Stainless Steel

CLEANING OF

STAINLESS STEEL

Stainless steels need to be cleaned for

aesthetic considerations and to preserve

corrosion resistance. Stainless steel is

protected from corroson by a thin layer of

chromium oxide. Oxygen from the

atmosphere combines with the chromium

in the stainless steel to form this passive

chromium oxide film that protects from

further corrosion. Any contamination of the

surface by dirt, or other material, hinders

this passivation process and traps corrosive

agents, reducing corrosion protection. Thus,

some form of routine cleaning is necessary

to preserve the appearance and integrity of

the surface. Stainless steels are easily

cleaned by many different methods. They

actually thrive with frequent cleaning, and,

unlike some other materials, it is impossible

to “wear out” stainless steel by excessive

cleaning. The effect of surface/pattern

roughness, grain/pattern orientation, and

designs that allow for maximum rain cleaning

(exterior applications) should be considered.

Types of surface contaminants

Dirt - Like any surface that is exposed to

the environment, stainless steel can get dirty.

Dirt and soil can consist of accumulated

dust and a variety of contaminates that

come from many sources, ranging from the

wind to everyday use. These contaminates

will vary greatly in their effect on

appearance and corrosivity and ease of

removal. While some may be easily

removed, others may require specific

cleaners for effective removal. It may be

necessary to identify the contaminate or

experiment with various cleaners.

Frequently, warm water with or without a

gentle detergent is sufficient. Next in order

are mild non-scratching abrasive powders

such as typical household cleaners. These

can be used with warm water, bristle

brushes, sponges, or clean cloths.

When water contains mineral solids,

which leave water spots, it is advisable to

wipe the surface completely with dry towels.

Fingerprints and Stains - Fingerprints and mild

stains resulting from normal use in

consumer and architectural applications are

the most common surface contaminates.

Fortunately, these usually affect only

appearance and seldom have an effect on

corrosion resistance. They are easy to

remove by a variety of simple cleaning

methods. Fingerprints are probably the

most troublesome marks to remove from the

surface of smooth polished or bright

finished stainless steel. Fortunately, they

can be removed with a glass cleaner or by

gentle rubbing with a paste of soda ash

(sodium carbonate) and water applied with

a soft rag. Once again, this should be

followed by a thorough warm water rinse.

There are several special surface finishes

where fingerprints present special problems:

polished No. 6, etched, some abrasive

blasted finishes, and light electrochemical

colors applied over satin or brushed finishes.

(NOTE: there are several special finishes

designed to withstand fingerprints:

embossed, swirl patterns, lined patterns, etc.).

Cleaning should always be followed by

rinsing in clean hot water.

We have also found that WD40 is a good cleaner

- try it in an inconspicuous spot first.

Thanks to The Stainless Steel Information Center for this information.