Maintenance of stainless steel urns
Stainless steel is basically maintenance-free. However, the material may tarnish slightly over time. The position and the coarseness of the surface can affect this. Polished stainless steel will not tarnish as quickly as matte finish stainless steel will. Any pollutants on the stainless steel will automatically come off under the influence of the weather. This is because the material shrinks and expands.
How to clean a stainless steel urn?
Should if you wish to clean the stainless steel urn by hand, please take the following into consideration:
Initial cleaning and dusting
Due to the smooth finish of stainless steel, any scratches due to polishing will be very visible. Scratches are usually caused by sand or dust during polishing. We recommend that you first rinse the memorial ornament with water or dust it with a soft, dry cloth without applying any pressure, before polishing it. Always wipe in the direction of the polish lines, and never use a circular polishing motion.
Washing and drying process
You can then wash the stainless steel with soapy water. Please use a chlorine free cleaning agent. When drying off, water spots or streaks may appear. A microfibre cloth can be used to prevent the appearance of most of these unwanted spots and streaks.
Stain removal and final touches
Slight stains can be removed by using a damp, soft piece of cloth. Apply a drop of mild abrasive to remove stains and then always rinse with water.
How should cleaning and polishing agent be used on stainless steel?
Stainless steel cleaners and polishing agents are widely available. Their composition is such that they do not tarnish the passive chrome oxide layer, and even stimulate the material to clean itself.
Always read the instructions of such maintenance products carefully. Most stainless steel products must be sprayed onto the surface, and then rubbed out with a soft cloth.
There are three basic groups of products, each with their own specific qualities:
1. Degrease and clean, with a spray or liquid product in a bottle (do not leave a protective film)
2. Leave a wax film, using a spray or jar of cream (dirt and dust-repellent coating, non-streak)
3. Apply an oily film, from a spray or bottle (non-streak, but not dirt-repellent; will in fact attract dust and when the ornament is left outside, rain will wash off the coating, leaving streaks and water stains.)
The protective films mentioned above are essentially for indoor use only. When the ornament is left outside, it is better to let nature run its course.
