Everything You Need to Know About Taking Care of An Aluminum Trailer

Aluminum trailers are bright, shiny, lightweight and corrosion-resistant. We've had a lot of requests for aluminum trailers so we started carrying them in March 2025 (see more here!). A well cared-for aluminum trailer will have great resale value as well. But like any metal, aluminum reacts with oxygen and does corrode over time, albeit at a slower rate. Here is our guide to taking care of your aluminum trailer to keep it rolling for many years!

Why is Cleaning Important?

Keeping an aluminum trailer clean is important for several reasons.  First and foremost, a clean trailer is more visually appealing and professional-looking.  If you use our trailer for business purposes, making a good impression on potential customers and clients is essential.

Secondly, maintaining a clean trailer can help prevent corrosion and other damage that can shorten its lifespan.  Aluminum trailers are susceptible to corrosion, which can weaken the metal and eventually lead to holes or leaks. Tarnished aluminum looks a blackish-brown color, and it’s weaker and more brittle than aluminum that’s not oxygenated.

Aluminum trailers can be less work compared to steel because they don’t generally corrode as fast. They will not rust in the same way, but they will corrode. However, while steel trailers usually have paint to protect the metal from rapid corrosion, aluminum trailers are never painted. If you want your aluminum trailer to stay nice and shiny as nature intended, you must remember to keep it clean.

(Standing rain water, road debris, debris from trees, oils from the street, all will cause aluminum to tarnish. The number one cause of tarnishing is road salt sitting on the trailer, as it is with steel trailers. Try to spray off your aluminum trailers when you know that these factors are caked on.)

Regular cleaning also allows you to inspect the trailer for any signs of damage or wear and tear.  By catching these issues early, you can address them before they become more serious and expensive to fix.

Safety Considerations

When cleaning an aluminum trailer, it’s important to take several safety measures to protect yourself and your trailer.  Here are a few things to keep in mind.

• Wear protective gear
• Choose the right cleaning product
• Use proper ventilation
• Secure the trailer
• Be cautious around electrical components
• Avoid high-pressure cleaning—use a steady stream of water

What tools will I need to clean my aluminum trailer?

• A soft-bristle brush to avoid scratching the aluminum
• Cleaning solution
• Water hose
• Microfiber towels
• Bucket

Cleaning Process

• Gather Materials:  Collect all the necessary materials, including a soft-bristle brush, a cleaning solution designed for aluminum trailers, a water hose, microfiber towels, a bucket, and protective gear.
• Rinse the trailer: Begin by rinsing the trailer with a gentle stream of water from the water hose and remove loose dirt and debris. Avoid power washing.
• Prepare the cleaning solution:  Mix the cleaning solution with water in a bucket according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Apply the cleaning solution:  Dip the soft-bristle brush in the cleaning solution and begin scrubbing the trailer’s surface, starting from the top and working your way down.
• Rinse the trailer again:  After scrubbing the entire trailer, rinse it thoroughly with water to remove all the cleaning solution.
• Dry the trailer:  Use a microfiber towel to dry the trailer thoroughly, paying special attention to any areas where water may collect, such as seams and corners.
• Inspect the trailer:  Take the time to inspect the trailer for any signs of damage or wear and tear, such as corrosion or dents.  Address any issues before they become more serious and expensive to fix.

Continued Maintenance

Here are five tips for keeping your aluminum trailer clean:

•  Clean your trailer regularly:  Regular cleaning is key to keeping your aluminum trailer looking its best.  Aim to clean your trailer at least once every three months, or more frequently if it’s exposed to harsh elements or heavy use.
• Use the right cleaning products:  Choose cleaning products that are specifically designed for use on aluminum trailers.  Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive tools that could damage the trailers surface.
• Rinse your trailer after use:  After each use, it’s best practice to rinse your trailer with water to remove any dirt or debris.  This will prevent buildup and make cleaning easier in the long run.
• Cover your trailer when not in use:  Covering your trailer when it’s not in use can help protect it from the elements and prevent the buildup of dirt and debris.
• Inspect your trailer regularly:  Take the time to inspect your trailer regularly for any signs of damage or wear and tear, such as corrosion or dents.  Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage and keep your trailer looking great for years to come. 

Final cautionary note

Many years down the line, if you see tarnish, you can remove tarnish and shine the aluminum with products such as Aluma-Brite. However beware of “acid washing” which will kill your trailer’s resale value. Acid washing wears down the top layer of aluminum, weakening it and changing its chemical makeup. This puts large, ugly streaks on the trailer’s exterior, leaving it looking aged and worn. Another recommended method is using a green scotch-brite pad with grit of 600 to remove the oxidized layer.

Remember, take care of your trailer and it will take care of you!