Checklist for Care and Handling of Glass and Ceramics

• Use common sense for handling and storage of glass and ceramics.
• Glass and Ceramics are smooth and slippery so handle objects one at a time with clean and dry hands, or latex gloves.
• Do not use spouts, handles or object extremities to lift or support the main body of an item; lift and carry item using the objects center of gravity and supporting uniformly.
• Wash glass and glazed ceramic objects by hand; do not use dishwashers for cleaning items.
• Do not wash unglazed ceramics, or items with gold edging, hand-painted decorations or repairs.
• Dust with soft, clean paintbrush, clean cloth such as a diaper; do not use commercial cleaners or sprays for cleaning.
• Use cabinets with glass doors for display purposes.
• Maintain moderate temperature; do not place items in bright sunlight; use level shelving for display purposes.
• Do not heat items above room temperature; do not bring cold items in contact with warm surfaces/areas, or warm items in contact with cold surfaces/areas.
• In packing/storage do not place items in direct contact with other items; separate items by wrapping items individually.
• Best packing materials include paper towel, flannel, thin polyethylene; do not use newspaper or newsprint.
• Do not place food, live flowers, or cold water in important items; use liners if necessary.
• If damage occurs, collect all pieces, including tiny fragments, wrap them separately and call a professional conservator.
• When in doubt, contact a professional conservator such as the American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works.

Long, Richard Caring for Your Family Treasures.
Heritage Preservation. New York: Harry N. Abrams, Inc., 2000.

National Committee to Save America’s Cultural Collections.
Caring for Your Collections: preserving and protecting your art and other collectibles.
Arthur W. Schultz, chairman. New York: Harry N. Abrams, Inc., 1992.

Winterthur Decorative Arts Series
The Winterthur Guide to Caring for Your Collection.
Wilmington: The Henry Francis Dupont Winterthur Museum, Inc., 1999. Compiled by Collections Staff, Valentine Richmond History Center, December 2003

The History Center Gift Shop carries a number of appropriate book titles, and can also special order books to assist you.