Use and Care Manual

examples of items that can be abrasive to stainless steel’s surface.
• Deposits left on stainless steel can leave spots. Hard water can leave spots.
Hard water that is heated can leave deposits if left to sit for too long. These
deposits can cause the passive layer to break down and rust stainless steel.
All deposits left from food prep or service should be removed as quickly as
possible.
• Chlorides are present in table salt, food and water. Household and industrial
cleaners are the worst type of chlorides to use.
8 Steps that can help prevent rust on stainless steel
• Use the correct cleaning tools. Use non-abrasive tools when cleaning your
stainless steel products. The stainless steel’s passive layer will not be harmed
by soft cloths and plastic scouring pads.
• Clean along the polish lines. Polish lines or grain are visible on some stainless
steel. Always scrub parallel to visible lines. Use a plastic scouring pad or soft
cloth when grain is not visible.
• Use alkaline, alkaline chlorinated or non-chloride containing cleaners. While
many traditional cleaners are loaded with chlorides, the industry is providing an
ever increasing choice of non-chloride cleaners. If unsure of chloride content
contact the cleaner supplier. If present cleaner contains chlorides, ask for an
alternative. Avoid cleaners containing quaternary salts as they can attack
stainless steel causing pitting and rusting.
• Water treatment. To reduce deposits, use soft water whenever possible.
Installation of certain filters can be an advantage. Contact a treatment specialist
about proper water treatment.
• Maintain cleanliness of food equipment. Use cleaners at recommended
strength(alkaline, alkaline chlorinated or non-chloride). Avoid buildup of hard
stains by cleaning frequently
• When using chlorinated cleaners you must rinse and wipe dry immediately. It
is better to wipe standing cleaning agents and water as soon as possible. All
stainless steel equipment to air dry. Oxygen helps maintain the passivity film on
stainless steel.
• Hydrochloric acid (muriatic acid) should never be used on stainless steel.
• Regularly restore/passivate stainless steel.