How to Care for Aluminum

Clean aluminum cookware and furnishings with mild liquid dish soap to prevent scratching and discoloration. Alkaline cleaning products, such as baking soda, ammonia, and automatic dish detergent, will discolor aluminum. Abrasive cleaners will scratch the metal or its coating.

A solution of 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 quart of water will usually restore the shine to aluminum cookware and small furnishings. Fill cookware with the solution, or immerse small objects, then simmer over low heat until the discoloration is gone.

Protect aluminum cookware by keeping it out of the dishwasher and by washing it promptly when used. Avoid letting aluminum cookware soak in soapy water for long periods of time. Commercial metal sealants and polishes can protect aluminum outside the kitchen.

Remove scratches from uncoated aluminum by sanding with a fine-grit paper and washing with mineral spirits or by applying a commercial metal polish. Damaged coated aluminum will need to be recoated or replaced. Sanding will only damage the finish further and is not recommended.