Working against the grain can actually make the scratches worse. That’s why it’s so important to know the direction of the grain before you begin. The grain will generally run either from side to side (horizontally), or up and down (vertically).

Bar Keeper’s Friend Perfect-It Rubbing Compound Revere Stainless Steel and Copper Cleaner Whitening toothpaste

The consistency you’re looking for is that of toothpaste. [2] X Research source

Continue rubbing, adding more compound as needed, until the scratch has been buffed away. [3] X Research source

Repeat the buffing process again if the scratch improved but is still slightly visible. If the scratch is still quite visible, you may have to take more drastic steps, such as sanding the entire surface.

Course (maroon) and fine (gray) scouring pads[5] X Research source 400- and 600-grit sandpaper Scratch removal kit[6] X Research source

The liquid or compound acts as a lubricant, and helps the sanding product move over the surface of the metal.

It’s important to work in a single direction because rubbing back and forth over the surface can create small abrasions on the metal. To ensure you’re applying even pressure, wrap the pad or sandpaper around a wooden block before you begin. To find the grain, look closely at the metal and see if the surface is running horizontally or vertically. This is the grain of the metal.

Continue sanding until the scratch has been sanded down and is mostly gone. Depending on the size of the area you’re sanding, this could take 15 minutes or more.

Continue sanding until the scratch has disappeared.

Even when you’re cleaning, it’s important to rub and buff in the direction of the grain. Look closely at the metal to determine what direction the surfaces runs in, and make sure you rub and clean in that same direction.

The vinegar will clean the surface of the metal and remove all traces of other compounds and cleaners. Do not use bleach, oven cleaner, abrasive cleaners, or abrasive pads when cleaning stainless steel. [13] X Research source

Add more oil as necessary. Continue rubbing until the entire surface has been polished.