How to Clean A Wine Glass

Wine glasses should be washed after every use to ensure that you are enjoying the wine at its best. Wine connoisseurs recommend washing glasses after each wine variety or vintage, as well as at least once a year, even if they are stored in a closed cabinet, to remove any dust or pollution that may cause etching on the glass. If you do choose to use an automatic dishwasher, be sure to load the glasses with plenty of space between them in the upper rack, and use the gentle, no heat dry cycle.

What You’ll Need:

• A large sink or plastic tub
• Rubber sink mat or dishtowel
• Mild dishwashing liquid
• Nylon scrubber or wine glass brush
• Warm water
• Lint-free cloth, such as a microfiber towel
• Distilled white vinegar (optional)
• Microwave or stovetop
• Microwaveable bowl or pan

Instructions:

1. Fill a sink or plastic tub with warm water and a small amount of mild dishwashing liquid. Line the bottom of the sink with a rubber mat or dishtowel to prevent chips or scratches.
2. Use a nylon scrubber or wine glass brush to gently wash the glasses, focusing on the rim and the interior of the bowl. For delicate stemmed glass, hold the glass securely by the bowl with one hand and wash it with the other hand.
3. Rinse the glasses with warm water, being sure to use the same temperature as the washing water to prevent cracks in the glass from extreme temperature changes.
4. Dry the glasses with a lint-free cloth, such as a microfiber towel, holding the glass firmly with one hand and using the towel to dry the bowl, stem, and base of the glass.

To remove tough red wine stains or cloudiness:

1. Fill a microwaveable bowl about half full with water and heat in the microwave until it is simmering, or heat a pan of water on the stovetop until it is simmering. Place a bottle of distilled white vinegar in the water and let it sit for about five to 10 minutes to warm.
2. Pour the warm vinegar into the bowls of the glasses or fill a plastic tub with the vinegar and submerge the glasses. Let the glasses soak for an hour.
3. After soaking, use a wine glass brush or a fork or bamboo skewer wrapped in a microfiber dishcloth to scrub the bottom of the bowl of the glass. Rinse and dry the glasses as usual.

Remember to never use an abrasive scrubbing sponge or abrasive cleaners on wine glasses, as the scratches that will occur can never be removed. By following these steps, you can ensure that your wine glasses are sparkling clean and ready to enhance the taste of your favorite wines.