Aluminum Dish Racks are in most homes due to their popularity for their lightweight and corrosion resistant properties. However, we often overlook the fact that metal, including aluminum, changes with time if neglected. There are several myths about aluminum tarnishing and how to maintain its shine, find out more.

Protecting Aluminum from Tarnishing

Moisture, oxygen, and certain chemicals, if unshielded, can tarnish aluminum in its purest state. Tarnishing may be described as a gradual alteration in the metal’s physique owing to the environmental exposure. All these result in an unappealing haze or discoloration on the surface. Not all aluminum will change color such as dish racks because they are usually anodized in the first place, which is a metal finishing appliance aimed at eliminating tarnish bonds.

What Is Anodizing?

Anodizing is a technique that allows aluminum to be covered with a protective layer by means of electrochemical processes. This protective layer acts to prevent the oxidation of aluminum, extends its service life, and improves the natural pit corrosion of the metal. In addition to preventing tarnishing of the aluminum surface, anodizing enhances the visual properties and creates a shiny appearance that is durable and attractive.

Can You Expect Your aluminum dish rack To Become Discolored In Future?

It’s true that anodizing significantly lowers the probability of metals being tarnished; however, there is no manmade substance that can be claimed to be resistant to time. With time and usage, even anodized aluminum surfaces are more likely to be scratched and enough to become duller with even the most abrasive of detergents, water stains, or simply because of use. This is particularly the case when the dishracks are in humid conditions or in close proximity to a lot of water. It should however be understood that this does not imply that the aluminum is corroding or disintegrating; this is simply attributable to the ravages of time.

Tips for Restoring Luster on Your aluminum dish rack

If the dish rack starts losing its gleam, there’s no need to panic since restoration is quite simple with the following steps:

1. Wash It Frequently.

The first thing that needs to be done in this case is washing the aluminum dish rack as often as possible. Use warm soap water and a sponge to wipe the rack, making sure it is not cover with food particles, soap, or dry water remains. Do not use any strong chemical agents or any scratchy sponge, since these are the enemies of the anodized coating.

2. Polish the Dish Rack by Hand.

To get back the glamour, apply some polish on aluminum to cotton or soft cloth and then polish the surface gently. You could also take a bit of vinegar and mix it with water and use this solution to polish the dish rack. Eliminate any buildup on the regions of polishing to avoid damaging the aluminum coating. Almost none of the coating remains on the surface, the coating gets ruined.

3. Use a Soft Piece of Fabric to Abase Polish.

A polish cloth used for buffing would be useful again with this final step. Wipe the entire surface and remove any polish that has not been cleaned until now. Drying should improve the shine of the surface.

4. Action Steps to Prevent Future Tarnishing

It is necessary not to let your aluminum dish rack attract further tarnishing in the future by ensuring that it is stored in a dry area with enough air circulation. You can also make it a point to wipe clean the dish rack so that water spots are not left on it and allow for easier drying. If your dish rack is meant to be outside, or if it is stored in high humidity conditions, use a cover to avoid damage.