Stainless Steel

Making a Statement

An example of how a Steelart creation extends the boundaries for the use of stainless steel in the luxury domestic market.

CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF STAINLESS STEEL

Stainless steel sinks and worktops require regular care.

REGULAR CLEANING

1. Wash down the surface using water containing soap or mild detergent.
2. Always rinse the surface with clean water and dry with a soft cloth.
3. A thorough cleaning operation can be completed by polishing the surface with a stainless steel polish and a soft cloth.

DISCOLOURATION

1. Any discoloration should be removed immediately using a mild proprietary cleaner such as 'Cif' gently rubbing with the grain of the metal.
2. After use rinse thoroughly as above, with clean water and dry with a soft cloth.
3. Remove dirt and limescale deposits on a regular basis.
4. Do not use cleaning agents containing chlorine (generally sodium hypochlorite) or hydrochloric acid.
5. If you use steel wool for cleaning, it must be made of non rusting stainless steel.
6. Avoid lengthy contact with salty liquids.
7. Avoid direct or prolonged contact with rusting objects (cast -iron pans or iron filings).
8. Do not use your sink for dyeing or bleaching fabric or hair.

AVOID

1. Do not cut directly onto stainless steel worktops - Always use a cutting board.
2. Do Not place hot pans etc, directly onto the stainless steel worksurface - Always use a pan stand.
3. Do not use course abrasive materials such as harsh scouring pads, wire wool etc, which can scratch the stainless steel surface. In addition metal particles left on the surface can quickly turn to rust and leave rust stains on the surface.
4. Most common bleaches, toilet cleaners, photographic developing liquids, acids, concentrated disinfectants, chlorine (often present as hypochlorate) and strong alkalies, i.e. caustic soda, can lead to pitting of the stainless steel surface. If any of these solutions in a concentrated form or otherwise, come into contact with the surface, they should be thoroughly rinsed off as described in 'Regular Cleaning'.

STAINS ON THE SURFACE OF YOUR SINK

These stains usually involve limescale deposits, which appear depending on the hardness of the drinking water. These limescale deposits retain dirt particles to a greater extent, with the result that unattractive stains form in only a short period of time.

Small iron and rust particles from the water mains network may also make it appear as though there are rusty marks, particularly in the case of new buildings or when repairs are being carried out to the mains pipelines, and where cast-iron water pipes are involved.