SALT BUILD UP

Hi IBC, just a quick question for you. I purchased a few used pots on my travels around Japan a few months ago. There is a bit of salt build up that has stained the pots. What is a good technique to remove it? I scrubbed the hell out of them with washing up liquid and hot water but no look. Has any one got any suggestions?
Thank you for any help you can give me.
Mikey

Hi
If its porcelaine or stoneware i wouldn't mind using a bit sand paper #1000 use baking soda with detergent water soultion.hope it works for you,try out first a small portion where the place not so noticeable,in case something went wrong
Regards,
Alex

The culprit is calcium salt, mostly calcium carbonate, and some magnesium salts. The most potent remover is hydrochloric acid, but if they are glazed pots, it could etch the glaze. We have a household product called Lime-Away, which is pretty effective. Look for a lime remover or toilet bowl cleaner with bleach. You may have to finish the job by scraping or scouring.
When you want to show a tree in one of these pots, and you can't remove the last vestiges of lime, rub down the pot with mineral oil. It will put the pot into a good condition.
Iris

Thank you very much for your reply's, they are much appreciated. I will get on the job right away

ello Mikey. I would ask this question on the pot forum for expert advice. I would be worried that acid or alkali cleaners could damage the patina of old pots.

Mikey,
If you have a Lidl's near you, try W5 limescale remover, or failing that vinegar which is acetic acid, will do the trick.
I have used the W5 product on my own pots without any apparent damage.
It foams slightly as it descales the surface and is then simply washed off in water.

I understand what Will is saying about the patina it depends on how much you paid for the pots?