Solvent
Cleaning―Organic solvents can be used to remove fresh
fingerprints, and oils and greases that have not had time to oxidize
or decompose. The preferred solvent is one that does not contain
chlorine, such as acetone, methyl alcohol and mineral spirits. There
are many compounded or blended organic cleaners that are commercially
available and attempt to optimize both clean-ability and safety
attributes. Cleaning can be accomplished by immersing smaller
articles directly into the solvent, wiping with solvent-impregnated
cloths, or by sophisticated vapor or spray methods. The wiping
technique sometimes leaves a streaked surface.
Household
Cleaners―Household cleaners fall into two categories:
detergent (non-abrasive) and abrasive cleaners. Both are effective
for many mild dirt, stain and soil deposits, as well as light oils,
such as fingerprints. The abrasive cleaners are more effective but
introduce the possibility of scratching the surface. However, the
degree of abrasiveness will vary greatly with the particular product,
and some brands will produce noticeable scratching on only the most
highly-polished and some colored surfaces. All of these cleaners vary
widely with respect to their acidity and the amount of chloride they
contain. A neutral cleaner low in chloride is preferred unless the
user is assured that the surface can be thoroughly rinsed after
cleaning. The fact that the label states “for stainless steel”
is no guarantee that the product is not abrasive, not acidic, or low
in chloride. The cleaning method generally employed with these
cleaners is to apply them to the stainless surface and follow by
cloth wiping, or to wipe directly with a cleaner-impregnated soft
cloth. In all cases, the cleaned surface should be thoroughly rinsed
with clean water and wiped dry with a soft cloth if water streaking
is a consideration.
Commercial
Cleaners―Many commercial cleaners compounded from
phosphates, synthetic detergents and alkalis are available for the
cleaning of severely-soiled-or-stained stainless surfaces. When used
with a variety of cleaning method, these cleaners can safely provide
effective cleaning. Manufacturers should be consulted and their
recommendations followed wherever using cleaners of this kind.
