How to care for crystal ?

Crystal is a byword for refinement, clarity, and light. Whether it’s a chandelier suspended in your living room, elegant stemware, or antique decorative pieces, crystal draws the eye with its unique brilliance. Over time, however, dust, limescale and environmental pollution can dull its sparkle.

So, how can you clean crystal without risking damage or loss of lustre? Are there professional, safe, and effective solutions for effortless cleaning? At Hagerty, we have the answer: Crystal Clean.

Why Crystal Requires Special Care

Crystal, often enriched with lead, is a noble yet delicate material. Its purity makes it highly susceptible to fingerprints, dust, and micro-scratches. Using the wrong cleaning method or unsuitable products can not only dull its brilliance but also cause permanent surface damage.

Unlike ordinary glass, crystal deserves special attention. With proper care, it can retain its dazzling appearance for generations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Using overly acidic or alkaline products (pure vinegar, ammonia, bleach)
• Cleaning with rough cloths or abrasive sponges
• Immersing complex items, such as chandeliers, in water
• Skipping proper drying, which can leave streaks or marks

The Right Method for Cleaning Crystal

Hagerty Crystal Clean 

Crystal Clean is a ready-to-use spray for effortless cleaning of crystal decorative pieces, chandeliers, glassware, and other precious items. Its professional-grade formula works instantly, dissolving dirt without the need for scrubbing.

Its composition is carefully balanced for efficiency and safety. It contains ethanol and isopropanol (propane-2-ol), two gentle solvents that quickly dissolve fingerprints, dust, and greasy deposits without harming the crystal. Their rapid evaporation ensures a streak-free finish, ideal for delicate pieces such as chandeliers and fine glassware.

The formula also includes a small percentage of butanone, a complementary solvent that enhances cleaning power on more stubborn deposits while remaining non-aggressive to sensitive surfaces.

Thanks to this precise balance, Crystal Clean provides fast, rinse-free, residue-free cleaning that is safe for crystal, metal fittings, and the environment.

Key Benefits

• Fast cleaning – no dismantling, no rinsing
• Streak-free, residue-free results
• Acid-free, ammonia-free – total surface protection
• Safe for metal elements and pendants
• Trusted by professionals, museums, and restorers
• Made in Europe to the highest quality standards

Clean Crystal Like a Professional

1. Prepare your workspace: place a thick towel beneath the items and cover the area under the chandelier.
2. Switch off the electricity.
3. Spray Crystal Clean onto the crystal and metal parts until the entire surface is damp.
4. Wait for dirt and grime to drip away.
5. Allow to dry naturally.

Recommended Uses for Crystal Clean

• Classic, baroque, or modern chandeliers
• Crystal vases, figurines, and trophies
• Commemorative plaques or antique decorative items

How Often Should You Clean Crystal?

• Cleaning frequency depends on the environment and how often items are used:
• Chandeliers: every 6 months, depending on dust or smoke exposure
• Decorative pieces: every 2 months, or more frequently if handled often
• Display pieces: weekly dusting is usually enough

Extra Tips:

• Avoid touching crystal after cleaning
• Wear cotton gloves to prevent fingerprints

Why Trust Hagerty?

Since 1895, Hagerty has been the trusted choice for both private individuals and professionals in caring for precious objects. Our expertise is recognised by museums, antique dealers, jewellers, and families committed to preserving their heritage.

All our products, including Crystal Clean, are crafted in Europe and rigorously tested to guarantee performance, safety, and respect for the most delicate materials.

In summary:

• Crystal and glass require specific care to maintain their brilliance
• Hagerty Crystal Clean offers a quick, professional, and safe cleaning solution
• Gentle, regular maintenance extends the life of your precious items
• Trust Hagerty’s expertise to care for what matters most

Even if your crystal looks clean, airborne microparticles (smoke, dust, humidity) gradually settle and dull its surface. Regular, gentle cleaning with Crystal Clean prevents deep build-up and keeps your crystal as beautiful as the day you bought it.

Crystal Care FAQ

1. Can Crystal Clean be used on ordinary glass?

Yes, Crystal Clean is also safe and effective on decorative glass. However, it is not recommended for drinking glasses, decanters, or any item that comes into direct contact with the mouth. As the formula does not require rinsing, it should be reserved for decorative, non-food-contact surfaces.

2. How can I clean a crystal chandelier without dismantling it?

With Crystal Clean, there’s no need to take it apart. Simply protect the surrounding area with a cloth or sheet, spray generously from top to bottom, and let the dirt drip away. Once dry, the crystal regains its sparkle without rinsing.

3. Does Crystal Clean leave a scent?

It has a light, fresh fragrance that dissipates quickly, leaving no lingering odour – perfect for dining rooms, museums, or historic interiors.

4. Can it be used on very old pieces?

Yes – the gentle, non-aggressive formula is ideal for antique or collectible items and is trusted by museums and restorers worldwide.