Every commercial restaurant has one thing in common: stainless steel. And it doesn't just comprise the counters and sinks. You will also find it in everything from cookware to refrigerators and ovens.

Yet this remarkable surface is no restricted to professional restaurants. More and more average homes are purchasing stainless steel appliances and refrigerators.

Why is this? What is so desirable about stainless steel? Is it just about the futuristic look of the material, or are there other advantages to entice the consumer into purchasing something made from this shiny substance? The answer is, there are some very definite advantages to stainless steel over its metal or plastic predecessors.

Appearance

It can't be denied that one alluring quality is that it is visually pleasing. The clean, shiny surface suggests something modern and high-tech. It's very far removed from the avocado refrigerators of the 60s. And the reflective nature of stainless steel can help to brighten up a kitchen where natural light is limited.

Cleaning is a Breeze

The next biggest selling point of stainless steel is that it is easy to clean. Why is this? Because the surface of it is not porous the way other materials are. This means that food will not sink into it and it can easily be cleaned just by wiping it with a damp cloth or with all-purpose glass cleaner.

Long-Lasting

Since no food particles can sink into the surface, it also means that stainless steel will not stain, unlike plastic and other materials. This makes it an excellent choice for counter tops. It will also last for years because it will not chip off.

Heat Resistant

In an old kitchen, any pot or pan taken from the oven had to be put down on a hot pad or trivet. Not so with a stainless steel surface. The finish will not be harmed by a hot pan so you can transfer a pot right from the oven to the counter.

Keep in mind, though, that there is a downside to a stainless steel surface. A magnet will not stick to it. Since most people have lots of fridge magnets, this can be a negative selling point. But even this rule has exceptions. In general, the stainless used in appliances is the type with little nickel, making it non-magnetic, but the stainless used in cutlery is a different type and usually is magnetic. It is possible to find an appliance made from the magnetic stainless, but it tends to be less corrosion-resistant.

So if you're looking to replace your refrigerator or are getting new counters, consider getting stainless steel. You'll be happy with its durability and how easy it is to clean.

Jodi Mortner is no stranger to stainless steel in the kitchen. Her site http://www.stainless-steelrefrigerator.com is all about the most popular of these appliances, the stainless steel refrigerator.