When you compare 18/8 vs 18/10 stainless steel, your choice depends on your priorities. If you want premium shine, high corrosion resistance, or luxury appeal, 18/10 stainless delivers. For cost-effective, general-purpose tasks, 18/8 stainless works well. The biggest difference between these grades is nickel content. Higher nickel in 18/10 stainless improves corrosion resistance, shine, and machinability. You should look at your project’s environment, budget, and finish. Stainless steel appears in many places. Kitchen sinks, cookware, medical devices, and machine parts often use 18/8 stainless. Luxury cookware, cutlery, and decorative fixtures feature 18/10 stainless. Your needs shape your best choice.
Key Takeaways
- 18/10 stainless steel offers superior corrosion resistance and a brighter finish due to its higher nickel content, making it ideal for luxury cookware and high-end applications.
- 18/8 stainless steel is a cost-effective choice for general-purpose tasks, providing good durability and rust resistance for everyday items like sinks and cookware.
- When choosing between the two, consider your project’s environment; 18/10 is better for humid or salty conditions, while 18/8 suits less demanding settings.
- Both grades are durable, but 18/10 stainless steel lasts longer and maintains its shine, making it a smart investment for long-term use.
- Evaluate your budget and needs; 18/8 is more affordable upfront, but 18/10 may save you money over time due to its longevity and lower maintenance.
What is 18/8 Stainless Steel?
When you look at stainless steel for your project, you will often see the term 18/8 stainless steel. This grade gets its name from its chemical makeup: it contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel. These two elements give the steel its strength, shine, and resistance to rust. You will find 18/8 stainless steel used in many everyday products, from kitchen sinks to machine parts.
Tip: Chromium helps prevent rust, while nickel adds shine and toughness.
You might wonder how 18/8 stainless steel compares to other grades. The table below shows the chromium and nickel content in several common stainless steel types:
| Stainless Steel Grade | Chromium Content (%) | Nickel Content (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 18/8 (18-8) | 18 | 8 |
| 304 | 18-20 | 8-12 |
| 303 | 17-18 | 8-10 |
| 18-10 | 18 | 10 |
| 316 | 16-18 | 10-14 |
You can see that 18/8 stainless steel is very close to grade 304, which is one of the most popular stainless steels worldwide. Both offer good corrosion resistance and durability, making them reliable choices for many uses.
If you care about strength, 18/8 stainless steel will not let you down. It has a high tensile strength, which means it can handle a lot of force before breaking. The chart below shows how 18/8 stainless steel performs under different conditions:
You will notice that 18/8 stainless steel keeps its strength whether it is hot-finished or cold-finished. This makes it a smart choice for both household and industrial projects.
If you want a material that resists rust, looks good, and stays strong, 18/8 stainless steel is a dependable option. You can use it for cookware, appliances, or even CNC machining parts. Its balance of cost, durability, and appearance makes it a favorite for many builders and designers.
What is 18/10 Stainless Steel?
You may see 18/10 stainless steel listed on premium cookware, cutlery, and decorative fixtures. This grade stands out because it contains 18% chromium and 10% nickel. The extra nickel gives you better corrosion resistance and a brighter, more polished finish. When you choose 18/10 stainless steel, you get a material that resists rust and keeps its shine for years.
Note: The higher nickel content in 18/10 stainless steel helps prevent pitting and staining, especially in humid or salty environments.
You will notice that 18/10 stainless steel feels heavier and sturdier than other grades. Manufacturers often use it for luxury kitchenware because it holds up well to daily use and frequent washing. You can rely on 18/10 stainless steel for items that need to look good and last a long time.
Here is a quick breakdown of what makes 18/10 stainless steel unique:
- Contains 18% chromium for rust resistance
- Has 10% nickel for extra shine and durability
- Offers a smooth, mirror-like finish
- Maintains its appearance even after repeated cleaning
You can find 18/10 stainless steel in many household products. Popular examples include high-end pots, pans, serving utensils, and flatware. Some medical tools and architectural features also use 18/10 stainless steel because it resists corrosion and keeps a clean look.
The table below shows how 18/10 stainless steel compares to other common grades:
| Grade | Chromium (%) | Nickel (%) | Typical Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18/8 | 18 | 8 | Sinks, machine parts |
| 18/10 | 18 | 10 | Cookware, cutlery, fixtures |
| 316 | 16-18 | 10-14 | Marine, medical equipment |
If you want a material that combines beauty and strength, 18/10 stainless steel is a smart choice. You will appreciate its lasting shine and resistance to everyday wear.
