Except if you use distilled water, mineral buildup in your steam table is almost inevitable. It occurs due to the presence of minerals in the water used to generate steam. Over time, these minerals accumulate as water evaporates, reducing the heating efficiency of the steam table, damaging the equipment, and causing food safety risks and hygiene issues.
Fortunately, mineral buildup in a steam table is quite easy to deal with: several cleaning agents, including commercial descalers and natural agents like white vinegar, will completely remove any mineral buildup and keep your food safe and healthy.
Best Cleaning Agents to Remove Mineral Buildup in Your Steam Table
Most regular cleaning agents cannot remove mineral buildup from a steam table. To remove mineral buildup in a steam table, especially in areas with hard water, you’ll need a cleaning agent that is specially made to effectively dissolve limescale and calcium deposits. Here are some of the best options:
1. White Vinegar (Natural Option)
White vinegar is the best cleaning agent to remove mineral buildup in a steam table because vinegar has acetic acid, which is very effective at breaking down mineral deposits. Also, acetic acid is relatively safe, and does not compromise your food safety.
How to Use White Vinegar to Remove Mineral Deposits from Steam Table
Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water.
Apply the solution to the affected areas.
Let it sit for 15–30 minutes.
Then scrub with a soft brush or sponge.
Rinse thoroughly with water to remove the vinegar smell.
2. Commercial Descalers
Commercial descalers are also effective at removing mineral deposits from steam tables. Some people actually prefer commercial descalers because they are specially designed to dissolve lime, scale, milkstone, and other kinds of mineral deposits without damaging the steam table.
Here are some popular commercial brands to consider:
- Lime-A-Way
- CLR (Calcium, Lime, Rust Remover)
- Ecolab Descaler
How to Use Commercial Descaler
The procedure for using a commercial descaler to remove mineral deposit from steam table differs depending on the brand you are using. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Usually, it involves applying the product, letting it sit, scrubbing gently, and rinsing thoroughly.
3. Citric Acid
Citric acid is a natural, food-safe cleaner that dissolves calcium and limescale, and so, it is perfect not only for removing mineral deposits from your steam table, but also preserving food safety.
How to Use Citric Acid
- Mix 1–2 tablespoons of citric acid powder in a quart of warm water.
- Apply the solution to your steam table, focusing on the hard parts.
- Let it sit for 15–20 minutes.
- Then scrub and rinse.
4. Baking Soda and Vinegar (For Stubborn Stains)
If the mineral deposits in your steam table are large, you might want to consider a baking soda and vinegar solution. Baking soda and vinegar work great for removing mineral deposits from a steam table: the chemical reaction between the two loosens tough mineral deposits.
How to Use Baking Soda and Vinegar
- Sprinkle baking soda over the buildup.
- Spray or pour vinegar over the soda, allowing it to fizz.
- Scrub after a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
5. Lemon Juice
Lemon juice can also be quite effective at removing mineral deposits from a steam table. The citric acid in lemon juice works similarly to vinegar and citric acid powder, but it has a more pleasant smell.
How to Use Lemon Juice
- Apply freshly squeezed lemon juice to the buildup.
- Let it sit for 10–20 minutes.
- Scrub gently, and rinse.
Tips for Best Results
Avoid abrasive cleaning tools and use soft cloths or brushes to prevent scratching stainless steel surfaces.
Cleaning your steam table after every use or on a weekly schedule prevents heavy buildup.
Rinse with plenty of water to ensure no cleaning agents remain.
For commercial descalers, test the product on a small area to ensure compatibility with your steam table's material.
By using these cleaning agents, you can effectively remove mineral deposits and keep your steam table in optimal working condition.
Tips to Prevent Mineral Buildup
You don’t always have to deal with mineral buildup. The best way to preserve your steam table is to take proactive measures to ensure that the mineral does not build up in the first place. Here are some tips
- Use Filtered or Distilled Water
Using water with fewer minerals can significantly reduce buildup.
- Clean Regularly
Clean the steam table daily to remove light deposits before they harden.
- Descale From Time to Time
Depending on usage, dissolve mineral deposits weekly or monthly with a descaling solution or vinegar.
- Monitor Water Level
Avoid letting the water evaporate completely, as this concentrates the remaining minerals, accelerating buildup.
- Always Inspect for Hard Water
If your area has hard water, consider installing a water softener system.
Addressing mineral buildup proactively ensures your steam table remains efficient, safe, and long-lasting.
Pro Tip: Get a Good Steam Table
If you own a restaurant or a commercial kitchen where you have to work with a commercial steam table, dealing with mineral buildup can be a nightmare. However, the good news is that it is a lot easier to prevent mineral buildup if your commercial steam table is made of stainless steel and has certain features. Check out these recommendations from Wilprep’s Kitchen.
2 Well Electric Steam Table with Storage Shelf
Wilprep's 1000W electric steam table features two 304 stainless steel heating tubes designed for dry use. These tubes provide fast and even heating to keep your dishes warm, fresh, and ready to serve. This steam table keeps your dishes hot and inviting while operating with minimal electricity usage.
Main Features
- It has independent knob controls for each well, allowing you to set temperatures from 0 to 200°F.
- Certified by ETL & ETL: highly resistant to corrosion and stains.
- The integrated 30"x8" cutting board allows you to prep ingredients at the table or effortlessly change out pans.
- It has an aluminum silicate fiber insulation layer, keeping your dishes hot and inviting.
Wilprep has bigger models, including a 3-well 1500W electric food warmer with three 304 stainless steel heating tubes designed for dry use. You can also go for the 4-well steam table, which has 2 wells and 2 burners that deliver a total of 7000 BTUs, keeping a variety of dishes fresh and ready to serve. Enjoy consistent warmth and delicious flavors with every meal.
