Sponges and Scrubbers

• Soft sponges will not scratch the surface of tea pots; however, they work best for light cleaning. They do not usually work well for tough scrubbing, even with firm pressure. A variety of sponges are available that come with a scrubbing pad attached to one side. Choose one that is designed for easily scratched surfaces, such as those made specifically for cleaning glass stove tops. Avoid scrubbing pads made of steel wool, copper or other materials that may scratch the tea pot. Scrubbers made from nylon are generally safe to use. Before scrubbing the tea pot, test a small area on the bottom of the pot to ensure it will not scratch the surface.
  
  

Liquid Dish Soap

• Use a quality liquid dish soap that contains grease-fighting properties to regularly clean the tea pot. Soak the tea pot in a bucket of hot, soapy water for five to 10 minutes to loosen stuck-on grease and food particles. Add undiluted dish soap to the sponge or scrubber and scrub stubborn areas using a firm, circular motion. Rinse the tea pot with hot water and towel-dry to prevent water spots. Regular dish soap is generally all that is needed for light scrubbing and stains.
  
  

Vinegar

• White distilled vinegar cuts through grease, eliminates water spots, removes stains and leaves the tea pot looking clean and shiny. Rinse the tea pot in hot water to remove as much grease and other debris as possible. Soak a sponge or nylon scrubber in full-strength vinegar, and scrub the outside of the tea pot to remove water marks and stains. Repeat the process for the inside of the pot, or fill it with vinegar and let it simmer on the stove for 15 minutes before cleaning. Rinse the inside thoroughly with hot water before using it again.
  
  

Baking Soda

• Tough stains may require a more abrasive scrubber. Use a thick paste of baking soda to scrub the tea pot. Pour a small amount of baking soda into a bowl and add a little water, just enough to dampen the baking soda. Using your hands, spread the baking soda paste onto the stains and allow it to sit for five minutes. Use a dry sponge or scrubber to scrub the area using firm pressure. Alternatively, dampen the sponge and wring out as much water as possible. Pour 1 to 2 tbsp. baking soda onto the sponge and scrub the tea pot. Rinse it thoroughly with hot water, followed by a rinse of one part vinegar and two parts hot water to eliminate the baking soda residue and prevent water stains.