Tips on how to easily and safely wash china and other fine dishes
China is so beautiful! These delicate looking dishes are sometimes hand painted and have been giving many hours of gentle loving care. It would be a shame for them to get ruined them when washing, but thankfully, they are not as delicate as they look.
Taking care of your china can be a daunting task, but with a few simple steps, you can keep your dishes looking like new for years to come.
Can you hand wash china?
Yes, hand washing is the safest way to wash china especially if it is fine-bone china. You have more control over the water temperature, type of dish washing detergent, etc.
Can china go in boiling water?
Preferably not. Water that is too hot may crack your china or cause other damage. Warm water is sufficient unless the dishes are really greasy. Then I would use hot tap water.
How do you clean china from a thrift store?
When you buy china from a thrift store, you don’t know where it has been. Washing it well with warm to hot water with some dish soap will sterilize it and kill any germs. You shouldn’t have to worry about it after you have cleaned it well.
Most things (even cleaning up after raw chicken) are taken care of by a little warm soapy water.
How often should you wash your china?
Wash your china dishes as often as you use them.
If they are just for show and never get used, it is a good idea to wash them once a year to keep them looking pristine.
How do you whiten yellowed china?
The best way to whiten yellowed china is to mix a little baking soda and white vinegar into a paste and letting it set on the stain for a few minutes before washing it off.
Here is how to do with it hydrogen peroxide.
While china is made out of delicate materials, it is okay to wash vintage china or even china that is only 15-20 years old. The most important thing is to be wise and everything will turn out fine.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases and make a small commission at no cost to you if you click on a link and make a purchase. Thank you for your support! Read here for the privacy policy and full disclosure.
Do people still use fine china?
Yes, people still use fine china. Although it is usually reserved for special occasions, as more people are pursuing an old fashioned way of life, it is becoming more common to hear of people bringing out their antique china or everyday use instead of letting it sit in storage or their china cabinet.
China does not require much more special attention than regular dishes do. Simply pay attention as you are washing them and they should be fine.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to wash your china. This is also how you clean porcelain and fine bone china as well.
How to Wash China
Gather Supplies
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary supplies. You will need dish soap, a soft sponge or brush, hot water, rubber gloves, and a soft towel or dish rack.
Using hot water from the tap (not boiling water) instead of warm water will help gut the grease and make the dishes dry faster without water stains. Rubber gloves will protect you hands so that you can use hotter water. They will protect your hands from getting dried out or scalded from the hot water.
Pre-Wash
Start by checking each piece of china for any cracks or damage. Rinse each piece under warm water to remove any food debris. Add a small amount of dish soap to the bottom of the sink and fill the sink with hot water.
Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals on your china as this can cause damage. Natural chemicals like baking soda, vinegar, and hydrogen peroxide are okay.
Washing
Wash one piece of china at a time. Use a soft sponge or soft wash cloth to gently scrub the dish. A dish rag works well, too.
Rinse each dish with hot water and place them in a dish drainer.
Drying
Use a soft cloth or dish towel to dry any remaining water or let them air dry. A paper towel is another option.
Final Thoughts
Using china is an easy way to enhance a dinner experience. You don’t have to reserve your china for special occasions. Using them in the day to day makes meals a little more special and by following these simple steps, you can ensure that your china is kept in good condition and is ready to be used for any occasion.
These simple steps can also be applied to any ceramic or porcelain piece.
With these easy steps, you can feel comfortable using your beautiful dishes for any occasion.
PIN IT FOR LATER!
Love this! This is so helpful! I use my heirloom china all the time.
Great tips and love the inspiration to use my fine China
I have starting bringing mine out more and I love how fancy it makes an ordinary meal feel!