In places with high humidity, rusting is one of the most major problems homeowners have with their appliances. Rust can be the result of dirt and grime that has accumulated on your appliance over time, and when your stainless steel is not maintained properly, rusting is an unfortunate event that will happen to your machines.
Stainless steel appliances do not mean that it will absolutely not rust, despite its misleading name. What stainless steel actually is harder for rust to form on it, but it is not entirely impossible for it to happen. If you are already feeling cheated by its name, there is no need to worry as you can still keep your stainless steel appliances from rusting with proper care and maintenance.
No to rusting method # 1: Clean your stainless steel appliances correctly
One of the main reasons why various tools, equipment, and appliances rust is due to not cleaning them or leaving them in the corner for a long time to accumulate dust and grime. This is because one of the ingredients in steel which is called chromium is the one that usually protects the machine from exposure to moisture, heat, and chemicals. When this layer breaks, rust can form on the surface of your appliance.
Avoid damaging the protective layer called the “chromium oxide” of your stainless steel appliances to prevent rust by cleaning them using these methods:
Use white vinegar
Aside from baking soda with its multipurpose benefits, vinegar has also been earning the trust of many homeowners by being a natural, non-toxic, and cheap ingredient that helps in cleaning faucets, bathrooms, and even stainless steel appliances.
Vinegar contains a material called acetic acid, which is very effective for cleaning due to its acid-based material and combats corrosion on many surfaces.
Though white distilled vinegar is the most popular variant, other types of vinegar are also used such as apple cider and balsamic.
Materials needed:
White distilled vinegar (any brand will work)
Water
Empty container or bottle spray
Wiping Cloth
Soft bristle brush
Sponge
Toothbrush
Protective wear like glasses, gloves, and mask
What to do:
- Although vinegar is a very mild ingredient that is safe for humans, when rust is already forming on your appliance, it is never too safe to wear protective gear such as gloves to prevent the corrosion from getting in contact with your skin and mask to prevent inhalation of rust particles.
- Mix your vinegar and water into your container or spray bottle.
- Wipe away the dirt from your stainless steel appliance using a soft cloth.
- Spray or wipe your solution on your machine’s surface using your wiping cloth or sponge.
- Gently scrub the surface of your appliance with a soft bristle brush. For areas that are harder to reach, you can use a small toothbrush.
- Leave your appliance for a couple of minutes for the cleaning solution to set.
- Spray water and wipe away your appliance in the direction of the steel grain until all the solution is removed.
- Examine your machine and see if all areas have been cleaned. Repeat the process if necessary.
No to rusting method # 2: Avoid using harsh ingredients and tools
When cleaning your stainless steel appliances, absolutely avoid using ingredients and tools that are harsh and abrasive, as they can scratch the steel and damage the protective lining of your machines that will eventually lead to rusting.
No to rusting method # 3: Regularly maintain your stainless steel appliances
As with most events, prevention is always better than cure. Keep your stainless steel appliances from rusting and avoid getting scratches by regularly cleaning them with mild ingredients and softly wiping or scrubbing them with the right cloth or brush.