Rinse with distilled water after washing to prevent new stains

After washing glassware normally, give each piece a final rinse with distilled water before placing it on a drying rack or towel-drying. This removes any mineral-laden tap water from the surface before it can evaporate and leave deposits.

Why It Works

Hard water stains form when dissolved minerals -- primarily calcium and magnesium -- are left behind as water evaporates on the glass surface. Distilled water has had these minerals removed through distillation, so it dries clean without residue.

Tips

• Keep a jug of distilled water near the sink for easy access during dish drying
• Especially worthwhile for glassware you display, such as wine glasses or crystal
• In areas with very hard water, this single habit can eliminate the need for periodic deep cleaning entirely