How to Restore Rusty or Tea-Stained Stainless Steel
Unfortunately, stainless steel is Stain "less" - Not Stain "Free".
It is a misconception that stainless steel is will not tea stain or rust. Stainless steel will degrade like all other architectural metals. The term "stainless" implies a resistance to staining, rusting and pitting. Stainless steel generally has a higher resistance to the effects of exposure but will still be affected by the elements. Stainless steel around pools or in salt or marine environments will rust quickly. Read more about the causes of rust on stainless steel.
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Cleaning tea staining or rust off of stainless steel is not enough. The surface must be protected or the metal will rust again in just days. ProtectaClear® will seal and protect architectural metal, building exteriors, restaurant equipment, stainless steel refrigerators, stainless steel sinks, stainless steel Barbeques and much more. ProtectaClear is food safe once it is cured and will help kitchen equipment easier to keep clean.
Even Stainless with Heavy Rust Can Be Cleaned & Protected
ProtectaClear will seal stainless steel and help stop rust from returning long-term. Even when exposed to salt and chemicals, stainless steel can stay rust free and will be protected from corrosion.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Restoring Stainless Steel
1. First, Clean Off the Rust
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​This can be done chemically, ERW-XL Stainless Steel Cleaner will clean rust off stainless steel. Brushed stainless steel can be cleaned manually with synthetic steel wool pads or very fine sand paper. (Do not use real steel wool or it can cause even more rust.) A no-scratch cleanser like BonAmi can also be used but it is more messy. If you use an abrasive, make sure to clean WITH the grain. Do not use abrasives or cleansers on stainless steel that is not brush finished.
2. Neutralize
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​If an acid-based cleaner is used, the surface must be neutralized. Many stainless steel cleaners are acid-based. Pickling and Passivation are also acid processes that must be neutralized. Neutralizing can be done with EZ Prep Cleaner and Neutralizer or with baking soda and water. Rinse afterward.
3. Solvent Wipe
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​The final step to preparing stainless steel before application of ProtectaClear is to wipe it down with a clean solvent like xylene, denatured alcohol or 99% isopropyl alcohol.​
4. Seal and Protect
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​ProtectaClear is a tough, clear protective coating that has excellent adhesion on stainless steel. It is highly resistant to salts and chlorines to protect stainless steel from rust, corrosion and tea-staining. It is very natural looking and practically invisible on stainless steel. Wipe ProtectaClear on with a lint-free cloth, a clear coat applicator pad, solvent rated paint brush, foam brush, high density foam roller or ProtectaClear can be sprayed on.
