This experiment in cleaning went so well, I had to share it. I recently unpacked a box of my husband's family's Blue Willow china. I wanted to keep the china since it wasa family heirloom and love the Blue Willow pattern, however, my husband's family were heavy smokers (as was common--especially in the 50's and 60's) and the china was obviously not protected from the smoke, and was badly damaged. I looked online and found a few suggestions; one was soaking the pieces in vinegar, but had no success. Finally, I called my good friend, and reluctant smoke/soot removal expert, Donna.

After a devastating house fire destroyed virtually everything in her home, Donna and her husband Eric, have spent many long days and nights cleaning soot and smoke off of the few items they were able to salvage-some of which were Eric's family's Blue Willow china.

Donna suggested going to the Dollar Tree and picking up a bottle of LA's Awesome Cleanerand using that with an abrasive sponge to clean the Blue Willow. The results were outstanding! Take a look:

Teacup (Before) -  Gravy Boat (After)



Unreal, right? Not all of the pieces came as clean as the gravy boat. If the glaze was cracked, the smoke damage sill lingered a bit around the damaged area, but over-all, I was delighted with the results and will happily display the clean Blue Willow in my china hutch. Thanks for the tip Donna!!