Care of stainless steel furniture

It is well known that stainless steel products are high-quality, hygienically clean, and particularly durable. But how do you clean the surfaces of stainless steel and thus increase the lifespan of your product?

Why is stainless steel rustproof and particularly hygienic?

– The "rustproof" steel contains a minimum of 10.5% chromium and often additional components such as nickel and molybdenum
– The surface is smooth and pore-free

Non-rusting steels have a passive layer on the surface, which forms only through the addition of oxygen and enables corrosion resistance. Disturbances or damage to the passive layer can be remedied by supplying oxygen from the air.

Rust formation, however, occurs when reducing agents (oxygen-consuming substances) such as salt- and sulfur-containing compounds, chlorides, and spice concentrates like mustard, vinegar essences, spice tablets, saline solutions, etc., act on the passive layer.

Foreign rust (flash rust / grinding dust) can also occur locally or on a larger scale. Surface rust deposits can result from improper cleaning with hydrochloric acid-based cleaners.

Spalling corrosion effects often occur around rubber seals – meaning that residual moisture nests are not dried sufficiently here. Residues of cleaning agents and condensate can lead to corrosion attacks.

What to do?

– Basically, the surface of stainless steel should always be clean and accessible to air.
– Use alkaline cleaning agents that contain an acid-free oil component.
– Do not use bleaching or chlorine-containing cleaning agents.
– Regularly remove lime, grease, starch, and protein residues. Under this layer, corrosion can develop due to lack of air access. For descaling, 10% acetic acid or 10% phosphoric acid (or commercially available descaling agents) can be used.
– Steel parts should not come into contact with concentrated acids, salts, spices, etc., for extended periods. Acid vapors should also be avoided. Afterwards, rinse contact surfaces with fresh water and dry thoroughly.
– For fresh rust spots, cleaning with mild abrasive cleaners or fine sandpaper is recommended.
– For stronger rust spots, a warm 2-5% oxalic acid solution can be used for cleaning.
– If the above tips and tricks fail, treatment with 10% nitric acid can be performed. Caution: This treatment should only be carried out by trained personnel.