The Best Way To Clean Stainless Steel Surfaces in Your Facility

Stainless steel surfaces are a staple in industrial facilities due to their durability, sleek appearance, and corrosion resistance. However, maintaining that pristine, polished look can be challenging if you’re not using the proper techniques or products. Many people struggle with streaks, smudges, and other blemishes when cleaning stainless steel, often because they are using the wrong cleaning solutions or methods.

This blog post discusses why some cleaners don’t work well on stainless steel, common cleaning mistakes, and how to achieve a streak-free finish with the right products and techniques.

Why Many Cleaners Do Not Work Well on Stainless Steel

Despite its name, stainless steel is not entirely “stainless.” It’s susceptible to smudges, fingerprints, water spots, and other blemishes. This quality is mainly because of its high chromium content, which reacts with air to form a protective layer. Using the wrong cleaner can strip away this layer, leaving the surface vulnerable to stains and damage.

Most all-purpose cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can be too abrasive for stainless steel, causing tiny scratches that dull the surface over time. Some cleaners can even leave a greasy film or residue that attracts dust and dirt, defeating the purpose of cleaning. This is why using a cleaner specifically formulated for stainless steel surfaces is crucial.

Common Mistakes When Cleaning Stainless Steel

Certain habits can lead to less-than-optimal results even if you use the right cleaning products. Here are some common mistakes people make when cleaning stainless steel:

• Scrubbing Against the Grain: Stainless steel has a grain that runs either vertically or horizontally. Scrubbing against the grain can cause streaks and scratches that are more visible on the surface.
• Using Abrasive Tools: Steel wool, scouring pads, and even some cloths can be too rough on stainless steel surfaces. These abrasive tools can leave behind fine scratches that accumulate over time, making the surface look dull and worn out.
• Applying Too Much Cleaner: More is not always better when it comes to cleaning solutions. Using too much cleaner can leave a sticky residue that attracts more dirt and makes the surface look greasy.
• Ignoring Drying: Leaving the surface to air dry can result in water spots, which are difficult to remove and can make the surface look dirty even after cleaning. It’s best to dry the surface thoroughly with a clean, dry cloth to achieve a streak-free shine.

The Right Solution for Stainless Steel Surfaces

To achieve a spotless finish on stainless steel, you should use a product specifically designed for these surfaces. At JAM Industrial Supply, we recommend the 3M™ Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish. This cleaner delivers a high-gloss finish with no streaks or buildup, making it perfect for stainless steel, laminated plastics, chrome, and aluminum surfaces.

Here’s why this cleaner is the best for stainless steel surfaces:

• Leaves no residue or greasy film, ensuring a spotless finish
• Masks surface blemishes and resists fingerprints
• Has a fresh lime smell
• NSF A-7 registered and satisfies the standards for metal cleaners and polishes for nonfood contact surfaces

You can’t go wrong with the 3M™ Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish!

Tips for Cleaning Stainless Steel Surfaces

Follow these steps to clean your stainless steel surfaces effectively:

1. Dust the Surface First: Before applying any cleaner, wipe down the surface with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and debris that could scratch the surface.
2. Apply the Cleaner Sparingly: Place a small amount of the cleaner onto a microfiber cloth rather than directly onto the surface to help you control the amount of cleaner used and avoid oversaturating the surface.
3. Wipe With the Grain: Clean the surface using the cloth, and wipe in the direction of the grain to prevent streaking and help maintain the smooth texture.
4. Buff the Surface: After cleaning, gently buff the surface with the dry part of the cloth. This final step will give your stainless steel a polished, high-gloss finish.

For best results, clean stainless steel surfaces regularly to prevent the buildup of grime and stains. Frequent maintenance makes the cleaning process faster and more efficient each time.

Final Thoughts

Maintaining the sleek look of stainless steel surfaces doesn’t have to be daunting. You can keep your surfaces looking spotless and professional by avoiding common cleaning mistakes and using the right product, like 3M™ Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish.

At JAM Industrial Supply, we’re committed to providing high-quality solutions to help clean, protect, and enhance your facility. Explore our wide range of 3M™ cleaning and maintenance supplies online today!