How do I get dark marks off white plates?

[alex8]

This always seems to happen; its not dirt and its not scratched.

On that BBC2 10 minute programme with different experts tips on a few years ago I'm sure they covered it because I turned the tv on and someone just said "and thats how you get those black marks off china". I bought the book of the series but it wasn't mentioned.

does anyone else get these?

The washing instructions that came with my plates said to use cream cleanser (like Cif) on them, which seems to work - although I'm not sure I'd want to do it on china, it might be too abrasive. Or I soak them in Milton for a couple of hours.

Mix vinegar and table salt together to a paste. Apply with a cotton bud or similar and rub gently on the stain.

Baking soda is also useful for cleaning delicate stuff, it is non abrasive.

thanks so much for the suggestions, I will give them a try.