All homes in the world have stainless steel kitchen utensils, in fact, it is a widely used material thanks to its versatility and durability. It is necessary to bear in mind that stainless steel is not exactly stainless. It's certainly highly resistant to permanent stains, but almost nothing is truly stainless.
On the plus side, most discoloration on stainless steel cookware can be removed. Some stains, like water stains, are usually fixed with a simple change in the washing method. Others ask for a relatively strong cleaner and some scrubbing. But with proper care and maintenance, stainless steel cookware can last a lifetime. Y If you put in a little extra effort, you can keep it looking almost new for the life of the cookware.
So that your stainless steel kitchen utensils last as long as you need them and even a lifetime, do not miss the tips that we give you below for cleaning them. In this way and with some proper daily cleaning habits you will realize how these utensils can last you for a long time.
General care
The best option for daily cleaning is to hand wash cookware in hot soapy water and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth before storing. Using a dishwasher is controversial… Experts are divided on the effect detergents have on stainless steel finishes. If you use the dishwasher and want to avoid staining, remove the cookware after the wash cycle and dry it by hand. In this way you will not lose the shine that this material has and you can also check that it is perfectly washed and dry before storing it.
Hard water stains
If your tap water is high in calcium (hard water), you will probably notice chalky white residue on your cookware. To remove this residue, fill the pot or pan with one part vinegar to three parts water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then remove it from the heat and let it cool to the touch. Wash the pan well with hot soapy water and dry it with a towel. You will be surprised at the results, it will be like new!
When there is burnt food
In order to clean up burnt food remnants, you will need to fill the pan with enough warm soapy water to cover the mess and let it sit for an hour. Then return the pan to the burner and boil the soapy water for 10-15 minutes. Let the water cool to the touch, then scrub the pan with a nylon scrubber. Wash it again with hot soapy water, rinse and pat dry. Repeat the same process for stubborn residue.
What you must not forget
Stainless steel cookware often requires stronger cleaners than other types of cookware. The good news is that you can handle it. With that in mind, you should use a non-abrasive cleaner for general cleaning, stain removal, and keeping your cookware shiny as new. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for use so that the finish is spectacular.
It is important that you do not use metal scourers or abrasive cleaners. Although they do an excellent job of removing adhering food, all stainless steel cookware manufacturers advise that abrasives can scratch the surface of the utensils. Instead, you can opt for nylon mesh scourers or plastic or nylon brushes.
It is important that you do not use chlorine bleach on your stainless steel cookware. The bleach will stain and damage the stainless steel.
Restoring shine
To get that new shine back, moisten the surface of your cookware and sprinkle on a little baking soda. Rub gently with a synthetic scourer or green cloth, then rinse well and hand dry. You can also remove fingerprints with glass cleaner and a paper towel or soft cloth, but do not apply glass cleaner to surfaces that come in contact with food. You can try polishing minor scratches with a paste of water and a non-abrasive cleaner.
With these tips, any utensil you have in your stainless steel kitchen will look great and will last you for a long time. If for any reason you realize that some of your stainless steel kitchen utensils are in poor condition and although you have tried, you have not been able to recover them, it is best to throw them away and change them for other new utensils. Yes indeed, In these new utensils you will have to have a good maintenance so that they last longer.