Crystal glass maintenance

For consumers who value quality, crystal glassware is more than just everyday drinkware; it's a home art piece embodying exquisite experience and aesthetic value. However, due to its material properties, crystal glass is more delicate than ordinary glass. Improper cleaning can easily lead to scratches, clouding, and even permanent damage. As a professional manufacturer of household glassware, Xinghuo Glass, drawing on 20 years of industry experience, offers a scientific and safe cleaning guide to help you easily extend the life of your crystal glassware and ensure every sip sparkles like new. 1. The core principle of cleaning: gentleness Crystal glass has a Mohs hardness of 5-6 (compared to 6-7 for regular glass), making it more susceptible to scratches. Three key principles should be kept in mind before cleaning: Avoid sudden changes in high temperature: A temperature difference of more than 30°C in the water may cause the glass to shatter, especially for hand-blown or thin-walled crystal cups. Strong acids and alkalis are prohibited: disinfectants, toilet cleaners, etc. will corrode metal decorations (such as gold-plated cup feet) or destroy the light transmittance of crystal. Reduce mechanical friction: Tools such as steel wool and hard-bristled brushes will leave permanent scratches. It is recommended to choose soft materials. 2. Step-by-step cleaning process Step 1: Pre-treat residual liquid Red wine/whiskey glass: Rinse immediately with clean water to prevent tannin or alcohol residue from corroding the glass wall. Coffee cups: If not cleaned promptly, soak them in warm water for 5 minutes to soften the stains and prevent stubborn coffee scale from forming after drying. Decorated crystal cups: If the cup body has hand-painted gold edges or enamel, the inside of the cup mouth should be treated first to reduce the contact time between the liquid and the decorative surface. Step 2: Choose a neutral detergent Recommended products: unscented dishwashing liquid, baby dishwashing liquid or special crystal glass cleaner (pH 5.5-7.5). Homemade recipe: 1 liter of warm water + 1 tablespoon of white vinegar + 1 teaspoon of baking soda, suitable for removing light scale (need to test for non-corrosiveness before use). Don’ts: Cleaning pastes containing chlorine bleach, citric acid (too acidic) or abrasive particles. Step 3: Hand Washing Tips Water temperature control: 30-40℃ warm water is best, which can dissolve oil and fat and avoid thermal expansion and contraction. Tool selection: For the cup: Microfiber dish cloth or sponge (non-abrasive). Cup rim/cup foot: Use a special soft-bristled cup brush (such as silicone). Narrow cup: Wrap the cleaning cloth around the brush and insert it into the cup to wipe.       3. Cleaning method: Clean the cup using counterclockwise circular motions, avoiding rubbing the same area back and forth. Use the tip of your thumb to gently press the cleaning cloth against the edge of the cup bottom to ensure there are no dead corners. When rinsing with running water, turn the cup upside down to avoid water accumulation. Step 4: Drying and polishing Dry naturally: Place upside down on a dedicated drain rack (choose a model with a silicone mat to prevent sliding). Speed ​​up drying: Use a non-woven or suede cloth to gently press and absorb moisture (do not wipe), focusing on the cup feet and decorative patterns. Final Polish: Once completely dry, gently rub the cup in a clockwise motion with a microfiber cloth to restore its crystal-clear shine. 3. Special scene processing Scenario 1: Moldy after long-term storage Cause: A humid environment causes mold to grow, which is common in the seal of the cup mouth or the groove of the cup foot. deal with: Use a cotton swab dipped in 75% medical alcohol to wipe the mildew stain. After rinsing with clean water, place the cup in the microwave on low heat for 30 seconds (make sure there is no metal decoration). After it is completely dry, spray it with an anti-mildew spray (such as food-grade tea tree oil diluted solution). Scene 2: Cloudy stains appear on the cup Cause: Mineral deposits or detergent residue from hard water. deal with: Soak: Soak in a 1:1 mixture of white vinegar and warm water for 2 hours (check every 30 minutes). Lightly brush: Use an old toothbrush to lightly brush the stain (use very light movements). Neutralization: After rinsing with clean water, quickly rinse with baking soda water (1 teaspoon/liter) to neutralize the acidic residue. Scenario 3: Fading of metal decoration Prevention: Avoid contact of detergent with the decorative surface during cleaning. Apply colorless nail polish to form a protective layer after drying. Repair: Contact a professional crystal repair agency for electroplating renovation (home operation may cause more serious damage). 4. Long-term maintenance recommendations Classified storage: Separate velvet bag or glass cabinet with partitions to avoid collision with other tableware. Place the cup with the mouth facing upwards to prevent the cup foot from deforming. Regular inspection: Use a magnifying glass to inspect the cup body every month to see if there are any invisible cracks (especially at the junction of the cup foot and the cup body). Tap the cup gently; a crisp sound is normal, while a dull sound may indicate internal damage. Contraindications: Do not put it in the dishwasher (high temperature, strong water flow and chemicals will accelerate the aging of the crystal). Avoid holding carbonated drinks or acidic juices for more than 2 hours. 5.Conclusion Cleaning crystal glasses is a ritual of patience and meticulous attention to detail. Xinghuo Glass crafts each piece with meticulous craftsmanship, and we aspire to accompany you in exploring the exquisite beauty of life. Starting today, expertly care for your crystal glasses, making every toast a tribute to quality living. Take action now: Visit the official website of Xinghuo Glass at www.xinghuoglass.com to learn more about using glassware!