November 13, 2026, 10:13 am | Read time: 4 minutes
After washing, glasses and cups usually go straight back into the kitchen cabinet. But which way should they be placed? Facing down seems sensible at first, as it prevents dust from getting inside. On the other hand, the drinking rim then rests on the cabinet floor. So, what’s the better option?
There is no universal rule, explains Anett Großmann-Nörr from the Competence Center for Home Economics when asked by myHOMEBOOK. Key factors include how often the glasses are used and how much space is available in the cabinet.
How to Place Glasses in the Cabinet for Everyday Use
If you use your glasses and cups daily or at least regularly, you don’t need to place them upside down in the cabinet. Großmann-Nörr recommends the other option in this case: “If you use the glasses and cups daily, you generally place them with the opening facing up.”
This has a practical advantage. Any remaining moisture can evaporate more easily. In case of limited space, suitable containers can also be nested. However, according to the expert, this can lead to wear marks more easily.
There is another reason against storing them with the opening facing down. “With the opening facing down, it means you’re always placing them on a dirty surface,” explains Großmann-Nörr. If you choose to store your glasses this way, make sure the cabinet floor is clean.
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When Glasses Are Better Stored with the Opening Facing Down
Still, it’s not fundamentally wrong to turn glasses upside down. Especially for those that are rarely taken out of the cabinet, this option can even be sensible.
This applies, for example, to special stemware that might only be used for celebrations or other occasions. If they are placed with the opening facing down on a clean surface, less dust gets inside.
However, such glasses should not be placed on the table without cleaning. Großmann-Nörr recommends wiping them with a dry, clean cloth before use. If there is significant dirt or dust accumulation, the glasses should be washed again.
Glasses Should Be Completely Dry Before Placing in the Cabinet
More important than whether they face up or down is the condition of the glasses when putting them away. Damp dishes should not be stored directly in the cabinet. “It’s definitely better to only place dry glasses, cups, and dishes in the cabinet,” says Großmann-Nörr.
There are several reasons for this. Remaining water can cause stains, which are quickly visible on transparent glasses. Additionally, moisture can damage the cabinet floor.
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Is a Mat for Glasses Useful?
If you notice residual moisture on the glasses after washing, give them time to dry. A clean cloth can be helpful for this. “To dry the glasses, you could place them on a clean cloth that absorbs the remaining moisture before putting them in the cabinet,” explains Großmann-Nörr.
A permanent mat or cabinet liner is also possible. However, it doesn’t change the fact that glasses and other dishes should be stored dry. Additionally, the mat itself must be kept clean. It’s important to regularly check and clean underneath to prevent dirt accumulation.
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What Applies to Delicate Stemware?
For stemware, there’s another aspect besides the correct orientation: they need enough space. While some sturdy drinking glasses or cups can be nested, this is not possible with stemware.
If you only occasionally use wine, champagne, or other stemware, you can store them individually with the opening facing down on a clean surface. This way, less dust gets inside. Before the next use, they should still be checked and cleaned if necessary.