Antique glass is one of the most delicate materials in our inventory. But oftentimes, it’s covered with dirt, limescale, and hard water deposits. Restore it to its original state with these simple steps.

1. Always clean glass one piece at a time. Line your sink or wash basin with thick cotton towels to reduce the risk of cracking. Any areas with paint, silvering, or gilding, should be avoided while cleaning to prevent chipping or scratching the design.

2. Never use hot water to clean antique glass. Weak points or air bubbles within the glass are particularly sensitive to temperature and hot water could cause the piece to spontaneously shatter. Cool to room temperature water with a few drops of laundry detergent or other mild soap and a soft lint-free cloth are your best bet for removing less stubborn residue.

3. Scrub away especially resistant buildup with a toothbrush or artist’s paintbrush. In some cases a glass-cleaning cream can be helpful, but test a small section before applying it to the entire surface.

Ready to tackle your own project? See a selection of our glass panes and vintage windows here.