How to Care for Antique Bottles

If you've ever pulled an antique bottle out of the dirt, you have discovered not only the attraction of hunting for buried treasure, but also a fascinating way of getting in touch with history. Cleaning and caring for antique bottles isn't a difficult task and usually only requires a bit of soapy water and elbow grease.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Wash antique bottles with warm water and detergent. You may need to soak them in soapy water for several days to loosen up stuck-on dirt. A bottle brush may be helpful. Dry each bottle carefully when you are finished cleaning it.

2. Add an abrasive, like a handful of uncooked rice or sand, to the soapy water in the bottle and swish it around if there is debris that won't come out.

3. Try soaking the antique bottle in lime remover to remove stubborn mineral deposits.

4. Purchase some fish tank brushes from your local pet shop if you have an antique bottle with a narrow opening.

5. Store antique bottles by wrapping them carefully in bubble wrap. This will keep them clean and protected from breakage.

6. Display bottles in a clean area that will not freeze.

7. Ship an antique bottle by wrapping it in bubble wrap before placing it in a box filled with shredded newspaper, Styrofoam peanuts or other packing material. If you are packing more than one bottle, leave at least 3 inches between the bottles and be sure to clearly label the box as "Fragile."

Tips & Warnings

• Vinegar will often help to remove mineral deposits. Simply mix a small amount of vinegar with warm water and soak the antique bottle in the mixture for several hours.
• Avoid using ammonia or hydrochloric acid to clean antique bottles. They are caustic chemicals that can eat through the glass.
• Never use extremely hot or cold water. Extreme temperatures can crack the glass.