How to clean treated metals? The complete guide

Metals that have undergone surface treatments - such as phosphating, nickel plating or chrome plating - are designed to last and resist corrosion. However, to ensure their functionality and aesthetic appearance, it is important to know the correct cleaning and maintenance techniques.

Why is it important to clean treated metals regularly?

Over time, even the most resistant coatings can be compromised by

• Industrial or environmental dust
• Acid rain
• Chemical agents
• Organic or oily residues

Inadequate cleaning can shorten the life of the protective treatment or encourage the adhesion of corrosive substances. On the other hand, regular metal cleaning helps preserve the effectiveness of coatings and prevent irreversible damage.

How should you clean metals?

For most treated metals, it is advisable to:

• Use tepid water and neutral soap, avoiding aggressive or abrasive detergents.
• Always dry surfaces to limit the action of humidity.
• Avoid abrasive tools (such as metal sponges or hard brushes), which could scratch or remove the coating.
• For difficult parts, prefer microfibre cloths or soft plastic brushes.

In the industrial context, follow the specific instructions of the surface treatment applied: for example, the cleaning of a phosphatized coating is different from that of a chrome plating.

Polishing and aesthetic maintenance

In some applications, especially in visible environments (such as metal furniture, displays, exterior panels), a polishing treatment may also be useful to improve the visual appearance and even out the surface.

Caution though: not all treated metals can be polished! It is essential to know precisely the type of coating on the surface.
In addition, it is best to avoid any polishing that is too vigorous unless expressly indicated by the treatment manufacturer, and only work on surfaces that are compatible with gentle cleaning so as not to compromise their protective properties.

Best practices for lasting maintenance

• Schedule periodic cleaning, at least seasonally, especially in damp or weathered environments.
• Avoid water stagnation or dust accumulation.
• Check the integrity of coatings regularly and report any anomalies.
• In an industrial environment, also include preventive maintenance to extend service life.

Conclusion

Taking care of treated metals means investing in the durability and safety of installations, structures and mechanical components. For this reason, proper cleaning and maintenance is essential to preserve their technical characteristics and helps to enhance their aesthetic appearance.