How to Clean Stainless Steel

Without cleaning your stainless steel surfaces regularly, rusting and staining can occur. Keep reading to find out how to leave stainless steel surfaces shiny and streak free.

Equipment Needed

For cleaning stainless steel, you will need a safety sign and PPE. The PPE you will need to wear will include gloves and any additional clothing specific to the cleaning solution. You may have used cleaning solution in the past, but for this job the solution needs to be stainless steel safe.

A bucket and cleaning cloth are required for this process to help remove the dirt on the stainless steel surfaces. The last piece of equipment is the stainless steel cleaner. It leaves an invisible protective film which slows down the build-up of dirt particles and keeps surfaces cleaner for longer.

Preparation

Once you are wearing the correct PPE, place the safety sign in a suitable spot. Check the bucket is clean and all set to use. If dirty, rinse out with clean water. Start to fill the bucket, but only halfway with water. Add the cleaning solution to the water according to directions on the label. (Note: Always add chemical to water, not the other way round as to avoid chemical splashing). If you can ventilate the room, e.g., by opening windows/doors.

Cleaning the Stainless Steel

Firstly, remove any items from the area that is about to be cleaned. Use a colour coded cloth wrung out in the stainless steel safe cleaning solution. Wipe clean the stainless steel surface in the direction of the grain. Refill the bucket halfway with water and wring out the cloth. Rinse the stainless steel surface well. After you have done this, replace all items.

It is important stainless steel is cleaned regularly to preserve the metal’s integrity and keep a pristine appearance. With proper care and attention, stainless steel’s lifespan can extend and ensure that applications operate smoothly. The correct cleaning methods that we provide help it to continue to shine as one of today’s most versatile materials in the commercial and industrial world.

Applying Stainless Steel Cleaner

On a clean surface spray stainless steel cleaner directly onto the surface. Wipe immediately with a clean dry cloth. Sometimes it may be small areas that need cleaning, for this you would spray onto a cloth then wipe the surface. Polish dry with a soft clean microfibre cloth.

Don’t Use Harsh or Abrasive Materials

Materials such as powder, steel wool, bleach, and ammonia have too many abrasive properties which can easily scratch or discolour the finish to the stainless steel surface. These cleaning tools should always be avoided when cleaning stainless steel appliances. Click the link here to view one of Cork Hygiene’s stainless steel cleaners.

Final Stages

• Discard dirty water from the bucket

• Clean and dry the bucket

• Launder cloth

• Remove safety sign when the area is dry and clear of trip hazards