How to Clean Alloy Rims

Alloy rims are made primarily from aluminum so they are shiner and significantly more lightweight than steel wheels; unfortunately this means that they are also easier to scratch. Do not use abrasive chemicals, wire brushes and other things that could damage their shine. Washing the wheels once a week according to the following directions is the best way to keep them clean and in good condition.

1. First: Prepare a bucket

   Fill a bucket halfway to the top with warm water and a gentle soap with degreasing agents, such as dish soap. In general, about a teaspoon per gallon can create enough foam to clean the tires thoroughly. Put the soap into the bottom of the bucket before adding water to the bucket to create more suds.

2. Second: Wash with a sponge

   Dip a large sponge made of natural fibers, or one specifically designed for washing wheels, in the bucket of soap and water. Do not use kitchen sponges with a scrubbing area as these can scratch the wheels. Dip the sponge into the bucket repeatedly to renew the soap and water and wash the rim thoroughly.

3. Third: Wash with a soft bristled brush

   Dip a soft bristled brush into the soap and water and use it to scrub areas of the wheel that did not come clean with the sponge alone. Specifically, scrub around the lug nuts, openings and other areas where contaminates can hang.

4. Fourth: Spray the wheels

   Spray the wheels off with a pressure nozzle attached to the end of a garden hose; this should knock loose any remaining debris and rinse the soap suds from the wheel and show how clean it is. If there are still any noticeably dirty spots on the wheel, repeat the process beginning with the sponge until the wheel is completely clean.

5. Fifth: Dry off the wheels

   Dry off the wheels with a soft cotton cloth to prevent water spots; this gives the shiniest final appearance and prevents dust from clinging to any remaining moisture.