How to Fix a Stain on a Porcelain Plate

Removing stains can take years off porcelains.

Nothing can ruin the beauty of your porcelain more than having an unsightly stain. Although hand washing with gentle soap and warm water usually does the trick to get rid of a lot of common food stains, sometimes taking a more proactive measure is needed in getting rid of more persistent and older stains.

Things You'll Need

• 40% hydrogen peroxide solution
• Protective gloves
• Sealed plastic storage box
• Soap
• Warm water
• Clean towel

Instructions

1. Put on protective gloves. Pour three to four 32-ounce bottles of 40% hydrogen peroxide into a large plastic container. Use a peroxide that is stronger than the one found at drug stores. Beauty supply stores usually contain the stronger peroxide needed to remove the stains effectively.

2. Immerse the porcelain plate into the peroxide solution, making sure that the plate is covered. Seal the container and place in a cool place, away from direct sunlight. You can keep the porcelain inside the solution for as long as you want, from one to six months. Change the solution when it appears dirty from the grime, or has a foul smell to it.

3. Unseal the container and carefully remove the porcelain plate from the solution. Inspect the plate for any damages that could have been caused from the process. Wash off the peroxide residue with mild dish detergent and warm water. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft towel.

Tips & Warnings

• If a restoration repair has been made to your porcelain, it is a good idea to skip this cleaning process and instead try to get rid of the stain by scrubbing it gently with a toothbrush in mild soap and warm water.

• Never use chlorine bleach to clean your porcelain. The bleach will destroy the piece and eat it up from the inside, causing it to crumble and decay.

References

• "How to Mend Your Treasured Porcelain, China, Glass & Pottery"; Laurence Adams Malone; 1976
• Oriental Furnishings: Porcelain Care 10
• Worth Point: How to Remove Stains from Your Antique China, Pottery, and Porcelain; Maggie Turnipseed

Resources

• Cleaning Tips.net: Cleaning Porcelain China