Choosing a Cleaning Product for Stainless Steel

The choice of a proper cleaning product is that of the consumer and there are many products from which to choose. Depending upon the type of cleaning and the degree of contamination, some products are better than others.

Although some products are called "stainless steel cleaners," they may scratch the surface and many contain chlorine bleach which will dull, tarnish or discolor the surface if not completely removed.

Various steel industry associations have provided lists of products advertised as stainless steel cleaners and in each such listing, they are careful to point out that
(1) Listing of a brand name does not constitute an endorsement of a product;
(2) Exclusion from the listing does not imply inadequacy of a product,
(3) Each product should be used in strict accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer.

They (and we) also reiterate that the mildest cleaner possible should be used for the particular task, rubbing should (to the extent possible) follow the polish lines of the steel and always insure thorough rinsing after cleaning.

For routine cleaning (as indicated above), the cleaning products most recommended are gentle soaps or detergents or mild mixtures of ammonia.

For stubborn spots and stains and light discolorations, products listed by the various associations include: 3M Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish, Allen Polish, Arcal 20, Cameo Stainless Steel Cleaner, Copper-Brite, Highlite, Lac-O-Nu, Liquid Nu Steel, Lumin Cleaner/Wash, O'Cedar Cream Polish, Penny-Brite, Revere Ware Cleaner, Sta-Clean, Stainless Shine and Twinkle. In addition, mention is made of Grade FFF or Grade F Italian Pumice, Whiting or talc.

Slightly stronger products (some of which may cause scratching of the surface) include 3M Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish, Ajax, Allchem Concentrated Cleaner, Bon Ami, Comet, Goddard's Stainless Steel Care, Old Dutch, Soft-Scrub and Zud Restoro.

Designer Series (Powder Coated) Stainless Steel Products.
Although very strong, powder-coated products can be scratched and the coating destroyed by improper cleaning. Abrasives should not be used on powder-coated products choosing instead, mild (non-chlorine/non-abrasive) detergents.