Keeping your restaurant surfaces clean is important for safety and appearance. Just because they are commercial does not mean you should use harsh cleaners on them. Learn how to properly clean stainless steel in a commercial kitchen to help your fixtures and appliances last.
5 Simple Steps To Clean Stainless Steel in a Commercial Kitchen
Commercial kitchen sinks and counters require special care, but keeping them clean doesn’t have to be a hassle. These five simple steps will have your stainless steel shining like new in minutes.
1. Remove Food Residue
The first step is very important. Thoroughly remove all food scraps from the areas you want to clean. Wipe it into the trash and give the counter a quick wipe to clear crumbs. Take extra care with your commercial kitchen sinks; food and other waste often end up in the drains and their strainer baskets.
2. Wash With Mild Detergent
Now you can get into the actual cleaning process. Mix a small amount of mild. chloride-free detergent or dish soap with warm water. Using a microfiber cloth, apply the mixture to your stainless steel surfaces. Gently scrub to remove grease, grime, and stuck-on foods.
Special Tip: Always Clean With the Grain
Many commercial stainless steel surfaces have lines going in one direction. Whenever possible, cleaning and wiping along these lines will give you the best results.
3. Rinse the Surface
You must completely rinse any cleaning solution. You can pour water onto prep surfaces and sinks, or use a clean cloth dipped in fresh water for items like cooktops and range hoods.
4. Wipe Dry
Once rinsed, you can and should take a dry microfiber cloth or soft towel and wipe the stainless steel dry. Buff out any streaks until you get a nice brushed mirror finish. You don't want to skip this step when cleaning stainless steel in a commercial kitchen, or you will face streaks, water spots, and an uneven appearance that are hard to remove.
Special Tip: Maintain Stainless for Lasting Performance
To keep the stainless steel in your commercial kitchen looking its best, occasionally rub it with a small amount of food-grade mineral oil or stainless steel polish. This will help reduce smudges and fingerprints while adding a beautiful luster to your commercial kitchen range hood.
5. Sanitize
Sanitizing is the final step in cleaning a commercial kitchen. It kills bacteria and ensures a hygienic environment, which is especially important for food-contact surfaces.
Apply a commercial sanitizing solution specifically designed for stainless steel to the surfaces. Check the product instructions; many require air drying to maintain their integrity.
Why Cleaning Stainless Steel in a Commercial Kitchen Matters
You demand a lot from your commercial stainless steel counters, sinks, and appliances. With the right care, they will look and perform well for many years. Knowing how to clean stainless steel in a commercial kitchen ensures your surfaces are sanitized to prevent food spoilage and contamination.
CopperSmith creates beautiful, functional, and durable stainless steel commercial-grade fixtures. Contact us to explore our commercial products.