How to Clean Ceramics

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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Ceramics are a great products for a variety of uses from coffee mugs to display bowls. Although these products are usually sealed, or glazed, they can start showing stains and discoloring that can detract from the appeal of the piece. Since each ceramic piece is special and unique, proper cleaning is a necessity to ensure that the piece or work isn't damaged.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Step1

Inspect your ceramic piece to ensure that the glaze on the piece isn't cracked or chipped. This could cause the glaze to start cracking on the piece or be harmed by some cleaning products. Always handle your ceramics with care to ensure that the glaze on the piece isn't harmed.

Step2

Wipe your ceramic piece down with a damp cloth. Never allow a piece to soak in water since this can cause stains in the glaze as well. Some stains can simply be removed with water and a sponge but never scrub your ceramic piece. This could cause damage to the glaze. The glaze on a ceramic piece is what protects the piece from damage and wear.

Step3

Use a gentle soap to clean your ceramic piece. You want to use only a soap that won't affect the glaze on the piece. Never use harsh cleaners since this can also damage the glaze on the piece. If you have a new ceramic piece, it is best to clean a small area that won't be noticed with the soap that you're going to use in order to make sure that the soap won't affect the ceramic.

Step4

Try a solution of vinegar and water if you have stubborn stains on your ceramic piece. A 1 to 1 mixture works best and gets rid of a variety of stains that include mineral deposits from calcium, lime and rust stains. If the glaze has darkened over time, try hydrogen peroxide to remove the stain on the piece.