Glass tabletops are essential décor additions that will instantly transform your home. While glass tabletops can look great for a long time, scratches can substantially compromise their beauty. Some scratches are nearly invisible to the naked eye, but they can be difficult to ignore once you notice them. In order to keep the glass tabletop in your home looking beautiful, we recommend following these tips to prevent scratching and breaking.

Clean Glass Safely and Effectively

As surprising as it may sound, cleaning your glass regularly is essential in keeping it scratch-free. With that said, it’s also important to check that the cleaner and cloth you use aren’t directly responsible for causing scratches. For example, napkins and paper towels can often scratch glass, so they should not be used for cleaning. Instead, try using a lint-free microfiber cloth to clean and dry your glass tabletop. In addition, when looking for the right glass cleaner, you should look for products labeled as “glass-safe” or “made for glass.”

For a scratch-free shine using products you have at home, check out this easy DIY glass cleaner recipe:

• 1/2 cup white vinegar
• 1/2 cup rubbing alcohol
• 2 tbsp. corn starch
• 4 cups warm water

By using safe, non-abrasive products and a microfiber cloth, you can ensure that your glass will be safe from scratches caused by cleaning.

Avoid Placing Items Directly on the Glass

If you serve meals on your glass tabletop, then it is important to keep dishes and other items from being placed directly on the glass. This is because they can leave scratches and impact the table’s aesthetic. To prevent this, you should advise family members and friends to use coasters or placemats anytime they want to place items on the glass. For an additional preventative, you can try covering the glass with a runner or tablecloth.

Remove Scratches

No matter how careful you are in protecting your glass, scratches can still happen—but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing you can do about it. By addressing scratches as soon as possible, you can stop them from getting worse and prevent new ones from forming. If you’re dealing with a minor scratch, there are several products you can use as a temporary DIY fix (clear nail polish, toothpaste, baking soda). However, to resolve scratches long-term, it’s important to contact a professional.