A crystal trophy is designed to commemorate an achievement and look its best for years to come. However, dust, fingerprints and water marks can quickly reduce its sparkle if it isn't cleaned correctly.
Fortunately, keeping your engraved crystal award looking flawless is simple. By using the right materials and avoiding harsh cleaners, you can restore its shine without leaving streaks or damaging the polished finish.
What You'll Need
- To safely clean your crystal trophy, you'll need:
- A clean microfibre cloth or soft towel
- Warm water
- A small amount of mild washing-up liquid
- A second dry microfibre cloth / towel for polishing
Avoid paper towels, abrasive cloths and strong chemical cleaners, as these can leave scratches or residue.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide
1. Remove Dust
Use a dry microfibre cloth to gently wipe away dust before cleaning. This helps prevent fine particles from scratching the surface.

2. Clean the Surface
Dampen a microfibre cloth or sponge with warm water mixed with a few drops of mild washing-up liquid. Gently wipe the trophy to remove fingerprints, smudges and dirt.
Avoid soaking the award if it has a wooden or metal base.

3. Rinse Away Soap
Wipe the trophy with a separate cloth dampened with clean water to remove any remaining soap. Residue left behind is a common cause of streaks.

4. Dry and Polish
Immediately dry the trophy with a clean microfibre cloth, soft towel or dish cloth. Buff the surface using gentle circular motions to restore its crystal-clear shine and prevent water marks from forming.

Avoid These Common Mistakes
To protect your crystal award, avoid using:
- Ammonia-based glass cleaners
- Abrasive cleaning products
- Wire wool
- Rough paper towels
- Bleach or strong solvents
These products can dull the polished surface or leave permanent scratches.
Keeping Your Trophy Looking Its Best
Dust your crystal trophy regularly with a clean microfibre cloth and handle it by the base whenever possible to minimise fingerprints. Displaying it in a safe location away from heavy traffic will also help prevent accidental damage.
With just a few minutes of care every so often, your engraved crystal trophy will remain a striking reminder of every achievement.
Premium Engraved Crystal Awards from Brunel Trophies
At Brunel Trophies, we supply and engrave a wide range of crystal and optical glass awards, personalised with precision to celebrate every success.
Whether you're recognising sporting achievements, employee milestones or corporate excellence, our bespoke engraved awards are designed to be treasured for years to come.
Looking for premium engraved crystal trophies? Contact Brunel Trophies today to find the perfect award for your next presentation.
