Typical items that are made of Aluminium: Window frames, some pots and pans, step ladders, outer casings of appliances can often be Aluminium (such as Fridges*, Microwaves*, Toasters*, dishwashers* etc.), crutches, bicycle frames, ski poles, some spectacle frames, geyser coffee maker, meat mincers, baking moulds, Kitchen utensils, some garden and bistro chairs, shutters, picture frames, lamp shades.

*if these kitchen items are magnetic they are likely yo be stainless steel

Aluminium vs Stainless

Aluminium is always non magnetic. Stainless is shinier compared to Aluminium, and it is a lot harder. Stainless is a greyer silvery colour, whereas aluminium is a lighter whiter type of silver (like silver jewellery).

If you are not sure, we are happy to test the metal for you. 

If an item is very old and there is some rust but it is not magnetic, it is stainless, as aluminium will never rust.

Last but not least, Aluminium is three times lighter than stainless steel. If an item feels relatively light, it is probably Aluminium. 

Think as an example of step ladders! They are fairly light, because they are typically made of aluminium. Step ladders are also a good example for the colour difference. If you hold a piece of cutlery, which is typically stainless, next to step ladders this highlights the subtle colour difference nicely!