Steamer Set Care: Keeping Your 18cm Steamer Fresh
By Robert Welch® Designs | Stainless-steel cutlery, knives & cookware | Published: 2026-10-31
Category: Tips & Care
Steamer set cleaning tips to keep your stainless steamer fresh. Learn how to care for a stainless steamer, remove stains from the basket, and store it right.
Quick answer
Rinse your steamer set immediately after each use, wash it with warm soapy water and a soft sponge, and dry it thoroughly before storing. For tough stains, use a vinegar solution or a stainless-steel cleaner, but never abrasive scouring pads.
Why prompt cleaning matters for stainless steel steamers
Stainless steel is durable, but steam and food residue left on the surface can cause water spots and, over time, mineral buildup. Rinsing soon after cooking prevents residue from hardening, which makes the next wash much easier.
Handling hard-water marks and heat tint
If your water is hard, you may notice white spots after steaming. These are mineral deposits, not damage. A diluted vinegar soak usually lifts them. Heat tint—a rainbow discoloration near the base—can occur from high heat; it is cosmetic and can be reduced with a stainless-steel cleaner.
When to use the dishwasher—and when not to
The 316 Series steamer set is not explicitly labeled dishwasher-safe in the supplied information, so hand washing is the safest choice to preserve its finish. If you do use a dishwasher, choose a gentle cycle and a detergent without citrus or salt, and dry by hand immediately after.
Step-by-step steamer set care
- Rinse immediately after use: Once the steamer has cooled enough to handle, rinse the saucepan and steamer insert under warm water to remove loose food particles. Don't let residue dry on the surface. Waiting until the food hardens makes cleaning harder and may require more scrubbing.
- Wash with warm soapy water: Use a soft sponge or cloth and mild dish soap. Gently clean the interior and exterior of both pieces, paying attention to the perforated base of the steamer insert where food can lodge. Avoid steel wool or abrasive scouring pads—they can scratch the stainless steel finish.
- Rinse and dry thoroughly: Rinse with warm water and dry immediately with a soft towel. Do not air-dry, especially if you have hard water, to prevent water spots. Towel drying is the simplest way to keep the surface spot-free.
- Remove stubborn stains: For mineral deposits or heat tint, soak the affected area in a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water for 15–30 minutes, then wash and rinse as usual. For tougher stains, use a non-abrasive stainless-steel cleaner. Never use bleach or chlorine-based cleaners, which can damage stainless steel.
- Store properly: Store the steamer set in a dry cupboard. If stacking the insert inside the saucepan, place a soft cloth or paper towel between them to prevent scratches. Ensure both pieces are completely dry before storing. Storing while damp can lead to water marks and musty odors.
Product facts
- 316 Series Cookware 18cm Steamer Set, 2 Piece: Two-piece 18cm saucepan steamer set with tri-ply construction: two layers of high-grade stainless steel encapsulate an aluminium core. The aluminium core improves heat distribution, but it also means you should avoid harsh chemicals that could degrade the bond over time.
316 Series Cookware 18cm Steamer Set, 2 Piece
