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Glassware pieces are not exactly the cheapest of household implements. Although there are cheap knockoffs available in the market, authentic ones are still the wiser shopping option. These pieces may require more investment, but at least, shoppers are assured of topnotch quality and incomparable elegance.To ensure that glassware pieces are properly taken care of, here are some tips for owners of these nifty products.
Proper Handling
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- Thermal shock is one of the most common reasons why glassware pieces easily deteriorate. In order to prevent this from happening, specific handling procedures should be practiced. For instance, glasses that had recently contained ice should not be immediately placed inside the dishwasher. The sudden shift of temperature can cause damage or breakage to the glass. The key is to ensure that a glassware piece has already reached the proper room temperature before it should be subjected to either a hot or cold condition.
- Another known trigger of glassware breakage is mechanical shock. This refers to the direct contact of a glassware piece with another tool or implement such as beer taps, china pieces, and metalware, to name a few. Although the resulting abrasion can, at first, be considered minute, repeated contact is bound to render a glassware piece weak, hence, easily susceptible to breakage. Proper glassware handling entails utmost care and deliberate attempt to keep it away from other solid objects.
- Never use glassware pieces to cater to purposes other than what they are intended. For example, glasses should not be used in lieu of ice scoopers the same way that glass bowls should not be employed as alternative containers.
Washing
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- It is highly recommended for glassware pieces to be cleaned or washed by hand as opposed to using a dishwasher. Mechanical dishwasher has the potential to cause markings or discoloration to both colored and clear glassware.
- Placing a thick towel in the bottom of the sink is also an acceptable way to keep glassware pieces from being in contact with the sink’s hard surface.
- Usage of mild dishwashing liquid and lukewarm water is best for glassware pieces.
- It is crucial that stemware pieces are handled by the bowl and not by the stem when they are being washed.
- To prevent streaks from appearing on glassware pieces after washing, isopropyl alcohol/vinegar and water mixture may be used for the last rinse. These substances are efficient drying agents, without causing unwanted glass streaks.
- Soft towels can also be employed to dry glassware pieces. Although, it is important to note that the glasses should be patted, as opposed to rubbed, dry.
Storage
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- Do not stack glassware pieces. This will cause friction that can then lead to breakage.
- Storage area should be spacious enough so that glassware pieces do not come into contact with each other.
- Ideally, glassware pieces should not be stored alongside other tools and implements such as those made from metal, porcelain, ceramics, and other hard or sharp objects.
- Storage area for glassware should have the right room temperature.
- Fitting in towel padding to the storage area may be done for added precaution.
Therese Shaw is a freelance writer who enjoys making arts and crafts during her free time. Her work currently involves writing for JAFGifts.com, an online supplier of beautiful cake stands tiers.
