Organize & Clean

Out Darn Scratch: Cleaning Marks Off Dinnerware

updated Jul 23, 2020
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(Image credit: Apartment Therapy)

Pulling out my cheap(ish) white dinner plates for a party this weekend I was once again irked by the little grey scratch marks that have cropped up over the years. I am not sure if it is because these plates are cheap (thin enamel layer) or if my utensils are cheap and overly sharp. But whatever it is, it’s annoying. I did a little web surfing and found that Danelle at the blog Mom Outnumbered has successfully tackled this very problem. Read on for her easy solution.

(Image credit: Apartment Therapy)

After trying the Magic Eraser, Danelle had success with Bar Keeper’s Friend Liquid Cleaner and the powder form of the Bar Keeper’s Cleanser.

What have you used to de-scratch your light-colored or white dinnerware (porcelain, ceramic or stoneware)?

Bon Ami
Bar Keeper’s Friend Liquid Cleaner and the powder form of the Bar Keeper’s Cleanser.
Clorox 2 Stain Fighter pen
Ajax Powder
• Arm & Hammer Baking Soda products (toothpaste or a paste mix of plain Baking Soda and water).

Whatever you use, try it on the back of the plate first. I do worry if the more abrasive cleaners will actually take off some of the enamel surface and make the plates more vulnerable in the future.