What causes aluminum to discolor? Can discoloration be removed?
In some localities water contains minerals and alkalines which may be deposited on the inside surface of aluminum pans, causing some discoloration. This does not affect the use of the utensil nor the food prepared in it. Stains or discolorations that may appear on aluminum utensils can be removed by boiling a solution of two to three tablespoons of cream of tartar, lemon juice or vinegar to each quart of water in the utensil for five to ten minutes. Then scour lightly with a soap-filled scouring pad.