When it comes to outfitting a commercial facility—be it a hotel, hospital, or school—the choice of storage equipment often comes down to a balance between initial investment and long-term durability. Among facility managers and procurement specialists, one of the most debated topics is the material choice for janitorial storage: Grade 201 vs. Grade 304 Stainless Steel. While both look nearly identical to the naked eye, their performance in professional environments varies significantly. In this guide, we will break down the chemical differences, environmental suitability, and total cost of ownership to help you decide which material offers the best value for your specific project. 1. Understanding the Chemistry: 201 vs. 304 To understand why one cabinet costs more than another, we have to look at the metallurgy. Stainless steel is an alloy, and the “Grade” refers to the proportion of elements like Chromium and Nickel. Grade 304: The Industry Standard 304 stainless steel is the most versatile and widely used grade. It contains high levels of Chromium (18%) and Nickel (8%). Nickel is the expensive ingredient that provides superior corrosion resistance, especially against chlorides and acids. Grade 201: The Cost-Effective Alternative 201 stainless steel was developed as a lower-cost alternative to…