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Types of Cleaners and Cleaning Procedures
In selecting cleaning practices, consider the possibility of damaging fine mesh screens and the potential for post-cleaning corrosion caused by incompletely removed cleaners. The best preventative measure is to avoid using abrasive cleaners unless absolutely necessary.
Clean Water and Wipe
The simplest, safest, and least costly method that will adequately do the job is always the best method. Stainless steel screens thrive with frequent cleaning because there is no surface coating to wear away.  A soft cloth and clean warm water should always be the first choice for mild stains and loose dirt and soils. A final rinse with clean water followed with a dry wipe, blot or low pressure air blast will complete the process and eliminate the possibility of water stains.
Cleaning with Solvents
Organic solvents can be used to remove fresh fingerprints and oils and greases that have not had time to oxidize or decompose. The preferred solvent is one that does not contain chlorine, such as acetone, methyl alcohol, and mineral spirits. There are many compounded or blended organic cleaners that are commercially available and attempt to optimize both cleaning ability and safety attributes. Cleaning can be accomplished by immersing smaller screen panels directly into the solvent, wiping with solvent-impregnated cloths, or by sophisticated vapor or spray methods. After cleaning, always rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Household Cleaners
Household cleaners fall into two categories: detergent (non-abrasive) and abrasive cleaners. Both are effective for many mild dirt, stain, and soil deposits, as well as light oils such as fingerprints. The abrasive cleaners are more effective but introduce the possibility of damaging screens woven of small wire diameters. All of these cleaners vary widely  with respect to their acidity and the amount of chloride they contain. A neutral cleaner low in chloride is preferred unless the user is assured that the surface can be thoroughly rinsed after cleaning. The fact that the label states “for stainless steel” is no guarantee that the product is not abrasive, not acidic, or low in chloride.
The cleaning method generally employed with these cleaners is to apply them to the screens surface and follow by cloth wiping, or to wipe directly with a cleaner- impregnated soft cloth. In all cases, the cleaned surface should be thoroughly rinsed with clean water and wiped dry with a soft cloth or gentle air blast.
Commercial Cleaners
Many commercial cleaners compounded from phosphates, synthetic detergents, and alkalis are available for the cleaning of severely soiled or stained stainless screen surfaces. When used with a variety of cleaning methods, these cleaners can safely provide effective cleaning. Manufacturers should be consulted and their recommendations followed whenever using cleaners of this kind. The general precautions stated on the next page also pertain to these cleaners.
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