Why Hand-Blown Glassware Deserves Special Care
Hand-blown glassware is crafted by skilled artisans who shape molten glass by breath and hand — no two pieces are exactly alike. This artisanal process creates the beautiful organic texture and ribbed patterns you see in premium glassware, but it also means the glass has a slightly different structure to mass-produced alternatives. With the right care, your hand-blown pieces will remain stunning for years to come.
Washing Hand-Blown Glassware
Hand Washing Is Always Best
The golden rule: always hand wash your hand-blown glassware. Use warm (not hot) water and a small amount of mild dish soap. Avoid harsh detergents or abrasive sponges — a soft cloth or microfibre sponge is ideal.
- Fill your sink with warm water before placing glasses in — never drop them in dry
- Wash one piece at a time to avoid knocking glasses together
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water to remove all soap residue
- Never use steel wool or abrasive scrubbers on the ribbed surface
Can You Use a Dishwasher?
We strongly recommend against putting hand-blown glassware in the dishwasher. The high heat, harsh detergents, and mechanical vibration can cause micro-fractures, cloudiness, and etching over time — dulling the beautiful clarity that makes these pieces special.
Drying Your Glassware
After washing, dry your glasses immediately with a clean, lint-free cloth — a microfibre cloth works beautifully. Hold the glass by the bowl (not the stem) and dry in gentle circular motions. Air drying can leave water spots, especially in areas with hard water.
Pro tip: If you notice water spots, a small amount of white vinegar on a soft cloth will remove them without scratching.
Storing Hand-Blown Glassware
- Store upright, never upside down — storing rim-down can cause chips and puts pressure on the most delicate part of the glass
- Leave space between pieces — avoid stacking or crowding glasses together
- Use a dedicated shelf — away from heavy items that could fall and cause breakage
- Keep away from direct sunlight — prolonged UV exposure can affect the clarity of crystal glass over time
Handling Tips
Always hold wine glasses by the bowl when washing, and by the stem when serving. This keeps fingerprints off the bowl and reduces the risk of the stem snapping under pressure. When setting the table, place glasses on a flat, stable surface and avoid sliding them across hard surfaces.
Removing Cloudiness or Residue
If your glassware develops a cloudy film (common with hard water), soak the glass in a solution of equal parts white vinegar and warm water for 5–10 minutes, then rinse and dry. For stubborn residue inside a decanter or teapot, use a mixture of warm water, a tablespoon of white vinegar, and a handful of uncooked rice — swirl gently and rinse.
Shop Our Hand-Blown Glassware Collection
Ready to add a piece of artisan craftsmanship to your table? Explore our hand-blown ribbed glassware, designed for everyday elegance and gifting.
