Installation and Maintenance

Recommendations for cleaning the stainless steel furniture of your bakery equipment

05.12.2023

Table of Contents

It is common to find stainless steel furniture in all kinds of establishments, including bakeries. This type of furniture has become the favorite in industrial kitchens, since it offers hygiene and a modern appearance.

It is a material that is resistant to corrosion and requires relatively low maintenance. However, it is not infallible or impossible to deteriorate, since the layer that protects it can be broken or contaminated.

For this reason, in this article we want to focus on discussing the essential care and maintenance required for this type of material. The objective is to ensure its prolonged lifespan through proper utilization and cleaning practices. Curious to learn more? Keep on reading.

Stainless steel care

Stainless steel stands out for being very bright and for its great resistance. This material is treated to offer a surface that is difficult to rust, capable of withstanding high levels of humidity, unlike conventional steel.

In industrial kitchens, providing the necessary care to the furniture, equipment, and instruments crafted from this material is essential day in and day out. This attention is as crucial as ensuring their thorough cleaning.

Neglecting proper usage practices or being careless with the treatment of this material can result in its severe deterioration. In fact, it might render it completely unusable in a surprisingly short span of time.

Caring for and cleaning stainless steel furniture can involve the use of both natural and industrial agents. The important is to understand the impact of each one on stainless steel and how these two options can be effectively combined.

For example, vinegar is a natural substance that, when combined with water, can efficiently clean and impart a brilliant shine to stainless steel within a matter of minutes. In fact, it has the potential to restore the material's factory-fresh appearance.

We also have baking soda as a natural alternative. When combined with water or lemon, it is capable of removing stubborn stains and leave any surface crafted from this material looking radiant.

Lastly, olive oil is also highly effective for the cleaning and maintenance of this furniture type, although it can be somewhat expensive. When applied with a damp cloth, it effectively eliminates stains and imparts an exceptional shine.

As for industrialized products, there are numerous alternatives on the market for cleaning and caring for stainless steel. Some are made by the same manufacturers of this kind of furniture, artifacts or utensils.

Their prices are usually affordable, although it is possible to find a diverse range of prices and brands. Therefore, you can choose the one that is most convenient in terms of price and performance.

It doesn't matter if you prefer natural or industrial agents. There are many alternatives to clean your stainless steel equipment without incurring additional expenses Share on X

How to clean stainless steel furniture?

Cleaning stainless steel furniture does not involve major complications. However, the following must be taken into account:

  • Sponges, scourers or metallic cloths should not be used.
  • Consistency is key to preventing the buildup of food remnants, limescale, or other deposits. This practice helps eliminate the need for abrasive cleaning and prevents surface scratching.

In addition, it is advisable to apply these recommendations:

Use a soft cloth and warm water

Stainless steel furniture and cloths to clean it
Photo by Piqsels on Piqsels.

Microfiber cloths are an excellent alternative for cleaning stainless steel furniture. So are soft natural or synthetic sponges dipped in warm water and a little dish soap.

The essential thing is not to get them too wet, they should be rubbed gently and then dried with a clean, absorbent cloth. Detergents should not be applied directly to the surface of the furniture, but on the cleaning cloth.

Keep it fingerprint free

Stainless steel furniture loses much of its attractiveness and neat appearance when marked by heavy fingerprints. To prevent this from happening, not much effort is required; just rub them with a cloth and glass cleaner.

Likewise, some manufacturers have devised specialized products to prevent fingerprints from being marked; as well as the effects of daily use. This is because they create a protective layer on the surface that prevents this damage.

In this way, the furniture does not turn yellowish and retains its shine, even as time goes by.

Products that leave a protective layer on stainless steel are ideal for simplifying cleaning and extending the durability of furniture Share on X

Remove stains

Although stainless steel furniture, equipment and accesories are long-lasting, prolonged use might lead to staining. Fortunately, removing these stains is very simple. Special cleaning brushes can be used for this material, which can be purchased in supermarkets.

It also works to gently rub with fine sandpaper followed by a polishing session using neutral wax, the same kind used for vehicle detailing. This process effectively restores the material's original appearence.

General recommendations to guarantee the good maintenance of your equipment

Stainless steel furniture and its general care
Photo by Piqsels on Piqsels.

It is best to clean stainless steel furniture on a regular basis using a cleaning schedule or calendar. This is the way to avoid a complicated deep cleaning.

If any debris lands on the surfaces, particularly when they're hot, swift action is advised. Utilize cloths or spatulas to promptly remove the dirt. This will prevent them from sticking and making it harder to remove later.

Ideally, a basic cleaning should be done daily and a deep one, at least once a week. In any case, the rhythm of cleaning will mark the dynamics of your business, always prioritizing good hygiene.

By not letting dirt accumulate, cleaning days will be shorter and easier. Therefore, there will be no need to set aside other tasks to be able to deal with the cleaning of the kitchen.

If cleaning is done correctly, frequently and with the right products, strenuous days of cleaning in your kitchen will not be necessary Share on X

Furthermore, this practice contributes to extend its operational lifespan and ensures the provision of uncontaminated, tasty, and high-quality products to the clients. Simultaneously, it fosters a hygienic and healthy environment for your staff members.

Do not hesitate. Take the initiative and create a hygiene plan for your bakery. Cleaning is part of the professionalism of your business; as well as its good reputation.

Conclusion

Cleaning and maintaining stainless steel furniture is an easy and inexpensive task. You just have to know the correct way to do it and the right materials and products for this purpose.

We hope that the recommendations shared in this article have been very useful to apply in your bakery. We want you to make the most of your equipment and furniture made of this material and make it last much longer.

At gaux, we offer a range of new and used bakery equipment crafted from this material, all at competitive prices. Contact us for personalized guidance throughout your purchasing process. Our advisors are always on hand to assist you.

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