This Organization Method For Wine Glasses To Maximize Space Has Mixed Responses

With their wide bowl-like shapes, wine glasses occupy a generous amount of space on the shelf, and it can be tricky to store your entire collection in a designated area, especially if you're short on space. One (seemingly) clever shelving technique that utilizes every inch of cabinet storage space was shared by @_stefanie.le on Instagram in which every other glass was placed upside down, allowing each one that sat right-side up to fit snugly into the grooves of the glass beside it. 

This is a good idea, in theory, as it allows more glasses to be compacted onto one shelf. Some viewers even commented that they have used this method for years, and others thanked the poster for the tip. However, many comments said that this is a surefire way to damage your glassware. Wine glasses are more delicate than other types of glassware, and there are certain dos and don'ts when it comes to preserving their condition. Before you give this space-saving method a try, let's talk about its potential downsides and some alternatives to try instead that will ensure safekeeping for your wine glass collection.

While it's a clever attempt at saving space, the skeptics raised a valid concern. Stemware is made of thin glass, which can be more fragile than other types of glassware. Even wine glasses that are more durable, such as crystal, should be handled with care. The problem with placing them upside down is that the rims are often the most delicate part of the glass and are not designed to bear weight. This could lead to small fractures over time and breakage later on.

There are other downsides to storing your glassware upside down. One comment said that a glass placed upside down will absorb the smell of the shelf that it sits on. If your cabinet has a musty and stale odor, it's possible that this may affect your glassware. Wine glasses also need some space between them to reduce the chance of chipping if they accidentally clink together. The shelving technique shown by @_stefanie.le packs the glasses in so tightly, they can't help but rub together, greatly increasing the chances of a broken glass. 

For a better way to store these glasses if you don't have enough cabinet space, make use of the area underneath the cabinet or the wall space around it. An under-cabinet or wall-mounted wine glass rack are made for the job and could be just enough to store all of your glasses safely. You can also construct a budget-friendly wine glass rack with a pool noodle or invest in a freestanding bar cart. Whichever option you choose, ensure that the glasses are kept away from heat sources and direct light, as this could also damage the glass.