Stainless Steel: A metal alloy, made up of steel mixed with various elements

Pros/cons:

• Common in commercial kitchens

• Gives a polished, modern appearance

• Can wear and damage without proper care

• Relatively low maintenance because no sealant necessary

• Heat resistant

• Stain proof, even acid and oil will wipe away completely

• Holds up to chemicals

• Hygienic

• Expensive

• Easy to scratch, though light scratches will blend over time and be less noticeable 

• Noisy

• Shows fingerprints easily (glass cleaner can help with this)

• Typically one piece and no seams, therefore no place to harbor food and germs

• Water marks can dull or mar the surface, be sure to always wipe dry

• Pooling water can cause rust over time

How to clean and maintain stainless steel:

• Always wipe dry to avoid water marks

• Use water and a microfiber cloth for cleaning

• Add dish soap for deeper cleaning

• Use glass cleaner for shine (then while from surface with water and dry completely to prevent water spots)

• Can use dedicated stainless steal cleaner (then wipe from surface with water and dry completely to prevent water spots

• Avoid pooling water on the surface

• Keep up with regular cleaning and drying to avoid rust