cleaning aluminium ladders?

manhattan

does anyone have any tips on cleaning aluminium ladders?

i have got a set that have been sitting in my garden under a tree for about two years now.

i have tried cleaning them with a stiff brush and soapy water,which has removed the dirt and leaves,but there is alot of black stuff that appears on aluminium when left outside and it doesnt seem to come off with the soapy water,and everytime the ladders are touched it leaves the black metal substance on your hands.

any cleaning ideas anyone?

Lord_Gardener

Sounds like you have corrosion of the copper which is alloyed to the aluminium in your ladders - from acid rain/ pollution, etc. Try an acid based cleaner- sort used for alloy wheels etc. When clean - after rinsing and drying - give them a spray with a wax based polish to help prevent further leaching. Try to store them inside!