How Should I Care For and Cleanse My Crystals?
Crystal glassware is beautiful and is wonderful for displaying as well as for regular use. By its very nature, crystal is delicate and requires special care. It is helpful to understand how to properly care for and cleanse crystal glassware, so it looks great and lasts a long time. Here are some tips for cleaning and caring for crystals.
Take Care to Prevent Breakage
Crystal items are fragile, so it is important to take some precautions when cleansing them. Use a plastic dish basin or place a dishcloth at the bottom of your sink before you begin washing them. Handle items with care and wash them individually to keep them from bumping into each other. Take care when handling stemware. The rims of wine glasses can be prone to breakage, so do not dry or store glassware upside down.
Wash With Mild Soap and Warm Water
One of the best ways to hand wash crystal items is with mild dish soap and warm water. Never put your crystal glassware in the dishwasher, even on the top shelf, as the temperature can get too hot. Use a soft cloth to wipe all parts of the item. Do not use abrasive cleansers or scrubbers as they may scratch delicate surfaces. Place items to dry on a dish towel and use a lint-free cloth to gently dry the glasses.
Remove Stains
Some crystal pieces may develop severe stains, especially pitchers and vases. To clean these, you will want to soak them in a small tub with a solution of warm water and vinegar. Use a soft cloth to rub off any dirt as it loosens. For deep-set stains, make a paste out of baking soda and water and apply it to the stained areas. Allow the mixture to sit on the stains for a bit and then rub gently. Repeat the process until the stains are completely gone. Then, clean with mild detergent and dry with a soft cloth.
Keep Crystal From Looking Cloudy
One of the problems that can occur with crystal glassware is that it can take on a cloudy or spotty appearance. This may happen from a soap residue that remains on the glassware due to improper rinsing. Hard water can also leave glasses looking dingy. To make your glassware sparkle, try rinsing it with a weak solution of vinegar and water. Make a solution with about four parts water to 1 part plain white vinegar. There are also products you can purchase that will rinse away hard water stains or spots.
Caring for and Storing Crystal
Crystal glassware, pitchers, vases, and other pieces will last for many years with proper care. Store crystal glassware upright, not on the rims. Handle stemware carefully. Rinse and wash crystal pieces as soon as possible after use. Do not use harsh chemical solutions or sprays on glassware. If storing in the open, regularly wash and dry the crystal to remove dust. If you wish to store crystal for an extended period, use a padded container that is designed specifically for this purpose. When packing for moving, use bubble wrap and keep pieces apart from each other to keep them from banging into each other.
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