How to Clean Non-Glare Glass in Picture Frames

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Things You'll Need

  • Vinegar-based glass cleaner

  • Soft cloth

Clean non-glare glass in moments.

Non-glare glass is often used by art framers to protect photographs, drawings and artwork from harmful pollutants and ultraviolet light that can damage or fade them. This type of glass is coated with a very thin film that diffuses light rays, causing the glass to appear virtually invisible. To keep that illusion intact, and keep your artwork looking its best, wipe away dust and dirt on a regular basis with a soft cloth and the right cleaner.

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Step 1

Take the picture off the wall and set it on a flat surface.

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Step 2

Dampen a soft cloth with vinegar-based glass cleaner. Do not spray the non-glare glass directly, because it will soak into crevices in the frame and wick into the mat and the artwork itself.

Step 3

Place the dampened cloth on the non-glare glass and gently rub it in a circular motion. Work up into the corners and along the edges of the frame to dislodge embedded dust and dirt.

Step 4

Turn the cloth over to its dry, clean side and repeat the rubbing and cleaning motion. This will remove any streaks left by the evaporating cleaner. At this point, the non-glare glass will be all but invisible.

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Step 5

Tip the framed piece, holding it by the frame so you can look horizontally across the surface of the non-glare glass. Look for any streaks or smudges you may have missed. Repeat Steps 3 and 4 if you find them.

Tip

Hang artwork in diffused, indirect light whenever possible. If you must hang it in bright light, make sure the glass has a UV-protected coating.

Warning

Don't use ammonia-based window cleaner on non-glare, or any other framing glass. Not only will it damage coatings, but it will emit gases that will get inside the frame and damage artwork and matting.

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