18/8 vs 18/10 Stainless Steel
Overview
When you compare 18/8 vs 18/10 stainless steel, you see two popular choices for many projects. Both grades contain 18% chromium, which gives strong resistance to rust and stains. The main difference comes from the nickel content. 18/8 stainless steel has 8% nickel, while 18/10 stainless steel has 10% nickel. This small change affects how each grade performs in daily use.
You will notice that both types offer good resistance to corrosion. They work well in kitchens, workshops, and even medical settings. Many people choose 18/8 stainless steel for general-purpose tasks because it balances cost and durability. If you want a material that looks shiny and stays bright, you might prefer 18/10 stainless steel. The extra nickel helps it resist corrosion better and keeps its polished look longer.
Here is a quick side-by-side comparison:
| Steel Grade | Chromium (Cr) | Nickel (Ni) | Resistance to Corrosion | Appearance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18/8 Stainless Steel | 18% | 8% | Good | Shiny, may dull |
| 18/10 Stainless Steel | 18% | 10% | Excellent | Mirror-like, lasting |
Tip: If you want the best resistance to corrosion and a lasting shine, 18/10 stainless steel is the top choice.
Key Differences
You need to look at several factors when deciding between 18/8 vs 18/10 stainless steel. The most important difference is the nickel content. The extra nickel in 18/10 stainless steel gives it better resistance to corrosion. This means it stands up to acids, stains, and rust much better than 18/8 stainless steel. You will find that 18/10 stainless steel keeps its shine and smooth finish even after years of use.
18/8 stainless steel works well for everyday items. It resists corrosion and stays strong, but it may lose its shine over time. You might see some dullness or small stains if you use it in harsh environments. 18/10 stainless steel, on the other hand, keeps its polished look and resists pitting and staining. You will see it used in high-end cookware, cutlery, and decorative fixtures.
Here are the main differences you should consider:
- Nickel Content: 18/10 stainless steel contains more nickel, which improves resistance to corrosion and hardness.
- Corrosion Resistance: 18/10 stainless steel offers superior resistance to rust, acids, and stains. 18/8 stainless steel provides good resistance but may not perform as well in tough conditions.
- Appearance: 18/10 stainless steel has a more polished and shiny look. 18/8 stainless steel can lose its luster with time and use.
- Performance: 18/10 stainless steel suits professional and luxury applications. 18/8 stainless steel fits general-purpose and budget-friendly projects.
Note: If you work in a humid or salty environment, 18/10 stainless steel gives you better protection against corrosion.
When you choose between 18/8 vs 18/10 stainless steel, think about your project’s needs. If you want long-lasting resistance and a premium finish, 18/10 stainless steel is the best option. If you need a cost-effective solution for everyday use, 18/8 stainless steel will serve you well.
Composition
Understanding the composition of stainless steel helps you choose the right material for your project. The composition tells you what elements make up the steel and how those elements affect its properties. Both 18/8 and 18/10 stainless steel belong to the austenitic family, but their chemical composition sets them apart.
18/8 Stainless Steel
You will find that 18/8 stainless steel contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel. This specific composition gives the steel its well-known balance of strength, corrosion resistance, and affordability. Chromium forms a thin layer on the surface, which protects the steel from rust. Nickel adds toughness and helps the steel keep its shine.
Here is a quick look at the chemical composition:
| Stainless Steel Type | Chromium Content (%) | Nickel Content (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 18/8 | 18 | 8 |
You can rely on this composition for many household and industrial uses. The 18/8 grade works well in environments where you need good resistance to rust but do not require the highest level of protection. You often see this composition in kitchen sinks, machine parts, and some cookware.
18/10 Stainless Steel
18/10 stainless steel stands out because of its higher nickel content. The composition includes 18% chromium and 10% nickel. This small increase in nickel makes a big difference in performance. You get better corrosion resistance and a brighter, more polished finish.
Here is the chemical composition for 18/10 stainless steel:
| Stainless Steel Type | Chromium Content (%) | Nickel Content (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 18/10 | 18 | 10 |
You will notice that this composition gives you a material that resists pitting and staining, even in harsh environments. Many people choose 18/10 stainless steel for luxury cookware, cutlery, and decorative fixtures. The higher nickel content ensures that the steel keeps its shine and strength over time.
