How to Remove Smoke Film From Drinking Glasses

A recurring problem in the bar and restaurant industry is dealing with the dingy smoke film left behind on drinking glasses and stemware. Patrons who regularly frequent bars and nightclubs include a high percentage of tobacco users. Whether cigars or cigarettes, the smoke lingers long after the patrons have left and eventually settles on exposed surfaces such as glasses and mirrors. The removal of this dingy smoke film is a tedious process for any employee in the food and beverage industry, but with the right products this can be accomplished in a few simple steps.

Things You'll Need

• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• 1/2 cup mild glass detergent
• 2 sinks or large tubs with capacity for 3 gallons of water
• Bristled glass washer

Instructions

How to Remove Smoke Film From Drinking Glasses

1. Make a solution of 1/2 cup lemon juice and 1/5 cup gentle dish-washing detergent in 3 gallons of hot water in a sink or large tub. It's best to use a non-ionic neutral detergent such as Orvus Wa paste.

2. Place a bristled glass washer at the bottom of the sink or tub, in the center. Small glass washers can be purchased at most retail stores while larger industrial washers can be found at bar and restaurant supply stores.

3. Make another sink or tub full of cold water to rinse the glasses. You may also consider making another tub of water adding sanitizing solution after you rinse.

4. Soak the glasses to be washed in the solution of lemon juice and mild detergent for 15 minutes then begin scrubbing the glasses on the bristled glass washer. Twisting and rotating the glasses on the washer will produce the best results.

5. Rinse the glasses thoroughly to ensure no soapy residue remains on the glasses then allow them to dry before inspecting them for smoke film.

Tips & Warnings

• Repeat the process as necessary with glasses that have a thick smoke film.

References

• Treating smoke damage
• Smoke and fire damage