How to Remove Soot from China

Any items near a fire can become coated with a layer of soot that is difficult to remove. When it’s on china, it can be even more difficult because some of the usual products recommended for removing soot are not safe for china. However, there are some products that can work to remove the soot without damaging the dishes. Follow the steps below.

• White vinegar
• Water
• A cloth
• Isopropyl alcohol

1. First, inspect each dish. Excess heat from the fire can cause the china to crack or the trim on it to loosen. If the china is damaged, you will need to be very gentle while cleaning it to avoid damaging it any further.
2. If you have many items to clean, fill a sink with enough water to cover the items.
3. Add two or three cups of white vinegar to the sink.
4. Let the items soak in the sink for a few minutes, then gently wipe them off with a cloth.
5. If the soot is stubborn or you only have a couple items to clean, mix equal amounts of white vinegar and water.
6. Wet a cloth with the mixture and gently clean the china.
7. If the vinegar doesn’t seem to be working, use isopropyl alcohol instead.

• Dish liquid can also be used to clean soot off china. However, be sure that the dish liquid does not contain ammonia, which can damage the glaze.
• Never use products containing bleach to clean china.
• Never use products containing ammonia to clean china.

• The Complete Household Handbook by Good Housekeeping