Article submitted by Article Dom.

External or curbside mailboxes are exposed to all sorts of changes in weather, from temperatures as high as 101-136 ºF to heavy snowfall. Therefore, cleaning and taking care for your mailbox is important. It is just like caring for any powder coated metal. Here are some tips on cleaning and looking after your mailbox from California Mailboxes.

The first step in cleaning up your mailbox includes a good wash and wax from time to time. It is recommended to wash the mailbox every 6 months or so, depending on the condition of the mailbox. This can be done by using a soft bristle brush and a mixture of dish soap and warm water.

After washing your mailbox, a clear coat of wax can be applied.

If the finish is textured, then use a clear variety wax. This will prevent the discoloration of the mailbox.

If the mailbox is ever scratched to the point that the powder coat is compromised, rust could develop. Therefore, it is important that you immediately apply a coat of paint, in a similar color, to prevent the rusting of the metal

Avoid using abrasive cleaners as they may damage the mailbox surface. The harsh chemicals must be immediately rinsed off with the help of a milder cleaner followed by a water rinse.

In case of commercial mailboxes that have been installed in coastal climates, where fog is prevalent, the recurrent cycles of condensation and drying from the climate can create a heavy build-up of atmospheric salts and dirt that may adhere to the mailbox units. It is advisable to clean the cluster mailbox units more frequently than one would with units that are installed in non-coastal areas.

For commercial mailboxes that have been vandalized by graffiti, it is often possible to remove spray-painted or marker-applied graffiti by using a mild, petroleum-based solvent, such as mineral spirits, or a strong cleaner.

These tips for most mailboxes, although you will need a different approach for recessed mailboxes.