Things You'll Need:
- Soapy water made with mild dish detergent
- Sponge or clean cloth
- Solvent-type cleaner, like mineral spirits
- Warm water
- Drying cloth
- Light weight all purpose oil, like a 3-in-1
- Wax, such as car wax
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Step 1
Wash the galvanized bucket inside and out with soapy water made with mild dish detergent 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.
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Step 2
Use a solvent-based cleaner, like mineral spirits, on a clean cloth to remove grease, oils and particulates. It may take a little "elbow grease" to get some of the grease or oil off. The solvent will not disturb the galvanized metal. Rinse with warm water and dry.
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Step 3
Use a light-weight oil on a clean cloth to further remove any grease. This oil, if it is a light coat, can be left on the galvanized bucket and will not harm the zinc.
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Step 4
Apply a thin coat of car wax with a clean cloth to the bucket, if appearances are important. When the wax dries, gently buff it to a satin finish with a buffing pad or clean cloth. This protective layer will keep the bucket looking new and further inhibit any lose of the zinc coating.
