How to Remove Stains on Aluminum Cookware After an Unfortunate Trip Through the Dishwasher

Wash aluminum cookware by hand. But if you forget and toss it into the dishwasher, it can still be saved.

Removing dark stains from an aluminum cooking pot that has been damaged by the dishwasher can be challenging, but here are a few methods you can try to clean those stains to restore the beauty of polished aluminum—and then keep them that way. NDanko/Shutterstock

When aluminum pans get stained and discolored from frequent use, it’s time for a thorough cleaning. But what happens when these pieces appear to be all but ready for the landfill after an unfortunate trip through the dishwasher?

Dear Cheapskate: I inherited a lovely set of vintage aluminum cookware. For some reason, I assumed I could clean these pans in the dishwasher. Well, they came out so discolored they are no longer pretty. I have tried a couple of cleaning methods that did nothing to restore their beauty. Do you have any suggestions?—Ina