Everyday Cheapskate: How to Remove Stains on Aluminum Cookware After an Unfortunate Trip Through the Dishwasher

Mary Hunt on Mar 14, 2024

BOILING WATER AND CREAM OF TARTAR

Fill the pot with water and add 2 tablespoons of cream of tartar per quart of water. Bring the water to a boil and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Remove the pot from the heat and allow it to cool before washing it as usual. This method effectively removes stains and brightens the aluminum.

BAR KEEPERS FRIEND CLEANER

Alternatively, consider using a commercial aluminum cleaner specifically formulated for removing stains from aluminum cookware. Follow the instructions on the product label for optimal results. Bar Keepers Friend is readily available in supermarkets, discount department stores and online.

ROUTINE CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE

To keep aluminum cookware looking beautiful, follow these care and maintenance guidelines:

-- Hand-wash: Aluminum cookware must be washed by hand (never put through the dishwasher) using hot water and mild dishwashing liquid, such as Blue Dawn, with a nonscratch sponge. As challenging spots or stains begin to appear, use Bar Keepers Friend to remove those spots.

-- Polish: Should aluminum pots and pans lose their beautiful shine, use a good aluminum polish to restore their luster. Adhere to the manufacturer's instructions for application and buff the cookware with a soft cloth until it gleams.

-- Wash and Dry: Following the polishing process, thoroughly hand-wash and rinse the aluminum cookware with warm water and dishwashing liquid to move all residual cleaning agents. Dry the cookware with a clean towel to prevent the formation of water spots and stains.

Well, there you go, Ina, and probably a lot more than you asked for, but I hope it helps to bring your aluminum pieces back to their former selves.

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Mary invites you to visit her at EverydayCheapskate.com, where this column is archived complete with links and resources for all recommended products and services. Mary invites questions and comments at https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/contact/, "Ask Mary." This column will answer questions of general interest, but letters cannot be answered individually. Mary Hunt is the founder of EverydayCheapskate.com, a frugal living blog, and the author of the book "Debt-Proof Living."