Stainless steel is a type of metal that resists rust and corrosion far better than regular steel. While ordinary steel will eventually turn orange and flaky when exposed to water and air, stainless steel stays smooth and shiny even after years of use. This happens because stainless steel contains chromium, a special element that creates an invisible protective layer on the metal's surface.

You encounter stainless steel constantly: kitchen sinks, refrigerators, silverware, pots and pans, and countless other household items are made from it. Surgeons use stainless steel instruments because they can be sterilized without rusting. Buildings use it for railings and architectural features that need to withstand rain and weather with little maintenance.

While stainless steel can still get dirty or scratched, it won't develop the rusty stains that ruin regular steel. Invented in the early 1900s, stainless steel revolutionized manufacturing because products could last decades instead of years. When you see gleaming kitchen appliances or sturdy outdoor fixtures that look almost new despite heavy use, you're probably looking at stainless steel doing exactly what it was designed to do.