Don’t Ruin Your BKF Experience!

August 16, 2023

Don’t ruin your BKF experience! Bar Keepers Friend is a versatile and effective cleaning product that has been a household staple for decades. It can tackle tough stains, grime, and rust on various surfaces. However, like any cleaning product, there are right and wrong ways to use it. Below are a few of the “don’ts” of using Bar Keepers Friend to ensure you get the best results while protecting your surfaces and yourself.

Don’t Ruin Your BKF Experience!

Don’t Use Bar Keepers Friend on Non-Recommended Surfaces

Bar Keepers Friend original powdered Cleanser is renowned for its cleaning power. However, you should never use BKF on delicate or non-recommended surfaces. Avoid using it on the following.

• Marble and other natural stones: BKF original powder can scratch and damage the polished surface.
• Non-stick cookware: The coating can be worn away, compromising its effectiveness and safety.
• Gold or silver-plated items: It can strip away the plating.
• Cast Iron: Strips seasoning and can lead to rusting.
• Wood: BKF may scratch the finish.
• Fabric: BKF can damage fibers.
• Leather: It will dry and then possibly crack the leather.

Don’t Forget to Rinse Thoroughly

One of the most common mistakes people make is not rinsing Bar Keepers Friend thoroughly after use. The product can leave behind a fine residue that, if not removed, can cause damage over time. Make sure to rinse surfaces thoroughly with water and dry them after cleaning and you may rinse and repeat as needed. 

Don’t Mix with Other Cleaning Products

Bar Keepers Friend is a powerful cleaner on its own. Mixing it with other cleaning products, especially those containing bleach or ammonia, can produce toxic fumes that can harm you, your children, and your pets.

Don’t Scrub Too Hard

Excessive scrubbing with too much force can cause unnecessary scratches on surfaces. Apply gentle pressure and let the product do the work. Test on a small, inconspicuous area before tackling larger surfaces.

Don’t Use BKF on Painted Surfaces

Avoid using Bar Keepers Friend on painted surfaces, as the abrasives can strip away the paint and leave marks. Stick to using the product on unpainted, durable surfaces like stainless steel, porcelain, and ceramic.   

Don’t Forget Personal Protection

Bar Keepers Friend can be harsh to some on their skin. When using the product, wear gloves to protect your hands and avoid eye contact. If contact occurs, rinse immediately with water.    

Don’t Leave It on for Too Long

While Bar Keepers Friend is powerful, it’s essential not to leave it on surfaces for extended periods. If left for too long, it can etch surfaces. Apply the product, let it sit for only one minute, scrub as needed, and rinse promptly. Repeat if necessary.             

We Repeat, BFK is NOT Recommended for All Surfaces 

If, against Bar Keepers Friends’ recommendations, you’re tempted to try it on non-recommended surfaces, always test a small spot first. Here are seven surfaces you shouldn’t attempt to clean with BKF.

• Gold
• Silver (Sterling Silver is okay)
• Aluminum
• Mirrors
• Softer Plastics
• Lacquered Surfaces
• Polished Stone

Follow This Advice, and You Won’t Ruin Your BKF Experience!

Bar Keepers Friend is a fantastic cleaning product that can help you tackle challenging cleaning tasks. However, misusing it can lead to unwanted damage and frustration. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, avoid using it on delicate surfaces, and exercise caution when scrubbing. With proper usage, Bar Keepers Friend can be your ally in maintaining a clean and sparkling home.