That is the most important rule to remember. In fact, the official Lenox website suggests that you clean all of your crystal stemware and serveware by hand, "using a mild liquid dishwashing detergent and warm water."
They also note that adding vinegar to your water when hand washing will ensure a long-lasting sparkle, making the crystal appear new for as long as you use it.
What will happen to your crystal if you don't follow these instructions? Carder says, "The cleaning agents in dishwashers are very abrasive and they will eventually leave a haze on the crystal, also the intense heat of the dishwasher does not improve the crystal."
Carder continues, mentioning that exposing your crystal to high temperatures can alter their overall appearance. "It really affects the clarity and in time your pieces will look blurry. So I would really recommend hand washing them."
The Lenox website offers step-by-step tips on exactly how to clean your pieces: "Avoid scrubbing or use of abrasives. To prevent chipping and scratching crystal when washing, remove rings, swing the faucet out of the way, and line the bottom of the sink with a rubber mat. Rinse with warm water, and gently pat dry with a soft cloth."
Often times, crystal stemware that is decorated with a gold or platinum band can acquire a natural red discoloration over the accent portion of the item. If this happens, the Lenox website offers their advice for removing it:
"First, clean the stems with a mild detergent. If that does not remove the red color on the gold, try wiping the gold band with a mixture of half vinegar and half water. Next, if this does not work, try removing the tarnish with straight vinegar. Last, try a fine polishing cream. Gently rub the gold area to remove the surface discoloration. Hand wash the stems after removing the discoloration on the gold with a detergent."
They also note that detergents with a lemon scent tend to be harsher, so avoid using those when you're cleaning your crystal.
If you're washing crystal collectibles like vases or Christmas ornaments, the basic guidelines for cleaning are the same as listed above for stemware or barware. The only difference is that you should be extra-careful with smaller items. Some of the edges can be especially sharp due to the details of the design, so it's important to handle them slowly and gently.
When removing dust, use a soft paintbrush or cloth; nothing with rough bristles or an abrasive surface. A solution of half vinegar and half water is the best mixture for removing any buildup or dirt, not traditional cleaning agents. And when possible, wash your items one at a time to avoid any accidental collisions that could lead to chipping, cracking or breaking.
