FAQ: How to Care for your Stainless Silverware and Flatware?

Caring for your cutlery can help keep it looking pristine and shiny for many years of use. It is important to always follow the manufacturer's suggestions for use and maintenance. Otherwise, even stainless can pit, corrode and discolor. Follow these tips and 5 easy steps for caring for your flatware.

1. Do not allow food to sit on your flatware for a long period of time

Rinse all food and residue off your flatware immediately after use. Some foods are very harsh to the stainless and can cause pitting, erosion and discoloration. These foods include Tea, Coffee, Vinegar, Salt, Mustard, Mayonnaise, and Eggs.

2. Pre-soak your flatware before washing

Soak your flatware in a plastic or stainless-steel container for up to 10 minutes. Do not soak for long periods of time or overnight, as this can cause corrosion. Avoid soaking in or with aluminum or copper materials. Use a chlorine-free solution for all steps of cleaning.

3. Washing your flatware

When using a dishwasher, load forks and spoons handle down. Place knives in a separate basket with the blade down to prevent scratching and contact with other metals. Do not load with other types of metal. Use a minimal amount of detergent. Avoid detergents with citrus (lemon and orange) and tabs. Remove flatware from the dishwasher after the last rinse. Do not allow your flatware to go through the dishwasher's dry cycle.

When hand washing, use hot water and mild soap. Do not use metal scrub brushes or scrapers, as this can cause abrasion and increase corrosion and discoloration. Rinse thoroughly.

4. Drying your flatware

Hand dry immediately with a soft cloth and store.

5. Polishing

Periodically, you may want to use a high-quality stainless polish to remove any discoloration or stubborn spots. Rinse thoroughly.

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