Whether your glassware pieces are inherited family treasures or you are a collector of such pieces, you will want to use a number of precautions when displaying, cleaning and storing.
Your glassware should be displayed in a dust-proof display case out of direct sunlight and away from extreme heat sources such as registers, radiators or air conditioning ducts. Use caution with internally lighted display cases as the lights add to the internal temperature of the case. Do not display in damp or humid areas.
Avoid displaying plates with metal spring-type hangers as the tension causes stress and may lead to cracks. Do not display on shelves that can be bumped by people rising from seating areas or walking by. Display only on level shelves and in areas where items can be separated to avoid direct contact between pieces.
Always use both hands when carrying your pieces to avoid slippage. Lift by the heaviest part and not by the spout or handle. Remove lids and stoppers when moving to avoid them toppling off.
Any liquid will stain glassware if left for a prolonged period of time. When using your glassware, do not allow acidic liquids such as fruit juice, wine or vinegar to sit in your glassware as they can leach the lead out of crystal. Do not use for food storage or live flower arrangements, and do not decorate by filling with colored water.
Never wash antique glassware in a dishwasher. Dishwasher detergent, as well as the high water temperatures used are too harsh for these fragile pieces.
Fill a plastic bowl or dishpan with warm water to wash delicate glass. The bowl or pan provides a cushion against the hard surface of your kitchen sink. You may also want to cover your faucet with a rubber cap as a precautionary measure. Add a small amount of mild dish detergent or use a commercial chandelier cleaner. Wash with a soft cloth. Do not use scrubbers. Do not wash with anything containing ammonia or phosphates. Do not use bleach. Never clean your glassware with commercial glass cleaners or dusting sprays or polishes.
Extreme changes in water temperature should be avoided. Extreme cold or hat water is too taxing on antique glassware and still stress and possibly crack the glass. If your water contains high levels of minerals, use distilled or purified water to wash and rinse your glassware. Wash you antique pieces one at a time. Contact between pieces can cause breakage.
The area on which you will be drying your glassware should be lined with towels. In case of a piece should tumble over, this provides a soft landing surface and will prevent breakage. Air dry - do not dry with a cloth.
Between washings, remove dust by blowing with canned air. Do not wipe with a cloth, as dust may contain fine abrasives that will scratch the surface of your glassware. A white powdery coating on antique crystal is a sign that the lead is leaching out of the piece. Do not drink or eat from this item and consult a professional as grinding and polishing may be required for restoration.
If it should become necessary to pack and/or store your antique glassware, stack items with a soft cloth or polyester padding between to avoid scratching. Acid-free packing and containers should be used . Do not pack in newspaper or newsprint as the ink may rub off and stain or discolor the glassware. Remove lids and stoppers and pack separately. Do not store in damp areas or areas where extreme temperatures are likely to occur.
With proper care, cleaning and storage, your treasured glassware will retain its beauty for many future generations.
