Porcelain is one of the most widely used materials in household utensils and decorative objects. It is known for its hardness, ability to withstand high weights for hours, excellent density, minimal porosity, low absorption level, impermeability, and, undoubtedly, its beautiful appearance and soft touch. It is resistant to reagents and chemical cleaning compounds; however, it is vital to clean it properly to present its optimum appearance and shine.
We have already told you how to clean and remove stains from coffee/tea cups, and today we want to show you how to clean porcelain correctly no matter where it is located and without using toxic chemicals. Learn the natural alternatives for their cleanliness and how to make the most of them for cleaning areas such as the kitchen or the bathroom where so much dirt and grease is concentrated. Pay attention, and this is of interest to you!
How to clean porcelain and make it shine with 3 ingredients
The origin of porcelain comes from fire-hardened clay, and you can find it in kitchen objects such as cups, plates, and teapots, as well as parts of the bathroom such as the toilet, the sink, and even the bathtub. Although it is durable and can withstand quite a lot of weight, it is essential to clean it with substances that do not mistreat it or rub it with metallic scouring pads that scratch it.
The most recommended homemade trick is using white vinegar and baking soda, an ideal duo to remove dirt, and stains, disinfect, neutralize annoying odors, and polish surfaces. So, if your goal is to learn how to whiten porcelain and clean stained china, take note of this procedure that, besides being effective, is very easy and economical:
- First of all, it is essential to remove dust and any residual solid particles. To do this, moisten a microfiber cloth with water and wipe gently over the surface. Remember that this type of rags is the idea, as they pick up dirt better and do not move it from one side to the other. If necessary, use a soft bristle brush to remove dust from nooks and crannies.
- Once this is done, fill a large container with half a liter of warm water -or more, depending on what is to be cleaned-, and add four tablespoons of baking soda and half a cup of white vinegar. Stir this mixture so that they are well integrated.
- Soak a sponge in the mixture and rub until the dirt disappears and it looks cleaner.
- Rinse with warm water and let dry on a towel.
Note: avoid abrupt temperature changes, as this could damage the porcelain, so it is not recommended to wash with hot water.
The benefit of this natural method is that it can be used to clean bathroom or kitchen tiles, kitchenware, trays, utensils, and others, since the grease-removing power of baking soda together with the acidity of the vinegar will help to remove dirt marks and even tartar stains. However, if you want to use the sink for cleaning, place a rubber mat on the bottom to lessen the impact in case of accidental drops or bumps.
Clean the porcelain this way if it is stained.
Over time, porcelain may become stained due to regular use, mineral deposits, or surface roughness that retains dirt. If this is the case, we are pleased to inform you that there are ways to make it regain its normal shine; see what they are:
- Hydrogen peroxide (hydrogen peroxide): spray on the stain, leave for 20 minutes, scrub with a sponge and rinse with warm water.
- Baking soda paste: Coat the porcelain piece in baking soda moistened in water and rub gently for one minute.
- Salt and vinegar: make a solution of equal parts of these two components, soak the stain and let it sit for 1 hour.
If the stain is too deep, leave any of the products on for longer, use a soft bristle toothbrush, and repeat the process if the stain has not completely disappeared. Don’t forget that very abrasive cleaners, wire scouring pads, and very hot water are not recommended. Good luck!