Hand washing is always the safest option for cleaning fine china, although some china may be washed in a dishwasher on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent. If the china is old, antique or particularly valuable value to you, hand wash it to prevent scratches or damage to good information.
Antique and Older China
Some nice china less than 20 years old is intended to withstand washing in the dishwasher on a gentle setting; anything older than that you must wash by hand. Wash the nice china pieces by putting them separately in a sink filled with warm water with a squirt or two of a vegetable or alkaline-based dish soap that does not contain acid or harsh chemicals, like lemon or bleach. A rubber liner or wet dishtowel on the bottom of the sink helps to prevent nicks and chips on the thinnest china. Wash the pieces with a soft dishcloth, skipping the harsher cleaning supplies, like cotton or synthetic scrub pads that could scratch fine pieces.
Metal Trim
If the nice china set has metal trim or particulars on it since a rim of gold, then forget the dishwasher completely, even when china is relatively fresh. The heat in the dishwasher may remove a part of the metal detailing. Hand wash in lukewarm water with an alkaline-based dish soap instead. Bypass abrasive scrub pads, which also may damage or inadvertently remove the trim, or add scrapes to delicate hand-painted designs.
Using the Dishwasher
If you feel your fine china is durable enough to withstand a run through the dishwasher — it must state dishwasher safe on the base — a few special considerations help make sure it comes out unscathed. Space bits far enough apart that they don’t touch one another. Choose the short wash, the china setting or the gentlest cycle possible. Select a water temperature setting below 140 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’re in doubt how hot your dishwasher gets on each cycle, then consult the operator’s manual or the manufacturer’s site for its temperature ranges. Utilize a non-bleach, non-lemon gentle detergent. Permit the dish ware to cool to room temperature before handling it, as trim and detailing become more fragile when warm.
Keeping It Clean
To keep fine glass looking its best and free from stains, then rinse the pieces off immediately after using. Empty teacups and coffee cups straight after use and rinse out to prevent staining. If they do eventually become stained, then place a little baking soda onto a damp dishcloth and rub on the affected area. If the stain still does not come out entirely, pour a small amount of baking soda to the bottom of the cup, then pour in a combination of equal parts water and white vinegar deep enough to cover the stain. After about two hours, wipe the stained area with a moist cloth, then wash the cup. For foods caked onto glass plates, then soak them in water till the food softens or comes loose.