There's just something about shiny chrome that makes auto fans swoon. Perhaps it's the shine, or maybe the clean, classy look. But whatever the case, chrome is an automobile mainstay that does require a little care. From chrome plated accents to wheel and rim covers, chrome items must be cared for correctly to last and look beautiful.

Thanks to its properties, chrome can stay looking good all the time. When it comes to chrome, there are a number of other uses beyond auto rims, too. Chrome is commonly used on appliances, furniture or more. It's chosen because it looks good and it's generally easy to clean.

Chrome plating itself is a finishing treatment that involves the application of the metallic sheen to a surface. When properly created, it produces a mirror like image that's a favorite look in automobiles, appliances and furniture alike. Shiny, sleek and very modern looking, chrome plating is commonplace, but considered beautiful nonetheless. This metallic coating is considered the tops for all kinds of purposes, but auto especially. This is because of the fact it is durable and generally pretty resistant to problems. This, of course, doesn't meant it can't and won't get dirty.

It does and it will. Chrome is subject to having grease get stuck on it in the auto world, food burned on it in kitchens and dirt and grime as well in other applications. To ensure the chrome plating stays looking pretty and shiny does take a little work - but not much. Thanks to its slick surface, chrome typically can be cleaned pretty easily. A tiny bit of elbow grease is generally all it takes. Start out cleaning chrome by getting warm water and adding a very mild detergent to it.

Soaps such as dish detergents generally will do the trick when applied with a soft cloth or sponge. Steer clear of abrasive materials as they might scratch the chrome, leaving it looking damaged. If a mild detergent won't remove the gunk on the chrome, step up the cleaning process to include vinegar or even baking soda. For burned on foods or grease, try specialty cleaners or silver polish.

Remember, chrome is pretty easy to clean, but it doesn't like abrasives. Avoid harsh chemicals and serious scrubbing. Rather, bathe the chrome surface in water and mild cleaners to gently lift off stuck on particles. It might take a few tries to completely remove a burned on spill, but the effort will be worth it if no permanent damage is done to the surface.

Chrome itself is pretty resilient when it's treated with care. Once it's cleaned, a simple wax product can sometimes help a repeat of a stuck on stain getting stuck in the first place. Just make sure to use products that are recommended for chrome and avoid any harsh scrubbing or abrasives. When it's treated with care, chrome will look beautiful for a lifetime.

If it's abused, it will scratch and simply look awful.

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Chrome plating.