Each week, Times Magazine readers put their own domestic goddess queries to our houseproud expert, Aggie MacKenzie.
Q Our metal vitreous enamel bath has a heavy blue stain running from the hot tap to the plughole. It's been there a long time, caused by a dripping hot water tap. We've replaced the taps, stopped the drip and now want to remove the stain ( the rest of the bath is unmarked). Any advice on tackling it?
A I'm glad you've contacted me before trying anything too drastic. The thing about an enamel bath is that although it looks as if it can withstand tough treatment, the surface is actually very vulnerable and the more abrasive the cleaner you use and the harder you go at it, the more likely you are to damage it. And once damaged and dulled, it's very difficult - and potentially very expensive to restore the shine. That said, there is something that I'm hoping will do the job for you. It's called Emaille -Star (odd name, I know - it's German which is a bonus: you know what the Germans are like when it comes to cleaning). This is a mild, abrasive paste whose formula is matched to the exact hardness grade of ceramic surfaces. It's acid -free ( good for the enamel) and environmentally safe. You put a little on a moist cloth, rub in, then rinse off. For your bath I'd advise you to put the paste on a clean wine bottle cork and work away the stain. It's a bit pricey at L 8.15, but that includes p&p and a little will go a long way.
