Aluminum is multifunctional and durable and is used in many of the items in your home—from your outdoor furniture to your kitchen sink. However, aluminum tends to get dingy over time. When ordinary wear and tear happens, cleaning your aluminum items is extremely easy. The same can be said for aluminum cookware—even cookware that’s been in your family for generations.
The great thing about cleaning aluminum cookware—whether it’s vintage or brand new—is that the routine is the same! It’s always best to handle older cookware and bakeware with care. However, for regular maintenance, handwashing aluminum kitchenware is the safest method for eliminating stuck-on stains and keeping them looking new for years to come.
Before you consider this deep cleaning method for aluminum, check your cookware to make sure it’s, in fact, aluminum. If you use this cleaning method on a cast iron pot or pan, you may run the risk of accidentally damaging your cookware’s finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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1Step 1Remove food & grease
Use soap and water to remove all food particles and grease from your aluminum kitchenware, and then rinse clean.
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2Step 2Fill with water
Fill your aluminum pot or pan with water, but don’t fill it to the top. You’ll want to leave about 1 to 2 inches from the top for the water to boil.
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3Step 3Add cleaning agent
Add 2 Tablespoons of a natural cleaning agent of choice for every quart of water. Natural cleaners you may find around your home include white vinegar, lemon juice, or cream of tartar.
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4Step 4Set heat to high
Set your heat to medium or high and bring your pot or pan to a boil. Turn the heat down to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. An indication that this cleaning method worked will be the brighter appearance of your cookware’s interior.
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5Step 5Turn off heat & cool
At this point, turn your heat completely off and allow the contents to cool before pouring out the water.
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6Step 6Rinse & dry
Once your pot or pan is completely cooled, rinse and dry it with a clean cloth, and then use a non-scratch scrub pad to rub the interior of your cookware gently.
For cleaning on a time crunch, use steel wool, dish soap, and warm water on aluminum and steel pots to cut through food buildup and bring back shine.
