GUIDE: HOW TO MAINTAIN YOUR STAINLESS STEEL PATIO FURNITURE

High-quality stainless steel furniture is a beautiful addition to any outdoor space. This durable material is both attractive and low maintenance, making it an excellent option for your deck or patio. 

WHY CHOOSE STAINLESS STEEL?

Stainless steel is naturally corrosion resistant, does not require annual repainting, and is fully moisture and mold resistant. It will not fade, crack, or peel when exposed to direct sunlight and is highly resistant to stains. 

All of the stainless steel furniture available through Patioline is made with grade 316 stainless steel, the highest grade on the market. Grate 316 stainless steel is valued for its high resistance to chloride corrosion, making it a popular choice for boats and nuclear power plants. Stainless steel is both durable and beautiful and will offer you years of enjoyment with minimal maintenance. 

HOW TO MAINTAIN YOUR STAINLESS STEEL PATIO FURNITURE

Regular Maintenance

Stainless steel patio furniture is valued for its simple maintenance needs. However, it does still require regular attention in order to maintain its signature lustre. A simple wipe down with a damp microfiber cloth should be enough to remove any dirt, oxidation spots, or other debris. If you do not maintain your stainless steel furniture it will oxidize, a process that leaves it covered in unsightly brown spots. Unmaintained stainless steel furniture also loses its signature shine and becomes more dull and drab over time.

The design of microfiber cloths allows them to buff away any cloudiness caused by oxidation without the need for chemical cleaners. Once you have wiped down your furniture with the damp microfiber cloth you should give it a quick polish with a dry microfiber cloth in order to maintain the metal’s signature shine and lustre. 

You should wipe down your stainless steel patio furniture any time it becomes dirty or oxidized.

Annual Deep Clean

Your stainless steel patio furniture will likely require a more thorough clean once or twice per year depending on a variety of factors. Furniture that is exposed to particularly dirty or smoggy environments, or is located in a high humidity environment will require more frequent cleanings.

To thoroughly clean your stainless steel patio furniture use a gentle mixture of pH neutral soap and warm water. Use a soft sponge or cloth, and avoid using any material that will scratch the metal. You should never use bleach or chlorine-based cleaners on your stainless steel patio furniture, as this can damage it and damage the finish and dull its bright lustre. 

Extremely Dirty or Oxidized Stainless Steel

Stainless steel that has become incredibly dirty or oxidized may require more than soap and water to return it to its full glory. This may require the use of a specialized stainless steel cleaner. You may also want to use a specialized stainless steel cleaning pad. When using these specialty pads make sure you follow the grain of the metal so that you avoid scratching the surface and compromising its shine. 

If you would like more information about specialty stainless steel cleaning products, or would like a product recommendation, please visit our showroom. 

Combating Fingerprints

Stainless steel is known for its signature shine, but that shine can be dimmed by fingerprints. Fingerprints can easily be removed using either glass cleaner or baby oil. If you are using glass cleaner use only a small amount. Spray it directly on your stainless steel furniture and then buff the area gently with a glass cleaning cloth. When selecting a glass cleaner chose one with a neutral pH so you avoid damaging the finish.

If you choose to use baby oil you should apply a small amount directly to a lint-free cloth. Then, use the cloth to gently buff away the fingerprints. You should avoid using too much oil, as this will make your furniture greasy and attract dust and other debris, making it harder to clean and maintain. 

STORING YOUR STAINLESS STEEL PATIO FURNITURE FOR THE WINTER

Unfortunately, summer only comes once a year, which means that you will likely have to store your patio furniture for the winter. Metal patio furniture, including stainless steel furniture, should be stored in a dry place, such as a garage or shed. 

If a lack of space requires that you keep your patio furniture outdoors all year round you should store it under a furniture cover. Many high-end patio furniture sets have custom made covers that are specifically tailored to each piece. If your furniture does not have a custom made cover you can use a tarp instead. However, if you choose to use a tarp you should make sure that it is tied securely so it won’t blow away. Be sure to leave a small amount of space around the bottom of your furniture so that air can circulate.

Never use a plastic sheet, as this will trap moisture and cause your furniture to oxidize. 

Before you put your stainless steel patio furniture away for the winter you should give it a thorough clean and have it repaired if necessary. You should also remove and store any cushions in a dry place before you cover your furniture for the winter. This will prevent mold or mildew from developing.  

CONCLUSION

Stainless steel patio furniture is both beautiful and low maintenance, making it a popular choice. Stainless steel requires minimal regular maintenance and should be deep cleaned with warm water and a mild pH neutral soap once or twice per year. Maintenance is important because it will help your furniture remain shiny and free of oxidization spots. Well maintained stainless steel furniture will bring your family years of enjoyment and makes a great addition to any outdoor space.