When shopping for high-quality kitchen appliances or home furniture, you’ve probably come across the term 304 stainless steel. But what exactly is it, and why is it considered one of the best materials in the market?
Let’s break it down and explore why 304 stainless steel is the top choice for everything from cookware to range hoods.
What is 304 Stainless Steel?
304 stainless steel is one of the most widely used stainless steels in the world — known for its excellent corrosion resistance, formability, and durability. It belongs to the austenitic family of stainless steel, which is non-magnetic and highly versatile. Thanks to its unique properties, it’s used in everything from cookware and sinks to industrial components and high-performance kitchen appliances like range hoods.
Variants: 304, 304L, and 304H
There are three common grades within the 304 family:
304 – The standard grade with excellent corrosion resistance and strength. Ideal for deep drawing applications like sinks and pans.
304L – A low-carbon version of 304, offering better weldability, especially in thicker materials like sheets and pipes. Some materials are dual-certified as both 304 and 304L.
304H – A high-carbon variant suitable for high-temperature applications where greater strength is required.
Chemical Composition of 304 Stainless Steel
304 stainless steel contains approximately:
- 18% Chromium
- 8% Nickel
This composition provides a strong defense against oxidation, moisture, and many acids, which is why it's used in food preparation and medical environments.
Physical Properties of 304 Stainless Steel
- Density: 8.00 g/cm³
- Melting Point: ~1450°C
- Elastic Modulus: 193 GPa
- Thermal Conductivity: 16.2 W/m·K
- Thermal Expansion: 17.2 × 10⁻⁶ /K
- Electrical Resistivity: 0.72 × 10⁻⁶ Ω·m
These properties ensure 304 steel performs well under heat and mechanical stress, without deforming or losing strength.
International Standards for 304 Stainless Steel
304 stainless steel is recognized under many global standards:
| Region | Designation |
|---|---|
| EN (Europe) | 1.4301 / 1.4306 / 1.4307 / 1.4311 / 1.4948 |
| USA (UNS) | S30400 / S30403 / S30409 |
| UK (BS) | 304S15 / 304S16 / 304S31 / 304S11 / 304S51 |
| General Grade | 304 / 304L / 304H |
Is 304 Stainless Steel Good Quality?
Yes — 304 stainless steel is considered one of the highest-quality and most versatile stainless steels available today. It offers an excellent balance of corrosion resistance, heat tolerance, strength, and workability, making it the go-to choice for kitchens, food processing, medical tools, and household appliances.
Corrosion Resistance
304 stainless steel provides outstanding corrosion resistance in a wide range of environments, including exposure to moisture, mild chemicals, and various food acids. It resists:
Rust in humid or greasy kitchens
Oxidation up to 870°C (intermittent use) or 925°C (continuous use)
Most acids and cleaning agents used in home or industrial settings
In environments above 500°C to 800°C, 304H (a high-carbon variant) is recommended to maintain strength while still resisting corrosion.
How Does 304 Compare to Other Stainless Steel Grades?
304 vs 201 Stainless Steel
- 201 is cheaper but contains less nickel, which makes it less resistant to corrosion.
- 304 offers far better long-term durability, especially in humid or coastal areas.
Verdict: 304 is far superior for kitchen or food-use applications.
304 vs 316 Stainless Steel
- 316 includes molybdenum, giving it even better resistance to chloride environments (like saltwater).
- However, 316 is more expensive and usually overkill for household use.
Verdict: 316 is better for marine/chemical exposure; 304 is ideal for general use.
304 vs 303 Stainless Steel
- 303 is designed for better machinability, but it sacrifices corrosion resistance.
- 304 resists oxidation and corrosion much better, making it a better fit for kitchen appliances and cookware.
Verdict: 303 for machining, 304 for durability and hygiene.
304 vs 409 Stainless Steel
- 409 is a ferritic stainless steel, commonly used in automotive exhausts — lower in chromium and less corrosion-resistant.
- It’s cheaper but prone to rust in high-moisture or high-heat environments.
Verdict: 304 is clearly better for kitchens and indoor appliances.
