STAINLESS STEEL BBQ PREPARATION & CARE
To ensure that your stainless steel barbeque maintains its lustre and appearance, it is important to carry out regular care and maintenance. Invisible airborne contaminants can lodge into the steel, allowing corrosion to develop. This can happen regardless of the stainless steel grade. Stainless steel is not warranted to be free from corrosion, however, by following these simple instructions you can maintain the finish on your stainless steel barbeque for longer.
BARBEQUE PREPARATION BEFORE FIRST USE
During manufacturing, most stainless steels have a protective coating applied, traces of which may remain on your new barbeque.
- Peel off any protective film before first use
- Clean off any remaining residue using 3M Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish on surfaces that will be exposed to high heat such as the roasting hood, barbeque frame, cook tops, etc.
- Ensure all marks and finger prints are cleaned from the surface before the barbeque is switched on. If this is not done properly, finger prints may become etched into the finish forever.
- Always polish with a soft cloth and fire the barbeque up for at least an hour to evenly cure the surface.
CLEANING & MAINTENANCE
Frequent cleaning will prolong the life of stainless steel and help to keep the finish corrosion free.
- Rinse with clean fresh water and dry thoroughly
- Remove ordinary stains with mild soap and warm water. More stubborn stains can be removed with commercial grade cleaners suitable for use on stainless steel
- When cleaning ONLY rub in the direction of the polish lines or 'grain' of the steel. If especially rough cleaning is necessary, use 'stainless' steel wool or a nylon / plastic type scrubber. Do not use normal steel wool, as it will contaminate the finish.
- Test these types of scrubbers in an inconspicuous area first as they could mark or scratch the barbeque finish. Scratches in the stainless steel only affect the appearance and in no way do they accelerate corrosion.
RESTORATION
If corrosion starts, it should be removed as soon as possible to restore the integrity of the finish to its original condition.
- Use a scrubber that is as soft as possible. Try nylon or plastic type scrubbers and build up to 'stainless' steel wool, only if necessary. Do not use normal steel wool.
- Test the scrubber in an inconspicuous area first to ensure that it does not mark or scratch the finish.
- Scrub carefully but firmly, only in the direction of the polish lines or 'grain' of the surface.
POLISH & RUST PREVENTION
Prevention of rust is a more efficient way of protecting stainless steel. 3M Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish is an easy-to-apply product that is ideal for stainless steel, chrome, laminated plastics and aluminium surfaces. With a high gloss formula, it wipes clean with no streaks or build-up, helping to resist fingerprints and surface blemishes. Always use a soft polishing cloth to bring the barbeque back to its original condition.