How to Clean Anodized Aluminum
Pick a neutral cleaner., Test the cleaner on an inconspicuous area., Use a little abrasion if needed., Scrub it down.
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Pick a neutral cleaner.
The best cleaners for anodized aluminum are in the pH range of six to eight.
Seven is neutral (as opposed to acidic or alkaline), so you want cleaners that are close to neutral.Anything too acidic or too basic can damage the surface.Avoid cleaners with chlorine.
Dishwashing soap or Bar Keepers Friend are a good choices.
While you may reach for baking soda as an easy and natural cleaner, it's not a good choice for anodized aluminum, as it is on the basic side of the pH scale.
It can end up damaging the metal, which you don't want.
However, the opposite is also true: acidic cleaners aren't great either.
Basically, don't use anything too harsh on anodized aluminum. -
Step 2: Test the cleaner on an inconspicuous area.
Before you use the cleaner on the whole area, try it out on an area that can't be seen well.
Make sure the cleaner doesn't stain or damage the anodized aluminum before using it to clean the rest of the aluminum., A sponge with a bit of abrasion can help clean the tough surface of anodized aluminum.
However, stick to something with mild abrasive properties, such as a scrubby sponge, not a steel wool scrubber.
If it's only lightly soiled, stick to a clean rag or washcloth., Scrub the area with soap and water, focusing on particularly dirty areas.
Start with a less abrasive tool, such as a clean rag or washcloth.
If that doesn't work, use the scrubby side of a sponge to clean it off.Rub the metal in the direction of the grain.If you're washing an anodized aluminum pot, make sure you always wash it by hand.
It shouldn't go in the dishwasher.
Also, never plunge a hot pot into water, as it can warp it. -
Step 3: Use a little abrasion if needed.
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Step 4: Scrub it down.
Detailed Guide
The best cleaners for anodized aluminum are in the pH range of six to eight.
Seven is neutral (as opposed to acidic or alkaline), so you want cleaners that are close to neutral.Anything too acidic or too basic can damage the surface.Avoid cleaners with chlorine.
Dishwashing soap or Bar Keepers Friend are a good choices.
While you may reach for baking soda as an easy and natural cleaner, it's not a good choice for anodized aluminum, as it is on the basic side of the pH scale.
It can end up damaging the metal, which you don't want.
However, the opposite is also true: acidic cleaners aren't great either.
Basically, don't use anything too harsh on anodized aluminum.
Before you use the cleaner on the whole area, try it out on an area that can't be seen well.
Make sure the cleaner doesn't stain or damage the anodized aluminum before using it to clean the rest of the aluminum., A sponge with a bit of abrasion can help clean the tough surface of anodized aluminum.
However, stick to something with mild abrasive properties, such as a scrubby sponge, not a steel wool scrubber.
If it's only lightly soiled, stick to a clean rag or washcloth., Scrub the area with soap and water, focusing on particularly dirty areas.
Start with a less abrasive tool, such as a clean rag or washcloth.
If that doesn't work, use the scrubby side of a sponge to clean it off.Rub the metal in the direction of the grain.If you're washing an anodized aluminum pot, make sure you always wash it by hand.
It shouldn't go in the dishwasher.
Also, never plunge a hot pot into water, as it can warp it.
About the Author
Gary Lewis
Enthusiastic about teaching creative arts techniques through clear, step-by-step guides.
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