How to Bleach Pottery Cracks

Clay pots are prone to cracking and flaking.

While pottery pieces figure prominently in both contemporary and traditional interior design throughout the world, they are particularly prone to cracking and flaking. Cold weather, dust and dirt can all contribute to the decomposition of clay ornaments, which are expensive and often impossible to fix. Bleaching pottery cracks will help stabilize the structure of the ornament to prevent further cracking or flaking and extend the life of the piece.

Things You'll Need

• Chlorine bleach powder (Sodium hypochlorite)
• Bowl
• Small paintbrush
• Paper towel

Instructions

1. Mix 1 teaspoon of chlorine bleach powder with a small amount of tap water in a bowl to create a paste.

2. Paint the paste liberally over each crack in your pottery piece with a paintbrush for three minutes.

3. Fill your kitchen sink with warm water. Place the pottery into the kitchen sink to ensure the bleach paste is entirely removed from the pottery and avoid damaging the piece.

4. Remove the pottery from the kitchen sink after 24 hours, and dry it thoroughly with a paper towel.

References

• Antique Restorers: Bleaching
• Netlaputa: How to Care for Ceramics
• Demesne: Caring for Terra Cotta Pots