Re: Bakelite question

Posted by Stephen Houseknecht On 2010/4/19 21:41:15

I would strongly recommend using TSP Substitute. You can buy it at Home Despot for around eight bucks and will make two or three gallons of cleaner/stripper. I originally found out about in an article in Old Home Journal. Also is water soluble. None of the fumes associated with strippers so I don't have to worry about losing more IQ points

I am currently working my late grandparent's 1832 house and this stuff will take anything off down to the original finish and not harm the original surface. Japanned lacquer, brass, plating, etc. Have used it on Bakelite light switch and plug plates, really cleans them up. Then I shoot the stripped pieces with clear lacquer to keep them from becoming tarnished. Also works good for mold removal, etc. I have been thinking about putting it in a parts washer.

Check it out.