How to Clean Antique Porcelain and Pottery
Using these methods, you no longer need to fear ruining the beautiful glaze on that fancy vase you inherited years ago.
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You Will Need
- A soft dusting cloth
- Adhesive remover
- Two plastic bins
- Towels
- Mild dishwashing soap
- Paper towels
Steps
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Step 1
Wipe off dust
Dust the item with a soft dusting cloth.
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Step 2
Remove adhesive
Use adhesive remover to remove glue or tape residue from the piece.
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Step 3
Line bins with towels
Line each bin with towels.
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Covering the sides and bottoms of the bins helps keep your precious antiques from getting damaged while being cleaned.
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Step 4
Fill bins or sink with water
Fill the plastic bins with warm water.
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Step 5
Add soap
Add a quarter-sized amount of mild dishwashing soap to one of the bins.
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Step 6
Hand wash
Hand wash the pottery or porcelain in the soapy water, being careful on raised areas.
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If any part of the porcelain or pottery appears damaged, do not attempt to clean it until it has been repaired by a professional.
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Step 7
Rinse
Rinse off the piece in the bin with clean water.
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Step 8
Pat dry
Pat the item dry with paper towels. Let it sit on paper towels to ensure it is completely dry before putting it away.
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During the Ming dynasty, Chinese potters perfected the use of cobalt for painting scenes in blue underneath a glaze, a technique that quickly spread throughout the world.
