If you are washing aluminum wheels or siding, soak a cloth in hot water and hold it against the buildup to loosen it, then use a flat spatula to scrape it off.
If you are cleaning a small aluminum object, bring water and vinegar to a boil inside a pot, then take the pot off the heat and drop the aluminum object inside. Let it soak for 15 minutes, then take it out and rinse it off. If you are cleaning a large aluminum surface, soak a cloth in vinegar, then wipe it across the oxidation. Scrub with a soft-bristled brush, then wipe away the vinegar and lifted oxidation with a damp cloth. Don’t use abrasive materials like steel wool or sandpaper to scrub the surface of the aluminum. While this can scrape away oxidation, it also will scratch the surface of the aluminum and make oxidation harder to remove in the future.
You can find small containers of lemon juice at most grocery stores, which is an easier alternative than individually juicing lemons.
Since the oxidation will come off of the pot, you should not eat the foods you are cooking.
Only use commercial cleaners that are aluminum specific. Many commercial cleaners contain ammonia, trisodium phosphate and other chemicals that can be harmful to aluminum.
