While bollards with plastic covers generally do not require much maintenance, stainless steel bollards need a little more work. These sleek bollards last considerably longer with the right care, which avoids premature replacements. Review top tips for keeping stainless steel bollards in excellent condition for years.

1. Wash or Wipe Them Down Every Four to Six Weeks

Keep stainless steel bollards shiny and bright by wiping them down or washing them every month or so. This prevents road dust, dirt, pollen, and other contaminants from building up on the bollards. Some contaminants, such as bird excrement and insect remains, are acidic and can cause corrosion if they are not removed quickly enough. Use warm, soapy water and a soft cloth for best results. If your bollards are located in a high-traffic area, you might want to wipe them down every three to four weeks to prevent dust and dirt buildup. The same is true of bollards in an area with a lot of trees, since trees attract birds and insects.

2. Check for “Tea Stains” Periodically

Inspect stainless steel bollards for “tea stains,” or stains that appear when contaminants have built up for too long. If you notice this type of discoloration on your bollards, you’ll need to clean them with more force. While removing tea stains takes more time, it is worth doing to maintain your investments. You can use a vinegar and water solution to remove the stains, or a baking soda paste. Baking soda is mildly abrasive to make cleaning easier.

3. Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals and Materials When Cleaning

Refrain from using chemical agents and abrasive scrubbers to keep your bollards looking good. Harsh chemical cleaners and abrasive materials like Scotch Guard can damage stainless steel bollards. For example, if you clean stainless steel bollards with Scotch Guard, the material will leave “buffed” marks. These marks will not come out unless the stainless steel is re-polished.

Some Maintenance Tips for Plastic Bollard Covers

Plastic bollard covers do not need extensive maintenance; however, it’s still a good idea to wipe them down every so often with warm, soapy water. Doing so prevents dirt, road dust, and other contaminants from building up and causing discoloration. If you notice bird excrement and insect remains on your plastic bollard covers, clean them immediately to prevent acid-related damage. Browse our stainless steel bollards and plastic bollard covers at 1800Bollards today.