Tips on Caring for Crystal

Proper care of crystal is a part of the collecting and ownership process. Bear in mind that crystal is a form of glass and is consequentially fragile. Even solid looking crystal figurines are subject to breakage. Keep the following tips in mind and you will maintain the beauty, quality and value of your crystal.

1. When moving or cleaning a crystal item, handle only one piece at a time. This is the time when most damage occurs so be careful.

2. Glassware, stemware and crystal figurine collectibles should be stored in an enclosed cabinet to avoid the collection of dust.

3. Crystal items used for Home Décor such as crystal flower vases, ashtrays, figurines, paperweights, etc. can be cleaned free of dust with a Blow Dryer set on cool, or with a lint free cloth. Finger marks can be removed with a light spray of glass cleaner and a lint free cloth. Never use paper towels to clean crystal. The wood fibers in paper will create tiny scratches on the surface.

4. Exercise great care when washing crystal. The kitchen sink is the biggest hazard zone for crystal breakage. Crystal is subject to breaking in extreme heat. Wash in warm water only. If the water is too hot for your hands, it is too hot for the crystal. To avoid spotting, add a quarter cup of ammonia or a liquid dishwasher rinse agent with the detergent. Rinse in clean warm water and air dry on a rack or kitchen towel.

5. Take care when washing glassware. Use a soft fiber bottle brush to clean the inside of narrow glasses. For larger glasses, clean the inside with a dish cloth using only two fingers. Never put your whole hand in the glass to clean or dry the crystal. The pressure on the side of the glass will cause it to break and you risk getting a nasty cut.

6. Here are some additional safety measures you can take. Do not put five or six glasses in the sink at one time. When you reach in the water for another glass you create a mini-wave of water pressure. This pressure can push one glass into another glass or one glass into the side of the sink resulting in breakage. Washing one at a time is the better way. Another good idea is to place a rubber mat in the bottom of the sink in case a glass slips out of your hand. The next hazard is the spigot. Push it out of the wash area until you are ready to rinse.

Follow these simple tips and you will keep your crystal looking as good as new with all its original sparkle and brilliance. Use care in handling crystal and it will last a lifetime.