Caring for Stainless Steel

Use the Proper Tools. When cleaning your stainless steel products, take care to use non-abrasive tools. Soft cloths and plastic scouring pads will not harm the steel’s passive layer. Stainless steel pads can also be used but the scrubbing motion must be in the direction of the manufacturer’s polishing marks.

Use Alkaline, Alkaline Chlorinated, or Non-Chloride Containing Cleaners at the recommended strength. Avoid cleaners containing quaternary salts as they also can attack stainless steel and cause pitting and rusting. Never use hydrochloric acid (muriatic acid) on stainless steel.

Clean Frequently to avoid build-up of stains. If chlorinated cleaners are used, rinse thoroughly. Wipe dry immediately to remove traces of chlorination. After wiping the equipment down, allow it to air dry to helps maintain the stainless steels’ passivity film.

Treat your Water. Softening hard water can do much to reduce deposits. Certain filters can be installed to remove distasteful and corrosive elements.