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CAUTION : Do not use any steel wool, abrasive or chlorine based products to
clean stainless steel surfaces.
There are three basic things which can break down your stainless steel’s passivity layer and
allow corrosion to occur.
1) Scratches from wire brushes, scrapers, and steel pads are just a few examples of items that
can be abrasive to stainless steel’s surface.
2) Deposits left on your stainless steel can leave spots. You may have hard or soft water
depending on what part of the country you live in. Hard water can leave spots. Hard water
that is heated can leave deposits if left to sit too long. These deposits can cause the passive
layer to break down and rust your stainless steel. All deposits left from food prep or service
should be removed as soon as possible.
3) Chlorides are present in table salt, food, and water. Household and industrial cleaners are the
worst type of chlorides to use.
8 steps that can help prevent rust on stainless steel:
1. Using the correct cleaning tools
Use non-abrasive tools when cleaning your stainless steel products. The stainless steel’s
passive layer will not be harmed by soft cloths and plastic scouring pads. Step 2 tells you
how to find the polishing marks.
2. Cleaning along the polish lines
Polishing lines or “grain” are visible on some stainless steels. Always scrub parallel to visible
lines on some stainless steels. Use a plastic scouring pad or soft cloth when you cannot see
the grain.
3. Use alkaline, alkaline chlorinated or non-chloride containing cleaners
While many traditional cleaners are loaded with chlorides, the industry is providing an ever
increasing choice of non-chloride cleaners. If you are not sure of your cleaner’s chloride
content, contact your cleaner supplier. If they tell you that your present cleaner contains
chlorides, ask if they have an alternative. Avoid cleaners containing quaternary salts as they
can attack stainless steel, causing pitting and rusting.
STAINLESS STEEL EQUIPMENT CARE AND CLEANING
Summary of Contents for CTST-1200-13-N
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