How To Properly Maintain Japanese Kitchenware: A Guide To Caring For Stainless Steel Cookware

Stainless steel is among some of the most top-quality cookware. It's also relatively straightforward to care for. However, there are still some tips and tricks that you should remember to maintain the quality of your stainless steel cookware for years to come. This guide will explain everything you need to know about caring for stainless steel and how to prevent it from rusting. 

Taking Care Of Stainless Steel Cookware

We carry stainless steel kitchenware from reputable Japanese brands such as Todai and Yamagi, which, if taken care of properly, can last in your kitchen for years to come. This section will provide helpful information on how to care for stainless steel cookware. (Please note that these tips and instructions can apply to other brands of stainless steel cookware and stainless steel knives as well.)

1. Caring for stainless steel is relatively straightforward, but do take care to avoid using a hard sponge when washing to prevent scratches.
2. Additionally, ensure that the items are thoroughly dried before storage as moisture can lead to rust.

Stainless Steel And Rust?

Stainless steel is oftentimes the preferred metal of choice when it comes to cookware due to its high corrosion resistance. However, that does not mean that it is fully protected from rust. This section will explain how to treat your stainless steel if it becomes rusted. 

How does rust form?

Rust on stainless steel can form if a pot, pan, or cooking utensil has not been dried thoroughly. Additionally, if a rusted stainless steel item is left in contact with a non-rusted stainless steel item, that item may become rusted as well. This is due to a phenomenon called "ionization tendency" where metals with a high tendency to ionize can cause rust.

What do I do if my stainless steel item rusts?

Rust can either be removed with citric acid or baking soda. Let the citric acid or baking soda sit on the rusted area for 30 minutes and then wipe off with a gentle sponge. Be sure to dry the stainless steel item thoroughly before storing.

Please note that in order to provide the most accurate information in this article, all of the information and tips provided have been provided directly by the manufacturers of stainless steel that we carry in our store.

Want to learn how to take care of other kinds of Japanese kitchenware? Check out our articles on caring for iron and copper kitchenware, and this guide for knives.