Budget Conscious Wine Glasses

Worried about your stemware budget? Then look into purchasing an all-purpose wine glass. Many companies are now creating all-purpose designs for the restauranteurs conscious of budget, cabinet space and simplicity. They can limit your wine glass and stemware collection to a single size. Most all-purpose wine glass designs are attractive and relatively inexpensive.

Characteristics and Misconceptions of Acrylic Plastic

Here are a few things you might not have known about acrylic plastic. Keep these in mind when deciding which type of plastic you'd like to buy for your stemware, plastic cups or plates.

Acrylic is a useful, clear plastic that resembles glass, but has properties that make it superior to glass in many ways. Acrylic is only half as heavy as glass. This makes working with acrylic much easier. A transparency rate of 93 percent makes acrylic the clearest material known.



Some worry that acrylic yellows and cracks. Some cheaper versions might. But good acrylic remains fresh looking regardless of age. Some worry that acrylic scratches too easily. Don't fret. Scratches can be easily buffed out of acrylic (unlike with glass).

Research Polystyrene

It is a good idea to research polystyrene, especially if you are a "green" or environmentally conscious restaurant. This material, often found in plastic glasses and plates, has caused controversy because some experts claim it bad for the environment. So read up and decide where you stand before you fill your restaurant with the material.

Cleaning Your Plasticware

Here are some ways experts say you can keep your plasticware clean:

1. use a mild detergent.
2. rinse first with tap water and then with distilled water.
3. do not use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads on any plastic labware.
4. do not use strong alkaline cleaning agents with polycarbonate (PC).

Plastic That Looks Like Glass

Your customers will have to look twice to decide if your dishes are plastic or fine glass if you choose a line from Strahl, the premier name in high-quality plastic tableware. Enjoy crystal-like good looks with unbreakable, dishwasher-safe polycarbonate plastic tableware. Strahl tumblers, wine glasses, serving bowls and dishes are durable, have crystal-like clarity and mimics the look of fine glass.

Testing Plasticware

Wondering if the plasticware you are thinking of buying for your restaurant can withstand the rigors of commercial use? Experts suggest buying a sample of each glass you intend to purchase and then rolling up your sleeves and running them through your daily routine.
Wash them vigorously in the bar's sinks. Put them through the same paces they will be subjected to during a busy Friday night. See what the carnage is like and then you will be better able to evaluate which products to purchase in large amounts.

Choices in Plasticware

The choices are endless in plastic wine glasses and plates. Shop for top notch brands such as Mikasa and Lenox. Decide between the following features: elegant, classic, frosted, fine, crystal and more. Prices range anywhere from under $30 to upwards of $200 for these lines.

Custom Printed Plastic Wine Glasses

It's possible to put your restaurant logo on your plastic stemware. Search for companies online that can silkscreen your logo on plastic wine glasses. Many times, the plastic wine glasses are made of polystyrene plastic.