Alternatives to dish detergent include an orange cleaner, lemon juice, or a degreaser such as Dawn Power Dissolver. Lemon juice is good for especially tough stains. [2] X Expert Source Cleanzen Cleaning ServicesResidential Cleaning Specialists Expert Interview. 4 February 2022.

Don’t use steel wool or else the aluminum will gain small scratches.

Five minutes is often enough to clear off debris while minimizing water exposure, but for stubborn stains you can try soaking it for 30 minutes.

Remember to wear long sleeves and oven mitts when transferring boiling water. Slowly pour the water into the sink so it doesn’t splash.

Again, take precautions when transferring boiling water. Cover exposed skin and slowly pour the water into the skin.

Steel wool does help rid the aluminum of tarnish you can’t otherwise remove. Scrub back and forth rather than in a circular motion. Steel wool does scratch aluminum, so use it as a last resort.