Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue from certain items through the links provided. For any antique enthusiast, it can be disheartening to come across a vintage mirror or valuable glassware at a flea market only to find it scratched and scuffed. However, don’t let those surface imperfections deter you from making a purchase – there is a good chance that you can restore these scratches yourself without needing to invest in glass polish.
Andrii Gurskyi, an expert at Mr. Glazier, recommends using simple household items like toothpaste and vinegar to effectively remove most superficial glass scratches. By following three straightforward steps, you can have your scratched glassware looking like new in no time. Read on to discover how you can eliminate scratches from glass using common household materials you likely already have at home.
Please note that this method is suitable for surface-level scratches and scuffs only. For deep cracks, it’s advisable to seek professional assistance for repairs.
Can Glass Scratches Be Fixed?
Yes, light and shallow scratches on glass items such as tables, windows, and phone screens can be remedied. There are various DIY techniques you can try using everyday items like toothpaste and baking soda. For deeper scratches, using clear nail polish to fill the scratch may help, although caution is advised as excessive application can potentially cause more harm than good.
How to Remove Glass Scratches
What You’ll Need:
– Non-gel toothpaste
– Microfiber cloths
– Water
– Vinegar
Step One: Apply Toothpaste
Start by cleaning the scratched area and applying a layer of non-gel toothpaste. Opt for brands that contain baking soda for their mild abrasive properties that help smooth out the surface without causing further damage.
Step Two: Buff the Area
Using a microfiber cloth and circular motions, gently buff the toothpaste into the scratched area for a few minutes. Once the area feels smoother, rinse off the excess toothpaste with water and wipe the glass clean with another microfiber cloth. Repeat this process until the scratch has been sufficiently buffed out.
Step Three: Remove Streaks
Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a bowl. Dampen a fresh microfiber cloth with the solution and thoroughly wipe down the glass to achieve a streak-free finish. Avoid using paper towels or plush cloth materials to maintain a lint-free surface.
For deep scratches that cannot be buffed out or if you notice any protective glaze lifting off the glass, it’s recommended to consult a professional for the best repair approach. Professionals can offer services such as gluing, reglazing, or recutting the glass for a complete restoration.
Can You Remove Scratches From Phone Glass?
Minor scratches on phone glass may be buffed out, but deep cracks require professional repair. You can use the toothpaste method for light scratches or try a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, known for effectively removing minor scratches at home.
Why Toothpaste and Vinegar Work
Toothpaste can be used as a handy household item for polishing and shining various surfaces, but can it effectively remove scratches from glass? If you find yourself without glass polish but have Brasso Metal Polish on hand, you’re in luck as this alternative can also help eliminate surface scratches. The process is straightforward: begin by cleaning and drying the glass surface, then take a small amount of Brasso polish on a soft cloth. Gently rub the polish onto the scratched area using circular motions. Continue this process until the scratches fade away. If the scratches persist, they may be too deep for standard cleaning methods.
Another household item that can aid in removing scratches from glass is baking soda. After cleaning the scratched glass, create a paste by combining equal parts water and baking soda in a bowl until a thick consistency is achieved. Using a microfiber towel, apply the paste to the glass and gently buff out the imperfections by moving in circular motions. Wipe off the paste using a clean cloth and warm water once the scratches have been effectively treated.
While clear nail polish may not physically remove surface scratches from glass, it can serve as a temporary fix by filling in the scratches and making them less noticeable. To utilize this method, thoroughly clean the glass surface before applying a layer of clear nail polish over the scratched areas using the applicator brush. Allow the polish to dry completely for several hours. Once dry, dampen a clean microfiber towel with acetone or nail polish remover and lightly swipe over the glass surface to remove any excess polish that may have dried outside of the scratched areas.
For more home improvement tips and inspiration, follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok. Explore a curated selection of 15 home bar gifts that every cocktail enthusiast will appreciate, as well as 32 low light indoor plants that can thrive in the darkest corners of your home. Additionally, discover the 50 best paint colors for your living room to enhance your space with style and sophistication.
