Whitening Ironstone

A bright, white ironstone collection looks great displayed throughout the house and on the wall. Figure A Figure B

It's a distinctive, durable and decorative country collectible. White ironstone is a classic country pottery that has found its way into the homes of country lovers. Country Home magazine's Matthew Mead has helpful hints for scrubbing away the grime from dirty ironstone. For new ironstone, simple soap and hot water should do the trick, but antique ironstone takes a little more effort.

To restore the shine to your antique ironstone:

1. Fill a sink or bucket with 40% clear peroxide (this can be purchased at hair care supply stores).
2. Completely immerse dirty ironstone in peroxide (figure A). Leave the pieces to soak in the solution for 3-4 weeks.
3. After the soaking process, line oven rack with aluminum foil. Preheat oven to 250 degrees.
4. Place ironstone in heated oven. After 20 minutes, the brown color in the dirty ironstone will rise to the surface of the piece.
5. Using a potholder, remove ironstone from oven and place it in hot soapy water. Using a soft bristled brush, gently scrub the piece until the grime is removed (figure B).

Guests
Matthew Mead
Interior Designer
75 N. Main St.
Boscawen, NH 03303
Phone: 603-753-4185
Fax: 603-753-4186
Also in this Episode

Country at Home : Episode CAH-705
•	European Style
•	Weathered Whites
•	Whitening Ironstone
•	Colorful Santa Fe