Crystal is a high quality form of glass, produced with lead oxide which creates light reflection. The rainbow of light reflection is the quality that makes crystal so interesting and desired by crystal collectors and gift recipients. Crystal pieces are delicate and need to be handled and cleaned with care. Keep in mind, most damage occurs when cleaning or moving pieces. Therefore, you must be careful each time you clean a crystal piece or move it to a new location.
When moving crystal objects, always carry one object or one part of a set at a time. It is best to wrap your hands around the body of the object rather than using an existing handle, rim, or projection for support. In general, it is not ideal to routinely wash the pieces. Each time a piece is handled for cleaning there is a greater risk of breakage through accidents and mishandling. If at all possible it is better to protect pieces from soiling and dust by placing them in a dust free area such as an enclosed curio cabinet, rather than washing them too often. Also be sure they are kept well back from the edge of any shelf.
Objects should be kept free of dust, debris, and oily residues. Keeping them in a cabinet also prevents the items from being broken. If you must store crystal pieces, store each individual object separately. Do not stack or crowd items and avoid wrapping glass in tissue or newspaper, which may attract and hold dampness. When a piece has dust on it,. İt is recommend you to use "Hair Dryer" on cool setting or canned air to get rid of dust.
Remember that fine crystal and glassware can crack or break when subjected to extremes of hot and cold. Lighting candles in candleholders is not recommended. Light the candle prior to putting it into a crystal candle holder. If an item has fingerprints on it, do not place it in a dishwasher. Fingerprints can be easily removed by using a small amount of glass cleaner with a soft, lint free cloth or washing your fine crystal and glassware by hand in moderately warm water with a mild lemon detergent and 1/4 cup ammonia (to prevent spotting). Rinse in clean water and air dry on a dish rack.
Using care and common sense when cleaning your crystal items will insure that they last for many years to come.
Bonnie Spring is writer and administrator for Kbkgifts.com, where you can find beautiful
crystal.
