Stainless Steel Care and Cleaning Instructions

Stainless Steel Care and Cleaning Instructions
Cleaning of stainless steel
Stainless steels need to be cleaned for aesthetic considerations and to

preserve corrosion resistance. Stainless steel is protected from corrosion
by a thin layer of chromium oxide. Oxygen from the atmosphere combines
with the chromium in the stainless steel to form this passive chromium
oxide film that protects from further corrosion. Any contamination of the
surface by dirt, or other materials, hinders this passivation process and
traps corrosive agents, reducing corrosion protection. Thus, some form of
routine cleaning is necessary to preserve the appearance and integrity of
the surface. Stainless steels are easily cleaned by many different methods.
They actually thrive with frequent cleaning, and unlike some other
materials, it is impossible to "wear out" stainless steel by excessive
cleaning. The effect of surface/pattern roughness, grain/pattern orientation,
and designs that allow for maximum rain cleaning (exterior applications)
should be considered.
Types of surface contaminants
Like any surface that is exposed to the environment, stainless steel can get
dirty. Dirt and soil can consist of accumulated dust and a variety of
contaminates that come from many sources, ranging from the wind to
everyday use. These contaminates will vary greatly in their effect on
appearance and corrosivity and ease of removal. While some may be
easily removed, others may require specific cleaners for effective removal.
It may be necessary to identify the contaminate or experiment with various
cleaners. Frequently, warm water with or without a gentle detergent is
sufficient. Next in order are mild non-scratching abrasive powders such as
typical household cleaners. These can be used with warm water, bristle
brushes, sponges, or clean cloths. Ordinary carbon steel brushes or steel
wool should be avoided as they may leave particles embedded on the
surface which can lead to rusting. For more aggressive cleaning, a small
amount of vinegar can be added to the scouring powder. Cleaning should
always be followed by rinsing in clean hot water. When water contains
mineral solids, which leave water spots, it is advisable to wipe the surface
completely with dry towels.
Fingerprints and stains
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Fingerprints and mild stains resulting from normal use in consumer and
architectural applications are the most common surface contaminates.
Fortunately, these usually affect only appearance and seldom have an
effect on corrosion resistance. They are easy to remove by a variety of
simple cleaning methods. Fingerprints are probably the most troublesome
marks to remove from the surface of smooth polished or bright finished
stainless steel. Fortunately, they can be removed with a glass cleaner or by
gentle rubbing with a paste of soda ash (sodium carbonate) and water
applied with a soft rag. Once again, this should be followed by a thorough
warm water rinse.
Shop oil and grease
Shop oils, which may carry grease, grit and metal chips, commonly
produce surface soiling after many shop operations. Grease and other
contaminates may also soil surfaces in food preparation and many other
household and commercial situations. These soils may be corrosive in
themselves or may not allow the surface to maintain passivity, and so
periodic removal is a necessity. Initially, soap or detergent and water may
be tried or a combination of detergent and water plus a solvent. The
removal of oil and grease from stainless steel in chemical solvents is
frequently used with using parts that are laden with lubricants. This
process, in its simplest form, consist of bringing liquid solvent into contact
with the surface to be cleaned and allowing dissolution to take place; for
example, washing a surface with Trichloroethylene or similar liquid
solvent. Non halgenated solvents, such as acetone, methyl, ethyl alcohol,
methyl ketene, benzene, isopropyl alcohol, toluene, mineral spirits, and
turpentine work well. Many of these solvents are widely used as individual
cleaners, but there are thousands of blended or compound cleaners on the
market. Users are advised to contact suppliers of solvents for information
on their applications on stainless steel.
Types of Cleaners and Methods
In selecting cleaning practices, consider the possibility of scratching and

the potential for post-cleaning corrosion caused by incompletely removed
cleaners. Scratching can occur on bright mirror finish by cleaners that
contain hard abrasives, or even by “grit” in wash water. This is usually not
a problem on dull finishes or those surfaces finished with a coarse
polishing grit. The best preventative measure is to avoid using abrasive
cleaners unless absolutely necessary. When abrasives are needed, first
experiment on an inconspicuous area. A “soft abrasive” such as pumice,
should be used. Abrasives can permanently damage some colored and
highly polished finishes. Advice should be obtained from the manufacture
when cleaning special finishes. Many cleaners contain corrosive
2
ingredients which require thorough post-clean rinsing with clean water;
however, thorough rinsing is recommended for all cleaning procedures.
Clean Water and Wipe Dry
The simplest, safest, and least costly method that will adequately do the
job is always the best method. Stainless surfaces thrive with frequent
cleaning because there is no surface coating to wear off stainless steels. A
soft cloth and clean warm water should always be the first choice for mild
stains and loose dirt and soils. A final rinse with clean water and a dry
wipe will complete the process and eliminate the possibility of water
stains.
Solvent Cleaning
Organic solvents can be used to remove fresh fingerprints and oils and
grease that have not had time to oxidize or decompose. The preferred
solvent is one that does not contain chlorine, such as acetone, methyl
alcohol, and mineral spirits. There are many compounded or blended
organic cleaners that are commercially available and attempt to optimize
both cleanability and safety attributes. Cleaning can be accomplished by,
wiping with solvent impregnated cloths,. The wiping technique sometimes
leaves a streaked surface.
Household Cleaners
Household Cleaners fall into two categories: detergent (non abrasive) and
abrasive cleaners. Both are effective for many mild dirt, stain and soil
deposits, as well as light oils such as fingerprints. The abrasive cleaners
are more effective but introduce the possibility of scratching the surface.
However, the degree of abrasiveness will vary greatly with the particular
product, and some brands will produce noticeable scratching on only the
most highly polished and some colored surfaces. All of these cleaners vary
widely with respect to their acidity and the amount of chloride they
contain. A neutral cleaner low in chloride is preferred unless the user is
assured that the surface can be thoroughly rinsed after cleaning. The fact
that the label states “for stainless steel” is no guarantee that the product is
not abrasive, not acidic, or low in chloride. The cleaning method generally
employed with these cleaners is to apply to the stainless surface and
follow by cloth wiping, or to wipe directly with a cleaner-impregnated soft
cloth. In all cases, the cleaned surface should be thoroughly rinsed with
clean water and wiped dry with a soft cloth
Commercial Cleaners
3
Many commercial cleaners compounded from phosphates, synthetic
detergents, and alkalis are available for the cleaning of severely soiled or
stained stainless surfaces. When used with a variety of cleaning methods,
these cleaners can safely provide effective cleaning. Manufactures should
be consulted and their recommendations followed whenever using
cleaners of this kind. The general precautions stated above also pertain to
these cleaners.

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Stainless Steel Care and Cleaning Instructions

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Stainless Steel Care and Cleaning Instructions

Cleaning of stainless steel

Stainless steels need to be cleaned for aesthetic considerations and to

Types of surface contaminants

Fingerprints and stains

Shop oil and grease

Types of Cleaners and Methods

In selecting cleaning practices, consider the possibility of scratching and

Clean Water and Wipe Dry

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