The Ultimate Reasons as To Why Stainless Steel Rusts

The name stainless steel does not mean in any way that steel can never get stained or rust.  The truth of the matter is that stainless steel can rust or get stained if you don’t take some specific precautions.  Steel as a metal can rust but stainless steel appliances have additional elements that reduces their chances of getting stained or rust.Steel as an element is not free from rust hence stainless steel too.

Stainless steel is usually covered by chromium which when it comes into contact with oxygen, it will form a layer called chromium oxide which is not visible to the naked eye. The layer of chromium oxide is what will protect the stainless steel against rust and other stains. It is important to mention that this layer of chromium oxide is not permanent as it can be removed . When it is removed/damaged, stains and rust may form on the surfaces of the stainless steel.

How to Prevent Rust & Stains

• Avoid using force when scrubbing the stainless steel appliance.
• Avoid use of detergents that contain chlorides such chlorine, fluoride and iodine.
• Alcohol based cleaners should also be shunned as they have been proven to aid in wiping out the chromium oxide layer.
• Avoid use of steel wool when cleaning appliances made from stainless steel. Why? Steel wool always leave its particles on the appliance and they do contain iron thus triggering rust.

Care

Using ordinary soap for mild cleaning is enough to keep your stainless steel appliance stain and rust free. The other good news is that by washing it gently, chromium oxide layer is capable of healing itself through new formation.

All in all, buying an appliance made from stainless steel is a good idea because it is less prevalent to stains and rust. A person who adheres to the above advice will never regret buying an appliance made from it.

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