Care and Cleaning Guide

Care instructions to help your engraved pieces stay beautiful for years to come.

At Lifetime Engraving, we want your personalized gifts, awards, ornaments, and drinkware to look as beautiful years from now as they did the day you received them. Because our items are crafted from premium materials including glass, crystal, and metal, proper care ensures they remain lasting keepsakes.

Below are our recommended guidelines for maintaining your engraved products.

Glassware & Barware

  • Hand Wash Only: Wash engraved glassware by hand using mild dish soap and lukewarm water.

  • Avoid Abrasives: Do not use scouring pads, abrasive sponges, or harsh chemicals, as they may scratch the surface or dull the engraving.

  • Drying: Gently towel-dry with a soft, lint-free cloth to reduce water spotting.

  • Temperature Safety: Avoid exposing glass to sudden temperature changes, which can cause cracking (for example, pouring boiling water into a cold glass).

Crystal (Awards, Ornaments, Drinkware)

  • Gentle Cleaning: Clean with warm water and mild soap using a soft sponge or cloth.

  • Avoid Dishwasher Use: High heat and strong detergents may damage crystal and dull engraving.

  • Polishing: Use a microfiber cloth to restore clarity. Avoid ammonia- or bleach-based cleaners.

  • Display Care: Keep crystal out of prolonged direct sunlight or intense artificial light, which can cause fading or heat fractures.

Metal Items (Clocks, Bases, Accessories)

  • Regular Dusting: Use a soft, dry cloth to maintain shine and remove dust.

  • Mild Cleaning: For fingerprints or smudges, use a damp cloth with mild soap, then dry thoroughly.

  • Avoid Chemicals: Do not use metal polish, bleach, or abrasive cleaners on engraved areas, as they may remove protective finishes.

  • Battery Safety (for clocks): Replace batteries as recommended and remove them if the clock will not be in use for extended periods.

Holiday Ornaments

  • Gentle Handling: Store each ornament individually in soft cloth or its original gift box to prevent scratches.

  • Cleaning: Lightly dust with a microfiber cloth. Glass and crystal ornaments may be washed with mild soap and warm water—dry thoroughly afterward.

  • Storage: Keep ornaments in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

General Tips for All Engraved Items

  • No Harsh Cleaners: Avoid ammonia, bleach, or commercial polishes on engraved surfaces.

  • Avoid Dishwashers & Microwaves: Unless the product explicitly states otherwise, assume it is not dishwasher-, microwave-, or freezer-safe.

  • Handle with Care: Even durable materials can chip or crack if dropped or mishandled.

  • Regular Dusting: A microfiber cloth helps keep engraved products looking pristine.

Questions?

If you're unsure how to care for a specific item, our team is always happy to help. You can reach us anytime through our contact page here: https://lifetimeengraving.com/pages/contact.

With the proper care, your Lifetime Engraving pieces will continue to shine, celebrate milestones, and bring joy for many years to come.