How to Clean and Maintain Your Stainless-Steel Kitchen Equipment

Keep Your Investment Looking Like New and Performing at Its Best

Stainless steel is the gold standard in commercial kitchens—for good reason. It’s durable, easy to sanitize, and resistant to rust and corrosion. But it’s not completely maintenance-free. Without proper care, even the best stainless-steel equipment can develop stains, discoloration, or surface damage that shortens its lifespan.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through best practices for cleaning and maintaining your stainless-steel equipment, so you can keep it in top condition for years to come.

1. Understand What Stainless Steel Isn’t

Despite its name, stainless steel can stain—especially in the harsh conditions of a commercial kitchen. It resists rust, but if exposed to moisture, salt, chemicals, or high heat for prolonged periods, you might see:

• Rust spots

• Discoloration or heat marks

• Water spots

• Scratches

• Pitting corrosion

Proper care isn’t just about appearance—it’s about protecting the integrity of your equipment.

2. Use the Right Cleaning Tools

Using the wrong tools can damage the protective layer that makes stainless steel “stainless.” Here’s what to use and what to avoid:

Use:
✅ Soft cloths or microfiber towels
✅ Non-abrasive sponges
✅ Nylon brushes
✅ Commercial stainless-steel cleaners
✅ Mild dish soap and warm water

Avoid:
❌ Steel wool or wire brushes
❌ Bleach or chlorine-based cleaners
❌ Abrasive powders
❌ Scrapers or metal tools

Always scrub with the grain of the steel to prevent micro-scratches.

3. Follow a Daily Cleaning Routine

Consistency is key. Here’s a basic daily routine to keep your stainless-steel gear clean and protected:

1. Wipe down surfaces with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water.

2. Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap or food residue.

3. Dry completely with a dry microfiber towel to prevent water spots.

4. Polish with a stainless-steel cleaner or a small amount of mineral oil for a like-new shine.

Focus on high-contact areas like handles, knobs, work surfaces, and sink basins.

4. Deep Clean Weekly or As Needed

For heavily used equipment (like griddles, fryers, or prep tables), a deeper clean helps remove grease, baked-on food, and stains:

• Apply a commercial degreaser formulated for stainless steel.

• Let it sit per the product instructions.

• Scrub gently with a nylon pad or sponge.

• Rinse thoroughly and dry.

For stubborn discoloration or heat stains, try a stainless-steel scratch remover kit—but always test it in an inconspicuous spot first.

5. Prevent Corrosion Before It Starts

The best way to avoid rusty or damage is to prevent it:

• Keep surfaces dry. Standing water is the enemy of stainless steel.

• Avoid salt buildup. Salt can accelerate corrosion, especially around prep sinks or dish areas.

• Clean spills immediately. Acidic foods like tomatoes or citrus can etch the surface if left too long.

• Don’t cover with rubber mats or wet towels for extended periods—these trap moisture and lead to pitting.

If you're using stainless steel outdoors (e.g., in a food truck or patio kitchen), be extra vigilant about drying and covering equipment when not in use.

6. Maintain Moving Parts and Components

For items like mixers, slicers, or steam tables, it’s not just the surface that needs care:

• Lubricate hinges, gears, and moving parts as recommended by the manufacturer.

• Clean beneath and behind equipment to prevent dust and grease buildup.

• Inspect seals, gaskets, and trays regularly for wear and replace as needed.

Keeping everything in good working order reduces repair costs and extends lifespan.

A Little Care Goes a Long Way

Stainless steel is built to last—but only if you take care of it. By following the tips in this guide, you’ll keep your equipment performing like new, reduce downtime, and avoid costly repairs or replacements. You’ll also protect your investment and make your kitchen a cleaner, more professional environment.

Need high-quality stainless-steel cleaners, degreasers, or scratch removal kits? We carry a full line of maintenance products to keep your kitchen looking spotless and running smoothly. Reach out to our team—we’re happy to help you find the right solution for your setup.