Tip: If you want the best combination of beauty and durability, look for products made with 18/10 stainless steel composition.
Physical Properties
Durability
When you choose stainless steel for your project, you want to know how well it will last. Both 18/8 and 18/10 stainless steel offer strong durability. You can use them in kitchens, workshops, or even outdoors. The chromium and nickel in these steels help them resist rust and stains. This means you get materials that keep their strength and appearance over time.
If you need long-term durability, 18/10 stainless steel stands out. The higher nickel content gives it extra protection against corrosion. You will notice that 18/10 stainless steel keeps its shine and resists pitting, even after years of use. 18/8 stainless steel also provides good durability, but it may show wear faster in harsh environments.
Tip: For projects in humid or salty areas, pick 18/10 stainless steel for better durability and hardness.
You can trust both grades for daily use. However, if you want the best performance for many years, 18/10 stainless steel is the better choice.
Strength and Hardness
Strength and hardness are important properties when you select stainless steel. These qualities help your project handle pressure, impact, and regular wear. Both 18/8 and 18/10 stainless steel have high strength, so you can use them for cookware, tools, or machine parts.
Here is a quick comparison:
| Grade | Strength | Hardness | Best Use Cases |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18/8 | High | High | General-purpose, budget |
| 18/10 | Very High | Very High | Premium, long-lasting |
You will see that 18/10 stainless steel offers slightly better durability and hardness because of its extra nickel. This makes it a top pick for items that need to stay strong and look good for a long time. 18/8 stainless steel still gives you reliable durability and hardness, making it a solid choice for most projects.
Remember, both grades give you the properties needed for strength, but 18/10 stainless steel leads in long-term performance.
Corrosion Resistance
Everyday Use
You use stainless steel every day in your kitchen, bathroom, and workplace. You want materials that offer strong corrosion resistance. Both 18/8 and 18/10 stainless steel provide reliable resistance to corrosion in daily settings. You see this when you use sinks, cookware, and utensils. The chromium in both grades forms a protective layer. This layer blocks moisture and air, which helps prevent corrosion.
You notice that 18/10 stainless steel gives you a slight edge in corrosion resistance. The extra nickel boosts its ability to fight corrosion. You see fewer stains and less dullness over time. You clean your cookware and cutlery often. 18/10 stainless steel keeps its shine and smooth surface. You enjoy the look and feel of your kitchen tools. 18/8 stainless steel also resists corrosion well. You find it in many affordable products. You may see some minor spots or dullness after years of use, but it still performs well.
Tip: If you want the best corrosion resistance and hygiene for your kitchen, choose 18/10 stainless steel. You get lasting shine and easy cleaning.
Harsh Environments
You face tough conditions in some projects. You work in humid, salty, or industrial areas. You need stainless steel with top corrosion resistance. Laboratory and field studies show that 18/10 stainless steel outperforms 18/8 stainless steel in harsh environments. You see this in the table below:
| Stainless Steel Grade | Corrosion Resistance | Durability |
|---|---|---|
| 18/10 | Excellent | High |
| 18/8 | Very Good | Moderate |
You notice that 18/10 stainless steel resists corrosion and pitting even when exposed to chemicals or saltwater. You see consistent performance and fewer signs of damage. You check another study. Samples of 18/10 stainless steel show no corrosion and consistent pitting resistance. Other grades, including 18/8, show some corrosion and inconsistent resistance.
| Sample | Corrosion Observed | Pitting Resistance |
|---|---|---|
| 3 (18/10/316L) | None | Consistent |
| Others | Yes | Inconsistent |
You choose 18/10 stainless steel for marine, medical, or outdoor projects. You get excellent corrosion resistance and long-term durability. You use 18/8 stainless steel for less demanding environments. You save money, but you may see more corrosion over time.
You want your project to last. You select the grade that matches your environment and needs. You rely on corrosion resistance to protect your investment.
Appearance
Shine and Finish
You notice the difference in shine when you compare 18/8 and 18/10 stainless steel. 18/10 stainless steel gives you a brighter, mirror-like finish. The extra nickel in this grade boosts the surface appearance, making it look more polished and reflective. You see this shine last even after many washes or years of use. Many people choose 18/10 stainless steel for items that need to look elegant and new.
