Quck answer
Aluminum tarnish can be easily cleaned using simple household ingredients. Here are the steps to clean tarnish from aluminum:
1. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a bowl.
2. Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the vinegar solution.
3. Gently scrub the tarnished areas of the aluminum.
4. Rinse the aluminum with clean water.
5. Dry the aluminum thoroughly with a clean towel.
6. For stubborn tarnish, make a paste using cream of tartar and lemon juice.
7. Apply the paste to the tarnished areas and let it sit for 15 minutes.
8. Rinse and dry the aluminum again.
Remember to always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area first to avoid any damage to the aluminum surface.
Aluminum is a durable and affordable material found in many kitchens. However, with regular use, pots, baking sheets, and other aluminum items can become tarnished or damaged.
While these darkened pans and pots may never look exactly as they did when first used, there are ways to restore their functionality and attractiveness. Below, we will explore some safe and effective methods for cleaning tarnished aluminum.
Using Vinegar to Clean Aluminum
Vinegar is a highly effective cleaner in general, and it can also be used to shine up and clean aluminum. However, it is not always recommended to use straight vinegar. If you are unsure about the aluminum item you are trying to restore, it is best to test the vinegar on a small area first.
To create an effective cleaning solution, mix equal parts white vinegar and water. This will create an acidic solution that can be used in various ways to clean tarnished aluminum.
If you are cleaning the exterior of an aluminum pan, dip a clean cloth in the vinegar and water solution and use it to scrub away any discoloration. For pots that have residue caked on them, you can boil a solution of water and vinegar and pour it into, onto, or over the cookware item. Let the solution sit in the pot or soak the item for 30 minutes before cleaning it off with a damp sponge.
Natural Methods for Cleaning Aluminum
You can restore the shine to aluminum cookware and storage items without using harsh commercial chemicals.
Apples: If you have apple peels or old apples drying out on your counter, you can use them to remove stains from tarnished aluminum pots. Simply place the peels or apples in a pot filled with water and bring it to a boil. Let it simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, then drain and clean the pot with hot soapy water.
Cream of tartar: Mix 2 tablespoons of cream of tartar with a ½ cup of vinegar. Add a quart of water to an aluminum pot and bring it to a boil. Let the solution boil for 10 minutes, then remove it from the heat and drain. Allow the pot to cool down before washing it with soap and hot water.
Steel wool pads: Stubborn stains on aluminum can be removed with a steel wool pad and some lemon juice. Apply some elbow grease while scrubbing with the wool pad and lemon juice, and you will be able to restore the shine to an old aluminum pan within minutes.
Using Borax on Aluminum
Borax, a common laundry aisle staple, is great for removing tarnish spots or baked-on stains from aluminum baking sheets and pots. To use, mix the Borax powder with a small amount of water until a paste forms. Apply the paste to the stained or discolored area and let it sit for 10 minutes to an hour.
If the stain is stubborn, reapply the Borax paste and use an old toothbrush or small nylon brush to scrub it into the surface of the aluminum item. Once the Borax has been removed, buff the surface of the aluminum pot or bakeware to achieve a shiny finish.
Using Borax on aluminum not only removes tarnish but also sanitizes the item. Make sure to rinse the cookware well before reusing it after applying the Borax paste.
