Cloudy glasses from the dishwasher may have a removable mineral film, but they may also be permanently etched.
Treating both problems the same wastes time and can expose delicate glassware to unnecessary cleaning.
A quick vinegar test tells you which problem you have.
Dampen a soft cloth with white vinegar and rub a small section of the glass gently. If that spot becomes clearer, the haze is probably a film caused by hard-water minerals or detergent residue.
If nothing changes and the surface looks uniformly dull or slightly rough, the glass is likely etched. Etching is physical damage to the surface and cannot be polished away with a household cleaner.
Handle stemware by the bowl rather than the stem. Wash crystal, painted, hand-blown, or otherwise delicate glassware according to its manufacturer’s care instructions.
Match the detergent amount to your water hardness and the product label. Too much detergent in soft water can contribute to etching, while hard water can leave mineral deposits. Use rinse aid when your machine and glassware permit it.
Do not overcrowd the rack. Angle glasses so water drains, keep them from touching, and check that nothing blocks the spray arms or detergent door. For vulnerable glasses, choose a shorter, lower-temperature cycle instead of repeated high-heat washing.
Do not scrub glass with abrasive pads or powders. They can add scratches without repairing etching. Avoid repeatedly increasing detergent when the real problem may be dosage, loading, or water hardness.
If vinegar clears a test spot, the film is usually removable. If the haze stays, protect the remaining glassware by adjusting detergent, temperature, and loading rather than chasing an irreversible mark.