Are you also one of those who love to find old treasures such as drinking glasses, plates and other beautiful tableware? Then you have come to the right place! What is the best way to wash your treasures so that they continue to shine like gold?
The glazed treasures
Let's start with an important rule: if your treasures are surface glazed, it's a green light for the dishwasher! The surface glaze protects and holds the magic, so don't be afraid to give them a spin in the machine.
How do I find out if I have a glazed treasure?
Glazed items typically have a smooth and shiny surface, which can also be seen on the plates below. Apart from the fact that you can feel it by looking at the surface, pay close attention as the glazed surfaces are smooth, hard and uniform.
If your fine things, on the other hand, have had the color printed directly on the surface, then you must pay attention!
Printed color and glass with film - Be careful with the machine!
Printed color on old treasures is fragile, so the rule here is simple: hand washing is the key to preserving the color and pattern. The dishwasher can be a bit too harsh on them and risk washing away the colour.
So how should you go about washing your hands?
Handwashing: Step by Step
Fill the sink with lukewarm water: A good rule of thumb is to always start with warm or lukewarm water, which can help soften dirt and grime before you really get down to business.
Mild detergent is key: Choose a mild soap, preferably one that is not too aggressive. We do not want to remove the natural glow of the treasures, only the dirt.
Use a soft sponge or cloth: No coarse brushes here! A soft sponge or cloth will do the trick without scratching or affecting the colors. It's just boring when you have to use a scouring sponge and you have to draw some boring lines on your new treasure.
Enjoy the process: take it easy. Give your treasures the attention they deserve. See it as a form of self-indulgence for both you and your new finds.
ATTENTION for glass with print: When washing printed color, it is important to be attentive and careful. Do not leave the treasures in the water for too long, and avoid rubbing too hard. If you see signs that the color is starting to fade, you are scrubbing hard.
Color-preserving Tips for the Dishwasher
If you can't resist the temptation of the convenience of the dishwasher, we have some tips to preserve the colors even when the machine calls:
Low temperatures: Choose a low temperature so that your dishwasher does not turn into a hot sauna for your treasures.
Use a gentle program: Most dishwashers have gentle programs that are perfect for your colorful friends. Select this program to minimize the risk of color fading.
A little distance between the treasures can prevent chips and scratches: Do not place your colorful treasures too close to each other in the dishwasher. Give them some space to breathe and relax.