Aluminum is a versatile and durable metal that is used extensively both inside and outside the home. From aluminum siding to patio furniture, gutters and window frames, keeping aluminum clean is important for maintaining its appearance and preventing corrosion. With the right techniques and products, cleaning aluminum around your home can be simple.
Supplies Needed for Cleaning Aluminum
Before tackling aluminum surfaces, ensure you have the proper supplies on hand:
- Bucket of water
- Sponge or soft cloth
- Mild detergent or soap
- Aluminum cleaner or polish
- Soft brush
- Microfiber cloths
- Ladder (for exterior surfaces)
- Protective gloves and eyewear
Avoid abrasive pads, steel wool or harsh chemicals as these can damage and scratch aluminum surfaces. Ammonia and bleach should also be avoided as they corrode and pit aluminum over time.
Cleaning Exterior Aluminum Surfaces
Outdoor aluminum requires more frequent cleaning to prevent dirt buildup and oxidation. Here are tips for keeping exterior aluminum surfaces sparkling:
Windows, Doors and Siding
- Use a garden hose to rinse away loose dirt and debris. Avoid high pressure sprays which can drive dirt into crevices.
- Create a cleaning solution of 2 cups warm water, 1/2 cup mild dish soap and 2 tbsp white vinegar. Use a soft cloth or sponge to wash surfaces.
- For stubborn dirt or oxidation, apply an aluminum polish or cleaner to a soft brush and scrub gently.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water and wipe dry with a microfiber cloth.
- After drying, apply an aluminum protectant to help resist corrosion and fingerprints.
- Clean screens by removing and spraying with the hose. Use a soft brush dipped in soapy water to remove stuck-on grime.
- Wipe down window frames and tracks to remove dirt buildup.
Gutters
- Use a ladder to access gutters safely. Remove large debris by hand wearing protective gloves.
- Angle a garden hose into the gutters to rinse out dirt and leaves. Flush gutters from one end to the other.
- Mix a bucket of warm water, mild detergent and 1/4 cup vinegar. Use a gutter brush to scrub away remaining debris growth.
- Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear.
Outdoor Furniture
- Mix a solution of warm water, dish soap and 1/4 cup baking soda. Scrub furniture with a soft cloth or brush.
- For stubborn stains, apply some aluminum polish and let sit 5 minutes before scrubbing.
- Rinse well and wipe dry. Apply protectant spray if desired.
Railings, Decor and Hardware
- Wipe down with a soft, damp cloth to remove surface dirt and debris.
- Use a small brush dipped in warm, soapy water to clean grooves, corners and crevices.
- Rinse off soap residue and dry thoroughly with a microfiber cloth.
- Maintain shine with periodic polishing using a microfiber cloth and aluminum polish.
Cleaning Interior Aluminum Surfaces
While protected from the elements, indoor aluminum still requires regular cleaning and care. Follow these guidelines:
Windows, Doors and Moldings
- Mix 2 cups warm water, a few drops of dish soap and 1 tbsp distilled white vinegar.
- Dip a soft cloth into solution and wring out excess moisture.
- Wipe down aluminum frames, handles and trim, removing fingerprints and dirt.
- Dry with a clean microfiber cloth to prevent water spots.
- For heavy oxidation, apply aluminum polish and scrub gently with a soft brush.
- Vacuum window tracks and wipe with a damp cloth.
Kitchen Appliances and Sinks
- Wash aluminum appliances like range hoods with warm, soapy water. Rinse and dry immediately to avoid water spots.
- Rub a baking soda paste onto stubborn grease stains using a damp sponge. Rinse thoroughly.
- Clean aluminum sinks by scrubbing with a paste of 2 tbsp cream of tartar and 1 quart warm water.
- For stainless steel sinks with aluminum trim, clean carefully to avoid scratching the surface.
- Wipe faucets and handles clean with a solution of equal parts water and distilled white vinegar. Rinse and dry with a soft cloth.
Furniture and Decor
- Dust aluminum picture frames, table legs, vases, etc. with a microfiber duster.
- Gently wash with a mild soap and water solution applied to a soft cloth. Avoid excessive moisture.
