Cleaning cans that are NOT rusted.

[strumm]

Hi,

I realize this forum is the rusty bunch, but what is the best way to clean cans that are NOT rusted. I recently pulled down my beer can collection of 1000 cans from the attic. There are a couple that got rust that were exposed and water got to them, but for the most part they are just Dirty with 30 years of dirt.

Is water ok, or will that induce rust? What is best?

thanks!

[DaveNH]

Hi welcome to the Rusty Bunch. We’re not just about rust, we’re about all things breweriana and like shiny cans too Yes, water is fine and if you’d like add a little dish soap too. Rinse with clean water then you can spray them with WD40 or some guys wax them to keep them looking good. Check out our section on cleaning and repairing cans. Good luck. I bet you remembered some of your cans and where you got them. I did after 34 hiatus.

[strumm]

Thanks Dave!

Yes, lots of instant memories of all the various trades I made with my school friends. Digging garbage cans, searching the creek...

[Scott Rollert]

Simple Green is very good for cleaning up non rusted cans.