Stainless steel was among the most expensive metals in the past, but now it has become one of the most used and desirable metals. There are various ways that stainless steel can be used in all areas, be it at home, in the office, and in the manufacturing industries.
Several benefits make it usable in all those situations, including;
- Heat resistant.
- Corrosion-resistant.
- Aesthetically pleasing.
- Doesn’t wear or tear easily.
- Long-lasting.
- Easy to fabricate.
While you might use stainless steel for many reasons, you have to know how to properly use it and ensure that it gives you the best results and lasts long. These effective tips will ensure that you get the best out of your stainless-steel appliances.
1. Clean regularly
Like all other metals, stainless steel is prone to getting dust and grease on it, which is why you should always clean your stainless steel. For those stainless steel appliances you use in the kitchen, you might consider adding a small amount of dishwashing soap because of the grease.
Some of us forego washing our sink because we assume that the water running keeps it clean. However, with time, grease from your cooking oil accumulates and becomes a disaster. Also, warm water will help remove the grease faster.
You can also use vinegar to remove build-up grease.
2. Use non-abrasive and mild cleaners
After using for some time, your stainless steel equipment may get some stains or dirt marks. However, no matter how big the stain is, do not be tempted to use abrasive cleaners like bleach alone.
The best choice is to use stainless steel cleaners designed to remove dirt and stains from stainless steel surfaces. If you have to use bleach, ensure you dilute it first. Harsh chemicals will destroy the shiny layer of the stainless steel and leave it dull.
If your stainless steel appliances are discolored, you can use diluted vinegar. It will remove the discoloration while remaining gentle on the stainless steel.
3. Use soft materials to wipe and clean
Do not use hard items like steel wool or sandpaper to clean your stainless steel, no matter how great the stain or grime is. Those will remove the shiny surface of your stainless steel and leave it dull.
It might also make permanent lines on the stainless steel, also causing it to lose its new, shiny, and polished look. For the best results, use soft objects like kitchen towels or microfiber towels.
4. Always dry after cleaning
After cleaning your stainless steel surface, ensure that you dry it, especially if you are using tap water. That is because the water could have minerals, and if left on the surface for too long, they might leave deposits that result in permanent stains.
5. Wipe the stainless steel in the direction of the grain
Just like wood, stainless steel also has grain. It may be hard to tell the direction, especially because of the polished and shiny look. To tell the direction, identify a test spot and wipe the surface both vertically and horizontally in all directions.
If you feel resistance, that is the direction against the grain, and you should avoid wiping it in that direction. Wiping against the grain’s direction will cause scratches and streaks on the surface.
6. Remove fingerprints
Fingerprints are one of the most troublesome marks you can have on your stainless steel surfaces. They can also be hard to remove, which makes your stainless steel look unkempt.
To get rid of them easily, apply a small amount of glass cleaner in a microfiber cloth and gently wipe the area with the fingerprints. Then, rinse the surface using a cloth moistened with water and towel dry.
7. Check for rust
Stainless steel is corrosion-resistant, but it may get some rust in some circumstances, like when it gets scratched. You should always check your stainless steel for rust and remove it immediately before it spreads.
Use a scratchless pad without any moisture on it to rub off the rust, clean it with stainless steel cleaner, rinse it off and dry the surface.
8. Keep in a conducive environment
Where you keep your stainless steel determines how long it will last and what its condition will be. Ensure you have it in a place with low heat, humidity, and oxygen to prevent corrosion. Also, ensure there is nothing close by that would scratch the surface.
9. Buy the best quality stainless steel
To get the best out of your stainless steel, you have to buy the best. That also ensures that it lasts long enough. To get the best, you have to buy from the best-sellers like Miami Stainless. You don’t have to go to the store as you can buy from Miami Stainless Online.
About the Author:
Jim Pulman has extensive knowledge and experience in Home Building, Construction, and Design. He writes articles in his free time and partners with content creators to share his expertise with the online community.
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