1. Use the proper cleaning
tools.
Take care to use non-abrasive tools. Soft cloths and plastic
scouring pads will not harm the steel. Stainless steel pads
can also be used, but the scrubbing motions must be in the
direction of the surface grain.
2. Use "friendly"
cleaning agents.
Cleaning agents containing chlorides can attack stainless
steel, resulting in corrosion. Avoid using such agents. 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 you determine
that your cleaner contains chlorides, ask your supplier to
supply an alternative. Also, avoid cleaners containing quaternary
salts, as they can also attack stainless and cause rusting
and pitting.
3. Treat your water.
Though this is not always practical, softening hard water
can do much to reduce deposits. There are certain water filters
that can be installed to remove corrosive elements.
4. Keep your equipment clean.
Use alkaline, alkaline chlorinated or non-chloride cleaners at
recommended strength. Clean frequently to avoid build-up
of hard, stubborn stains.
5. Rinse, rinse, rinse.
If cleaners (especially chlorinated) are used, it is
important to rinse your equipment thuroughly, and dry it
immediately. The sooner standing water is wiped off, the
better, especially if it contains cleaning agents. |