Cleaning Glassware
Keeping It Crystal Clear
According to The Soap and Detergent Association, hand
washing is the best method for cleaning fine glassware.
Hand washing is more gentle to the glassware, uses cooler
water temperatures and the detergent used is less
alkaline. However, even with gentle hand washing some
precautions are in order. To avoid scratching the
glassware, hands should be free of all jewelry including
rings, watches and bracelets. Because their hard surface
may cut the glass, diamonds are a particular hazard. Prior
to washing, dust each piece of glassware using a soft
all-cotton cloth such as a baby diaper. Avoid linen or
paper towels - their rough fibers can cause scratches.
To hand wash, pad the sides and bottom of the sink
with a cotton towel, then fill it with tepid water and a
small amount of liquid hand dishwashing detergent. Swing
the faucet head out of the way so there's no chance of
accidentally knocking the glassware against it. Using both
hands, immerse the glassware in the water one piece at a
time. Avoid holding the piece by handles or delicate
ornamentation. Gently rub the piece clean with a small
cotton cloth. For stubborn dirt, scrub gently with a soft
toothbrush. Then, rinse twice. For the first rinse, fill
the sink with tepid water plus a capful of ammonia or
white vinegar. This solution adds sparkle and helps remove
grease and many stains including red wine, lipstick and
potpourri. The final rinse - a long, gentle shower using
the sink's spray attachment - will remove any residue from
the ammonia or vinegar solution.
Cloudy glass, also called "sick" glass, is a natural
side effect of aging. To minimize this problem, fill the
vessel with water then add denture tablets and let stand
until the clouds disappear.
It's better to hand dry fine glassware. Side effects
of air drying can include unsightly watermarks and,
particularly where the water is hard, the possibility of
corrosion. Be sure to dry each piece thoroughly with a
clean cotton cloth.