Cleaning Corroded Aluminum Pans: Effective Techniques To Try

Aluminum cookware is a popular choice for home chefs due to its affordability, lightweight, and durability. However, it requires careful maintenance as it is prone to corrosion and discolouration. Corrosion occurs when the metal reacts with water and oxygen, forming a layer of aluminium oxide that appears as a grey, chalky cast on the surface. While corrosion is challenging to reverse, several methods can be employed to remove it. This includes mechanical techniques, such as scrubbing with steel wool or sandblasting, and chemical approaches, like treating the pan with acidic solutions of vinegar, lemon juice, or cream of tartar. Proper storage, avoiding high heat, and handwashing can also help prevent corrosion and maintain the condition of aluminium pans.

How to get corrosion off an aluminum pan

Soak in a vinegar solution

So, you've got corrosion on your aluminum pan and you want to get it off? Well, you're in luck! There are a few things you can try, but one effective method is to soak your pan in a vinegar solution.

First off, it's important to note that you should never use steel wool or other abrasive scrubbers on your aluminum pan, as this may scratch the surface. You should also always wear rubber gloves to protect your hands when handling acidic solutions. With that said, let's get into the steps for removing corrosion with a vinegar solution:

Step 1: Create the Vinegar Solution

For this method, you'll want to use a vinegar solution that is equal parts vinegar and water. Combine one cup of vinegar with one cup of water in a bowl or directly in your pan. You can adjust the amounts depending on the size of your pan and the extent of the corrosion.

Step 2: Apply the Solution to the Pan

Using a sponge, distribute the vinegar and water solution evenly over the surface of the pan, rubbing vigorously to remove any corrosion, stains, or rust. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies of the pan for an even clean.

Step 3: Soak the Pan

Once you've applied the solution and given the pan a good initial scrub, it's time to let it soak. Pour the remaining solution into the pan and leave it to soak for about 30 minutes. If the corrosion is particularly stubborn, you may need to let it soak for longer—up to an hour. Top up the solution with additional vinegar and water as needed to ensure the affected areas remain fully covered.

Step 4: Rinse and Repeat

After soaking, pour out the solution and give the pan a thorough rinse with clean water. Check to see if all the corrosion has been removed. If not, don't worry! Simply repeat the soaking process for another hour and then rinse again.

Step 5: Scrub with Steel Wool

For more severe corrosion, you may need to scrub the pan with dampened steel wool after soaking and rinsing. Add a small amount of dishwashing liquid to the pan and scrub vigorously to remove any remaining traces of corrosion or rust. Be careful not to scrub too aggressively, as this may scratch the pan.

Step 6: Dry the Pan

Once you're satisfied that all the corrosion has been removed, it's time to dry your pan. You can either use a kitchen towel to dry it off or simply let it air dry. And that's it! Your aluminum pan should now be corrosion-free and ready to use again. Just be sure to properly care for and maintain your pan to prevent future corrosion.

Use baking soda

To get corrosion off an aluminium pan, you can use baking soda. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Rinse the Pan

Rinse the pan with warm water to remove any loose food particles or residue. This will ensure that the corrosion you want to target is not obscured by other debris.

Step 2: Soak the Pan

Fill your sink or basin with warm water and add a few drops of natural dish soap. Place your aluminium pan in the soapy water and let it soak for a while. This will help to loosen any remaining food particles and make the cleaning process easier.

Step 3: Clean the Pan

After soaking, use a non-abrasive sponge to clean the interior and exterior of the pan. This will remove any remaining food particles or residue. Be gentle and avoid using steel wool or abrasive scouring pads, as these can scratch the surface of the pan.

Step 4: Make a Baking Soda Paste

In a small bowl, mix baking soda with water to form a paste. The paste should be thick enough to stick to the pan but thin enough to spread easily. This paste will act as a gentle abrasive and help to lift the corrosion from the pan's surface.

Step 5: Apply the Paste

Use a soft-bristle brush to apply the baking soda paste to the corroded areas of the pan. Gently scrub the paste into the corrosion, working it in circular motions. The mild abrasiveness of the baking soda will help to break down and lift the corrosion without damaging the aluminium surface.

Step 6: Rinse and Dry

Once you have removed the corrosion, thoroughly rinse the pan with warm water to remove any remaining baking soda paste. Then, use a kitchen towel to dry the pan or allow it to air dry on a dish rack. Ensure that the pan is completely dry before storing it away.

Additional Tips:

• While baking soda is a great option for removing corrosion, it is important to note that it should not be used as a regular cleaning agent for aluminium cookware. The alkaline nature of baking soda can react with the aluminium, potentially causing discolouration over time.
• Always make sure your aluminium pan is completely cool before attempting to clean it. Cleaning a hot pan can be dangerous and less effective.
• To maintain your aluminium pan and prevent corrosion, avoid cooking at very high temperatures and avoid cooking acidic ingredients in the pan. Additionally, use non-metallic utensils such as silicone, wood, or plastic to prevent scratching the surface.

