wow -- I found your answer about cut vs. pressed glass really informative. Now I'll have to check all my vintage glass to sort out what's what.
QUESTION:
Does anyone know how to remove scale or lime deposits from glass vases? I have one square piece that must have been used as an aquarium and I can't get the scale out of it. Thanks for any suggestions!
MARYANSWER:
Thanks Linda P!
Chemicals in water causes lime scale buildup in glass... Your vase might have been used as an aquarium, it may have been in the ocean, under the kitchen sink or just used to hold flowers!! Any water residue may cause buildup: Glass must be cleaned and dried thoroughly to preserve its luster.
A good scrubbing with a soft brush and warm soapy water will remove most dirt, but is usually ineffective in removing scale stains. There are professionals whom clean antique glass. I have a few tricks you might want to try first.
Before we get started, a few don'ts ... First, never use hot water or any extreme temperature, you may crack the glass. Never scrub flint, flashed or stain glass, you will rub the finish off. To avoid scratching your glass, do not use abrasives. Do use a soft bristle brush which will not scratch your glass. Keep in mind, wet glass is slippery, wet soapy glass is an accident waiting to happen! Try wearing planter gloves with rubber grips and wash glass carefully over a soft plastic tub or foam liner in the sink.
One of the first things I try on scaled glass is Efferdent Denture cleaner (this also works on some porcelain stains...another post!) Follow the directions, let it sit. Then, use a soft brush or cloth and gently scrub the remaining lime away. From your vase description, you may have to try this more than once. Glass stovestop polishing creme with a soft brush may also work. Some use Lime Away or other bathroom lime remover. In extreme cases the chemical, muriatic acid will almost always work. If you chose this method to remove the scale, be sure to follow the directions and read all cautions on the label; wear heavy protective gloves and a mask to protect yourself from harmful fumes. Most chemicals do not mix with water and two chemicals may be dangerous if mixed together, so be sure your vase is clean and dry beforehand.
I glanced through a 1912 issue of The Houswife offered at maryantiques.com and found what could literally be called an, "old wives tale" ... A copper penny with a little white vinegar and some good but careful shakes. Of course, Bon Ami was the most advertised cleaner of that era. A newer tale ... rinse it with some Coca Cola: Another is to soak it with bicarbonate of soda /antacid. I have not experimented with these methods yet.
Remember to wash and dry your vase thoroughly after any treatment. Keep in mind, water residue .... and ceramic tile floors, are potentially damaging to your glass! Oh, for those who aren't sure … antique glass is not a good place to store your fish!
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