When selected and used correctly, stainless steels deliver a long service life, combining visual appeal, hygiene, low maintenance and structural integrity across a wide range of applications and environments. However, inappropriate grade selection, poor fabrication or jointing, unsuitable surface finish, and insufficient cleaning can lead to staining or discolouration over time. This is commonly known as tea staining.

Tea staining primarily affects appearance and can undermine confidence in stainless steel as a family of corrosion-resistant materials. It has been reported in domestic environments, coastal applications, industrial settings and urban locations.

In this steelTalk, Tim Collins, Secretary General of worldstainless, will explain how and why tea staining occurs and outline practical steps that material specifiers, fabricators and end users can take to prevent it and maintain the desired appearance of stainless steel in service.