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Cleaning
The only regular cleaning needed for glass objects displayed out in the open is regular dry dusting. This can be done with your usual dust cloth, keeping in mind careful handling practices. If dry dusting alone does not remove dirt or grime, a cloth dampened with water is a good method for cleaning. Commercial glass cleaners (such as “Windex) can be effective, but the additives in the formulation can leave residues on the surface. When using such products, it is a good idea to follow with a pass of a cloth damp with water to rinse and remove the residues before drying the surface thoroughly.
When cleaning glassware that has been used for food or drink, keep in mind that objects that are placed in a dishwasher will be exposed to more wear and tear than those that are handwashed. Overtime, micro-abrasions on the surface may lead to glassware appearing hazy or opaque. Handwashing with soap, water, and a soft sponge or cloth is a gentler means of cleaning your glassware. When cleaning with soap, be sure to rinse away the soap thoroughly to avoid drying residues.
Storage and Display
Storing glass objects such as drinking glasses and serving dishes in a cupboard or cabinet is a good way to protect the objects from dust and lower the risk of accidental damage. Objects that are stored in the open should be kept away from the edges of tables or shelves. Generally light exposure is not an issue, but certain formulations of clear glass can change color with long-term exposure becoming “solarized glass.” This tends to occur in older glassworks. For example, a glass piece that contains manganese dioxide, a historical additive used to improve clarity, will take on a purple hue after prolonged light exposure. This is not a particularly common phenomenon, but is something to keep in mind when considering the placement of your glass objects.