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Aluminum is a highly versatile material that is used to make many things, from cooking pans to bicycle wheels. Unfortunately, aluminum has the tendency to oxidize over time, meaning that the material accumulates a chalky, grey cast. Once you start to see this oxidation form, there are a number of ways to remove it. Begin by cleaning and scrubbing the aluminum to remove any debris from the surface. Then clean the aluminum with acidic cleaners and scrub to eliminate the oxidation.

[DJFC]

This article was co-authored by Kadi Dulude. Kadi Dulude is the owner of Wizard of Homes, a New York City based cleaning company. Kadi manages a team of over 70 registered cleaning professionals, and her cleaning advice has been featured in Architectural Digest and New York Magazine. more

[xxmalouinxx]

This article has been viewed 352,702 times.

[nikileshsa]

To clean oxidized aluminum, first wipe off any dirt or debris on it using a clean cloth. Then, wet the cloth with soapy water and gently clean the aluminum with it. Rinse off the soapy residue and let the aluminum dry. If there’s still oxidation, mix 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of white vinegar with 2 cups (480 mL) of warm water and wipe down the aluminum with the mixture. The acid in the vinegar will help break down the oxidation. For stubborn spots, cut a lemon in half and dip one of the halves in some salt. Then, rub the salted lemon against the oxidation. The acid from the lemon mixed with the salt’s abrasiveness should remove most stubborn stains. If the oxidation persists, you may need to use a commercial oxidation remover, which you can find at your local hardware store. For tips on how to clean large aluminum surfaces, read on! [links]

[michelles]

[nicklink483]

here

[thurmandrond9]

Every time you use the pan, make sure you clean it thoroughly using warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid using scourers, Brillo pads, or steel wool as this will scratch the aluminum. This could also scratch any Teflon surface your pan may have. Do not put your pans in the dishwasher as this can damage them leading them to oxidize quicker.

[awwright]

Certain foods will cause aluminum to oxidize more quickly than others. Baking foods that contain eggs such as omelets and quiches will cause the aluminum to oxidize. Fruits and vegetables with a high acidity level such as asparagus, rhubarb, gooseberries, tomatoes, and apples will also have this effect. Avoid cooking these foods if you want to prolong the life of your pan. more

[zzz]

Oxidation on aluminum pans will cause discoloration and be unsightly. If aluminum oxidizes, you will see a dull gray coating on the pan. It is possible to prevent this from occurring and prolong the life and the appearance of your pans. Here are some tips that will help you keep your aluminum pans nice and shiny.

[Minsc]

Another good method to remove burnt on food is to bring to a boil some water mixed with lemon juice and vinegar in the pan. This will help break down the food particles making them easier to remove. [links]

[Remizor]

When you are cooking make sure you are careful with your aluminum pans as they heat up very quickly. If a recipe suggests that you use cast iron or Pyrex cookware, do not use aluminum. Try and avoid burning food in your aluminum pans. If you do have burnt on food on your pans, however, make sure that you clean it off quickly. You may have to use a spatula to scrape off anything that is really stuck.

[fantomas]

Before you begin to use your aluminum pans for the first time, it is important to season them as this will protect them. Seasoning pans doesn't mean using salt and pepper to make them taste better. Instead, you should wash the pan in hot soapy water, rinse, and thoroughly dry them with a soft cloth. You will then need to use a little vegetable oil in the pan and heat it at 250 degrees Fahrenheit for around 2 hours. Wash the seasoned pans by hand afterward. If you put them in the dishwasher, the cleaning action of the machine will remove the seasoning. here

[davout]

If desired, another aluminum coating can be added once the item is completely dry. Allow for more drying time when this is done.

[ysilk]

Take the safety glasses off. Wash the aluminum item using water and detergent. This will help to remove excess grit, polish and anything else that is attached to the aluminum item.

[PinkyCandice7x]

Safety glasses should be worn at this point in order to keep small particles from getting in the eyes. here

[Inedible]

If the aluminum item had to be taken apart in the first step, it can now be put it back together fully. Once this is finished, clean up the work area and put all of the tools and work items away.

[BlueAchenar]

Many aluminum items come with a clear coating designed to protect it. If this is the case, remove it using a rag and some paint remover. Be sure to get all exposed areas, as well as any nooks and crannies. A new coating can be applied at a later stage. here

[federk]

Starting with the lowest grit sandpaper, begin sanding the oxidized area of the item in one direction only. Next, do the same with the 800 grit sandpaper and sand again with the 1200 grit sandpaper. Be sure not to use steel wool for this project. It will cause future oxidation problems. [links]

[yvethwarren]

There may still be dirt and debris on the aluminum that is difficult to remove. If this is the case, take the small bucket and fill it with hot water. Add 2-3 drops of dishwashing soap into the water and soak your cloth in it. more

[Dragoon_Lord_Abastas]

Allow this mixture to continue soaking for a few more minutes for the full cleaning effect. here

[The Madhatter]

If you want to improve the appearance of your aluminum, you can invest in a commercial metal polish from any home improvement store. To apply the polish, simply take a dry cloth and dip it in the polish. Work the product in using small, circular motions to bring out the shine. here

[specious]

With a bit of research and persistence, you can restore your aluminum items to their natural sheen. Knowing how to keep oxidation to a minimum is a great life skill as aluminum is present in an abundance of items in our homes and daily lives.