18/8 stainless steel also offers a good appearance, but the shine may fade over time. You might see a slight dullness or small spots after heavy use. The surface appearance still looks clean, but it does not have the same level of gloss as 18/10 stainless steel.
Here is a quick comparison:
| Grade | Shine Level | Surface Appearance |
|---|---|---|
| 18/8 | Good | May dull over time |
| 18/10 | Excellent | Stays bright and shiny |
Tip: If you want your kitchenware or fixtures to keep a high-gloss look, pick 18/10 stainless steel.
User Experience
You feel the difference in daily use. 18/10 stainless steel feels smoother and more comfortable to touch. You enjoy using utensils and cookware that keep their shine and do not show water spots easily. The appearance of your kitchen tools stays impressive, even after frequent cleaning.
With 18/8 stainless steel, you still get a reliable product. You may notice the appearance changes slightly with age. Some users see minor scratches or a less glossy finish. You can still trust the quality, but the surface appearance may not stay as flawless as 18/10 stainless steel.
Many chefs and homeowners prefer 18/10 stainless steel for its lasting beauty and easy maintenance. You get both style and function in one material.
Cost
Price Comparison
You want to know how much you will spend on stainless steel for your project. The price of each grade depends on the market and the form you buy. In general, 18/8 stainless steel has a lower material cost than 18/10 stainless steel. This makes 18/8 a popular choice for projects where you need to control cost.
Here is a table showing recent prices for 18/8 stainless steel scrap:
| Type | Price (USD/LB) | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 18/8 Stainless Steel Scrap | 0.34 | 16-Aug-2019 |
| 18/8 Stainless Steel Solid Scrap | 0.32 | 26-May-2025 |
You see that the material cost for 18/8 stainless steel stays affordable. If you buy in bulk or need a large amount, this lower cost can help you stay within your budget. 18/10 stainless steel usually costs more because of its higher nickel content. The extra nickel increases the material cost and the final price of products made from this grade.
If you want to save on upfront cost, 18/8 stainless steel gives you a clear advantage.
Value
You should also think about long-term value, not just the initial cost. 18/10 stainless steel offers better corrosion resistance and a longer lifespan. You spend more at first, but you save money over time because you replace items less often and pay less for maintenance.
Here is a quick comparison of value features:
- Superior corrosion resistance, especially with acidic foods.
- Enhanced appearance due to better polish.
- Extended lifespan of 15-20 years compared to 8-12 years for 18/8.
- Better resale value, maintaining value over time.
You notice that 18/10 stainless steel lasts almost twice as long as 18/8. You pay less for repairs and replacements. The lower maintenance cost adds up, making 18/10 a smart investment for projects where durability matters. If you want the best value over time, consider the total cost, not just the material cost at the start.
Choosing the right grade helps you balance upfront cost and long-term savings.
Machinability
CNC Performance
When you work with stainless steel, machinability becomes a key factor. You want to know how each grade handles cutting, shaping, and finishing on cnc machines. Both 18/8 and 18/10 stainless steel belong to the austenitic family, which means they offer good toughness but can be challenging during cnc machining. You often see these grades in projects that require precise shapes and smooth finishes.
You will notice that 18/8 stainless steel is the standard for many cnc machining jobs. It contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel, which gives it a balance of corrosion resistance and toughness. 18/10 stainless steel has a similar structure but with 10% nickel, which improves corrosion resistance but makes machining a bit more demanding. If you want easier machining, you might look at grade 303, a variant of 18/8, which includes sulfur to improve machinability.
- 18-8 stainless steel: 18% chromium, 8% nickel; good for general cnc machining.
- 18-10 stainless steel: 18% chromium, 10% nickel; better corrosion resistance, slightly tougher to machine.
- 303 grade: Modified 18-8 with sulfur; best for cnc machining performance due to easier cutting.
You should consider the type of cnc operation you plan. For simple tasks, high-speed steel tools work with 18/8 stainless steel. For production or complex shapes, carbide tools with special coatings give you better results. 18/10 stainless steel usually needs carbide tools for all cnc operations because of its higher nickel content.
Tip: If you want smoother cuts and less tool wear, choose the right tooling for your cnc machining project.
Tool Wear
Tool wear affects your cnc machining results and costs. You want tools that last longer and give you consistent performance. The type of stainless steel you choose changes how your tools wear out during cnc operations.
