Exploring the Dos and Don’ts of Ceramic Plates: How to Care for Them

Ceramics are among the world’s oldest types of tableware. They’ve been around for thousands of years, and they’re not likely to fall out of favor any time soon. Because of their beauty, versatility, durability, longevity, and environmental friendliness, their popularity continues to grow. That being said, properly caring for your ceramic dinnerware is the key to getting the most use out of it and ensuring it remains in superb condition for years to come.

Cleaning Your Ceramic Dishes

Let’s start with the basics of caring for your ceramic dinnerware and the question all ceramics owners have on their minds: can ceramic dishes go in the dishwasher? In general, the answer here is yes. Most ceramic dishes can be washed in the dishwasher. Consider checking the backs and bottoms of your ceramics for the “dishwasher safe” symbol, though. 

A possible exception to this rule would be handmade ceramics that haven’t been properly glazed or sealed. Hand-painted pieces and those with gold trim fall into this category as well. They should be washed by hand to keep their finish intact and protect them against the pressure, abrasive detergents, and high temperatures of the dishwasher. 

Microwaving Ceramic Dinnerware

Another common question is whether ceramic tableware can be microwaved. In most cases, these dishes are microwaveable as long as they’re properly glazed. For your own sake, though, be careful when taking them out of the microwave. They’re designed to hold in heat, so they can get extremely hot. 

If you’d prefer to err on the side of caution, look for the microwave-safe label or icon on the bottom of your ceramic dinnerware beforehand. At the same time, never place dishes with metallic paint or inlays in the microwave. Doing so could damage both the dishes and the microwave. Avoid microwaving older ceramic pieces and those that are handmade or unglazed as well. 

Store Ceramic Dishes Carefully

Storing your ceramic dishes properly is also important. Don’t store them where they can get bumped or pushed around when rifling for other dishes. Though they’re durable, they should be stored carefully to avoid chips and cracks. You could give them a dedicated space in a cabinet for added protection.

Nesting your ceramic dinnerware is recommended to prevent unnecessary movement. It’ll also reduce the chances of them getting broken during those inevitable kitchen avalanches everyone has at times. Still, these dishes shouldn’t be placed directly against each other. 

Consider placing a cloth, a piece of cardboard, or a few sheets of tissue paper between each dish. That’ll prevent scratches, chips, and other damage while the dishes aren’t in use. It’ll also take some of the stress off of pressure points that could cause your ceramics to break under their own weight. 

Handle Gently

Always handle your ceramic dinnerware gently. Some may feel that goes without saying, but gentle could be considered a relative term. Try to avoid clinking ceramics against hard surfaces or other dishes. Try not to scrape utensils against them to avoid wearing away at their protective finish. Setting them on potholders when serving foods in them or on placemats while eating from them can further protect them.

Ceramic Dinnerware Repairs and Maintenance

Over time, even with proper care, ceramic dishes are bound to acquire wear and damage. Regularly check your plates, bowls, cups, and other pieces for cracks, chips, fading, and scratches. If you find minor damage, it may be best to set the affected piece aside rather than continuing to use it. Using it despite those types of damage could leave it vulnerable to moisture intrusion and stains. 

You can have ceramic dinnerware repaired and reglazed if the need arises. Doing so will reinforce its protective coating and rejuvenate its appearance, so it’ll last even longer and continue looking its best. Be sure to take your ceramics to a professional restoration expert for optimal results. 

Prolonging the Life of Your Ceramic Dinnerware

Ceramic dinnerware is durable, long-lasting, and aesthetically appealing with numerous patterns, colors, and types of pieces available. As long as you care for it properly, it’s sure to serve you well for years. Do handle and store it carefully and microwave with caution. Don’t toss it haphazardly into a cabinet, bang it against hard surfaces, or expose it to sudden and extreme temperature changes. 

All these measures can help ensure you get the most use out of your ceramic dishes. They’ll keep them looking beautiful for as long as possible as well. Along the way, keep an eye out for damage, and consider turning to a ceramics restoration specialist for repairs and maintenance.