Stainless steel work tables are the backbone of prep. They take knives, hot pans, raw proteins and constant wiping. Stainless resists rust and stains, but only when it is cleaned the right way. The wrong pad or the wrong chemical can scratch the surface, strip its protective layer and leave rust spots. Here is a routine that keeps tables sanitary and looking good.
See also the stainless steel drawer for work tables.
Follow the Care Guide and Use the Right Products
Start with the manufacturer’s care instructions for your table. If equipment sits on the table, such as a slicer, mixer or countertop fryer, turn it off and unplug it or shut off its gas before cleaning around it. Use a food-safe detergent and a food-contact sanitizer mixed per the label. Avoid chlorine bleach at high concentration and cleaners with chlorides unless the label says they are safe for stainless, since chlorides attack the metal.
Why Stainless Needs Care
Stainless stays “stainless” because of a thin, invisible chromium oxide layer on the surface. Scratches from steel wool, harsh chemicals and trapped moisture break that layer. Once it is damaged, rust can form. Gentle, regular cleaning lets the layer rebuild itself.
Between Tasks
- Scrape food scraps into a bin.
- Wipe the surface with a cloth dampened in detergent solution.
- Rinse with a clean damp cloth.
- Apply sanitizer per the label and let it air dry for the listed contact time.
Always clean and sanitize between raw proteins and ready-to-eat food, and whenever you change tasks.
End of Day
- Clear the table completely, including the undershelf.
- Wash the top, edges and backsplash with warm water and detergent.
- Rinse with clean water.
- Sanitize and air dry.
- Wipe the legs, crossbars and undershelf.
- Dry any standing water on the undershelf.
Work with the Grain
Look closely at the table and you will see fine lines, the grain. Always wipe and scrub in the same direction as the grain. Scrubbing across it leaves visible scratches and dull spots.
What to Use and What to Avoid
- Use soft cloths, microfiber, or non-scratch nylon pads.
- Use warm water and mild detergent for daily cleaning.
- Use a stainless steel polish that is safe for food areas on non-food-contact parts like legs and shelves, if you want a finish.
- Avoid steel wool and wire brushes, which leave carbon steel particles that rust.
- Avoid chlorine bleach at strong concentrations and chloride cleaners.
- Avoid leaving wet towels or salty foods on the table overnight.
Enclosed Bases and Overshelves
Enclosed base tables like the Prepline PC-30″ enclosed base work table need the inside of the cabinet wiped out weekly, since crumbs fall behind the doors. Overshelves like the adjustable double overshelf for work table, 18 x 48 collect grease from nearby cooking and should be wiped every day.
Tables with Sinks
A work table with built-in prep sink and faucet needs the sink bowl, drain and faucet cleaned along with the top. Clear the drain basket daily.
Model Sizes
Open base tables like the Prepline ST-3048 30″ x 48″ work table and the Prepline ST-3072 30″ x 72″ work table clean the same way. Longer tables simply take more passes.
Next Steps
If your table has deep rust or dents, it may be time for a new one. Browse work tables and tables and equipment stands for your prep area. Questions? Contact Express KitchQuip and we will help you pick the right size and configuration.
Models in this guide at a glance
The models linked above are listed here with the main points from each product page, so you can compare them side by side before opening the full listings.
Prepline PC-30″ Stainless Steel Enclosed Base Work Table (model PC-30)
- Brand: Prepline
- Prepline PC-30″ Enclosed Base Work Table
- Stainless steel construction
- Adjustable and removable shelf
- Warranty: 1-Year Parts & Labor
Adjustable Double Overshelf for Work Table 18 x 48 Top Mount (model DOS-1848)
- Brand: Express KitchQuip
Express KitchQuip Stainless Steel Work Table with Built-In Prep Sink & Faucet – NSF Certified (model EKQ-WTPS-7230-L)
Prepline ST-3048 30″ x 48″ Stainless Steel Work Table (model ST-3048)
- Brand: Prepline
- With Sink and Faucet
- Stainless Steel Build
- Adjustable Undershelf Design
- Warranty: 1-Year Parts & Labor
Prepline ST-3072 30″ x 72″ Stainless Steel Work Table (model ST-3072)
- Brand: Prepline
- With Sink and Faucet
- Stainless Steel Build
- Adjustable Undershelf Design
- Warranty: 1-Year Parts & Labor
Before you order
- Measure the space and every doorway on the delivery path, and compare them with the dimensions on each product page.
- Check the spec sheet for power, gas or water requirements and match them to what your building has.
- Compare capacity with your busiest day rather than your average day.
- Read the warranty terms for the brand before you order.
Delivery, warranty and payment
- Delivery: delivery within the continental US is included in the price on the product page, and freight orders include liftgate service.
- Warranty: each product carries its manufacturer warranty. Terms by brand are on our warranty page.
- Financing: lease-to-own financing through Clicklease is offered on items of $500 and up. See how financing works.
- Quotes: buying for a business and need a written quote? Call +1-877-558-2253 or use our contact page.
Not sure which model fits?
Call +1-877-558-2253 with your space, power supply and daily volume, and we will help you narrow it down.