How to Clean, Display, and Store Stained Glass

 The Care and Keeping of Stained Glass

Stained glass projects are unique home accessories, but the home maintenance of your art requires slightly different care than you may expect.  Follow these cleaning tips and your stained glass home decor will last for generations. 

Whether you’re cleaning, displaying, or storing your piece, following these simple guidelines will keep it looking its best for years.  

I'll give you a quick overview, the down and dirty version! Of course, antique stained glass windows and leaded glass windows require more care, but we're just covering the basics today!

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Care

    Routine Cleaning

• Remove your suncatcher from the hanger before cleaning—don’t dust while hanging!
• Use a soft, dry cloth to gently remove dust.
• Check the hook or hanger, especially if you use suction hooks.
• Wash your hands when done. Stained glass often contains lead, which is safe to touch but requires smart cleanup. Keep a designated cloth and water container for stained glass handling.

    Deep Cleaning

• Remove from the hanger before cleaning.
• Dust with a soft, dry cloth first.
• Mix 1-2 drops of mild dish soap (like Dawn) in a small cup of water.
• Dampen a soft cloth (not wet!) and gently wipe away grime.
• Dry with a clean, soft cloth.
• Check the hanger and rehang securely. Again, please avoid suction hooks.
• Wash your hands, see above.

    When & How to Reapply Wax or Polish

• After deep cleaning, reapply polish only if needed.
• Use specialty stained glass wax or a non-abrasive car wax (carnauba-based).
• Apply a tiny amount to a soft cloth and gently rub over the metal. No need to apply directly to the glass.
• Let dry to a haze, then buff with a clean cloth, paying extra attention to corners and creases.
• Rehang and wash your hands.

    Avoid These Common Mistakes

• Ammonia-based cleaners will damage the metal and finish.
• Vinegar-based cleaners will also cause damage.
• Window cleaners - Yep, the same thing applies here!
• Abrasive cleaners or scrubbing tools - I hope you see the trend!
• Newspapers, paper towels, or tissues can cause micro-scratches and leave lint.

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Display

    Best Ways to Display Suncatchers

        Do: 

• Use an anchored nail, cup hook, or picture hanger in the frame or wall.
• Hang with two lines when possible—if one breaks, the other will help prevent a fall.
• Check suction cups daily and other hangers weekly.
• Choose a fixed location (avoid doors, frequently opened windows, or unstable surfaces).

        Maybe: 

• Command hooks (some report success), curtain rods (ensure they don’t bend) 
• Stands/easels for tabletop display.

        Don’t rely on suction cups alone! They will eventually fail and a shattered suncatcher is heartbreaking. If you must use one, check it daily.

    Protecting Stained Glass from Weather Exposure

        Do:

• Display indoors or in a protected outdoor location.
• If using outside, check with the maker for outdoor suitability.

        Don’t 

• Leave it outside year-round or in stormy weather.

    How to Secure Stained Glass in a Window

        Do: 

• Hang with an anchored hook or hanger, using double lines for heavier pieces.
• Use brackets for larger panels.

        Don’t 

• just prop it up and walk away!

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How to Store Stained Glass

    Safe Long-Term Storage

           Do:

• Wrap in white, acid-free tissue before padding.
• Use ample padding—bubble wrap or honeycomb paper is best.
• Seal ends and edges securely so the piece doesn’t slip out.
• Place in a sturdy, labeled box.
• Store in a clean, dry, temperature-stable location

        Don't:

• Avoid plastic wrap, which can leave marks on the finish.
• Store in a damp basement or an uninsulated attic or garage

    Packing Stained Glass for Moving or Mailing

        Do:

• Pack as you would for storage, but add extra padding.
• Place the first padded box inside a second box for extra protection.
  
  
• When shipping, consider paying for Special Handling/Fragile labels. Simply writing "FRAGILE" is not enough.

        Don’t 

• Skimp on wrapping, padding, or boxing. Ask yourself: Could this survive a two-story drop? If not, pack it better.

    Preventing Oxidation or Damage Over Time

• Use only neutral pH cleaners, soft cloths, and a gentle touch.
• Maybe: A little elbow grease for stubborn spots.
• Don’t scrub, scratch, or expose the piece to harsh chemicals.
• Avoid long-term contact with plastic or damp environments.

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Quick Reference Checklist

• Clean gently with mild soap and soft cloths.
• Avoid ammonia, vinegar, and abrasive cleaners.
• Hang securely—suction cups are unreliable!
• Store with ample padding in a dry, stable environment.
• Pack carefully for shipping—double-box if needed.

Following these simple steps will help keep your stained glass looking as beautiful as the day you got it!  

Until next time,

Ailsa