Stainless steel makes for a beautiful surface on just about any product – countertops, cabinets, shelving, railings – you name it! But what makes stainless steel a great choice for your home or business is so much more than surface level.
Physical Properties
Stainless steel contains chromium, which reacts with oxygen to form an invisible, yet tough, protective
film on the steel surface. This chemical reaction gives stainless steel its corrosion resistance. Stainless
steel is also extremely durable and is often the most cost-effective option because of its longevity.
Maintenance of Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is one of the easiest surfaces to maintain requiring minimal effort to clean and sanitize.
Note: Stainless steel countertops will “age” over time. From general use, tops gather minor scratches
from objects sliding, rubbing, and dropping on the surface. Simple wiping with a dish cloth is all that is
required for maintenance.
Routine Cleaning
Use warm water with or without a gentle detergent. Wipe dry with towels following the direction of the
polish lines.
Cleaners and Cleaning Methods
When deciding which cleaners and cleaning methods to use, keep in mind that abrasive cleaners can
scratch stainless steel. Do not want use soaps that contain grit, and definitely stay away from hard
abrasives. As a rule, always use the safest cleaning agents first (water is the least harmful), and only use
strong cleaners if milder ones do not work. Whenever you are wiping a stainless steel surface, do so in
the direction of the polish lines, not across them. Note: Never use steel wool on stainless steel. It may
embed steel particles on the surface and lead to rusting.
Benefits and Uses of Stainless Steel
Stainless steel both looks great and requires little maintenance, which makes it a popular surface in the
modern home. In addition to being low-maintenance, stainless steel is one of the most hygienic surfaces
available. This is especially beneficial in the kitchen, where remnants of food and cooking grease
promote bacterial growth. If you’re environmentally conscious, rest assured that stainless steel is 100
percent recyclable. The stainless steel accessories you purchase are, in all likelihood, made from
recycled material.