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How to Repair a Scuff on a Glass

Any glass item that is used frequently is bound to end up with small scratches and scuff marks over time. These marks can give the glass a dull, cloudy appearance that gives away the item’s age. If you’d like to restore your glass item, you may not even need to buy a special product; items you already have around your home may do the trick to remove light scuff marks from drinking glasses, as well as eyeglasses, glass tabletops, windows and any other glass surface.

Things You'll Need

  • Lint-free cloth
  • Mustard powder
  • White vinegar
  • Baking soda (optional)
  • White nonabrasive toothpaste (optional)
  • Glycerin
  • Lamb's wool buffing pad
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Instructions

    • 1

      Test the scuff mark with your fingernail before you attempt to repair it. Run your fingernail across the glass. If it catches on the scuffed area, the damage is likely too deep to be repaired and the glass will need to be replaced. If you determine that the damage is repairable, wash the glass, and dry it thoroughly with a lint-free cloth to remove any dirt or residue before you begin.

    • 2

      Create a paste consisting of baking soda and water or equal parts mustard powder and white vinegar. White nonabrasive toothpaste also works. Place a drop of the paste onto a clean cloth. Hold the glass securely in one hand while using the other to rub the paste into the scuffed area in a circular motion. Rub for 30 seconds to one minute.

    • 3

      Allow the paste to dry, then polish the glass with a clean cloth. Inspect the scuffed area. If the scuff is still visible, repeat the process. If the damage has not been repaired after two to three attempts, you may need to try a different remedy.

    • 4

      Purchase jeweler’s rouge from a hobby shop. This fine red powder is used by jewelers specifically to buff scratches from glass, metal and other delicate surfaces. Mix 1 ounce of the powder, 1 ounce of water and 1 ounce of glycerin to create a paste. Rub the paste into the scuffed area with a buffing pad made of lamb’s wool. Rinse with water periodically to check on the progress. Stop rubbing when the scuff is no longer visible.