Rules for Washing Crystal Glasses
Before you begin washing, keep in mind a few important rules to maintain the shine of your crystal glasses. First and foremost, use water at a temperature no higher than 40 degrees. Hot liquids can damage the glass structure and lead to cloudy spots.
It’s better to wash the glasses by hand in a sink or basin, placing a soft towel at the bottom for extra protection. This way, you can avoid damage from contact with hard surfaces.
What Cleaning Products are Suitable for Crystal
For effective cleaning of glasses from dirt, various products can be used. Typically, gentle detergents like liquid soap or special dishwashing liquids are recommended for crystal items.
Popular household options include a solution of ammonia, medical alcohol, or a mixture of table salt with vinegar. However, for glasses with patterns or gilding, it’s best to use only mild products or specialized sprays for crystal items.
How to Clean Crystal Glasses Using Folk Remedies
Traditional methods can help you not only clean the glasses but also restore their original shine. You can use the following mixtures:
Medical alcohol: Mix 70% alcohol with cold water in a ratio of 1:3, immerse the glasses for 10-15 minutes, and then wipe them with a soft sponge.
Salt and vinegar: Dissolve 1 tablespoon of salt and 1 tablespoon of vinegar in a liter of warm water, and soak the glasses for 15-30 minutes.
Citric acid: Use 1 tablespoon of citric acid in 3 liters of water, which will help remove yellowing from the glasses.
What Not to Use for Washing Crystal Glasses
It’s important to remember that crystal is a very delicate material, so avoid using aggressive cleaning agents. Abrasive pastes, powders, or any products containing chlorine can scratch the glass surface, leaving unsightly marks.
You should also refrain from using household soap or regular laundry soap, as they can leave cloudy streaks on crystal glasses.
How to Properly Dry Crystal Glasses
After washing, it’s crucial to dry crystal glasses correctly to prevent water spots.
It’s better not to let them air dry, but to use a soft cloth, such as microfiber or a linen towel. Be sure to gently wipe each glass without applying too much force to avoid damaging the delicate glass.
How to Restore Shine to Crystal Glasses
If your glasses still don’t shine as you would like after washing, there are several effective methods to restore their luster. One of them is using medical alcohol.
To do this, wipe the glasses with a soft cloth dampened with alcohol, which will help bring back their sparkle. You can also use laundry bluing or regular table vinegar — this will enhance the brightness and clarity of your crystal.