Which of the following are acceptable to use in cleaning anodized surfaces?

• A. Steel wool
• B. Aluminum wool and Fiber bristle brush
• C. Brass wire brush
• D. Stainless steel wire brush

Answer: (B)

Cleaning anodized surfaces requires tools that won’t scratch or remove the oxide coating. The anodized layer is protective and relatively soft, so using harder metal abrasives can gouge or strip it, exposing bare aluminum and increasing corrosion risk. Aluminum wool is gentle enough to lift off grime without scratching the coating, and a fiber bristle brush provides effective cleaning action without metal-to-surface abrasion. Together, they preserve the integrity of the anodized finish.

Harder metal tools, like steel wool or brushes made from brass or stainless steel, can scratch or remove the anodized layer and are not recommended for this purpose.