How To Whiten Old Porcelain Barber Chair

Old porcelain on Barber Chairs often yellows from age, hard-water minerals, hair chemicals, and residue buildup. The goal is to whiten it without damaging the porcelain glaze, which would cause faster re-staining.

Follow this step-by-step progression, moving from mild to deeper treatment only as needed.

Before You Start (Important)

• Test every method on a small hidden area

• Use soft cloths or sponges only

• Do not mix chemicals

• Wear gloves and ventilate the area

Porcelain is durable, but the glaze can be permanently dulled by abrasion.

Step 1: Remove Surface Oils and Film

What to use

• Warm water

• Mild dish soap

• Microfiber cloth or soft sponge

How

1. Wash the porcelain thoroughly

2. Rinse completely

3. Dry fully

This removes residue that can block whitening agents.

Step 2: Whiten Light Yellowing With Baking Soda

Best for mild to moderate discoloration.

What to use

• Baking soda

• Water

How

1. Mix into a thick paste

2. Apply to stained areas

3. Let sit 15–30 minutes

4. Gently wipe with a soft sponge

5. Rinse and dry

Baking soda is mildly alkaline and safe for glazed porcelain.

Step 3: Treat Deep Yellowing With Hydrogen Peroxide

Effective for aging stains and chemical discoloration.

What to use

• 3–6% hydrogen peroxide

• Paper towels or cotton cloth

How

1. Soak towels in peroxide

2. Lay over stained areas

3. Cover to prevent evaporation

4. Leave 1–4 hours

5. Rinse thoroughly and dry

Repeat if needed. Do not scrub aggressively.

Step 4: Remove Hard-Water and Mineral Stains

Common around drains and rims.

What to use

• White vinegar or citric acid solution

How

1. Apply to mineral stains

2. Let sit 10–15 minutes

3. Wipe gently

4. Rinse immediately

Do not leave acidic solutions on porcelain for extended periods.

Step 5: Restore Shine and Protect the Surface

After whitening:

• Buff with a non-abrasive porcelain polish

• Use a clean microfiber cloth

This helps seal micro-pores and slows future staining.

What NOT To Use

Avoid completely:

• Steel wool or scouring pads

• Abrasive powders

• Sandpaper or polishing compounds

• Strong acid cleaners

• Abrasive bleach products

These damage the glaze and make stains return faster.

When Whitening Will Not Work

Whitening cannot fix:

• Cracked glaze

• Deep scratches

• Areas where glaze has worn through

If stains return quickly after cleaning, professional reglazing is the only long-term solution.

Ongoing Maintenance Tips

• Rinse and wipe dry after each use

• Do not let hair dyes or chemicals sit on porcelain

• Use only non-abrasive cleaners

• Dry standing water to prevent mineral buildup

Summary

To whiten an old porcelain barber chair safely:

1. Clean off surface buildup

2. Use baking soda for light yellowing

3. Use hydrogen peroxide for deep stains

4. Remove mineral deposits carefully

5. Polish and maintain regularly

Done correctly, porcelain can regain much of its original brightness without damage.