Abstract: Methods and compositions for cleaning and protecting metal are disclosed, particularly useful in cleaning chrome and chrome plated surfaces. The composition comprises 40 to 75% of compounds selected from the group of anhydrous oxides of metals in Group IIA of the periodic table, 12 to 30% silicon dioxide, 2 to 20% of compounds selected from the group of anhydrous aluminum and borate oxides, 0.25 to 10% of anhydrous carbonates or hydroxides of metals selected from Group IA of the periodic table and 0.5 to 3% of silicates of metals in Groups IA and IIA of the periodic table.