Using Clorox or other bleach-based cleaners on metal surfaces is a common cleaning strategy, but it does come with some risks. While bleach can effectively remove stains, dirt, mold, and other buildup from metal, improper use can lead to corrosion, discoloration, and damage over time. Understanding proper usage, dilution, application, and safety precautions allows you to safely incorporate Clorox into your metal cleaning regimen.
The Short Answer
Yes, you can use Clorox to clean metal surfaces in most cases. However, there are a few important caveats:
- Dilute Clorox with water before applying it to metal.
- Avoid soaking metal in bleach for extended periods of time.
- Rinse surfaces thoroughly after cleaning.
- Test Clorox on a small, inconspicuous area first to check for discoloration or damage.
- Take care when using it on aluminum, copper, brass or other soft metals.
As long as it’s used properly, diluted, and rinsed off, Clorox can be an effective cleaner for materials like stainless steel, chrome, porcelain, and sealed metals. However, it’s generally not recommended for long-term use on soft, unsealed metals.
How Does Clorox Interact With Metal?
Bleach-based cleaners like Clorox contain sodium hypochlorite, which serves as an effective disinfectant and cleaning agent. When sodium hypochlorite interacts with metals, a chemical reaction occurs:
- The sodium hypochlorite breaks down due to the metal’s ions.
- This releases nascent (atomic) oxygen and chlorine gas.
- The atomic oxygen oxidizes and removes organic compounds and stains.
- The chlorine gas disinfects surfaces.
This reaction is beneficial for cleaning and disinfecting purposes. However, if left on a metal surface for too long, the oxidation can start to break down the protective finish and attack the metal itself.
Effects on Stainless Steel
Stainless steel contains chromium, which forms an inert, protective oxide layer on the surface. This prevents deeper corrosion. While bleaches can gradually attack this layer, stainless steel remains highly resistant as long as the Clorox is diluted and not left to sit.
Effects on Other Metals
Softer, more reactive metals like aluminum, copper, and brass lack a strong protective oxide barrier. Prolonged exposure to bleach can start to cause pitting, discoloration, and corrosion damage over time as the oxidation breaks down the metal surface. However, these effects generally occur with more concentrated, extended bleach exposure.
Can You Use Clorox on Specific Metals?
When using Clorox on metal, it’s important to consider the specific type of metal and how prone it is to corrosion damage. Here is a breakdown for common metals:
Stainless Steel
Clorox can typically be used safely on stainless steel. Just be sure to:
- Dilute it with water.
- Rinse it thoroughly afterward.
- Avoid soaking or prolonged exposure.
This will allow you to take advantage of bleach’s cleaning power while minimizing any potential damage to the protective chroming layer.
Aluminum
Clorox is not generally recommended for aluminum. The oxidizing effects can lead to pitting, corrosion, and discoloration relatively quickly. Avoid using bleach when cleaning aluminum surfaces like pots, pans, foil, furniture, or infrastructure.
Chrome
Chrome has excellent corrosion resistance, similar to stainless steel. Diluted bleach may be used on chrome fixtures, appliances, automotive parts, and other items as long as it is rinsed off quickly and thoroughly.
Copper
Avoid exposing copper surfaces like pipes, cookware, architectural elements, and electronics to Clorox or other bleaches. The oxidation can degrade and discolor the copper relatively quickly.
Brass
Brass and bronze contain copper, so they are also susceptible to damage from bleach exposure. Limit use of Clorox on brass fixtures, hardware, musical instruments, valves, and other brass items.
Carbon Steel
Carbon steel is also prone to corrosion from bleach. Avoid prolonged use on tools, knives, appliances, furniture, and other carbon steel items.
Sterling Silver
Sterling silver tarnishes as it reacts with sulfur compounds in the air. Bleach cleans tarnish from silver by oxidizing it back into a silver compound. However, it can lead to excessive tarnishing over time with frequent use. Use Clorox sparingly on silver objects.
Porcelain Enamel
Porcelain enamel coatings on sinks, tubs, appliances and more are durable and resistant to bleach. Clorox-based cleaners are fine for routine cleaning of porcelain enamel.
Sealed Metals
Metals with a protective coating of enamel, paint, or lacquer are less prone to corrosion from bleach. Clorox is generally considered safe on sealed metals as long as you avoid abrasive scrubbing that could remove the coating.
Proper Dilution of Clorox
It’s crucial to dilute Clorox with water before applying it to metal surfaces. The sodium hypochlorite concentration directly affects its corrosiveness. For cleaning purposes, aim for a solution of:
- 1 part bleach to 4-8 parts water for tough stains.
- 1 part bleach to 16-32 parts water for everyday cleaning.
Start with a higher dilution like 1:32 and spot test first when in doubt.
What’s the Best Dilution Ratio for Metals?
For more corrosion-prone metals, higher dilutions are better:
- Stainless steel – 1:16 to 1:32 dilution with water
- Chrome – 1:16 to 1:32 dilution
- Sterling silver – 1:32 dilution or higher
- Copper, brass, bronze – Avoid bleach entirely
- Aluminum – Avoid bleach entirely
The more concentrated the bleach, the higher the risk of chemical damage to metal over time. Stick with thorough rinsing as well.
Safe Use Instructions
Here are some best practices when using Clorox or other bleach cleaners on metal surfaces:
- Check the metal type and condition. Severely corroded and porous surfaces are more vulnerable to damage.
- Dilute the bleach thoroughly with cool water according to the recommendations above.
- Wear gloves and eye protection to avoid skin and eye exposure when handling bleach.
- Spot test the bleach solution on an inconspicuous area first.
