The Simple Trick That Gives Thrifted Glass A Crystal-Clear Sparkle

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Many glass items end up in the thrift store just because they seem to have lost their luster. Wine glasses, vases, and champagne flutes can all develop hard water stains or cloudiness — making them not as attractive as they once were. But it doesn't mean you should pass them over. It's possible to get these forgotten glass items looking gorgeous again with a simple trick that involves steam. Plus, there are lots of ways to turn thrifted glassware into decor, so it's a method that could come in handy even if you're not using the glass items to host.

Beautifully sparkling glass is especially nice to have when guests come over for dinner. And when you're able to get those items for a thrift store price? Even better! However, glass that's covered in smudges can be embarrassing to use, especially since it makes it seem like your utensils are "unclean." The minerals in hard water are typically the culprits behind it all, and they can cause that frustrating cloudiness, too.

While there are various techniques to make cloudy glasses sparkle and shine, this one only requires basic kitchen supplies to create steam. The steam helps break through pesky leftover deposits, and all you have to do is polish them away. Get out a pot, a polishing cloth, and any secondhand glass gems that could use some reviving. In just a short amount of time, you can have them company ready.

Begin by filling up a pot with water and place it on the stove. Heat the water until steam starts to rise. Then, hold one of your glasses by its stem over the pot, allowing the steam to fill the inside. Move it around so that the outside gets hit by the steam as well. Next, grab a polishing rag, like these Airlabs Microfiber Polishing Lint-free Rags, and gently wipe the glass to remove any hardwater spots. You should quickly see positive results.

This is a clever trick commonly used for wine glasses, but steam can help rejuvenate other thrifted glass items as well — such as serving trays, decanters, and dishes. However, just be extremely careful and wear oven mitts for added safety. The main goal is to give the item a steam coating, then polish it until you achieve your desired, crystal-clear results.

A variation of this method involves a tea kettle. You can use it to produce steam instead of a pot, but it's also extra helpful in last minute situations. If your dining room is already set, place a steaming kettle on the table to remove any missed smudges from glassware. Simply hold the piece near the kettle's spout, then give it a polish with your cloth. Your thrifted glass should look fabulous after this trick. Pair it with home decor that instantly makes guests feel at home, and surely they'll keep coming back.