Michigan State University Extension
Home Maintenance And Repair - 01500114
06/24/03

Cleaning Glass Accessories


Glass flower vases, cruets, or carafes used to hold
water, wine, oil or other liquids may develop stains in
the bottom when allowed to set for a long time. Normal
washing with soap and water may not get off all the
stain. To remove these stains, try the following steps:

1. Pour vinegar (brown or white) into glass so as to be
above the stain mark. Allow to stand 30 minutes to
overnight, depending on intensity of the stain. Before
emptying vinegar, add about 1/2 teaspoon dry uncooked
rice, or 6-10 dry bean. Shake glass rapidly so hard
grains can rub off loosened stain with a scouring action.
Pour contents out. Rinse with water. Repeat if necessary.

2. If not all the stain is removed, pour ammonia into
the glass to be above stain mark and allow to stand over
night. Add rice or beans and shake. Repeat if necessary.

3. Commercial products such as 'Lime Away' can remove
some stains. Read labels and follow directions exactly.
You may need to add grains of rice or beans and shake to
get scouring action with these products also.

If you have crystal vases or carafes, do not leave
flowers or food in them any longer than necessary, since
chemical changes can occur which permanently stain
crystal.

This article was written by Anne Field, Extension
Specialist, Emeritus.

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