How To Remove Scratches From Your Dishes: Easy Step-By-Step Guide

Introduction

Have you ever noticed those stubborn scratches on your favorite dishes and wondered if they’ll ever go away? The good news is you can remove scratches from your dishes using simple household products and a few practical steps. Whether it’s your everyday dinner plates or a treasured ceramic set, restoring them is easier than you think.

This guide will walk you through proven methods, tips, and hacks to make your scratched dishes look smooth and shiny again.

Why Do Dishes Get Scratched?

Before fixing the problem, it helps to understand why scratches appear in the first place:

• Metal Utensils: Forks, knives, and spoons often leave gray marks and scratches.
• Stacking & Storage: Plates rubbing against each other can cause fine lines.
• Dishwashers: High heat and constant contact with utensils may create surface scratches.
• Abrasive Cleaners: Using harsh scrubbing pads can make marks worse.

Knowing the cause helps prevent new scratches once you’ve cleaned the old ones.

Step-by-Step Methods to Remove Scratches from Your Dishes

1. Use Baking Soda Paste (Best for Light Scratches)

Baking soda is mildly abrasive, making it safe for ceramic and porcelain.

What you’ll need:

• 2 tablespoons baking soda
• Small amount of water
• Soft cloth or sponge

Steps:

1. Mix baking soda with water until you get a thick paste.
2. Apply the paste to the scratched area.
3. Rub gently in circular motions using a soft cloth.
4. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
5. Repeat if necessary until scratches fade.

Pro tip: Avoid scrubbing too hard; gentle pressure works best.

2. Try Bar Keeper’s Friend (For Deeper Scratches)

Bar Keeper’s Friend is a popular cleaning powder designed to remove stains and scratches from ceramics.

What you’ll need:

• Bar Keeper’s Friend powder or liquid
• Damp sponge or cloth

Steps:

1. Sprinkle or apply the cleaner directly to the scratched area.
2. Rub lightly in small circles for 30–60 seconds.
3. Wipe clean with a damp cloth.
4. Rinse thoroughly to remove residue.

Note: Always test on a small hidden area first to make sure it won’t damage your dish.

3. Toothpaste Hack (For Minor Marks)

Non-gel white toothpaste contains gentle abrasives that help polish scratches.

What you’ll need:

• Non-gel white toothpaste
• Soft cloth or cotton pad

Steps:

1. Squeeze a pea-sized amount onto the scratched area.
2. Rub gently in circles for a few minutes.
3. Wipe clean with a damp cloth.
4. Rinse well with warm water.

This method is perfect for quick touch-ups.

4. Cream of Tartar Paste (Natural Method)

Cream of tartar, found in most kitchens, works similarly to baking soda.

What you’ll need:

• 1 tablespoon cream of tartar
• Few drops of water

Steps:

1. Mix into a paste.
2. Apply to scratches and rub gently with a cloth.
3. Rinse and dry.

It’s mild and safe for delicate dishware.

5. Professional Porcelain Repair Kits (For Heavy Scratches)

If scratches are deep or your dishes are valuable, repair kits are the best choice.

What you’ll need:

• Porcelain or ceramic repair kit (available in stores/online)

Steps:

1. Follow the instructions on the kit carefully.
2. Apply the filler or polish to the scratched area.
3. Let it cure and wipe off excess.

Best for: Antique or expensive dishware.

Preventing Scratches on Your Dishes

Fixing scratches is great, but preventing them is even better.

• Use non-metal utensils (wood, silicone, or plastic).
• Stack plates carefully with felt or paper separators.
• Wash gently with a soft sponge.
• Avoid harsh cleaners that can worsen scratches.
• Hand-wash fine china instead of putting it in the dishwasher.

Real-Life Hacks for Shiny, Scratch-Free Dishes

• Rub scratches with a Magic Eraser for quick fixes.
• Apply a thin coat of food-safe mineral oil to give dishes a polished look.
• For glass dishes, use a glass polishing kit to restore shine.

FAQs About Removing Scratches from Dishes

1. Can baking soda damage my dishes?

No, baking soda is a mild abrasive and safe for ceramic, porcelain, and most dishware. Just avoid scrubbing too hard.

2. Will these methods work on glass dishes?

Yes, but for best results, use a glass-safe cleaner or polishing kit instead of baking soda.

3. Are scratches harmful to use?

Most surface scratches are harmless and safe to eat from. Only deep cracks that compromise the surface should be avoided.

4. How often should I remove scratches?

You can clean scratches whenever you notice them. Regular gentle care prevents build-up.

5. What if none of the methods work?

If scratches are too deep, consider professional restoration or replacing the dish.

Final Thoughts

Scratched dishes don’t have to ruin your kitchenware collection. With simple household items like baking soda, toothpaste, or Bar Keeper’s Friend, you can remove scratches from your dishes and keep them looking like new.

For your next kitchen fix, check out: How to Remove Hard Water Stains from Windows – another common household problem with an easy solution.