How to properly care for your vintage tableware and glassware


With these expert tips, your vintage items will stay beautiful for years to come!

You've just purchased a stunning vintage piece and can't wait to enjoy it—whether it's sipping from a unique wine glass, serving snacks in silver coupes, or making sangria in a stylish vintage pitcher. But how do you clean and maintain these delicate items to ensure their beauty lasts for decades?

We often receive questions like, "Is my vintage glass dishwasher safe?", "How do you keep silver coupes so shiny?", and "What’s the best way to restore the sparkle of my vintage wine glasses?" Here are our essential care tips to keep your vintage tableware in top condition. Learn how to prevent glass from turning cloudy or developing a rainbow sheen, and how to restore silver and stainless steel to their original shine!

Cleaning and caring for vintage glassware

We recommend handwashing all vintage glassware—no exceptions! Dishwashers can be too harsh, leading to damage or even breakage. Since vintage glass is often delicate and not designed for modern dishwashers, follow these steps:

  • Use a soft sponge and mild dish soap to clean.

  • Avoid harsh scrubbing to prevent scratches.

  • Dry immediately with a lint-free tea towel to prevent water spots.

Maintaining silver and stainless steel (inox) items

How do you ensure your silver or stainless steel items stay brilliantly shiny and free from stains? Water spots, fingerprints, and food residue can cause discoloration over time. To maintain their shine:

  • Always hand wash silver and stainless steel items.

  • Dry immediately with a clean, soft towel to prevent water stains.

  • If stains persist or shine fades, use a silver polishing cloth or silver polish to restore brilliance.

Caring for vintage ceramic tableware

Just like other vintage items, we recommend handwashing ceramics to avoid damage. Older ceramic pieces, such as vintage lunch plates, may not withstand the heat and pressure of dishwashers. Dishwashing can cause:

  • Cracks in the glaze or surface.

  • A rainbow sheen that affects the original finish.

  • Weakened structure, making the item more prone to breakage.

Keep your vintage collection beautiful for years to come

We hope these care tips help preserve the charm of your vintage tableware and glassware for many years. If you have a specific item that needs extra care, feel free to reach out!

Have a question about maintaining your vintage pieces? Send us an email at info@laloueme.com, and we’d be happy to help.



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