Stainless Steel Comparison Table
| Stainless Steel Grade | Corrosion Resistance | Heat Resistance | Strength & Durability | Magnetic | Common Uses | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 304 | Excellent | Up to 925°C | High | No | Kitchens, cookware, sinks, range hoods | $$ (Moderate) |
| 201 | Fair | Moderate | Moderate | Slightly | Budget cookware, furniture, decorative trim | $ (Low) |
| 316 | Superior (with Mo) | High | High | No | Marine, labs, salt-exposed environments | $$$ (High) |
| 303 | Fair | Moderate | Moderate | Yes | Machined parts, bolts, fasteners | $$ (Moderate) |
| 409 | Poor | Moderate | Moderate | Yes | Automotive exhaust systems | $ (Low) |
Does 304 Stainless Steel Rust?
Yes, 304 stainless steel is highly resistant to rust, but it is not completely rust-proof.
Why 304 Stainless Steel Is Rust-Resistant:
Chromium Content (≥18%): Forms a thin, invisible layer of chromium oxide on the surface, protecting it from oxidation (rust).
Nickel Content (8–10.5%): Enhances corrosion resistance and durability.
Is 304 Stainless Steel non-toxic?
Yes — 304 stainless steel is non-toxic and completely safe for food contact.
It is one of the most commonly used food-grade stainless steels, widely approved for use in kitchenware, medical equipment, and food processing environments. It does not leach harmful chemicals and is resistant to corrosion, rust, and bacterial buildup — all essential for maintaining hygiene and safety.
Thanks to its non-toxic and hygienic nature, 304 stainless steel is widely used in:
- Kitchen appliances: Range hoods, ovens, and refrigerators
- Cookware: Pots, pans, mixing bowls, and trays
- Cutlery: Forks, knives, spoons
- Food preparation surfaces: Commercial countertops, food processors
- Sinks and faucets
- Medical equipment: Surgical tools, hospital trays
- Water bottles and drinkware
- Industrial and lab environments
CIARRA 304 Stainless Steel Range Hood
Looking for a professional-grade range hood that combines durability, power, and smart features? The CIARRA Pro Series is built with premium 304 stainless steel, delivering commercial-level performance in a sleek, modern design — perfect for American home kitchens, small restaurants, or even food trucks.
 |
 |
 |
Durable 304 Stainless Steel Construction
All CIARRA Pro range hoods are made of 304 stainless steel — a high-quality, food-safe material known for its:
- Excellent corrosion and rust resistance
- Long-lasting durability under heat, grease, and moisture
- Smooth, easy-to-clean surface
- Sleek professional finish that fits any kitchen style
Unlike lower-grade stainless steels, 304 won't rust or discolor over time, even in busy cooking environments.
950 CFM Suction Power – Built for Heavy-Duty Cooking
Whether you're searing, frying, boiling, or grilling, CIARRA’s 950 CFM motor ensures powerful smoke and odor extraction. It’s ideal for:
- Large open kitchens
- Gas stovetops with high BTU output
- Compact commercial spaces or food trucks
Even at high speed, the Pro hood keeps noise around 60–65 dB, quiet enough for conversations to continue uninterrupted.
Advanced Safety & Smart Features
What truly sets the CIARRA Pro range hood apart is its built-in intelligence and safety tech:
- Gas Leak Detection Alarm – Alerts you immediately if gas is detected, adding a critical layer of safety for gas cooktops or food trucks.
- Filter Cleaning Reminder – Keeps your hood performing at its best by letting you know when it’s time for maintenance.
- Voice & WiFi Control – Connect with Alexa, Google Home, or the Smart Life App for hands-free operation and remote control.
Multiple Sizes & Installation Types
Available in 30-inch and 36-inch sizes, CIARRA Pro range hoods come in two configurations:
Wall-mounted – Great for open kitchens or feature walls
Under-cabinet mounted – Space-saving solution for standard layouts
No matter your setup, there's a Pro model that fits your kitchen — and your needs.
Perfect for:
- Family homes with gas or high-powered cooktops
- Small food businesses and mobile kitchens
- Homeowners seeking a stylish yet functional upgrade
- Anyone looking for premium materials with smart features
Why Choose CIARRA Pro Range Hood?
With its 304 stainless steel durability, powerful suction, and smart safety features, CIARRA’s Pro Series is more than just a range hood — it’s a serious upgrade for any kitchen where performance and peace of mind matter.
Safe. Strong. Smart. That’s the CIARRA difference.
You may also be interested in:
5 Ways to Clean Stainless Steel Range Hood
2025 Best Range Hood with Gas Leakage Detectors for Gas Stove