Galvanized Bucket Care And Maintenance
Galvanized buckets are very versatile as you can use it as a storage for your knick knacks, you can use it as a beverage cooler, you can also use it as a planter, as a gift bag, you can also use it for arts and crafts and so many more—your creativity is the limit. If you own one then you should also know how to care for your galvanized buckets.
From research a galvanized bucket is steel coated with zinc. The zinc coating is applied to the bucket to prevent rust from going through the steel beneath. The zinc coating which may appear over time leaching to the surface of the bucket and may look like a milky film is a kind of protection for the bucket against rust and should not be rubbed off.
Wash the galvanized bucket inside and out with soap and water. Use a sponge to get the dirt and grime off. Do not scrub too vigorously since you might remove the zinc coating. Rinse and dry with a clean cloth. Use a solvent-based cleaner, like mineral spirits on a clean cloth to remove grease, oils and other particulates. It may also take some little elbow grease to get some grease or oil off. The solvent may be used since it will not disturb the galvanized metal. Rinse with warm water and dry. Use light weight oil on a clean cloth to further remove any grease. Apply a thin coat of car wax with a clean cloth or sponge to the galvanized bucket to add some glint and shine on to your bucket. When the wax dries buff it to have a satin finish. This protective layer will keep the bucket looking new.
According to research keep acid based substances like citrus juices, vinegar and some cleaning solvents from contacting with the galvanized since it will turn the color of the bucket in a dark gray color and there is no remedy in removing it. Don’t ever heat the galvanized steel since heat will cause the zinc to evaporate and emits fumes that are very harmful and can be fatal.
Galvanized bucket care should be considered to have presentable and quality buckets for years to come. Galvanized buckets are sold with various sizes and styles so take your pick and be creative with them.