How to Remove Dishwasher Stains from Aluminum

I ran one of the canisters through the dishwasher and the tin is dark and dull. How do I get it to match the others?

Table of Contents:

The Boiling Method
The Steel Wool Method
Additional Tips
Sources

There are several reasons why the dishwasher has caused these stains, such as the heat, the detergent used or even just certain minerals in your water. Both regular aluminum and anodized aluminum (aluminum that has been treated to be harder and more scratch resistant) can turn dark in the dishwasher. Unfortunately, the methods to remove these dishwasher stains can also removed the coating on anodized aluminum. If you are determined to remove the stains from anodized aluminum, use The Boiling Method, which will be the least damaging to the coating. For regular aluminum, you can use either method below.

The Boiling Method

You Will Need:

A pot
Water
A cleaner (choose one):
- Apple peels
- Lemon juice
- Cream of tartar

Steps to Remove the Stains:

Fill a pot with water. If the aluminum item is a pot, you can use that one. If not, use a pot that is large enough for the darkened aluminum item to fit inside.
Add either some apple peels or 1 tablespoon of either lemon juice or cream of tartar per quart of water.
Bring the water to a boil.
Let it boil for 10 minutes.
Wash the pan as usual.

The Steel Wool Method

You Will Need:

White vinegar
Water
Steel wool

Steps to Remove the Stains:

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
Spray the solution onto the aluminum.
Let it soak for several minutes, then scrub with steel wool.
Add more of the vinegar solution as needed while scrubbing.

Additional Tips:

If you want to wash your aluminum in the dishwasher without getting stains, try switching your detergent. Look for ones that are bleach-free and eco-friendly, such as ones available at a health food store. One that uses enzymes is a good choice.
It is always best to hand wash aluminum to avoid the possibility of stains. Be sure to choose a pH neutral dish liquid though, as most dish liquids are alkaline and can also turn aluminum dark.
If your anodized aluminum looks colored or appears similar to copper or gold, then it is not safe to wash in the dishwasher because the coating on it will be removed.
Non-anodized aluminum can leach metal into your food, so it is best to only use non-anodized aluminum items for non-food purposes.
While salt can be used as a mild abrasive for cleaning in place of steel wool on some items, it should not be used on any kind of aluminum as it can cause pitting.