Stainless steel plates

Faced with a wide variety of decorative materials, more people are choosing stainless steel decorative panels.

Previously, most people didn't know how to clean and maintain stainless steel, often simply scrubbing it with dish soap and a rag. What you don't realize is that this can damage the stainless steel's protective coating, effectively shortening its lifespan rather than maintaining it. So, whether it's brushed stainless steel or mirror-finished stainless steel, how should any type of stainless steel be properly maintained and cared for? I'll explain the methods again, as follows:

The most common stain we see on colored stainless steel is a layer of dirt. This dirt is often caused by the accumulation of oil smoke, dust, and stains over time, so you should prepare a dedicated stainless steel surface cleaner and a relatively fine-neck rag.

 1. Regular Maintenance with Cleaners

After using stainless steel decorative panels in slightly humid environments for a period of time, a large amount of dust and impurities will adhere to their surfaces, which can easily cause electrochemical reactions and accelerate corrosion. We recommend using a dedicated cleaning agent to clean the surface, followed by wiping it dry with a dry cloth. This maintenance cycle should be monthly. It's crucial to keep the surface dry and cool.

2. Waxing

If you want to extend the maintenance cycle, this is not difficult. After completing the regular cleaning with cleaning agents, you can choose to wax the stainless steel surface. Waxing is like adding a simple rust-proof layer to the surface, but the effect only lasts for about three months and is inexpensive, costing only around ten or twenty yuan per session.

3. Surface Treatment

Although stainless steel has a certain degree of corrosion resistance, it will eventually rust. Surface treatment is like adding a rust-proof layer on top of its original performance. The effect is somewhat similar to waxing, but this rust-proof layer remains in place. The process described here is electroplating.

Another scenario involves stainless steel that has been in service for a while and has developed slight rust. What should be done? The methods are as follows:

1. Removal with a Special Rust Remover

There are many rust removers available on the market, both specifically for stainless steel and for general metals. They're affordable, costing just a few dozen yuan a bottle and lasting over six months. The chemical elements in the rust remover react with the rust, removing it. This is the most direct and effective method.

2. Rust Removal with White Vinegar

This method is similar to the above method, but it's worth noting that it's suitable for stainless steel items that receive frequent daily use (such as pots, kettles, and tableware). First, pour white vinegar into the container and add water in a 1:1 ratio. Heat the mixture to a boil. The diluted vinegar will break down the rust. Then, wipe it clean with a scouring pad, and the stainless steel surface will instantly shine like new.