We dug up some old antique soda pop bottles, what is the best way to clean them?

Question

The insides are cloudy with caked on grime. We don't want to ruin the lettering on the bottles. I thought a dishwasher might be the best way, but I don't have one.

Answer 1

You don't want to put them in a dishwasher. That could remove the lettering from the outside of the bottles. What works for me is this:
Efferdent tablets for cleaning false teeth and a little bit of aquarium gravel, say 2 tablespoons. Put warm water in the bottle, add two efferdent tablets and the gravel. Let soak overnight. The next day, all you have to do is put your hand over the opening of the bottle and shake. The gravel will clean off the residue. Pour into a strainer and save the gravel for the next bottle.

Answer 2

Vintage Soda Bottles

Answer 3

Is the lettering just glass? Or is it painted?
I would think Carbonated water would work fine. You can get it at a grocery or drug store. Just fill them half way with the CO2 water and shake--but be careful and do it over a sink cuz you know how fizz well, fizzes--and maybe use a toothbrush for the grime on the inside. for the outside just soak 'em in some Carbonated water (if it's not painted) then scrub. I don't think that CO2 water would hurt cuz they probably used to contain some inside it!

I doubt dishwashing liquid and hot water would hurt if there is no paint on them

Answer 4

Old Soda Bottles

Answer 5

Soak them in some really really hot water with some baking soda in it, it takes all kinds of good dirt off without messing up any paint that may be on the bottles. Also get a bottle cleaner and it will do a great job on the insides of the bottle!!!! (good luck)

Answer 6

Soak them in a mild detergent for Dishes- if grime does not come out- try vinegar inside the bottle again soak.

Answer 7

I have used denture cleaner and it has worked well. I put two tablets into a bowl of water and submerged the bottles. If you want to protect outside lettering, make the solution, pour into the bottles (UNLESS the tablets fit into the mouth of the bottle) and let it sit overnight. Sparkles!!

Answer 8

Get a brush with a long handle at Home Depot for the inside and use hot water and dawn.

Answer 9

If I remember correctly (i am getting old you know.) we used soap and water. A bottle brush might help.

Answer 10

Try soaking them warm soapy water before using any chemicals.