Battery Acid Removal

[horseshoes]

(Also posted in DIY)

I have some china (cups and saucers) which have long been in a box with old batteries and the acid (or whatever it is) has gone on to the china and stained it a rust colour. Is there something which will remove the stains? Thanks in advance.

[Clanad]

Most likely not... but you could try some common soft drink... especially something similar to our 7-UP or even Coca Cola here in the U.S. Simply soak it in the freshly opened drink for a while... maybe a day or so. Alternatively, mix a palm full of baking soda with maybe 1/4 cup water and work it onto the stain.

I'd emphasize, however, neither is likely to remove the stain very well because, while the suggestions above will neutralize the acid... they most likely will not remove the discoloration, which is probably permanent...

[snags]

If the battery acid stain has eaten in to the glaze of the china then it might not be able to be removed.

[Sharingan]

My brother who deals in antiques said if it'll come out at all the best thing is to use denture cleaner and just soak it for a long time, but he's not at all optimistic.

[horseshoes]

Thank you all. I'll try all your suggestions.