How do I clean dirty, discolored aluminum without damaging finish?

Try this link for some help:

https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-Oxidized-Aluminum

Where is the aluminum and what sort of an object is it?

Flipturn raises a good point. What are you cleaning?

Here is a link that might help you:

https://www.homequestionsanswered.com/what-is-the-best-way-to-clean-aluminum.htm

How to Clean Oxidized Aluminum

https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-Oxidized-Aluminum

Hi Susan

Here is info for you https://www.infobloom.com/what-is-the-best-way-to-clean-aluminum.htm

Krud Kutter makes a house washer for aluminum siding that should be good.

Simple Green also makes a product - Oxy Solve House & Siding Cleaner - you mix 1-1/2 cups to a gallon of water.

This may help: https://offbeatbros.com/how-to-clean-aluminum/

Mix 1 tablespoon white vinegar with 2 cups of warm water in a bucket or use this ratio to make a larger amount, depending on what you are cleaning. Wet a cloth or non-abrasive pad in the vinegar-water mixture and then use it to clean the aluminum surface gently.

Here is a gentle recipe for cleaning aluminum: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TH-GyGj8Z7M

I would try the mildest solutions first, like hot soapy water and a sponge.

I would try CLR and a magic eraser

I scoured my aluminum storm door with soapy water and a stainless steel scrubbing pad. Not a brillo but a true stainless steel pad. It came out very nice. Hard to say what piece of aluminum you are trying to clean. They make cleaners especially for aluminum and tons of home made ones on line.

Magic eraser!

Not sure what you are cleaning but I would try a baking soda and vinegar mixture. I know it works on aluminum pans very well.