Here is a comparison of tool wear for 18/8 and 18/10 stainless steel:
| Stainless Steel Type | Recommended Tooling | Wear Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| 18/8 | HSS for simple, carbide with coatings for production | Less uniform wear patterns |
| 18/10 | Carbide for all operations with premium coatings | More uniform wear, 5-10% faster flank wear |
You will see that 18/8 stainless steel causes less uniform tool wear. This means some parts of your tool may wear faster than others, which can affect cnc machining accuracy. 18/10 stainless steel creates more uniform wear, but you may notice flank wear happens 5-10% faster. You need to check your tools more often and replace them when needed to keep your cnc machining performance high.
If you want the best cnc machining performance, monitor your tools and use the right coatings. Carbide tools with premium coatings help you handle both 18/8 and 18/10 stainless steel. You get better surface finishes and longer tool life, even with the tougher 18/10 grade.
Note: Always match your tooling to the stainless steel grade for the best cnc machining performance and lower tool costs.
Applications
Household Uses
You see stainless steel in many homes every day. Both 18/8 and 18/10 grades appear in a wide range of kitchenware and cookware. The 18/10 stainless steel segment holds the largest market share because of its superior durability and shine. You often choose this grade for high-quality cookware and luxury flatware. Its excellent corrosion resistance makes it ideal for items you use and wash frequently.
Here are some of the most common applications for these stainless steel grades in your home:
- Cutlery and utensils (18/10 preferred for its durability and shine)
- Pots, pans, and other cookware
- Sinks and kitchen fixtures
- Mixing bowls and food storage containers
- Luxury flatware sets
You may notice that 18/8 stainless steel appeals to cost-conscious consumers. This grade offers a balance of quality and affordability. You find it in many everyday kitchenware items, such as basic cookware and affordable utensils. Both grades provide good durability, but 18/10 stands out when you want your kitchenware to last longer and look new.
Tip: If you want kitchenware that resists stains and keeps its shine, choose 18/10 stainless steel for your most-used items.
Industrial Uses
You rely on stainless steel for many industrial applications. Both 18/8 and 18/10 grades serve important roles in commercial kitchen equipment, medical devices, and manufacturing. The table below shows where you find each grade and what components they help create:
| Stainless Steel Grade | Industry/Application | Equipment/Components |
|---|---|---|
| 18/8 | Industrial Kitchen Equipment | Food processing machines, prep tables, and sinks |
| Fasteners & Hardware | Bolts, screws, and washers for moderate-corrosion environments | |
| Piping & Tubing | Chemical and food-grade processing lines | |
| 18/10 | Pharmaceutical & Medical Equipment | Surgical tools, sterilization trays, and cleanroom equipment |
| High-Performance Fasteners | Marine-grade bolts, screws, and washers | |
| Chemical & Petrochemical Processing | Corrosion-resistant tanks, piping, and valves |
You see 18/8 stainless steel in commercial kitchen equipment because it balances cost and durability. This grade works well for food processing machines and prep tables. You also find it in piping and tubing for food-grade and chemical processing.
The 18/10 grade appears in medical and pharmaceutical settings. You trust it for surgical tools and sterilization trays because of its superior corrosion resistance and durability. You also see it in marine and chemical industries, where equipment faces harsh conditions.
You notice that both grades play a key role in common applications across many industries. Your choice depends on the level of durability and corrosion resistance you need for your project.
18/8 vs. 18/10 Stainless Steel: How to Make the Best Choice?
Project Needs
You want your project to succeed, so you need to match the stainless steel grade to your specific requirements. Start by thinking about how you will use the material. If you need cookware, kitchenware, or machine parts, both 18/8 and 18/10 stainless steel can work well. For high-end tableware, premium food processing equipment, or items that must look bright and polished, 18/10 stainless steel stands out.
Industry experts recommend that you consider these criteria when making your choice:
- Purpose and Application: Decide if you need general kitchenware, medical tools, or luxury items. 18/8 stainless steel fits most everyday uses. 18/10 stainless steel suits premium products.
- Corrosion Resistance: Think about the environment. If your project faces high humidity, frequent water contact, or chemicals, 18/10 stainless steel offers better protection.
- Durability and Hardness: If your project will see heavy use or needs scratch resistance, 18/10 stainless steel gives you a slight advantage.
- Aesthetic Preferences: If you want a brighter shine and lasting appearance, choose 18/10 stainless steel. The higher nickel content keeps the surface looking new.
