Stem Zero and Ghost Zero Care Instructions

First of all its important to know that all Stem-Zero stemware items have been independently certified dishwasher safe for up to 2000 industrial dishwashing cycles* as long as the given instructions below are followed.

You can freely wash your glasses in your domestic or industrial dishwashers unless otherwise stated by use and care instructions of your items.

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Water Hardness & Your Glassware

The hardness of your water affects how well your glasses are protected in the dishwasher. Too soft and it can corrode the glass surface. Too hard and it leaves deposits.

The golden rule: keep water hardness above 70 ppm (4 gpg).

Soft water (below 105 ppm / 6 gpg) Use a powder or tablet detergent. Avoid adding any separate dishwasher salt.

Hard water (above 105 ppm / 6 gpg) A standard all-in-one detergent is usually enough, since most include built-in water softeners. If your home has very hard water, a whole-home water softener can help — just keep hardness above 70 ppm (4 gpg) so it never gets soft enough to corrode the glass.

Note: most US dishwashers don't have a salt compartment. If yours does, pair the salt with a salt-free tablet detergent, and have your service technician set the level so hardness stays above 70 ppm (4 gpg).

Detergent & Rinse Aid

Using the right detergent and rinse aid — in the right amounts — keeps your glasses hygienic, clear and gleaming.

Before loading Don't rinse glasses with water first. Simply scrape off excess food residue and place directly in the dishwasher. Rinsing prevents the detergent from working properly and can scratch the glass surface.

Choosing your detergent Use a powder or tablet detergent matched to your water hardness. Avoid gel detergents — they are less effective on stubborn stains and can cause yellowing on the inner surface.

Getting the amount right

  • Eco cycles use less water — reduce your detergent amount accordingly
  • If the dishwasher isn't full, use less detergent
  • Too much detergent scratches the glass surface

    Rinse aid Increase rinse aid if you notice water spots, mineral deposits or an iridescent sheen on your glasses. If white spots appear after washing, wipe with a damp cloth — if they come off, reduce detergent and increase rinse aid.

    What to avoid Never use vinegar, bleaching agents or acidic liquids to clean your glasses. These cause permanent cloudy corrosion or an irreversible iridescent effect.

Dishwasher Operating Tips

Loading your glasses

  • Place tumblers on the upper rack where possible to prevent scratches and breakage
  • Use a dedicated stemware rack for wine glasses and other stemware — this keeps them stable during the wash cycle
  • Don't overfill the dishwasher and make sure water can circulate freely

    What not to wash together Keep glassware separate from:
  • Aluminum products — aluminum dissolves in wash water and causes glass corrosion. Also avoid detergents containing aluminum
  • Wood, iron, copper, silver and similar materials

    Using salt If your dishwasher has a salt compartment and you choose to use salt, take care not to spill when filling it. If salt does spill inside the dishwasher, run a rinse cycle before washing your glasses — spilled salt causes corrosion.

    For professional & industrial dishwashers Contact your dishwasher supplier to select the right rack size for your glassware. Clean water tanks with fresh water approximately every 10 cycles.
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Temperature & Duration

The ideal dishwasher temperature for glassware is 120°F to 150°F.

Too hot and you risk corrosion or breakage. Too cool and your detergent won't work effectively.

Always check your detergent's recommended temperature and match your dishwasher settings accordingly.

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Dishwasher Operating Tips

Always use the soft side of a sponge - never the rough side. Scouring pads scratch the glass surface, and these scratches become even more visible after dishwashing. Avoid cleaning powders and abrasive products for the same reason.

Drying & Polishing

After the dishwasher cycle, open the door immediately to let steam escape.

After hand-washing, place glasses on a drying rack and allow them to dry fully. Drying the inside of the glass reduces water spots and improves clarity.

For best results, use a clean microfiber towel — large enough to hold the glass comfortably and reach inside the bowl for polishing.

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Polishing Your Glassware

For stemware, follow these steps:

Drape the towel over both hands and hold the base firmly. Gently wipe and rotate the outside of the glass. Polish the stem with one hand while the other holds the base.

Then cup the bowl in one hand with the stem between your fingers. Cover your other hand with the towel and polish the inside and outside of the bowl with slow, gentle circular motions. A little steam can help if needed.

Never apply excessive force — glassware is delicate and sudden pressure can cause breakage.

Storing Your Glassware

The rim is the most delicate part of the glass. As a general rule, store glasses rim-up to protect the edge.

For stemware, hanging racks are a good alternative — storing glasses upside-down prevents dust from settling inside and avoids rim contact with surfaces.

Use correctly sized compartment racks where possible, and always avoid sudden impacts and damp environments such as a basement or attic.