Alright, you took the opportunity to do a bit of research and shopped throughout, now finally you have obtained the eloquently outlined stainless steel flatware set you have been dying to have. Excitement overwhelms you but also mixed feelings of fear and concern.

This concern is for scrapes, dullness, or rust. I am sure it's stainless steel flatware however dullness, scratches, and blemishes will happen if the flatware is cared for – it is inevitable. To know about flatware you can read this article.

Before even tackling the topic of washing your favorite stainless steel flatware – the operator has to know about what form he or she has.

Hopefully, you've done enough research to purchase the best grade for the money or at least know the lesser tier just will not last my friend – let me clarify.

The grades are rated as follows: 18/0, 18/10, 18/15.

Now, these ratios represent is the mix and make-up of this stainless steel flatware. The 18 describes the Chromium that applies the hardness and durability of the item and the additional numbers: 0, 5, and 15, consult with the nickel mixture that provides the glow and luster to your stainless steel.

If you've purchased an 18/0 stainless steel flatware set, I've got some bad news for you. Do not anticipate reserving the shiny appearance and newness of your purchase no more than about a month or so.

If it is more – good for you! Nonetheless, it will not be too long before you begin seeing some signs of deterioration. The 0 means there's no additional nickel to this item. Without the extra mixture of nickel to supply its luster and glow covering, the steel gets less protected from stains and flaws.