A stainless steel bench is an excellent addition to any kitchen but you have to take care of it for optimum performance and aesthetics. Stainless steel is known to be highly durable but it is not immune to blemishes and scratches. If you are not familiar with the maintenance procedures for this material, then read the manufacturer’s instructions. There should be a detailed guide about the care of the item. Keep in mind that There are different grades of stainless steel with each having its own unique identity. Follow the steps outlined for your particular bench. Below are some care strategies that should be useful no matter the grade:
Don’t Use Abrasive Cleaners
The shiny surface could get dull and scratched if you use improper cleaning tools, products, and methods. For example, under no circumstances should you use an abrasive pad to remove dirt. Soft sponges and microfiber cloths are ideal in this case. Find the direction of the grain and wipe in parallel to prevent scratches. You will be able to get the dirt out more thoroughly as well. When it comes to the cleaning products, refrain from using chloride, bleach, and similar chemicals as they will do more harm than good. They will strip the protective layer on top and make the metal vulnerable to damage.
Clean Up as Fast as Possible
Working in a kitchen is hard. It is tempting to overlook the small details such as minor spills and stains given all of the other tasks waiting to be done. However, allowing these to continue will only make the bench look increasingly bad. Clean as fast as possible so that you won’t have to deal with hard-to-remove substances later on. Make sure to keep the counter free of any items including cookware, silverware, bowls, glasses, and plates. If they stay there for a long time, then they may scratch the surface or leave unsightly streaks. Act quickly when you can.
Prevent Calcium Build-up
Hard water stains are particularly common with their white powdery appearance. These are persistent but you can prevent them by wiping wet surfaces with a soft cloth or paper towel. This should remove the calcium along with the wetness. You can also use white vinegar to get rid of the stains. If that doesn’t help, then look for specialized stainless steel bench. If at all possible, try to use a water filter with an included water softener to reduce the water’s hardness — that is, lower its mineral content and minimize the stains.