- Immediately dry and buff out water spots for a shine.
- Restore oxidation or discoloration using an aluminum polish and buffing with a clean, dry cloth.
Tips for Cleaning Aluminum
Follow these handy tips for keeping aluminum sparkling clean:
- Clean aluminum regularly before dirt, grime and oxidation build up. Frequent light cleaning is better than infrequent deep cleaning.
- Always use soft, non-abrasive materials like sponges, microfiber cloths or soft bristle brushes. Avoid steel wool or scouring pads.
- Wash gently in the direction of the grain to avoid scratches. Never use circular or rubbing motions.
- Rinse thoroughly after washing to remove all soap residue which can cause corrosion.
- Dry immediately to prevent mineral deposits from tap water that can etch aluminum surfaces.
- Apply a protectant wax or polish periodically to boost shine and help repel dirt.
- Avoid prolonged contact with iron, steel or carbon steel which can transfer onto aluminum and cause pitting.
- Use caution when pressure washing aluminum. Hold the nozzle at least 1 foot away and rinse at pressures under 1200 PSI.
- Look for cleaners and polishes specifically formulated for aluminum and test first in an inconspicuous area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Aluminum
What is the best way to clean oxidized aluminum?
Oxidation or dulling on exterior aluminum can be removed using an aluminum cleaner or polish. Apply the product with a soft brush or cloth and scrub gently. Rinse thoroughly. For heavier oxidation, let the cleaner sit for 5 minutes before scrubbing.
How do you clean aluminum that is discolored?
Discoloration or staining on aluminum can often be cleaned using a baking soda paste. Make a thick paste with baking soda and water and apply to the stained area. Let sit 15 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing away. For stubborn stains, try a buffing compound or aluminum polish.
What should you not use to clean aluminum?
Avoid the following on aluminum: steel wool or abrasive scouring pads, acidic or alkaline cleaners, bleach, ammonia, circular scrubbing motions. These can damage protective coatings and scratch the aluminum.
Can you use Windex to clean aluminum?
Windex is safe for cleaning most aluminum surfaces. However, its ammonia content can damage anodized aluminum over time. For anodized aluminum, use a mild cleaner without ammonia. Test Windex first on a small area to be sure it doesn’t streak or discolor the aluminum.
How do you clean aluminum patio furniture?
Mix 2 cups warm water, 1/4 cup dish soap and 1/4 cup baking soda. Use a sponge to wash away dirt, mildew and debris. For tough stains, apply an aluminum polish and scrub gently with a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly and let dry before protecting or sealing the furniture.
How can I make my aluminum windows shine?
Regularly wash aluminum windows with a mild dish detergent and water solution. Dry immediately with a squeegee or microfiber cloth. To boost the shine, rub aluminum polish onto the frames using a soft cloth. Buff to create a brilliant, light-reflecting shine.
What is the dark stain on my aluminum siding?
Dark streaking or staining on aluminum siding is usually due to oxidation and dirt buildup. Mix 1 tbsp ammonia-free aluminum cleaner per gallon of warm water. Scrub stained areas with a soft brush, then rinse thoroughly. Repeat if needed. Avoid pressure washing which can drive the stain deeper.
How do I clean my aluminum gutters?
Use a ladder and wear protective gloves when cleaning aluminum gutters. Flush out leaves and debris with a garden hose. Fill a bucket with warm water, mild detergent and 1/4 cup vinegar. Use a gutter brush attached to an extension pole to scrub the insides. Rinse until water runs clear.
How often should aluminum window frames be cleaned?
To limit dirt buildup and oxidation, aluminum window frames should be washed every 2-3 months. Apply an aluminum cleaner and scrub gently with a soft brush to remove grime in corners and tracks. Wash screens 1-2 times per year or whenever pollen and debris accumulate.
Conclusion
Regular cleaning and polishing is essential for keeping aluminum surfaces in top condition. Avoid pitting, corrosion and tarnishing on aluminum by using the proper techniques and non-abrasive cleaners formulated for aluminum. With some elbow grease and the right products, aluminum can maintain its bright, gleaming finish for years of service around the home.