Aluminum is a light but strong metal that requires some attention when it needs to be cleaned. Aluminum pots and pans, utensils, surfaces, sinks and outdoor furniture should be cleaned regularly to prevent dirt from accumulating. In addition, regular cleaning also helps prevent the formation of aluminum oxide.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Use Slightly Acidic Substances to Clean Kitchen Utensils
Step 1. Let the pan cool
If you try to wash it while it's still hot, you risk burning your fingers.
Step 2. Remove any dirt or grease
Wash and dry utensils and pans to make sure they are not greasy or still have dirt residues. Use hot water with dish soap to remove grease.
Step 3. Scrape off any remaining food and burnt crumbs
Try first with an abrasive sponge; if you can't do this, boil a few inches of water in the bottom of the pan and use a wooden spoon to remove the residue until it reaches the aluminum base.
Step 4. Make an acid solution
For every liter of water, use 2 tablespoons of cream of tartar, white vinegar or lemon juice.
- The acid solution reduces stains due to oxidation. You can also scrub the cutlery with acidic fruits or vegetables, such as apples or rhubarb. Alternatively, you can add apple peels to the water as a substitute for acidic substances.
- If you prefer, you can use a mild aluminum cleaner specifically for pots instead of following the boiling method. Use it as you would any mild detergent or abrasive product to clean cutlery and cookware. Scrub it with a sponge and then rinse it or wipe it off with a cloth.
Step 5. Fill the pot with the solution
If you need to clean the cutlery too, put it in the pot and add the solution.
If you also need to clean the outside of the pot, as well as the inside, try putting it in a larger container. If you don't have a pot large enough to hold the first one you need to clean, try scrubbing the outside with a lemon cut in half and dipped in salt
Step 6. Bring the solution to a boil
Let it boil for 10-15 minutes.
Step 7. Turn off the burner when you see the aluminum turn bright
Wait for the pot and its contents to cool and finally throw the water away.
Step 8. Gently scrub the pot or pan with a sponge
This process removes any stains.
Do not use steel wool, as it is too abrasive and can cause problems in the future
Step 9. Dry the pot thoroughly with a clean tea towel
Method 2 of 3: Clean the Aluminum Kitchen Surfaces
Step 1. Gently scratch or remove any food residue
Traces of food interfere with the oxidation process and hinder the cleaning of the surface.
Step 2. Wash the area with dish soap
Rinse thoroughly making sure that no grease remains on the surface.
Step 3. Cut a lemon in half and dip it in the salt
Rub the surface you need to clean with half a lemon.
Step 4. Clean the sink or aluminum surface with water
At the end, be sure to remove the acid and salt residues.
Step 5. Rub the surface with a clean cloth
Make sure it's perfectly dry when you're done.
Method 3 of 3: Clean Outdoor Furniture and Aluminum Accessories
Step 1. Clean aluminum materials that are outdoors on a mild day
Extreme temperatures are not suitable for working with metal.
Step 2. Use a mild soap and water to wash the furniture
Eliminates any stains of mud, dirt or oily substances.
Use a mildly abrasive product to remove any scratches
Step 3. Spray the furniture with a garden hose
Make sure to remove all residues of the cleaning product from the surface.
Step 4. Mix one part acidic substance with one part water
For example, you can use a cup of vinegar and combine it with a cup of water. You can eventually get cream of tartar or lemon juice.
Alternatively, you can use a metal polish to scrub the furniture in place of the slightly acid solution
Step 5. Scrub the furniture with the solution
Use a dish brush, as you don't have to damage the metal with scratches. You just have to remove the stains caused by oxidation.
Oxidation is the chemical process that prevents aluminum from rusting. Although oxidation can be a form of corrosion, it actually forms aluminum oxide, which creates a resistant barrier that protects the metal from the corrosive action of water. However, it forms with time and stains make the furniture look less pleasant
Step 6. Rinse the solution with a hose
Make sure you remove all traces of cleaning product from the furniture.
Step 7. Dry the furniture with a towel
If the surface is dry it is easier to proceed with the next step, so be sure to dry thoroughly.
Step 8. To protect the furniture, apply some wax
A layer of car wax can help protect them from the elements. Apply a light layer with a clean cloth in circular motions.
