Keeping crystal awards in perfect condition is simple when you focus on regular cleaning, careful handling, and proper storage. These small habits prevent scratches, dullness, and damage over time. With just a little attention, you can maintain their clarity and shine for years.
Crystal awards are not just decorative items—they represent achievements, milestones, and recognition. Because of this, people naturally want them to look as good as they did on the day they were received. Even high-quality pieces, including EDCO crystal awards, need proper care to stay in top shape.
The good news is that maintaining them doesn’t require special tools or complicated steps. A few easy practices can make a big difference. Let’s start with the most important one: cleaning.
Clean Them Regularly but Gently
Dust and fingerprints are the most common issues with crystal awards. Over time, they can make the surface look dull.
To clean your award:
- Use a soft, lint-free cloth
- Gently wipe the surface to remove dust.
- For deeper cleaning, use lukewarm water with a small amount of mild soap.
Avoid harsh chemicals or strong cleaners. These can damage the surface or leave streaks. Also, never use rough materials like paper towels, as they can cause fine scratches.
Once cleaned, dry the award with a soft cloth right away. This prevents water spots from forming.
Handle With Care
After cleaning, the next step is handling. Crystal may look strong, but it can chip or crack if dropped or knocked against hard surfaces.
Always:
- Hold the award with both hands.
- Avoid gripping it too tightly.
- Keep it away from edges where it might fall.
If the award has sharp edges or intricate designs, be extra careful. These areas are more delicate and prone to damage.
By handling it mindfully, you reduce the risk of accidents.
Choose the Right Display Spot
Where you place your crystal award matters more than you might think. The wrong spot can lead to fading, scratches, or even breakage.
A good display area should be
- Stable and flat
- Away from direct sunlight
- Free from high traffic or crowded spaces
Direct sunlight can cause discoloration over time. Meanwhile, placing the award in a busy area increases the chances of it being knocked over.
A shelf, cabinet, or dedicated display case often works best.
Keep Them Away From Extreme Conditions
Crystal does not react well to extreme temperatures or sudden changes in environment.
Avoid placing your awards.
- Near heat sources like radiators or stoves
- In very humid areas
- Close to air vents with strong airflow
Extreme heat can weaken the structure, while humidity can affect the clarity. Keeping the environment stable helps preserve the award’s quality.
This step is simple but often overlooked.
Store Them Properly When Not in Use
Sometimes, you may need to store your awards instead of displaying them. In that case, proper storage is key.
Wrap each award in:
- Soft cloth or microfiber fabric
- Bubble wrap for added protection
Place them in a sturdy box and make sure they are not touching each other. This prevents scratches and chips during storage.
Also, label the box if needed, so it’s handled carefully when moved.
Avoid Frequent Touching
It’s natural to want to pick up and admire a beautiful award. However, frequent handling can lead to fingerprints and smudges.
Try to:
- Limit how often you touch the surface.
- Hold the base instead of the main body when possible.
This small habit keeps the award cleaner for longer and reduces the need for constant cleaning.
Use Proper Lighting
Lighting can enhance the look of crystal, but it needs to be done right.
Soft lighting works best. It highlights the clarity without causing heat buildup. Avoid placing strong lights too close to the award, as this can increase temperature over time.
When done correctly, lighting can make your award stand out without damaging it.
Inspect Them Occasionally
Even with good care, it’s a good idea to check your awards from time to time.
Look for:
- Small scratches
- Dust buildup in corners
- Loose bases or parts
Catching these early makes it easier to fix or prevent further damage. Regular inspection also reminds you to clean and adjust placement if needed.
Keep the Engraving Clear
Many crystal awards include engraved text. This detail is important and should stay easy to read.
When cleaning:
- Pay extra attention to engraved areas.
- Use a soft brush if needed to remove dust from grooves.
Avoid pressing too hard, as this can affect the finish. Keeping the engraving clear ensures the message remains visible and meaningful.
