Setting a holiday table with fine china is a cherished tradition for many during the holiday season. Using your best tableware not only allows you to showcase treasured belongings and create a festive atmosphere for special occasions, but it also helps connect us to our past and loved ones who are no longer with us to celebrate holidays and milestones. However, cleaning delicate china after a big meal can be stressful due to the special handling required and the sentimental value these items hold.
Here is everything you need to know about washing delicate china to keep it looking beautiful for years to come:
**How to Wash Fine China by Hand:**
Step 1: Scrape off any food using plastic or silicone utensils to avoid scratching the delicate surface.
Step 2: Rinse the piece under warm water, avoiding very hot water to prevent cracking of the glaze.
Step 3: If needed, briefly soak the piece in warm water to loosen stuck-on food.
Step 4: Wash with mild soap and a non-scratch sponge, paying attention to handles and design elements that may harbor food residues.
Step 5: Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry immediately with a clean dish towel to prevent water spots.
**How to Clean China in the Dishwasher:**
Many delicate china pieces can be washed in the dishwasher, but it’s important to check if they are dishwasher-safe first. Look for a manufacturer’s designation on the bottom of the piece or consult the original packaging for care instructions. Avoid washing hand-painted, metal-detailed, or trimmed china in the dishwasher unless specifically labeled as dishwasher-safe to prevent damage.
Overall, whether washing delicate china by hand or in the dishwasher, proper care and attention will help preserve its beauty and sentimental value for years to come.
Dishware made of precious metals like gold or silver should not be washed in the dishwasher. The heat from the dishwasher can cause hand-painted designs to fade and metal detailing to tarnish or erode. It is recommended to hand wash hand-painted pieces and those with metal designs.
Consider the Age of the Tableware. Tableware that is over 20 years old should be washed by hand rather than in the dishwasher. Newer china is more durable and less susceptible to damage, while older delicate china can be harmed in the dishwasher.
Load and Unload Carefully. When loading fine china in the dishwasher, space the pieces apart to prevent scratching or chipping. After the dishwasher cycle, allow the pieces to cool before handling them as hot temperatures can make fine china more fragile.
Select the Delicate Cycle. Use the delicate cycle setting and choose a water temperature below 140°F to protect fine china from damage. Check the dishwasher manual for temperature settings.
Use a Gentle Detergent. When washing delicate china in the dishwasher, use a mild detergent without lemon or bleach to avoid fading patterns.
When in Doubt, Hand Wash. If unsure whether it’s safe to wash delicate items in the dishwasher, opt for hand washing to prevent irreversible damage.
How to Remove Stains or Scuffs on China. Make a paste of baking soda and water to remove stains, scuffs, or scratches on fine china. Apply the paste with a non-scratch sponge, wash with mild soap and warm water. For deeper stains, let the paste sit before rinsing.
Additional Tips and Tricks for Washing Delicate China. Line the sink with a dish towel to cushion delicate pieces. Wash delicate items in an empty sink to prevent damage from contact. Hold fine china at its strongest point when washing. Dry fine china immediately with a clean, lint-free dish towel to prevent spotting.
After washing and drying the china, it is essential to carefully buff off any soap residue. Failure to do so can lead to discoloration over time. Additionally, it is crucial not to soak china for an extended period of time. China is porous, and prolonged soaking can compromise the glaze.
If you find it necessary to soak a piece of fine china to facilitate the removal of stubborn food residue without resorting to harsh scrubbing that may cause damage, it is recommended to use warm water and limit the soaking time to approximately five to ten minutes.
It is imperative to take these precautions to preserve the integrity and appearance of your fine china pieces.
