Stainless steel by definition is an iron carbon alloy which contains a minimum of 10.5% chromium. It gets its name because of the fact that stainless steel does not rust or corrode. Regular steel has a high corrosive compound which is very sensitive to moisture. There are many different grades of stainless steel, depending on the use that it is intended for.

The most common household use for stainless steel is in cutlery. Stainless steel knives have been household favorites for years because of their anti-rust capability. They also will maintain a sharp edge with just a little effort. Another popular household product which is made from stainless steel is cookware. Because of the ability to withstand high heat, stainless steel is a preferred choice for many cookware products.

In recent years we have seen a trend in many more products made from stainless steel. You can now purchase sinks, stoves, refrigerators, and counter tops which are made from stainless steel. Many modern kitchens are now fully furnished with stainless. For several years you have seen stainless steel in commercial kitchens and appliances but now it has branched out into the domestic arena.

Because of its durability, stainless steel worktops and counter tops are becoming very popular. It is practically indestructible and provides a clean and sanitary surface to work on. There are many different grades and many different finishes. Its versatility allows the finish to be polished to a high gloss shine or it can be played down with a low luster sheen. It requires practically no maintenance and is easy to clean. Counter tops will withstand the heat of pots and pans which are taken directly off the heat of the stove. For many people this is a very important benefit.

Cleaning stainless steel worktops is as easy as soap and water. The surface is slick and non-porous and easily cleans up with mild soap and water. Because the surface is non-porous there is no need to worry about bacteria growing from residue which is left in surface cracks. It will also stand up to the cleaning power of bleach for those who feel the need to thoroughly disinfect the surface.

Stainless steel counter tops, or work tops, provide a modern and clean look to any home. The work tops are generally seamless and will add brightness to the area because they reflect light. If you want to cut down on the appearance of fingerprints and scratch marks you will probably want to go for a textured or brushed finish. It is recommended that you use a cutting board when you are working with knives since the stainless steel will eventually become scratched and the steel top will tend to dull your knives.

For many people the durability and easy clean-up makes stainless steel a very desirable material. With practically no maintenance and little chances of damage with hot pans, this could be very beneficial in saving the homeowner money. Many people say they have had the same stainless steel tops for over sixty years and they still look good and function well.