Best Method for Cleaning Aluminum Handrails

As a homeowner, you have plenty of maintenance to worry about. Cleaning your handrails shouldn’t be a taxing item on your weekend to-do list. Fortunately, if you have aluminum handrails, you know that they require very little upkeep. These durable, attractive, and affordable railings are virtually maintenance-free – still, life happens, and you might find that your railings are in need of a little TLC after a heavy storm or a particularly devious flock of pigeons. We’ve researched the best method for cleaning aluminum handrails so you can keep your handrails sparkling.

Best Method for Cleaning Aluminum Handrails

Once a Month: Quick Once-Over

Aluminum railings are extremely durable, which means they maintain their luster for years with virtually no maintenance. However, it can be beneficial to give them a quick once-over occasionally to make sure they stay free of potentially harmful debris. Hosing your railing down once a month is usually enough to clean your railing of any mud, dust, or dirt. Monthly cleanings are also a great way to save yourself a scrubbing down the line.

Once a Year: Deep Cleaning

If you choose to forgo the occasional railing hose-down, you might find yourself dealing with tougher debris. If your railing is coated in hardened mud or debris from birds or insects, a more rigorous cleaning session is definitely in order. Rest easy, though – this isn’t something that you should need to do more than once a year. Deep cleanings are usually beneficial at the end of a long, snowy winter or a pollen-heavy spring. To keep your handrail in great shape, plan an annual scrubbing with a sponge, mild soap, and water. Make sure to avoid abrasive scrubbing sponges or steel wool, as these can scratch your aluminum railing and remove the powder coating. While you’re conducting your deep clean, make sure to pay special attention to hinges and fasteners, which are prone to rust.

Once in a Blue Moon: Stubborn Grime

If you’re hosing your railing down regularly and engaging in annual deep clean sessions, you shouldn’t encounter much stubborn grime at all. However, if it’s been a while since your last cleaning, you can make an easy DIY cleaner that will tackle any grime. Try this recipe:

• 1/3 cup powdered detergent
• 2/3 cup household cleaner
• 1 gallon water

Wipe down the railing, hinges, and fasteners with this solution, and then rinse it off with water immediately after. This gentle solution will leave your handrail sparkling without wearing away the coating.

Cleaning Powder Coating

If your aluminum railing has a powder coating, you’re in luck. Powder coating is one of the best ways to keep your aluminum railing looking great and functioning perfectly. However, you might find that your coating has developed a light, chalky layer of powder after several years. This is nothing to worry about, and it can be easily removed with the DIY railing cleaner mentioned above. Just give it a gentle scrubbing and a rinse, and you should see the chalky layer fade.

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Aluminum handrails are some of the most durable, attractive handrails on the market. While these railings are known for being maintenance-free, you may need to touch them up every once in a while. Fortunately, that process is usually as easy as a little soap and water.

At Aluminum Handrail Direct, we’re committed to providing high-quality aluminum handrails that are durable, maintenance-free, affordable, and attractive. If you have questions about the best method for cleaning aluminum handrails or are searching for a handrail system that is perfect for your needs, visit our online store today.