How to Clean and Polish a Vintage Stove
July 22, 2023
source: Facebook/Allison Weyer
One fortunate homeowner stumbled upon an incredible treasure at a garage sale—a vintage stove, priced at a mere $75! What a steal! But now comes the challenge of polishing it to its former glory. Seeking the online community‘s help, the homeowner shared their treasure, and the response was overwhelming. The vintage stove garnered admiration and nostalgia from fellow enthusiasts who were quick to offer valuable advice. From using Dawn dish soap to recommending black stove polish and other cleaning agents, the community rallied to assist in preserving this timeless gem, making the homeowner feel blessed with their amazing find!
Here are top-notch solutions from our community to polish it up:
1. Dawn Dish Soap, Baking Soda, and Elbow Grease: Start with a mixture of warm water and a few drops of Dawn dish soap. Use a sponge or soft brush to scrub away dirt and grime gently. For stubborn stains, sprinkle some baking soda on the affected areas and continue scrubbing. Rinse thoroughly and repeat if necessary.
2. Oil-Based Polish: After cleaning, consider using a good oil-based polish. Apply a small amount to a soft polishing cloth and gently rub it on the stove’s surface for a shiny finish.
3. Black Stove Polish: For the cast iron parts, black stove polish works wonders. Apply it as per the product instructions, and it will protect the metal from rust while giving it a polished look.
4. Coiled Metal Scrub Pad and Liquid Soap: Some folks have had success using a coiled metal scrub pad with a little liquid soap. Rub gently and persistently until the grime is gone. Rinse off and repeat if necessary.
5. Good Cleaning Agent for Cast Iron: Find a cleaning agent specifically designed for cast iron surfaces. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
6. Soft Polishing Cloth: Stock up on soft polishing cloths to bring out the stove’s shine. You can find these at hardware stores or even bundled at Walmart.
7. Commercial Oven Cleaner: Some oven cleaners are suitable for vintage stoves. Follow the product’s instructions and ensure good ventilation during use.
8. Metal Polish: Look for a metal polish product that’s safe for use on cast iron stoves. Apply it following the instructions for a brilliant shine.
When cleaning the vintage stove, be cautious about using vinegar, as it can cause cast iron to rust (but according to some homeowners, vinegar works too!). Whatever cleaning method you choose, ensure that it dries quickly. Dawn dish soap can help cut through grease, and using hot water aids in faster drying. You can air dry or sun-dry it, but for a speedier process, a blow dryer could be a great option.
If your stove has enameled areas, you’ll need a good degreaser cleaner, as these areas are prone to stains and require special care.
Remember, this stove is a unique find, and you’re lucky to have it. Taking good care of it will ensure it lasts for years to come. As you clean and polish, handle the stove parts with care to avoid any damage.
As a final tip, whenever you make a fire for the first time, be prepared for a slight smell due to the stove black on the cast iron top. However, it’s worth it as it not only keeps rust away but also gives the stove a polished look.
Happy cleaning and polishing! Your vintage stove is bound to become the centerpiece of your home, exuding a timeless charm that only these classic treasures can offer.