3 super simple steps to get rid of those crusty salt deposits on your terracotta pots, making even old pots look brand new.
Terracotta pots are a popular choice because they're affordable and breathe really well. But, like anything, they've got their downsides. Terracotta can be brittle and easily crack if knocked around.
When water freezes, it expands, so if you leave terracotta pots out in the winter, they might crack. And because they're so good at breathing and soaking up water, they also pick up salt and minerals easily. Over time, you might notice white crust forming on the outside.
If you're a newbie gardener, you might think it's easier to just get new pots. But let's look at how you can easily clean off those salt deposits.
Step 1: Wash the Pot
Pots get dirty sitting outside, collecting dust and grime. Start by scrubbing them down with a brush in clean water.
You don't need to go all out; just get the dirt out and the dust off. Some terracotta pots are rough around the edges since they're made cheaply, so watch out for sharp spots to avoid cutting your fingers.
Step 2: Vinegar and Water
The white stuff on the pots is salty mineral deposits, and vinegar works wonders on them. Instead of using straight vinegar, mix it with water.
Depending on the pot size, pick a bucket and mix vinegar and water in a 1:5 ratio. Soak the pots in this mix. This helps loosen the salt, making scrubbing easier and less time-consuming.
If the pot's huge and needs a lot of water, adding too much vinegar can get pricey. You can use less vinegar and soak a bit longer to still get good results.
Step 3: Scrub and Dry
After soaking, the salt stuff comes off easily. Scrub it clean and rinse a couple of times with clean water. Be careful not to cut yourself.
Don't use the pots right away. Boil some water and pour it over them to kill any germs. Let them dry in a warm, airy spot. Before using them, leave them out in the sun for a few days.
The method I shared today is really easy. The vinegar-water mix isn't set in stone; adjust as needed. Soaking makes the pots easier to clean without taking up too much time. Terracotta pots are great because they're cheap and, with easy cleaning, I bet more folks will start to love them.
Recommendation
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