Article Advise

submitted: Aug 23rd 2008 | by: RobertCooksey | Total views: 1 | Word Count: 452 | |

Caring for your flatware and dinnerware properly is an important part of keeping it looking beautiful. However, many of us no longer know how to correctly take care of china, silver, and other tableware. Here are a few tips to help you make sure that your dinnerware stays in the best shape possible.

Hand Washing Antiques

- Hand wash antique or vintage china. Never put it in the dishwasher. This is because it could be fragile from use and age. Instead, scrape plates gently and wash with care in warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry, but don't use abrasives on your china.

- When you're washing anything that could be fragile, line the bottom of the sink with a rubber mat or a dish towel. That'll keep dinnerware and crystal alike from breakage. When you're hand washing dishes, start with the glasses. Then follow with dinnerware, flatware, and pots and pans, in that order.

Most Dinnerware Can Be Machine Washed

- Dinnerware that's not vintage or antique can usually be machine washed. However, you should take care to load the dish washer so that the china won't be rubbed by other dishes. Flatware should be washed away from fine china, because it can leave gray streaks on the surface.

-If an accident causes your dishes to develop gray marks, a very mild abrasive is appropriate. Be sure to rinse afterward to remove all traces. In the dishwasher, washing on the shortest cycle will prevent damage. However, you should never use a lemon detergent - it can cause damage to your fine dinnerware.

- If you can, hang cups on hooks for storage, and place a paper towel, dish protector, or cloth between each bowl or plate. Remember that earthenware is a low temperature china and may be fragile. Stoneware is often harder, and porcelain is the hardest. Check manufacturer's specifications to find out how to take care of your china.

- Never use a plate or cup with metal trim in your microwave, and keep them out of the dishwasher, too. If you do break a dish, consider enlisting the help of a china replacement service, or contact the seller or manufacturer to buy the missing pieces. If your pattern line is going to be discontinued, you may wish to stock up or replace missing items quickly.

Caring for your dishes properly will help them last longer and continue to beautify your table. It's important to know as much as you can about your china and flatware to make sure that you treat it well. When in doubt, ask the manufacturer or gently wash and dry by hand.

About the Author

Robert Cooksey is the creator of a number of websites covering housewares a couple of which provide information and sales of tableware as well as details about fine china gravy boats Grab a totally unique version of this article from the Uber Article Directory

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