Porcelain dinner sets are popular for their evergreen charm and elegance, aesthetic appearance, and high-durability. To make sure your precious dinnerware remains the same for years, cleaning and maintainence is crucial. Below are some tips on how to clean and maintain your porcelain dinner set.
Handwash Gently
Porcelain dinner sets are labelled as dishwasher-safe but handwashing is the best way to preserve their quality and beauty. Follow these simple steps to handwash your dinner set:
- Use mild washing soap: Use a gentle dishwashing soap that is free from harsh chemicals.
- Water: Don’t use harsh water or hot water to avoid thermal shock which can cause cracks to the dinner set.
- Use soft sponge: Use soft or a non-abrasive sponge to avoid scratches.
- Avoid soaking: Prolonged soaking of porcelain dishes can weaken the bond.
Rinse and Dry Properly
Thorough rinse ensures that no soap residue is left behind. After washing, dry your dinner set by using a soft, lint-free towel. Air dry your dishes to avoid water spots on the surface.
Handle with Care
Porcelain is known for its strength but it should also be handled with care to avoid cracks and chips. Put a small piece of cloth or paper between each piece to prevent scratches.
Avoid Abrasive Cleaners
Avoid using abrasive scrubbers or cleaners which can damage the smooth surface of porcelain dishes. This is also important for dinner sets that have detailed designs.
Cleaning Stubborn Stains
Over time, Porcelain dinner sets develop stains after frequent uses, below are some tips to remove these stains:
- Baking Soda: One can create a paste of baking soda and water and apply it on the stained area of dishes and leave it for few minutes before wiping it off.
- White vinegar soak: For more persistent stains, soak the affected area in a mixture of white vinegar and water for few minutes and then rinse properly.
Avoid Temperature Changes
Porcelain dinner sets are sensitive to sudden temperature changes which can cause cracks, to protect your dinnerware:
- Let your dishes cool first and then wash them.
- Unless your dinner set is microwave-safe, avoid using it in microwave.
Storage
Proper and mindful storage is important to maintain the longevity of your porcelain dinner sets. Always store them in dry places or in a cabinet as this reduces the risk of damage.
The Final Word
Porcelain dinner sets are a lifetime investment in both beauty and utility. With good care and cleaning, these sets can remain new and elegant as new. By following the above guide, one can ensure that your porcelain dinner set graces your dining table for memorable dinner nights.