GE Appliance - Scratches on an Appliance

We hope that you never get a scratch in the finish on your appliances. Of course, we know accidents happen that may cause a scratch in the paint or metal. We are providing descriptions of the types of finishes on our appliances and suggestions for removing scratches, should they occur.

Types of Finishes

There are four basic types of finishes on our GE and GE Profile™ appliances. 

Stainless Steel

    • Uncoated Stainless Steel: Stainless Steel and Black Stainless models have an uncoated stainless steel finish.
    • Coated Stainless Steel: Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel models have a coated stainless steel finish.

Painted Finish

    • A highly engineered, low-gloss matte, metallic paint finish. This finish is found on Slate and Black Slate models.

Baked-On Porcelain Enamel

    • A high quality porcelain enamel that is powder coated and baked on. This finish is found on Almond, Bisque, Black, Silver and White models.

 CleanSteel™

    • A laminate vinyl designed to look like stainless. This finish is found on CleanSteel models.

Removing Scratches on Non-Stainless Steel Finishes

    • To keep your appliance looking new and provide protection for the exterior paint finish, we recommend that you apply a coat of appliance polish or wax when the appliance is new, and then at least twice a year.
    • You may use an appliance polish or wax for light scratches that occur but larger scratches will need to be repaired with appliance touch up paint. Touch up paint is available for purchase through our GE Appliances Parts & Accessories website.
    • Scratches on CleanSteel exteriors cannot be repaired. The part or parts would need to be replaced.

Removing Scratches on Stainless Steel Finishes

Stainless Steel

Cleaners that contain Oxalic Acid, such as Bar Keepers Friend Soft Cleanser, will remove rust, tarnish, and small blemishes on stainless steel. Use only the liquid cleanser (free of grit) and be sure to rub in the direction of the metal grain lines with a damp, soft sponge. This cannot be used on Black Stainless.

 
    • If the stainless steel is scratched, using this cleaning method can often help reduce the appearance of the scratches. For visible scratches, there is not an approved repair method to cover the scratches.
    • For additional care and cleaning information, see our GE Appliance - How to Clean Stainless Steel article.

Fingerprint Resistant Stainless

Our Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel has a clear coat that allows the shine of the stainless to show through. This finish is designed with durability in mind and makes cleaning easy. Unlike traditional Stainless Steel, Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel does not require the use of special cleaners.

 

Cleaning Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel

 
    • Use a solution of mild soap and warm water with a clean, soft cloth or microfiber cloth. Wipe dry with a clean, soft cloth or microfiber towel to avoid streaking or water spotting.
    • If the Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel finish is scratched, using one of the two approved cleaning methods mentioned above can often help reduce the appearance of the scratches. For heavy or more visible scratches, there is not an approved repair method to cover the scratches.

Additional Appliance Advice

From a repair to a replacement, we are glad to guide you along the way. Please reach out to us for advice and assistance with every appliance decision.