How to Clean and Care for Glassware

Whether you’re preparing a mixed drink for a dinner party or winding down with a glass of wine at the end of the night, the last thing you need after spending time getting a drink is to serve it in stained, streaky, or otherwise dirty glassware.

Smudges, odors, stains, and residue can impact the flavor of said drink, even if you’re just serving water. And, as you might imagine, serving up cloudy glassware isn’t the greatest look (for both taste and sanitary reasons), while hosting.

Our guide to properly cleaning and caring for your glassware includes every tip you'll need to extend the life of each piece and ensure that every glass you pour is crystal clear.

How to Clean Glassware

Just like plateware, most drinking glasses (including ours) can be cleaned either in the dishwasher or by hand. Here’s how to clean your glassware correctly and thoroughly using each method.

By Hand

While the dishwasher is certainly convenient, some items are not dishwasher safe. When hand washing glassware, be sure to use a microfiber cloth, soft sponge, or other non-abrasive material to clean each item.

For tougher messes, streaks, and odors, we recommend our Glassware Cleaner for easy restoration of dull and dirtied glasses—especially handy for dealing with often-inevitable coffee, wine, and hard water stains.

Step 1: Prepare the Area

Make sure your sink is clear of other delicate items and sharp objects, and be sure to have your cleaning tool and dish soap or detergent of choice on hand.

Step 2: Clean and Rinse

Clean the glass using hot water and the microfiber cloth. Then, rinse thoroughly to ensure all of the detergent is removed from the glass.

If using Glassware Cleaner: Sprinkle a small amount of the product into the bottom of your glass. Add warm water from the tap until the cleaning powder is dissolved. With a sponge or bottle brush, gently scrub both the inside and exterior of your glass until crystal clear. Rinse thoroughly.

Step 3: Dry

Dry the glass immediately with a dry microfiber cloth to prevent water stains. Store the glass immediately.

In the Dishwasher

While delicate items need to be hand washed, everyday glassware can go in the dishwasher. All of our Glassware can be run through the dishwasher, and our Wine Glasses in particular are built for it—they held up perfectly after being tested in over 1500 cycles in a household dishwasher.

Step 1: Load Glassware into the Glass Rack

While loading your glassware into the dishwasher, make sure all items are placed in the glass rack (usually on the top rack). This ensures that your glassware avoids contact with knives, pans, and more.

Step 2: Run the Dishwasher

Set the dishwasher to your desired setting, and run until completely cool.

Step 3: Dry and Store

Remove your glassware from the dishwasher. Be sure to wipe any remaining water from each item with a microfiber cloth, to avoid water stains. Store each item immediately.

How to Care for Your Glassware

While cleaning your Glassware is important for both the longevity of each item as well as functionality, the way you store and otherwise care for your glassware is equally as important.

Tip 1: Store Correctly

Store your glasses in a clean, dry, cabinet or shelf that ensures that the rims of each glass don’t come in contact with other objects.

Tip 2: Avoid Extreme Temperature Shifts

To ensure that your glassware doesn’t crack through extreme shifts in temperature, avoid using glasses in the oven, microwave, or freezer.

Tip 3: Never Scoop Ice With Glassware

While it may be tempting, never scoop ice with a glass. Scooping ice directly with your glass increases the risk of chipping—instead, use a designated ice scoop or place it by hand.

Ready to Shop?

Now that you know how to properly care for your Glassware, you’ll never again pour yourself wine in a cloudy glass, or have guests wonder why they have water stains. For additional Glassware needs, be sure to check out our sets for any occasion.