Hi arbry,

I have three methods that I use:

(1) Dishsoap and water for general, everyday wipedowns
(2) Baking soda and water for medium cleaning
(3) Barkeepers Friend for heavy duty cleaning

I chose the stainless top so that all of the appliances would "match." The grates tend to scratch the top of the stove every time they are moved and put back - whether it be a large pot that shifts or for cleaning.

You can also try Dawn Power Dissolver (spray gel). I had to order it directly from the P&G online store because I couldn't find it locally any more. It works well on baked-on grease (terrific on Pyrex baking dishes--spray, let sit, clean-up is much easier!), sugary stuff, etc.

I use a sponge with dish soap (soft side only) to pick up any big stuff, then wipe down with those stainless steel wipes maybe once a week. Then wipe down with a soft cloth and it looks brand new after!

I use Weimann's SS cleaner. If it's something burnt on I'll let it sit and soak a while. It usually comes right up. For easy spills, I use a damp microfiber cloth.

I just use methods 1 and 3 from april_love's list. I use method 1 for more than 95% of the cleaning. Method 3 takes care of the rare harder-to-remove crusty stuff. I have open burners, so spillovers never get burnt or baked on. Some splatter does get crusty and stuck on if I leave it for a couple of days. But simply wetting it will usually loosen it up. Personally, I think stainless steel is one of the easiest surfaces to clean. It's only downfall is scratching. Cleaning with the grain helps.

Scrub with the grain with a green scrubby with soap and water and then wipe with a hot rag. Go with the grain unless you don't care about scratches.

I have had the best luck with Bayes stainless cleaner. Easy to use and it does not water spot nor does it show fingerprints.

I soak and wipe with handy wipes for light to medium spills.
Hard to clean spills easily come up with oven cleaner.

Look closely at models in the showroom. I noticed some were covered in scratches by mere design of the stove grates. Mine did not, and helped make my decision. Now, after 3 years, no scratches yet from grates, but I do lift and not slide those heavy grates.