How to Clean Lead Crystal
Lead crystal is popular for fine dishes (especially wine glasses), decanters, ornamental vases, ornaments and figurines. It is beautiful, can be clear or colorful, smooth or etched. Lead crystal is also very delicate--so delicate that you should be careful when cleaning your crystal. If you handle lead crystal too roughly, use the wrong kinds of cleaning tools or products, or simply use water that is too hot, you risk damaging it. When you do take the proper precautions and do not rush, however, cleaning these pieces is not difficult. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Rubber sink mat
- Soft towels
- Water
- Liquid dish detergent
- Soft Sponge
- Terry cloth or microfiber towels
Instructions
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Place a rubber mat or towel on the floor of your kitchen sink. Fill the sink with warm water and add a tbsp. of liquid dish detergent.
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Allow your lead crystal pieces to come to room temperature, if they held hot liquids or food, or cold liquids (or ice). Placing crystal or glass items in water that is a very different temperature than the crystal or glass can cause it to break.
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Place one lead crystal piece into the water. Do not add several pieces at once--they may knock against each other.
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Allow the lead crystal to soak for 15 to 30 minutes if food (or dirt) is caked on the piece. Otherwise, commence washing it immediately. Use a soft, nonabrasive sponge and wipe this over all surfaces.
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5
Rinse the lead crystal in warm water. Dry the crystal thoroughly with a soft towel (terry cloth or microfiber). If you air dry, rather than towel-dry, the crystal, water spots may form.
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Tips & Warnings
Oldfashionedliving.com suggests adding a little white vinegar to the soapy water. This may add extra sparkle to your crystal.
A little gentle scrubbing with soft abrasive sponges (such as nylon sponges) is okay, but avoid using steel wool and harsh abrasives on your crystal.
Do not wash lead crystal in a dishwasher. Hand-wash it only.
