Should You Store Mugs and Glasses with Their Rims Up or Down?

How you store your glassware should be informed by everything from how often you use them (you will be more likely to use the glasses you can actually reach) and their longevity (delicate glasses run a greater risk of breakage if they are not stored properly). The biggest question regarding glassware organization, however, is this: Should you store your cups and mugs with the rim up or down? Fortunately, Clare Langan, a culinary producer and home cooking expert, says that there is really no wrong way to arrange your glasses, so long as the method you choose works for you. Here's why.

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Deciding whether to store glassware, including mugs, rim up or down depends on your storage setup and the delicacy of the rims, says Langan. Dust can collect in your glassware—even in cabinets—which is not something you want to have to worry about every time you pull one out. With this in mind, you can store sturdier types of cups with their rims down. This is an especially option if you don't take them out every day. "Consider storing lesser-used mugs rim side down to prevent dust from collecting," she says.

According to Langan, the most vulnerable part of a piece of glassware is usually the rim. "Very thin glassware, such as Champagne flutes or delicate wine glasses, are typically safer stored right-side up," she says. Of course, you are less likely to be using these pieces as often, which means they may be more likely to accumulate debris between uses. "If you're worried about the dust issue for longer storage or open shelving (think bar carts) carefully store them rim side down."

Since there is no right or wrong answer to the rim up or down question, Langan says her biggest tip is to store frequently used glassware in a cabinet or on a shelf that is conveniently located next to the sink or dishwasher. "I've cooked in a lot of people's kitchens, and searching for a glass when I wanted some water always puzzled me," she says. "It also makes putting away dishes so much easier!"

If you are short on room and long on glassware, Langan says stacking can be an option for certain styles. While Champagne flutes cannot be stacked (she recommends storing them on a high shelf that you can access with a stool if they will not fit into a more accessible space), other glasses, especially thicker, heavier types, definitely can be. "It's usually safe to stack thicker tumblers like Duralex glasses," she says. Up, down, or stacked, however you decide to store your glassware is just fine, so long as it is the right solution for you and your kitchen.