On Jan 19, 4:48 pm, "Dominic T." > wrote:
> Well, I decided to undertake a general cleaning of some of my more
> forgotten Yixing. Since moving, about two years ago, a number of my
> teapots found a new home on a shelf in the kitchen near the stove. I
> have been working on either building or buying a storage/display case
> for all of my teapots but it finds its way to the lower priority list
> every time... So anyhow, I can see a slight coating of most likely
> grease and dust from cooking and sitting in the open. It is just on
> the tops/lids and not terrible or pronounced.
>
> I have used baking soda and a toothbrush before to do some minor spot
> cleaning, but I'm not sure what my best plan of attack is on these. I
> want to fully clean them both inside and out. I know of people using
> vinegar, but I have never done it. I figure some gentle cleaning with
> something that cuts grease/oil on the outside and a basic baking soda
> cleaning all over, and then boil them as if seasoning a new pot.
>
> My question is what to use for the grease/oil cutting, and if anyone
> has any tricks or suggestions that I am unaware of. They have just
> been soaking in hot water for a couple hours so far, and I tried a
> gentle wiping with a towel but it isn't doing it.
>
> Thanks all,
> - Dominic

Update: OK with a ton of elbow grease and baking powder as well as a
nice nylon bristle diswashing brush, scalding hot water, and time I
have success!

Basically I filled one side of my sink to about 2-3" of the hottest
water I could stand (probably too hot for the average bear) I placed
one of my teapots in and gave it a good scrub with the brush. Then I
poured some baking powder onto it all over the top/lid and let it fizz
and sit for a bit. Then scrubbed again. Then I poured some more baking
powder on and rubbed it very thoroughly with just my hands and even
edge of fingernail to really get it clean. Then scrubbed again with
the brush.

They came out like new. No smells/scents involved and they are totally
clean. I am now going to boil them as if they were new and they are
ready to go. I was about to go to the vinegar route but just never
needed to.

Thanks to all for the help and suggestions!
- Dominic