Old crystal decanters can be used for decorative purposes, but care should be taken as the lead in the crystal can leach into stored liquids, potentially causing health problems. Glass decanters should be cleaned with non-abrasive cleaners to avoid scratches or other damage. Stopper wear can allow oxygen to pass into the decanter, affecting the contents’ flavors.
An old decanter can be used to store wine, spirits or other liquids in an attractive unit that is eye catching and maybe even vintage. Decanters are great for separating sediment from wine or for allowing flavors to become bolder or more pronounced as oxygen interacts with it. Other decanters are purely decorative, such as whiskey decanters. While an old decanter may look very nice, care should be taken using old crystal decanters, as the lead in the crystal can leach into stored liquids, potentially causing health problems.
Many experts say the lead in the crystal isn’t significant enough to cause health problems, although others advise pregnant women and people with existing health concerns to avoid such products. If the old decanter is crystal, it may be wise to use the unit simply for decorative purposes rather than serving liquids for drinking. The decanter can be used as a planter or simply a nickname on a shelf intended for display. If the owner thoroughly cleans the decanter and feels comfortable using the unit despite the risk of lead present, he or she can do so, but it is wise to use the unit only sparingly rather than on a daily basis.
Care must be taken with an old decanter to avoid damage to it. Depending on how the unit has been cared for over the years, the materials may be brittle and more susceptible to cracking or breaking. Units should be thoroughly cleaned and use non-abrasive cleaners to avoid scratches or other damage. Glass decanters can become cloudy over time, depending on how the unit has been stored. Such cloudiness probably can’t be clarified, so the old decanter may not be up to everyone’s presentational standards.
Some decanters come with stoppers designed to keep oxygen from entering the decanter and affecting the flavors of the contents. The stopper can wear over time and allow oxygen to pass into the decanter, so it is important to bear this in mind if the owner of the old decanter plans to preserve the flavor of the contents. You should also carefully inspect the cork for damage; a crack in the stopper can lead to a sliver of glass or crystal which can end up in the liquid contained in the decanter.
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