Ceramic is an aesthetically pleasing material that adds style and elegance to any room or surface.
However, it is not without its drawbacks, one of them being that ceramic can be challenging to clean. If you’ve ever tried removing glaze from ceramic without knowing how to remove glaze from ceramic, then you understand how frustrating this process is.
But don’t worry, there are some easy ways to get your ceramic back in excellent condition again with minimal effort on your part.
What is Glaze?
The glaze is a high-temperature coating of the same materials used to make ceramic. It is often applied in order to allow for enhanced resistance to stains and water damage.
While many people love the look of glazed ceramics, it can actually be more troublesome than traditional clay pieces because it contains both water and oil-based elements.
Why Can It Be Difficult to Remove from Ceramic?
Even though ceramic is naturally resistant to stains and water damage, the glaze can make matters worse. The presence of oil in the glaze makes it prone to sticking around on porous surfaces for an extended period of time.
This is because oil-based materials often repel other substances that would otherwise be able to remove them. If you’ve ever tried cleaning a glazed ceramic tile with soap and water, you likely know how difficult this can be.
In some cases, the oil-based glaze may even be impossible to remove without harsh chemicals or other specific products that are specially made for removing glaze from ceramic pieces.
How to Remove Glaze from Ceramic Without Damaging It?
There are various methods you can use for removing glaze from ceramic, but they involve using products that may be difficult to find or cause damage to the material.
Luckily, some other simple home remedies rely on items you probably already have in your kitchen.
1. Use Oil and Salt:
If you have oil and salt in your house, you can begin removing glaze from ceramic right away. All you have to do is combine one tablespoon of each in a small container, then use a sponge or soft cloth to rub the mixture onto the glazed surface gently.
2. Use Olive Oil:
You can also use olive oil to remove the glaze from the ceramic piece. All you have to do is soak a soft cloth in some olive oil and gently rub it onto the glazed surface of your ceramic tile.
3. Use Vinegar:
If you have white vinegar, this can also be used to loosen the glaze on your ceramic before using one of the methods listed above. All you have to do is soak an old cloth in white vinegar and use it to rub the glazed surface of your ceramic, then let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing with warm water and drying.
4. Use Ammonia:
If you’d prefer not to use vinegar, you can also use Ammonia to remove the glaze from the ceramic. All you have to do is soak a soft cloth in some ammonia before rubbing the affected surface of your ceramic with it, then set it aside for an hour or two before rinsing with water and drying.
5. Use Dish Soap:
You can also use dish soap to clean the glaze layer from your ceramic. Just fill a container with dish soap and water, then soak a soft cloth in the liquid before rubbing it onto the affected surface of your ceramic. This method is more difficult than the others because you have to be extra careful not to damage or scratch the glazed surface.
6. Use Oil-Based Polish:
If you’d prefer not to use any dangerous chemicals or run the risk of scratching your ceramic piece, you can use an oil-based polish instead.
All you have to do is rub some oil-based polish onto the glazed surface of your ceramic, then let it sit for a few minutes before wiping with a clean cloth and washing with soap and water.
8. Use Sandpaper:
If you’re trying to remove the glaze from ceramic products that have already begun to be damaged, sandpaper can come in handy.
All you have to do is wrap some fine-grit sandpaper around a small block of wood, then rub it against the glazed surface of your ceramic until the glaze comes off.
9. Use Baking Soda:
You can also use baking soda in place of sandpaper to remove the glaze from ceramic pieces. All you have to do is mix some water with baking soda until it forms a thick paste, then rub your amount gently with it before rinsing and using soap and water to wash it.
10. Use Toothpaste:
Thanks to its abrasive properties, plain toothpaste can also be used in baking soda or sandpaper to remove the glaze from ceramic pieces. All you have to do is gently rub some toothpaste on the glazed surface of your ceramic with a soft cloth before rinsing with water and using a soap-based cleaner to wash it.
These are the most effective ways to remove the glaze surface from ceramic. If you take your time and use caution when working with your ceramic piece, or if you’re trying to get rid of minor glaze damage, any of these methods will help get the job done.
Why Should You Remove It?
The glaze is a highly durable substance that protects ceramics from wear and tear, which is why it’s usually applied to functional tableware pieces. When the glaze is scratched or chipped, it becomes challenging and risky for the ceramic to be cleaned.
Small scratches and chips will not affect the overall appearance of your ceramic piece, but they can cause the glaze to become stained and dirty or even take on an unpleasant appearance. The best way to avoid this problem is by removing the glaze from your ceramic piece before it gets damaged.
How to Protect Your Ceramic Against Future Staining?
There are a few steps you can take to protect your ceramic against staining and damage.
- Wash your ceramic before glazing it.
- Do not overfill pots during cooking, as the food may spill and stain the clear glaze of your ceramic pottery pieces.
- Use a cut-resistant pot holder for moving hot ceramics out of the oven or stovetop.
- Always use a trivet on tables and countertops to prevent damage and staining.
- Do not move your ceramic glazing ware while it is hot; let it cool before setting it down again.
- Always use the proper cleaning tools when washing your ceramic, and avoid harsh chemicals.
- Use ceramic glaze-friendly cleaners on the tile surface, such as Bar Keepers Friend, Bon Ami Powder Cleanser, Cerama Bryte Cleaner & paint Polish, Deb Green’s Famous Paste & underglaze Remover, or Soft Scrub Cleanser.
- If possible, hand-wash your ceramic instead of putting it through the dishwasher.
- Place hot ceramics on a tea towel or trivet for easier handling and to prevent damage to surfaces, tableware, and floors.
- Store fragile items in sturdy containers with soft fabric liners or cotton balls.
Through these simple steps, you’ll be able to deflect most damage from the glazed porcelain tile of your ceramic ware and keep your favorite pieces looking their best for a long time to come.
Conclusion
Ceramic ware is a beautiful addition to any kitchen, and with the proper care and maintenance, it can last for years. By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to protect your ceramic against staining and damage and keep it looking its best for many years to come. Thanks for reading.
