Care of Stainless Steel

Stainless steel owes its corrosion resistance to a thin, transparent lightly adhering chromium oxide film that forms on the metal's surface. When this film is penetrated, it rapidly re-forms as long as oxygen is present. If the surface becomes contaminated with dirt or grease which prevents the oxygen from contacting the metal, corrosion (pitting and discoloration) will occur. Therefore it is necessary to keep the surface clean.

Stainless steel products actually become more beautiful with use. The natural oils in hand touching stainless steel give it a lustrous sheen. However, those hands often carry contaminants which must be removed from the metal periodically.

Regular maintenance will keep the stainless steel finish clean and bright. A non-abrasive stainless steel polish will remove most of the accumulations of dirt or grease. A mild detergent solution can be used instead of polish. After cleaning, thoroughly rinse with clear water to remove all traces of the solution, then wipe dry to prevent water marks form forming.

Stubborn spots or stains can usually be removed with Stainless Steel Polish, or if desired, a mild abrasive cleaner (such as Bon Ami or Revere Stainless Steel Cleaner) can be applied with a soft cloth in the direction of the grain of the finish, then rinse thoroughly and wiped dry.

Stains which resist the above treatment may require scouring in the direction of the grain with stainless steel wool and a mild abrasive cleaner in creamy paste form. If scraping is required, use stainless steel pads, sponges, wood, or plastic tools.