Special Cleaning Instructions for Deep Water Stains

Sander Restoration Method

Hand Restoration Method

Water stains come in two basic forms: Hard Water Stain Accumulation (HWSA) and Hard Water Stain Etching (HWSE).

In the case of Hard Water Stain Accumulation (HWSA), calcium carbonate (i.e. hard water stain) has built up upon the surface of the glass or other surface.

In the case of Hard Water Stain Etching (HWSE), a chemical reaction has taken place at the substrate (just at and below the surface) whereby the “stain” has become embedded into the silica dioxide (glass, porcelain, etc).

In order to remedy the HWSE problem, you must literally “resurface” the glass or silica surface.

Here are the basic steps required to Resurface glass and porcelain surfaces:

1. First keep in mind that the Brite and Clean is a powder that needs water to activate it into a paste.

2. After folding your cleaning/polishing cloth, dampen it with a spray bottle and then wring out as much excess water as you possibly can.

3. Sprinkle about a half-dollar size amount of the Brite and Clean onto your slightly damp cleaning towel.

4. You want the powder to form into a semi-dry flakey consistency (between a dry powder and a wet paste).

5. Place three fingers behind your cleaning towel and begin scrubbing in small circular motions (about the size of a half-dollar).

6. You will need to use a generous amount of pressure/elbow grease in this process. Make sure that you do not press too hard as to break the glass, but use enough pressure to make your towel feel like it is “sticking” to the surface.

7. As you persistently scrub the affected area with small circular motions, you will need to periodically stop and apply more Brite and Clean to your towel.

8. Use a spray bottle to lightly mist your towel to help maintain the powder in a “dry flakey paste”.

9. To test the effectiveness of your resurfacing efforts, use a dry towel to wipe off a small area. You are looking to see that the glass is clear (not hazy) or that the porcelain surface is shiny.

The key in resurfacing is to work in a small area, test regularly to verify the effectiveness of your efforts (with a dry towel) and then move onto the next area. Be patient knowing that your efforts are going to save you the cost and inconvenience of having to replace the Hard Water Stain Etched (HWSE) surfaces.

If you have large areas that need Resurfacing, you may find that an orbital buffer or sander using a cleaning towel may expedite the Resurfacing process. With this technique, it takes time to become proficient. But again, follow the instructions above, being persistent and patient. Your investment of time and effort will pay off!