Leaching beakers

Hi,

I am just about to start a rhodium and gold eletroplating setup. I
have read in the list of procedures that lab equipments like beakers
etc. should be leached in sodium hydroxide solution. Can someone
please explain what is exactly leaching and how do I leach my
beakers (glass and steel), funnels, measuring cylinders. It would
appreciate if someone could explain the process in detail.

Thanks
rahul