Try a potato scrub

To remove corrosion from an aluminum pan, you can try a potato scrub. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Peel and Cut the Potato

Peel a potato and cut it into thin slices. The slices should be thin enough to fit into your pan and reach the corroded areas.

Step 2: Prepare the Pan

Rinse the pan with warm water to remove any loose food particles or residue. This will ensure that the potato scrub can focus on the corrosion itself.

Step 3: Apply the Potato Scrub

Take the potato slices and gently rub them on the corroded areas of the pan. The oxalic acid in the potatoes will help break down the corrosion. You may need to apply a bit of pressure and work the potato slices into the corrosion.

Step 4: Let it Sit

Once you've scrubbed the pan with the potato slices, let the pan sit for about 15-20 minutes. This will give the oxalic acid time to work on the corrosion.

Step 5: Rinse and Dry

After letting the pan sit, rinse it thoroughly with warm water to remove any residue from the potato scrub. Then, use a soft cloth or kitchen towel to dry the pan completely. Make sure there is no moisture left on the pan before storing it away.

Additional Tips:

• If the corrosion is particularly stubborn, you can try combining the potato scrub method with an acidic solution, such as vinegar or lemon juice. Soak the pan in the acidic solution for a few minutes before or after using the potato scrub.
• For more severe corrosion, you may need to repeat the potato scrub process several times to see significant results.
• Always test the potato scrub on a small area of the pan first to ensure it doesn't cause any discolouration or damage to the aluminium.
• Remember to always wash and dry your aluminium pans thoroughly after each use to prevent corrosion from building up.

Lemon juice and cream of tartar

Step 1: Create the Cleaning Solution

Combine lemon juice and cream of tartar to form a powerful cleaning mixture. For this solution, you will need to mix one tablespoon of cream of tartar with one tablespoon of lemon juice, along with one quart of water. The cream of tartar acts as a bleaching agent, helping to remove stains, while the lemon juice, with its acidic properties, cuts through the corrosion.

Step 2: Apply the Solution to the Pan

Pour the prepared solution into the aluminum pan. Ensure that the liquid covers the affected areas, especially if the corrosion is concentrated in certain spots. Turn on the stove and bring the solution to a boil. Let the mixture cook for approximately 10 minutes. The heat and the chemical reaction from the solution will help loosen and dissolve the corrosion.

Step 3: Let the Pan Cool

After boiling the solution, carefully remove the pan from the heat and let it cool down. This step is crucial for safety reasons and to ensure that the cleaning process is comfortable to perform. Once the pan is cool enough to handle, you can proceed to the next step.

Step 4: Scrub and Rinse the Pan

Using a soft cloth or sponge, gently scrub the affected areas of the pan. The corrosion should come off more easily now that it has been treated with the lemon juice and cream of tartar solution. If necessary, repeat the process for more stubborn areas of corrosion. Finally, rinse the pan thoroughly with warm water to remove any remaining residue.

Step 5: Wash and Dry the Pan

Once you've removed the corrosion and rinsed the pan, give it a final wash with mild dish soap and water. This step ensures that any remaining solution or residue is completely eliminated. After washing, dry the pan thoroughly with a soft cloth. Your aluminum pan should now be corrosion-free and ready for future use!

By following these steps and using the powerful combination of lemon juice and cream of tartar, you can effectively remove corrosion from your aluminum pan, restoring its original shine and luster.

Salt scrub

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Fill the stained pan with water and add a few tablespoons of table salt. The coarseness of the salt will help to loosen and remove the built-up food debris.

Step 2: Boil the Solution

Place the pan on the stove and bring the water and salt solution to a boil. Let it simmer for a few minutes. The heat and salt will help to break down the corrosion and make it easier to remove.

Step 3: Cool the Pan

After boiling and simmering, remove the pan from the heat and allow it to cool down. This is an important step to ensure your safety and to prevent any damage to the pan from sudden temperature changes.

Step 4: Scrub the Pan

Once the pan is cool enough to handle, use a non-abrasive sponge or soft-bristled brush to scrub the surface gently. Avoid using abrasive scouring pads, steel wool, or stiff wire brushes as they can damage the soft aluminium surface. Gently scrub the pan in circular motions, focusing on the corroded areas.

Step 5: Rinse and Dry the Pan

After scrubbing, thoroughly rinse the pan with warm water to remove any remaining salt and loosened debris. Use a kitchen towel to wipe the pan clean, or allow it to air dry on a dish rack. Ensure that the pan is completely dry before storing it away.

Additional Tips:

• Always allow your aluminium pan to cool down completely before cleaning it. Cleaning hot cookware can be dangerous and less effective.
• Avoid using high heat when cooking with aluminium pans. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause discolouration and blackening of the pan.
• Hand wash your aluminium pans with a mild dishwashing detergent and a non-abrasive sponge. Avoid using abrasive pads or putting the pans in the dishwasher.
• To maintain the shine of your aluminium pan, you can apply a commercial metal polish using a dry cloth and working it in with small, circular motions.

Frequently asked questions