We want the stainless look, but not the smudges - have little kids. GE sells a "clean steel" finish that looks like stainless (less reflective) and claims to be much less prone to smudging? Anyone tried the clean steel and have opinions?

"Clean steel" is a lower grade magnetic stainless that is then clear coated. The clear coat can be scratched off, and the stainless underneath can rust, especially if exposed to harsh cleaners. Actual stainless can also scratch, but as the metal itself is teh final finish, it can be buffed out if you really want to take the time and trouble. In appearance, the clean steel is more matte and a slightly yellower color than real stainless. Clean steel fridges also come with black sides and handles versus grey sides and stainless handles for the real stainless. That's the BIG appearance difference and sways most people to the real stainless.

I don't have a ss sink-mine's silgranit. However, I now believe that no matter what material your sink is made of, you can't go wrong with a sink grid!!! Not only does it protect the bottom of your sink but it looks nice too. It's easy to keep clean-I just wipe it down every night when I wipe down my sink. Or I just fill the sink up with a few inches of soapy water and use a little brush to clean in between the squares like ccoombs 1 said.

Try soaking in a solution of citric acid & warm water at not too strong a concentration. Lemi-shine is one product that is basically citric acid, or buy citric acid at a health food store (it's used as an additive for canning food) or over the internet (get food grade). I use Lemi-shine in my dishwasher to keep the hard water deposits off, and it works perfectly. Disclaimer: I have no financial connections to Lemi-shine or any citric acid seller.