What are abrasives cleaners?

Abrasive cleaners usually contain a mineral that scratches when you rub the cleanser on the surface you're trying to cleane. Sometimes this is borax or other hard minerals. The idea is to let the abrasive in the cleaner scratch off hardened food or other dirt stuck to the surface you're trying to clean. That's why you shouldn't use it on shiny surfaces like porcelain pots or counter tops that aren't meant to be scratched.