Hints From Heloise

Dear Heloise: Last year I planted some plants in terra cotta flower pots. This year, there are white stains along the outside of these pots that look very ugly. Can they be cleaned, or do I have to buy new pots? Lisa D., Los Angeles

Don’t throw out the pots! Help is as close as the vinegar in your kitchen cupboard.

The white stains are most likely lime and mineral deposits from watering and the dirt. The minerals leach out, but the stains can be removed, so don’t rush out to buy new pots.

First, you have to wash each pot inside and out with soap and water and rinse well. Then scrub the outside lightly with a stiff brush and full-strength household vinegar. Rinse and allow to dry thoroughly.

Next, just apply a very light coat of mineral oil or light cooking oil around the outside surface.

If the stains reappear later on, you can apply another light coat of oil. You may need to clean and scrub the pots and wipe with vinegar if the shortcut doesn’t work. - Heloise