Maintenance flatware
New stainless steel flatware should be washed by hand during the first few weeks of use. After the stainless steel is seasoned in the washing process, it can be cleaned in the dishwasher. But if you wish your flatware to keep its original shine and finish, we recommend that you wash it by hand (for example, plastic handles of flatware washed in the dishwasher may become dull and matt). If you wash your flatware by hand, use warm water, a mild soap and a soft sponge. Dry it immediately. Avoid concentrated acidic detergents such as dishwasher detergents based on lemon or other citrus fruit, as they can harm your flatware.Always pre-rinse your flatware (e.g. before putting it into the dishwasher).
Do not let your flatware to soak for long periods of time; extended soaking can cause damage to the finish.
When using a dishwasher for cleaning (after you carefully read the manual!), keep the following instructions in mind:
- the operating instructions for the dishwasher should be strictly followed
- use a mild detergent, do not use lemon-scented detergent
- never use more than 1 teaspoon of detergent
- place the flatware in the flatware basket with the handles facing down
- do not arrange the articles (knives, forks and spoons) by type; the jets of water clean the flatware items most efficiently when they are loosely placed in the flatware basket
- do not cram the flatware in the dishwasher
- use the delicate or economic cycle
- when the program is finished, immediately take the flatware out of the dishwasher. If that is not possible, then open the dishwasher so steam can escape, and disperse or wipe the flatware dry. Otherwise, the heat and high humidity may cause the flatware to corrode
To simplify the cleaning of your flatware and to reduce the risk of rust, discoloration and pitting, always immediately (after each use!) wash off the remains of food (like mayonnaise, eggs, salt or vinegar).
If rust appears, you are probably using too much detergent. The water is saturated with detergent and, through the heat cycle, the water evaporates, causing the detergent to stick on the surface in the form of fatty acids. To clean rusty spots, use a good all purpose metal polish cleaner and rub vigorously. The rings should disappear. If there was any pitting, the marks will be permanent.
Remove discoloured spots with a paste consisting of baking soda and water.
Stainless steel does not need to be polished. If you would like to bring back some of its original lustre, you can use a stainless steel cleaning agent (such as the BergHOFF detergent for stainless steel). This product particularly has a beneficial effect on cleaning of the blades.
Keep your flatware away from open flames or sources of extreme heat!
Do not store your flatware in plastic bags or other wrapping that trap moisture. To safely storage your flatware, remove it from the original packaging and wrap a soft cloth around each item.