How to remove light scratches and stains with
Cerium Oxide
MATERIALS
• Cerium Oxide powder (sold in quantities of 8 ounces and up)
• Two plastic tubs, pint or quart-sized
• Water
• Lint-free cloths or paper towels
• A 3” inch felt polishing wheel that attaches to an electric or rechargeable
drill.
PROCEDURE
• Fill one of the tubs, about half full, with water and place the felt
polishing wheel into the water to get it damp while you mix your polishing
compound
• Place about two tablespoons of the cerium oxide into the other tub and add a
small splash of water
• Use a small rod or stick to stir the mixture until the powder dissolves in the
water. You’ll want to end up with a slurry that’s about the consistency of heavy
cream. Keep stirring and adding small amounts of water until you reach the right
consistency, which you can check with your finger.
• Make sure the glass is clean before you start and dampen it thoroughly with a
clean lint-free towel.
• Check your felt polishing wheel. You want it damp, but not dripping wet.
• Attach the wheel to your electric or cordless drill and dip it lightly into
the polishing slurry. Let any excess drip off into the tub.
• Buff the scratched area, starting slowly at first, then increasing the speed.
Keep the felt polishing wheel moving from side to
side at all times and use moderate pressure. Eventually, a dry film will form
over the scratched area as you work. Stop buffing before the film is completely
dry.
CAUTION:
• When the slurry is almost dry,
be careful. Buffing dry glass can overheat it and it could crack. So don’t
overdo it. Always be sure the surface is sufficiently damp when you are working
on it.
• When the slurry is dry, just wipe it off.
• You can repeat the process if any scratches or stains are still visible.
If you have leftover compound, simply cover the
tub to store it. When the slurry dries out, it can be reused simply by adding
water.
For a video demonstration on how to use Cerium Oxide, check out our
YouTube video!