Learning how to clean diamond plate is the best way to protect your investment. While aluminum diamond plate is built for toughness, any surface—from a diamond plate toolbox to commercial floors or walls—can get dull from dirt, grease, or oxidation. This guide covers everything from how to clean aluminum diamond plate to the best way to clean diamond plate that's heavily oxidized. We'll also show you how to clean and polish aluminum diamond plate for a mirror shine.
Level 1: How to Clean Diamond Plate Aluminum (Routine Wash)
This is the low-maintenance method you'll use most often. For diamond plate that is just dusty, this simple method is the easiest way to clean diamond plate.
- Rinse: If possible, rinse the surface with a hose to remove any loose debris.
- Wash: Use a mild soap (like car wash soap or a simple dish detergent) and water with a soft cloth or a soft-bristle brush.
- Scrub (If Needed): For textured surfaces like floor trim, a medium-bristle brush will help get into the raised diamond pattern.
- Rinse & Dry: Rinse the surface thoroughly with clean water. This is the most important step. Do not let the soapy water air-dry, as it can leave water spots and a dull film. Dry the surface completely with a clean microfiber towel.
Level 2: How to Clean Diamond Plate with Grease or Oxidation
This is the expert method you'll need when simple soap isn't enough, especially for diamond plate in a workshop or garage. If your aluminum looks dull, cloudy, or white, you are dealing with oxidation. This is the expert method to clean aluminum diamond plate that has become dull.
- Degrease First: If the surface has heavy grease or oil, start with a degreaser (like Simple Green or a dedicated engine degreaser). Apply, let it sit for a few minutes, and scrub with a brush. Rinse completely.
- Choose Your Cleaner: For oxidation, you need a dedicated aluminum cleaner.
- Non-Acidic Cleaners: For lightly oxidized or indoor trim (like door kick plates), start with a non-acidic aluminum cleaner (often a cream or paste).
- Acidic Cleaners: For heavily oxidized, un-coated aluminum, an acid-based aluminum brightener is very effective. Warning: These are powerful chemicals. Work in a well-ventilated area, wear gloves and eye protection, and follow the manufacturer's instructions exactly.
Level 3: How to Polish Aluminum Diamond Plate for a Mirror Shine
This is the final step for restoring a brilliant, reflective finish. Warning: Do not polish your diamond plate if you want a matte or industrial look.
- Start with a Clean Surface: You must complete Level 1 or Level 2 first. Polishing a dirty surface will just scratch the metal.
- Get Your Tools:
- Polish: The right diamond plate polish is key. You'll need a high-quality diamond plate aluminum polish (a cream, like Mother's Mag & Aluminum Polish, is a popular choice).
- Applicator: A microfiber cloth (for hand polishing) or a power buffer (for large areas).
- Tools: Many consider the best aluminum polish for diamond plate to be a buffing ball or cone that attaches to a power drill, as it's the best way to polish diamond plate and get into the grooves.
- Apply the Polish: Apply a small, quarter-sized amount of polish to your cloth or buffing pad.
- Work in Sections: Work on a small 2x2 foot section at a time.
- By Hand: Apply the polish in a firm, circular motion. The cloth will turn black. This is normal.
- By Machine: Use the power buffer on a low-to-medium speed and keep the tool moving.
- Buff Off: Before the polish dries completely, use a new, clean microfiber cloth to buff off the black residue. You will be left with a brilliant, mirror-like shine.
Maintain or Replace
Keeping your aluminum diamond plate clean is straightforward.
But if your old trim is damaged beyond repair, or if you're feeling inspired to start a new project, we supply a full range of aluminum sheet metal pieces, wall trim, and floor trim for any application.
Need help with a custom project? Contact our specialists today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I clean aluminum diamond plate?
For a simple wash, use mild soap and water (Level 1). For dull, oxidized aluminum, use a dedicated aluminum cleaner (Level 2).
2. What is the best way to clean a diamond plate toolbox?
Toolboxes are often heavily oxidized. Start with Level 2, using a degreaser and a good aluminum cleaner. Then, for the best way to polish diamond plate, use Level 3 with a power-buffing ball and aluminum polish to restore the shine.
3. How do I clean a diamond plate floor?
Use Level 2. A non-acidic aluminum cleaner and a stiff deck brush are very effective. You can also use a floor buffer with a non-abrasive pad.
4. How do I clean polished aluminum diamond plate?
If your diamond plate is already polished to a mirror shine, you must be gentle. Only use Level 1 (mild soap and water). Never use acids or abrasive polishes, as they will dull the finish.
5. What is the best way to polish diamond plate?
The most effective way is to use a power tool. For the raised diamond pattern, a buffing ball or cone attached to a drill is the best way to polish the entire surface, including the grooves.
