The Role of Stainless Steel in Commercial Kitchen Equipment

Any commercial kitchen worth its salt relies on stainless steel kitchen equipment for refrigeration, cooking, and other kitchen functions. Not only does stainless steel look good, but it also provides many benefits that are unavailable in other appliance finishes. Let’s take a look at 3 benefits of using stainless steel kitchen equipment in your commercial kitchen.

1. Easy to Clean
Stainless steel shines brightly under kitchen lights, making it easier to see every speck of spilled or splattered food, every fingerprint, and any other dirt or debris. That makes it easy for kitchen workers to do their job and keep their environment clean and tidy.
Regardless of what mess it is that needs to be wiped off of stainless steel, the non-porous surface prevents any lasting sign of the mess that was there, proving the point of “stainless” steel. From acidic liquids to well-known stains from particular spices or ingredients, you can count on stainless steel to maintain its integrity over time.

2. Highly Durable
Besides resisting common ingredients, stainless steel appliances can withstand the volatile environment of a commercial kitchen. Tightly cramped kitchens benefit from stainless steel appliances designed to take up less space without sacrificing a highly durable exterior.
From extreme temperatures to repetitive, fast-paced use, stainless steel commercial kitchen appliances can keep up with the work of a busy eatery. These appliances can also take being knocked around and resist scratches, dents, and other cosmetic damage that can lead to less effective functionality.

3. Protected Against Rust
So what keeps stainless steel appliances safe, even in the confines of a busy, hot, and highly-worked kitchen? The material is designed to produce an incredibly thin layer of protection made of oxide. This layer keeps the underlying metal from reacting to environmental or direct damage. Even small cuts can be “self-healed” thanks to the protective oxide layer on the exterior of stainless steel.

How to Maintain Stainless Steel Commercial Kitchen Equipment

While enjoying the advantages of stainless steel appliances in your commercial kitchen, you may wonder how best to care for them.
The first step is the easiest – take care of messes when you see them, as soon as you see them. Don’t let splatters dry and crust over, and wipe away any spilled liquids, foods, or spices as soon as you notice them. This makes it much easier to clean at the end of your shift while helping you maintain a clean and hygienic space.

When it’s time to clean your stainless steel appliances, start with a mild detergent or soap and mix it with warm water. Using a soft cloth, wipe every visible inch of your equipment while also reaching into every nook and cranny. The spaces beneath handles, knobs, or around hinges can easily become gunked up with accumulated food or grease, so make it a regular habit to clean every corner of your kitchen appliances.

Keep water spots away by using a soft, dry cloth to clear up any remaining droplets instead of allowing the appliances to air dry. This easy-to-remember cleaning process works well for every piece of stainless steel kitchen equipment you have, from stovetops to backsplashes.
Are you in further need of commercial kitchen equipment maintenance? General Parts can help! Learn more about our commercial kitchen equipment maintenance services by giving us a call or contacting your local General Parts branch.