Chrome plating is technically superficial layers of chromium, a very hard but brittle metal that is used to plate other metals. This coating is often found on fenders, rims and other parts of the car, but also in the bathroom, in the kitchen, on bicycles and in many other places. Cleaning and removing rust from this material is quite simple and does not require expensive tools or cleaners; however, chrome can very easily take on a dirty and opaque appearance. It is therefore important to clean it regularly if you want it to stay shiny.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Clean the Chromium
Step 1. Mix some water with the dish soap
Start cleaning the chrome by removing any dirt, dust, and marks first to expose any rust that has developed. Fill a bucket with warm water and add 10 drops of liquid dish soap; move the solution with your hands to create foam.
To wash items that you can soak - such as small items, pans or pots - you can use the kitchen sink instead of the bucket
Step 2. Scrub the metal surface with the cleaning solution
Dip a sponge or microfiber rag in the soapy water, squeezing it a little to eliminate excess moisture and prevent it from dripping everywhere; scrub the chrome with soapy water, making sure to treat every inch of metal. Regularly dip the sponge in the solution to clean it and keep it always soaked in liquid.
- To treat crevices and hard-to-reach areas, use a soft-bristled toothbrush dipped in the soap and water mixture.
- For best results, wash your chrome weekly or as soon as it begins to dull.
Step 3. Rinse the surface
When the metal is clean and you feel satisfied, throw away the soapy water, rinse the bucket and fill it again with clean water. Thoroughly wash the sponge with running water, squeeze it and rub it again on the metal object to remove all traces of cleaning solution.
- Items that you have washed in the kitchen sink can be rinsed under running water to remove foam residue.
- If you are dealing with items that are outdoors, such as your car or bicycle parts, you can rinse them with the garden hose.
Step 4. Remove stubborn stains with vinegar
Sometimes, there are encrustations or marks that you cannot remove with soapy water alone, but that you can deal with with a slightly acid solution. Pour equal parts vinegar and water into the bucket or sink, dip the sponge, wring it out, and use it to scrub stubborn stains.
When you are satisfied with the result, rinse the chrome again with plain water
Step 5. Dry the metal and inspect it for rust
Use a clean microfiber cloth and dry the surface; chrome tends to highlight water stains, so you shouldn't let it air dry. Take the opportunity to check for rusty parts.
If you notice traces of oxidation, you need to deal with them with the method described below
Part 2 of 3: Remove the Rust
Step 1. Cut out a few squares of aluminum foil
Tear off a 7-8 cm strip from a roll of aluminum foil and cut it into three equal-sized parts; each should be 7-10cm long, you need to scrub the chrome and get rid of the rust.
- Aluminum foil is best suited for cleaning chrome surfaces because it is a softer metal that does not leave scratches.
- We do not recommend using steel wool, as it takes more effort and can make the object opaque.
Step 2. Fill a bowl with water
Take a container from the kitchen and pour plain water into it that acts as a lubricant between the chrome surface and the aluminum foil. However, know that rust is eliminated thanks to the chemical reaction between the two materials.
It is not necessary to use a cola-based drink or vinegar as a lubricant for this operation
Step 3. Scrub the rusted parts with the aluminum strips
Wet them first in the bowl of water and rub them lightly on the object to be treated; you do not have to exert excessive pressure or rely on a lot of "elbow grease", as only a gentle friction is enough to produce the aluminum oxide that dissolves the oxidation.
- You should notice that the rust disappears and the metal becomes shiny and smooth again as you scrub.
- If you are cleaning a large area, use a new piece of aluminum every 25 cm.
Step 4. Use a foil pouch to clean the "pitted" areas
Chromium is susceptible to this kind of damage, especially where it is rusted; you can eliminate traces of oxidation and smooth the surface with a piece of crumpled aluminum foil. Tear off a 7-8 cm long strip, crumple it up without over-compacting it before dipping it in water and rubbing it on the chrome plating to be cleaned.
As you rub, the edges of the aluminum foil smooth out the dotted areas of the metal surface and remove rust
Step 5. Rinse and dry the chrome
Once all the oxidation has been removed, take a sponge or garden hose to get rid of the brown paste that formed during the procedure. when finished, dry the metal with a clean microfiber cloth.
Do not allow the chrome to air dry, otherwise water stains will form
Part 3 of 3: Polishing and Smoothing
Step 1. Rub the chrome with a cloth
Use a clean, dry microfiber rag to smooth the entire surface; apply gentle pressure and make circular motions. In this way, you eliminate all traces of water, dust, rust and make the metal shiny.
You can also use an electric polisher that has a dry and clean pad specifically for chrome plating
Step 2. Apply a layer of baby oil
It is actually mineral oil and is perfect for making wood and metals shine; not only smooths the surface, but enhances its luster and splendor. Spray a few drops of product on the chrome evenly, so that there is a little oil every 3-5 cm.
You can also rely on car wax, carnauba wax or specific car polishers; these products are perfect for protecting and making the chrome shine
Step 3. Rub the area with a cloth
Use a clean, dry microfiber rag to distribute the mineral oil over the surface. Make circular movements and apply gentle pressure; once the whole area has been treated, go over it with another rag to remove excess oil.