- Use a soft cloth to apply the diluted bleach and let it sit for 2-3 minutes max.
- Agitate gently with a soft brush if needed for stubborn stains.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water afterward to remove all bleach residue.
- Dry with a clean soft towel.
- Repeat if needed for heavy staining, rinsing thoroughly between applications.
- Avoid soaking metals in bleach solution for extended periods.
Cleaning Metal Surfaces with Clorox
Clorox can be used to clean and disinfect a variety of metal surfaces throughout your home when done properly. Here are some examples:
Stainless Steel Sinks
Use a diluted Clorox-water solution to eliminate stains, disinfect, and deodorize stainless steel sinks. Rinse thoroughly after scrubbing and wiping down. Avoid abrasive scrubbers.
Chrome Fixtures
Bathroom fixtures and kitchen faucets with chrome plating can be cleaned with diluted Clorox. It will help remove soap scum, mineral deposits, and bacteria buildup.
Metal Countertops
Stainless steel countertops can develop fingerprints, spills, food residue, and grime over time. A Clorox cleaning restores shine and sanitizes the surface.
Stainless Steel Appliances
Use diluted bleach solution to clean stainless fridges, ovens, and other kitchen appliances. Rinse thoroughly afterward to prevent corrosion over time.
Enameled Cast Iron
Enameled cast iron sinks and tubs can start to stain and feel grimy. Clorox removes buildup and sanitizes without harming the enamel coating.
Outdoor Metal Furniture
Mold, mildew, and environmental grime can accumulate on outdoor metal patio sets. A bleach cleaning helps remove this buildup from stainless steel, sealed metals, and chrome.
Metal Backsplashes
Clean backsplashes made of tin, stainless steel, or other metal with diluted Clorox. Avoid more porous unsealed metals.
Sterling Silver Jewelry
Soak tarnished silver jewelry for 2-3 minutes max in a diluted bleach bath. Rinse thoroughly and dry to restore shine.
Alternative Cleaners
While Clorox can be an effective metal cleaner with proper use, alternatives are better suited for routine long-term care. Some options include:
Dish Soap
Dish soap effectively cuts through grease, oils, and grime on metal surfaces. Use warm water and soft scrub brushes as needed. Rinse thoroughly and follow with a stainless steel polish.
Baking Soda
Make a paste with baking soda, water, and gentle scrubbing to remove grime from stainless steel and other metals. Baking soda is abrasive enough to lift stains but gentle enough not to scratch.
White Vinegar
The acetic acid in vinegar shines and cleans chrome, stainless steel, and other metals. Dilute with water and rinse thoroughly. Avoid more reactive metals like brass and copper.
Ammonia
Like vinegar, ammonia can boost shine and remove dirt buildup on metal through gentle oxidation. Avoid use on silver and limit time on brass and copper to prevent discoloration.
Metal Polishes
Specialized metal cleaning waxes, polishes, and sealants can clean, shine, and protect stainless steel and other metals without bleach risks. Apply polishes like Bar Keepers Friend with a soft cloth.
Preventing Damage from Bleach
To keep metal surfaces looking their best over the long term when using Clorox or other bleach cleaners, keep these tips in mind:
- Always dilute bleach thoroughly with cool water – never use full strength.
- Spot test bleach solutions first before overall application.
- Limit bleach exposure time on metal to 2-3 minutes max.
- Rinse surfaces very thoroughly with clean water to remove all bleach reside.
- Wipe metal down with polish or protectant after rinsing off bleach.
- Avoid soaking metals in bleach solutions – use only for direct spot cleaning.
- Consider alternative daily cleaners like dish soap, vinegar, baking soda etc.
- Avoid excessive scrubbing that could damage protective finishes on metal.
- Use bleach cleaners sparingly instead of for daily cleaning.
Being cautious with bleach prevents corrosion, pitting, and damage to the integrity and appearance of metal over time.
FAQs
Can I mix Clorox with other cleaners when cleaning metal?
It’s generally not recommended. Mixing bleach with acidic cleaners like vinegar can create toxic chlorine gas. Combining it with ammonia creates toxic chloramine vapor. Stick to water dilutions only when working with Clorox on metals.
How long can Clorox sit on metal before rinsing?
Aim to rinse Clorox off metal within 2-3 minutes max. Any longer, and you risk damage from corrosion, especially on untreated reactive metals.
What ratio of Clorox to water should I use for cleaning sterling silver?
Use a dilution of 1 part bleach to at least 32 parts cold water when cleaning sterling silver. Soak briefly and rinse thoroughly to avoid excessive tarnishing over time.
Can I use bleach wipes to clean stainless steel appliances?
Pre-moistened bleach wipes make cleaning stainless appliances quick and convenient. However, take care to wipe down appliances thoroughly with a dry cloth afterward to remove all bleach residue.
What temperature water should I use to dilute Clorox for metal cleaning?
Always use cool water rather than hot or warm water when diluting bleach. Heat accelerates its oxidizing and corrosive effects, increasing risks of metal damage.
Can I use a bleach-based bathroom cleaner on a chrome tub fixture?
Yes, bathroom cleaners containing diluted bleach are generally fine for chrome tub and sink fixtures. Follow any contact time instructions and rinse thoroughly. Avoid more aggressive scrubbing.
Conclusion
Clorox and other bleach-based cleaners can be effective for cleaning metal surfaces like stainless steel as long as proper care is taken. Always dilute bleach thoroughly with cool water, limit contact time, rinse completely, and avoid more reactive metals like aluminum and copper. With cautious use, Clorox can safely tackle tough stains and disinfect metal without leading to corrosion damage over time.