How to Make Homemade Brake Dust Cleaner
Making homemade brake dust cleaner is simple and inexpensive, primarily using common household ingredients. Based on the provided information, you can create an effective solution with just two components: vinegar and Dawn dish soap.
The core of this homemade solution lies in the combination of an acidic base (vinegar) and a degreasing agent (Dawn dish soap). This mixture helps to break down and lift stubborn brake dust from your wheels.
Ingredients and Ratios
To make the cleaner, you will need:
- Vinegar
- Dawn dish soap
The reference specifies a particular ratio for optimal results.
| Ingredient | Proportion |
|---|---|
| Vinegar | Approximately 10 parts |
| Dawn Dish Soap | Approximately 1 part |
For example, if you use 10 cups of vinegar, you would add about 1 cup of Dawn dish soap. Adjust the quantities based on the amount of cleaner you wish to make, maintaining the 10:1 vinegar-to-soap ratio.
Mixing Instructions
Once you have your ingredients measured out, the process is straightforward:
- Combine Ingredients: Begin by pouring the vinegar into a suitable container, such as a spray bottle.
- Add Soap: Add Dawn dish soap to the vinegar. Aim for approximately one part soap to 10 parts vinegar.
- Secure: Screw on the cap tightly if using a bottle.
- Mix: Shake the bottle to mix the vinegar and soap thoroughly.
Your homemade brake dust cleaner is now ready to use.
Why This Works
Vinegar's acidity helps dissolve some of the contaminants in brake dust, while Dawn dish soap is known for its powerful degreasing properties, which are effective against the oily residues often found in brake dust. The combination provides a synergistic cleaning effect.
Effectiveness Note
While dedicated commercial brake dust cleaners are available, the reference notes that this inexpensive homemade cleaner works great 95% of the time, offering a cost-effective alternative for cleaning your wheels.
Remember to test the cleaner on an inconspicuous area of your wheel first to ensure compatibility, especially on sensitive finishes like polished or anodized aluminum. Always rinse the wheel thoroughly after cleaning.
