wash the outside of the refrigerator
Before cleaning unplug the refrigeratorif you use wet wipes or liquids. This will prevent a short circuit if water gets into the vents. Next, follow the algorithm:
- Removing dust. Wipe the surface with a dry microfiber cloth. Pay special attention to the top of the refrigerator - the most dust accumulates there.
- Applying detergent.
- For living fat: spray vinegar solution (1:1) or a special spray, wait 2–3 minutes.
- For dried splashes: moisten a cloth in a soapy solution and apply to the stain for 5 minutes.
- For fingerprints: use a product with silicone (for example, Pledge for stainless steel).
For models with magnetic doors (for example, Metalik Magnum), avoid excess moisture - it can seep under the seal and cause rust. After cleaning, check that there is no water in the grooves.
4. How to remove complex stains
Not all stains are amenable to standard cleaning. Let's consider the most difficult cases:
| Type of contamination | Cause | How to remove | What not to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grease stains from cooking | Oil splashes, condensation from steam | Apply a paste of soda and water (1:1) for 10 minutes, then rinse with vinegar | Rub with a hard sponge - scratches will remain |
| Rust at the joints | Moisture getting under the seal | Treat WD-40 or with lemon juice, then wipe with a dry cloth | Use sandpaper |
| Glue from stickers or tape | Remains of labels or packaging | Apply vegetable oil or sticker remover (Scotch Remover), wait 5 minutes | Scrape with a knife |
| White water stains | Hard water or detergent | Wipe with a solution of vinegar (1:3), then with distilled water | Use acetone |
For old stains (for example, from sauces or wine) you can use melamine sponge, but only as a last resort. Moisten it with water, wring it out and gently wipe off the dirt without pressing. After this, be sure to apply stainless steel polish to restore the protective layer.
⚠️ Attention: If there are dark spotson the refrigerator that cannot be wiped off, this may be the beginning of corrosion. In this case, do not rub the surface, but contact the service center Metalik to restore the coating.
5. Caring for different types of metal coating
Refrigerators Metalik are produced with different types of metal surfaces. The cleaning method depends on this:
- 🔳 Glossy coating (series Metalik Gloss): requires frequent polishing, since all the prints are visible on it. Use sprays with silicone and suede wipes.
- 🔲 Matte finish (series Metalik Matte Steel): less easily soiled, but afraid of abrasives. Clean with a soft sponge and soapy water.
- 🖼️ Anti-Fingerprint coating (series Metalik Noir): repels fingerprints, but is sensitive to alcohol and ammonia. Use only specialized products.
- 🎨 Textured coating (series Metalik Retro): brush with a soft bristle brush to remove dust from the recesses.
For models with two-color coating (for example, Metalik Duo Tonewhere metal and plastic are combined), use different products for each zone. Plastic inserts can be cleaned with more aggressive compounds, but avoid contact with metal areas.
How often to clean? Glossy surfaces - once every 3-4 days (wipe with a dry cloth), matte - once a week. Carry out a complete cleaning with detergents once a month.
What are the dangers of cleaning with a steam generator?
Using a steam generator for metal refrigerators Metalik can lead to deformation of the door seal and moisture ingress into electronic components. In addition, hot steam destroys the protective coating, causing the surface to become dull. If you need to remove old fat, it is better to use a warm (not hot!) soap solution.
6. Professional secrets: how to maintain shine longer
To make your refrigerator Metalik look like new longer, use the advice of the experts:
- 🛡️ Apply a protective coating. After cleaning, use polish for stainless steel (for example, 3M Stainless Steel Polish). It creates an invisible film that repels dust and grease.
- 🧲 Use magnetic napkins. For models with magnetic doors (Metalik Magnum), you can attach microfiber cloths with magnets - they will collect dust.
- 🌡️ Control humidity. In a room with high humidity, condensation forms faster on the refrigerator. Use moisture absorbers (for example, Silica Gel).
- 🖌️ Dry properly. After washing, wipe the surface dry rather than letting the water evaporate naturally - this will prevent streaks.
If the refrigerator is located next to stove, protect it from splashes of grease. You can use:
- 🛡️ Plexiglass screen —attached to the wall and covers the side of the refrigerator.
- 🧼 Self-adhesive film (for example, D-C-Fix) - it is easy to clean and replace if necessary.
Secret from service centers: to remove micro-scratches on a glossy surface, use car polish (Turtle Wax). Apply it to a napkin and polish the damaged area in a circular motion.
7. and how to avoid them
Even experienced housewives sometimes make mistakes that spoil the appearance of the refrigerator. Here are the most common ones:
- 🧼 Use of detergent. glass. It contains ammonia, which corrodes the metal coating. After such cleaning, dull spots appear.
- 💦 Excess water. If you do not wipe the surface dry, streaks remain, and rust may appear in the joints.
- 🧽 Cleaning against the wool. Movements must be parallel to the texture of the metal (usually from top to bottom), otherwise streaks will remain.
- ☀️ Cleaning in direct sunlight. Products dry out faster and are more difficult to wash off, which leads to streaks.
Another mistake - ignoring the manufacturer's instructionsIn the refrigerator manual Metalik Recommended products are always indicated. For example, for the series Metalik Premium formulations with a pH above 8 are prohibited, and for Metalik Eco - containing bleach.
⚠️ Attention: If after cleaning the surface appear rainbow stains, this means that the protective layer is damaged. In this case, you need to apply a special paste to restore stainless steel (for example, Bar Keepers Friend).
Frequently asked questions about cleaning Metalik refrigerators
Is it possible to clean a Metalik refrigerator with dishwasher detergent machines?
No. Such products contain aggressive surfactants (surfactants) that destroy the protective coating. For metal surfaces, use only soft compounds with a neutral pH.
How to remove scratches on a glossy refrigerator?
Small scratches can be masked with polish for stainless steel or car polish (3M Scratch Remover). Deep damage can be removed only in a service center by grinding and re-coating.
How to clean a Metalik refrigerator with a gold or bronze finish?
For decorative coatings (for example, series Metalik Gold) use specialized products for non-ferrous metals (Brasso) They do not contain abrasives and retain shine. Do not use vinegar - it can change the shade.
Can I use a melamine sponge for cleaning?
Only as a last resort and very carefully. Melamine is a soft abrasive that erases the top layer of coating. After using a sponge, be sure to apply a protective polish.
How often should you clean the outside of the refrigerator?
Depends on the type of coating:
- Gloss: wipe with a dry cloth daily, wash with detergent once a week.
- Matte metal: cleaning once every 10 days is enough.
- Anti-Fingerprint: wash when dirty, usually once every 2 weeks.
Carry out complete cleaning with polishing once every month.