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Stainless steel elevators really do make a building look sleek and modern don’t they? But let’s face it, fingerprints and smudges aren’t exactly the most glamorous things. Which is why facility managers and building owners know that keeping commercial elevator spick and span is crucial for making a good impression on visitors
Did you know there are over 325 million elevator rides every single day? And 245 million escalator rides. That’s a whole lot of people whizzing in and out of buildings daily. Clean elevators aren’t just nice to have, they’re essential.
Needless to say, keeping all these elevators sparkling like new is no easy feat! So here are 11 top tips to make your job a little easier.
11 Steps for Cleaning your Stainless Steel Elevator
Cleaning the lift is probably not something you put top of mind, but trust us – keeping the whole elevator area – from the door to the button pads – spick and span is a good idea if you want to reduce lift maintenance costs and make your elevator trips a bit more enjoyable.
1. Choose the Right Cleaning Chemicals and Products
The first step in keeping your stainless steel elevator clean is selecting the right cleaning agents. Dish soap, glass cleaners, and specially formulated stainless steel cleaners are all safe bets.
Avoid anything abrasive, such as steel wool, scouring powders, or rough cleaning pads, which can scratch and damage the steel. If in doubt, opt for pH-balanced cleaners, which are generally safe for stainless steel surfaces.
2. Gather the Necessary Equipment
First things first, you need to choose the right cleaning chemicals for your stainless steel elevator. Dish soap, glass cleaner, and any good stainless steel cleaners you can find are all pretty safe bets. But absolutely steer clear of anything abrasive like steel wool, scouring powder, or rough old cleaning pads, they’ll only scratch and ruin the steel. If you’re not sure what to use, just go for a pH balanced cleaner, they’re generally safe to use on stainless surfaces.
3. Preparing the Elevator Stainless Steel Surface
Preparation is key to a successful cleaning session. Start by removing any visible debris like dust, dirt, or larger particles that could scratch the steel. Once the surface is clear, apply a gentle cleaner to remove the finer smudges, ensuring a cleaner shine when you’re done.
4. Cleaning the Stainless Steel
Now that you’ve got your gear and your surface ready, it’s time to get cleaning. Start by wiping the surface gently with a damp microfiber cloth to get rid of any dirt and stains. Make sure to pay extra attention to the seams of the doors and the button areas, they tend to get a bit grimy. And remember to always wipe in the direction of the grain – don’t go cross-grain or circular, you’ll just end up with streaks and scratches.
5. Polishing the Surface
Once the elevator car is clean, consider giving the stainless steel walls a good polish to really lustre up the steel. For polishing, you can use specialised stainless steel polish, which helps to minimise future smudging and increases the longevity of the clean.
If you prefer a more natural approach, a mixture of vinegar and water can work wonders. Remember to polish in the direction of the grain and use a soft cloth.
6. Regular Maintenance
Creating a maintenance routine for your elevators is a great way to keep them in top condition. Establish a cleaning schedule that includes regular checks for spots and smudges. This can be daily, weekly, or monthly, depending on the elevator’s traffic and the level of use.
7. Focus on Grime-Prone Areas
Certain elevator surfaces, such as the doors and the area around the buttons, attract more dirt than others. Give extra attention to these parts during your cleaning. Use a clean microfiber cloth or soft bristle brush specifically for these areas to prevent the spread of dirt and to avoid reintroducing grime to other surfaces.
8. Steam Cleaning for Deep Cleans
For a more thorough clean, consider steam cleaning your stainless steel elevator. Steam not only removes dirt but also sanitises the surface, making it a safe and effective method. Always use lower pressure to minimise the risk of water getting into the elevator’s sensitive components.
9. Dealing with Tough Stains
For stubborn stains that refuse to budge, create a paste with baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stain, wait a few minutes, and then gently scrub away with a non-abrasive sponge. Afterward, clean the area thoroughly with a pH-balanced cleaner and polish as usual.
10. The Role of Ongoing Education
Regularly educating your staff about the proper cleaning techniques for stainless steel elevators is vital. Make sure everyone is aware of the do’s and don’ts when it comes to maintaining these surfaces. This can be accomplished through training sessions and visible guidelines posted near the elevators.
11. The Maintenance Log
Maintaining a log of all cleaning and lift inspections can provide valuable insights. It allows you to keep track of the frequency of cleanings, the products and methods used, and the areas that require more attention. This data-driven approach can help refine your cleaning process and ensure that no spots get overlooked.
Related Reading: 16 Point Passenger Lift Inspection Checklist
What to Avoid When Cleaning Elevators
When cleaning stainless steel elevators, it’s just as important to know what not to use. Using the wrong cleaning methods or products can damage the materials and lead to costly repairs. Here are some things to avoid:
- Steel Floors – Avoid excessive moisture on steel floors as it can cause slipping hazards and damage the finish.
- Non-Abrasive Cleaner Misuse – Even non-abrasive cleaners can leave streaks if not properly wiped down.
- Non-Corrosive Cleaners – Ensure you are using truly non-corrosive cleaners, as some labeled as such can still cause discoloration.
- Door Tracks – Be cautious with liquid cleaners near door tracks to prevent buildup that could affect the door’s operation.
- Cleaning Products – Harsh chemicals, ammonia-based cleaners, or bleach should never be used on stainless steel surfaces.
- Mirrors – If your elevator has mirrors, use a separate glass cleaner to avoid streaking and smudging.
Why is Elevator Cleaning Important?
Stainless steel surfaces and stainless steel elevator doors are notorious for retaining fingerprints and smudges, making elevators look dirty and unappealing.
Regular cleaning not only helps maintain a spotless appearance but also prevents bacteria and germs from spreading. Plus, it extends the lifespan of your elevators (20-25 years), saving you money on costly lift repairs and lift maintenance.
Read More: What is Facilities Management? Definition & Services
Looking for expert lift maintenance?
By following these comprehensive tips, you can ensure that your stainless steel elevators retain their lustre and contribute to the overall appeal of your commercial property. A little TLC goes a long way in preserving the professional image your building conveys to the world.
Our expert lift engineers have years of experience in the field, and we offer a comprehensive range of lift services to meet your specific needs.
We can help you maintain the efficiency and smooth operation of your lifts while also assisting you in making the most cost-effective possible servicing cost savings. This includes lift modernisation & refurbishment , installation, servicing, and maintenance.
Find out more about our modern lift services or to request a free, no-obligation quote with us,based in London and Essex!
How to clean stainless steel elevators FAQs
How often should I clean my stainless steel elevators?
As a general rule, you should be giving your elevators a once over daily or weekly. But that can vary depending on how busy your building is.
Can I just use some vinegar & water to give my elevators a quick clean?
Yes, a mix of vinegar and water can be a decent cleaning agent. But be aware that if you’ve got some tough stains to shift you might need to bring in some extra help – like a pH-balanced cleaner.
What kind of cloth should I be using to clean my elevators?
Microfiber cloth or a non-abrasive sponge are your best bets. Avoid using anything too rough – like steel wool or those nasty cleaning pads – as they can scratch the surface of your elevators.