Tip: For projects exposed to moisture or chemicals, pick a grade with strong anti-corrosive properties. Corrosion can damage your product and increase maintenance costs.
You can use the table below to compare key factors for each grade:
| Factor | 18/10 Stainless Steel | 18/8 Stainless Steel |
|---|---|---|
| Corrosion Resistance | Best for high corrosion resistance, ideal for premium use | Good balance, suitable for general applications |
| Applications | High-end flatware, cookware, frequent water contact | Kitchenware, sinks, medical tools, general food processing |
| Appearance | Mirror-like, lasting shine | Shiny, may dull over time |
If your project needs a flawless appearance and long-term durability, 18/10 stainless steel is your best choice. For general-purpose tasks, 18/8 stainless steel provides reliable performance.
Budget and Environment
Your budget and the environment where you use stainless steel play a big role in your decision. You need to balance initial cost with long-term value. 18/8 stainless steel is more budget-friendly, so it works well for projects with tight cost limits. 18/10 stainless steel costs more because of its higher nickel content, but it lasts longer and resists corrosion better.
Check the table below to see how cost and environment affect your choice:
| Factor | 18/8 Stainless Steel | 18/10 Stainless Steel | 18/0 Stainless Steel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raw Material Cost | Moderate | Highest | Lowest |
| Usable Life | Long service life | Longest | Shorter lifespan |
| Replacement Frequency | Moderate | Low | High |
| Environmental Use | Dry to mildly corrosive | Acidic, salty, humid | Dry indoor environments |
If you work in dry or mildly corrosive environments, 18/8 stainless steel gives you a good balance between cost and performance. For projects in acidic, salty, or high-humidity areas, 18/10 stainless steel offers the longest usable life and lowest replacement frequency.
Environmental conditions can speed up corrosion. High humidity, condensation, and exposure to chlorides or sulfates increase the risk. Sheltered surfaces and rough textures can trap moisture and contaminants, making corrosion worse. Smooth surfaces and post-fabrication treatments like pickling and passivation help resist corrosion.
- High humidity and condensation increase corrosion risk.
- Chlorides from salt and sulfates from pollution accelerate corrosion.
- Sheltered surfaces may suffer more corrosion.
- Rough surfaces trap contaminants and moisture.
Note: If you want to reduce replacement costs and keep your product looking good, choose the grade that matches your environment and budget.
You should weigh the initial cost against the expected lifespan and maintenance needs. If you want the best appearance and durability in harsh environments, invest in 18/10 stainless steel. For cost-effective solutions in less demanding settings, 18/8 stainless steel is a smart choice.
You should choose 18/10 stainless steel for premium projects, harsh environments, or when you want a high-shine finish. For general use and lower budgets, 18/8 stainless steel works well. Consider your environment, budget, and the look you want.
| Stainless Steel Type | Nickel Content | Durability | Aesthetic Qualities |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18/8 | 8% | Good | Moderate shine |
| 18/10 | 10% | Excellent | High shine |
Manufacturers label flatware with numbers like ’18/10′ or ’18/8.’ Higher nickel means more luster and better durability, which can influence your decision.
Check product reviews and supplier reputation before you buy. Weigh long-term savings against upfront costs, especially for large projects. 18/10 may cost more at first, but it often saves you money over time.
FAQ
What does the “18/8” or “18/10” label mean on stainless steel?
You see these numbers on flatware and cookware. The first number shows the percentage of chromium. The second number shows the percentage of nickel. More nickel means better shine and corrosion resistance.
Can you use 18/8 stainless steel for food contact?
Yes, you can use 18/8 stainless steel for food contact. It resists rust and does not react with most foods. You find it in many kitchen sinks, utensils, and cookware.
Does 18/10 stainless steel rust?
18/10 stainless steel resists rust very well. The high nickel content protects against corrosion. You still need to clean and dry it after use to keep it looking new.
Is 18/10 stainless steel dishwasher safe?
You can safely wash 18/10 stainless steel in the dishwasher. It keeps its shine and does not stain easily. For best results, dry items after washing to prevent water spots.
Which is better for outdoor use: 18/8 or 18/10?
You get better performance outdoors with 18/10 stainless steel. The extra nickel gives you stronger protection against rain, humidity, and salt. Choose 18/10 for outdoor kitchens or marine projects.
