The finish on your Descoware can only be ‘restored’ in very limited ways. Bleaching at full strength tends to break down the enamel components, leaving the surface porous– not shiny. Acids used to remove stains can also break down the components in older pieces- the formulas used prior to 1964 in enameling were not very resistant to acids. Also, EVERY abrasive [kitchen cleansers, polishing or buffing compounds, sandpaper, steel wool] is going to scratch the enamel surface according to the materials grit. For abrasives, look for a number– the higher the number, the smaller the grit. Regarding tools, a Dremel has great accessories and supplies for polishing and buffing.
Here are some suggestions from the Porcelain Enamel Institute.
DECORATED ENAMELWARE – wash in sudsy water, dry with a soft cloth.
KITCHENWARE – wash in sudsy water. If necessary use a plastic scouring pad or wooden scraper to remove burnt-on food. Burnt-on food may be loosened by soaking in a solution of 2 teaspoons baking soda and 1 quart of water. Avoid abrasive scouring powder or steel wool. For heavy baked-on grease, or spills, occasional use of a fine steel wool pad or scraping with a razor blade is OK.
Lime Deposits in teakettles may be removed by a solution of vinegar and water.
Rust Stains can be removed by using commercial rust remover or by using a solution of 1 tablespoon oxalic acid crystals (poison), dissolved in 1⁄2 cup warm water. Apply to stain, allow to stand a few minutes, then rinse well.
UNKNOWN STAIN:
On glazed surfaces, apply a stiff paste of whiting (calcium carbonate) and household ammonia; let it stand for one hour, then wash it off with soapy water. On porous surfaces, mix household scouring powder with water to make it slurry, and mop it over the area. Let the solution stand for approximately five minutes, then scrub the surface vigorously with a stiff-bristled brush.
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