Is 304 or 316 Stainless Steel Better?

When is 304 Stainless Steel the Better Choice?

Use 304 when the environment is clean, dry, or mildly wet.

304 stainless steel works well in most indoor settings. It’s cost effective, easy to clean, and can handle light to moderate cleaning chemicals.

It’s the right choice for:

• Dry food areas, such as bakeries or packaging rooms
• Laboratories without chemical exposure
• General storage units, tables, or trolleys
• Areas with standard cleaning processes

When is 316 Stainless Steel the Better Choice?

Use 316 in areas with moisture, salt, or harsh cleaning.

316 stainless steel holds up better where conditions are more aggressive. This includes exposure to chemicals, disinfectants, high humidity, or saltwater.

It’s the better option for:

• Seafood, meat, and dairy processing
• Hospitals, labs, and cleanrooms
• Pharmaceutical equipment
• Medical equipment
• Chemical processing plants
• Marine or coastal factories

Is 316 Stainless Steel Worth the Extra Cost?

316 stainless steel will cost more – sometimes up to 40% more, depending on the market. That can add up fast across large projects.

But remember: a rusted or failing unit costs more to fix or replace. Spending a bit more now might save a lot later.

In low risk areas, 304 stainless steel is often more than suitable enough. You don’t need to overspend if your conditions don’t require the extra protection.

Which One is Easier to Clean?

Both are easy to clean, but 316 stainless steel holds up better to strong cleaners.

Both 304 and 316 have a smooth surface that makes them easy to wipe down and sanitise. Neither will hold on to germs or dirt easily.

But if your cleaning process involves strong acids, bleach, or harsh scrubbers, 316 might hold up better in the long run. It’s less likely to stain, pit, or break down.

Can You Mix 304 and 316 in the Same Setting?

Yes, but stick to one grade per unit or area when possible.

Mixing them won’t cause major problems at first, but over time, it could lead to galvanic corrosion – especially in damp or wet areas.

We recommend choosing one grade for each piece of equipment or zone. That way, everything wears evenly and there’s no hidden risk.

Real World Examples

Food Factories: 304 or 316?

In a dry bakery with little steam, 304 stainless is often used for tables, catering sinks, trolleys, cupboards and utensils. It’s easy to clean and holds up well.

But in a seafood plant or cheese room, 316 is safer. Salt and brine will eat away at 304 over time, causing pitting and rust spots.

Pharmaceutical Lab: What’s Best?

Most pharma spaces need 316 because of the harsh cleaners used. Hydrogen peroxide, bleach and other sanitisers break down 304 faster. 316 is built to handle them.

Outdoor Use?

We suggest always going with 316 for outdoor environments. Rain, pollution, and sea air can attack 304. Over time, you may see rust rings or stains. 316 stays cleaner and lasts longer outside.