Michigan State University Extension
Home Maintenance And Repair - 01500064
06/24/03

Cleaning Aluminum


Use mild a detergent and warm water when possible.
Alkalis, even baking soda, and especially stronger alkalis
discolor aluminum. If trying a stronger cleaner, pre-test
on a hidden place to be sure it cleans satisfactorily and
does not damage the aluminum. Always follow directions on
the product label for aluminum, EXACTLY.

Be cautious about using abrasive cleaners (scouring
powders, steel wool, abrasive polishes, etc.) as they may
permanently scratch aluminum; painted or anodized aluminum
surfaces will be permanently damaged. Do not clean
aluminum when it is too hot to touch, or if temperatures
go below 50 F.

On outdoor surfaces, remove bugs, sap, tree seeds,
etc. as soon as possible, as they harden with exposure to
sunlight and heat, and so are harder to get off. Suitable
solvents will remove tar and similar substances. Test
solvent first if the aluminum is painted to be sure it
doesn't also remove the paint. Follow label precautions
when using solvents--no spark or flame in the area and
have sufficient ventilation.

This article was written by Anne Field, Extension
Specialist, Emeritus with references from Mary Ellen
Delsipee and Isabel Jones, previous Extension Specialists,
and the Aluminum Association.

Go To Top of File        Michigan State University Extension Home Page        Main Page for this Data Base
This information is for educational purposes only. References to commercial products or trade names does not imply endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned. This information becomes public property upon publication and may be printed verbatim with credit to MSU Extension. Reprinting cannot be used to endorse or advertise a commercial product or company. MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer. Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status. Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Thomas G. Coon, Director, MSU Extension, East Lansing,MI 48824. This information is for educational purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned. This file was generated from data base 02 on 02/04/08. Data base 02 was last revised on 06/24/03. For more information about this data base or its contents please contact strausc@msu.edu .