How to Care for Your Stainless Steel Outdoor Products
Stainless steel is one of the most durable materials you can choose for outdoor use — but a small amount of regular maintenance goes a long way. Here's everything you need to know.
General Cleaning
- Wipe surfaces with warm soapy water and a soft cloth or sponge
- Always wipe in the direction of the grain on brushed stainless finishes
- Rinse with clean water and dry with a soft cloth to prevent water spots
- Clean regularly — don't let grease or food residue build up over time
What to Avoid
- Steel wool or abrasive scrubbing pads (these scratch the surface and can cause rust spots)
- Bleach-based or chlorine cleaners
- Leaving standing water in contact with the surface for extended periods
Coastal Environments
Salt air is harder on stainless steel than most people realise. If you're within a few kilometres of the coast, rinse your products down with fresh water once a month. It takes two minutes and significantly extends the life of the finish.
BBQ & Barrel Oven Specific Care
- After each cook, wipe the interior while still slightly warm — grease comes off much easier at this stage
- Remove any ash or debris from the base after it has cooled completely
- Store under a cover or in a sheltered spot when not in use for extended periods
Removing Surface Marks or Discolouration
A small amount of baking soda mixed into a paste with water works well on stubborn marks. Apply gently with a soft cloth, wipe in the direction of the grain, and rinse clean.
Rust Spots
True rust on quality stainless steel is rare, but surface rust can occasionally appear from contact with regular steel (steel wool, garden tools, etc.). A specialist stainless steel cleaner or Bar Keepers Friend applied gently will remove surface rust without damaging the material.
