- 8 September 2024
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Aluminum is believed to be corrosion resistant, and this is true. However, in domestic conditions, when it is easy to damage the oxide layer, aluminum is a reactive metal that oxidizes when exposed to oxygen and moisture.
Before we look at how to clean aluminum items, let's talk about what you should never do. When working with cookware and other products made of this metal and its alloys, under no circumstances should you use abrasives. Such cleaning of aluminum can lead to damage to its surface. Despite all its advantages, aluminum is a rather soft metal and its smooth surface can be damaged even with a metal dish sponge. Of course, abrasive cleaning with a stiff brush and powders will get rid of contaminants, but the cleaned surface will be badly scratched and a solid sanding will be necessary to restore its original appearance.
In addition, sharp metal objects should not be used to clean aluminum, even if we are talking about the remains of burnt food or food frozen on the bottom. Undesirable methods include the use of caustic household products based on acids and alkalis, unless they are specifically designed to work with this metal.
The most effective, yet gentle way is boiling. We will need either a special aluminum cleaner. Fortunately, we can also compose it ourselves. We will need:
- Mild dishwashing liquid.
- Table vinegar.
- A soft cloth.
- A polishing sponge;
Before you implement the aluminum cleaner, you need to thoroughly clean the surfaces from grease, soot and other contaminants. In short, the object to be cleaned should be washed with dishwashing liquid. Then the object is placed in a boiling container and poured water so that it covers the object for 3-4 cm. For every quart of water, add two tablespoons of vinegar or freshly squeezed lemon juice. Place the container on the stove and cook over low heat for 15-20 minutes.
Once the heat treatment is complete, you can leave the aluminum item in the water until it cools down. Be careful not to try to remove the item from the boiling water, as this can cause burns. Wipe the cooled dish dry and start polishing with a special sponge. Aluminum cleaning paste can also be useful. Scrub the outer and inner parts of the product without force, so as not to cause abrasions and scratches. When you are done, you can rinse the dishes with clean water and let them dry. Aluminum cleaning paste is available for purchase or at specialized home appliance stores or auto chemical stores.
If, over time, the inside or outside of an aluminum pot or container develops blackness, stains with a yellow tint, you can use a simple treatment to restore the product to its former shine. A simple acid for cleaning aluminum will come in handy. Pour a mixture of citric acid and vinegar into an aluminum container pre-filled with water. Then bring the mixture to a boil, leaving the container on low heat for 30 minutes. After turning off the gas, use a wooden spatula to remove the top layer of scale, and then wash the walls more thoroughly with a sponge. Such an acid for cleaning aluminum is completely safe for the surface of an aluminum pot or pan.
The remaining grease is eliminated by adding acetic acid to a saucepan of water at a ratio of 1 tablespoon per liter of volume. After 15 minutes of cooking over low heat, you can pour off the water and scrub the inner walls and bottom with a sponge. It is recommended to repeat the process again, but with the addition of detergent.
Fill the container with water and add baking soda to it in the ratio of 1 tsp. powder per 1 liter of liquid, then carry out the cooking procedure again for 10 minutes, and then wash the inner surface with a sponge.
