How to Clean Bone China

What Makes Bone China Different

Bone china is the most delicate and valuable type of dinnerware. Made from bone ash, kaolin, and feldspar, it's thinner, lighter, and more translucent than regular ceramic. It's also more prone to chipping, crazing (fine cracks in the glaze), and fading of gold or platinum decoration. Proper cleaning preserves both its appearance and value.

What You'll Need

Dawn Platinum Dish Soap (mild formula)
Microfiber cleaning cloths
Baking soda (for stains only)
Warm water
Rubber dish mat or towel for the sink

How to Hand Wash Bone China

Line the sink — Place a rubber mat or folded towel in the sink to prevent chipping if pieces knock together
Use warm water only — Never use very hot or cold water — sudden temperature changes cause crazing
Use mild dish soap — A small amount of dish soap in warm water is all you need
Wash gently — Use a soft microfiber cloth — never abrasive scrubbers or stiff brushes
Wash one piece at a time — Don't stack or crowd pieces in the sink
Rinse thoroughly — Rinse with warm water until all soap is gone
Dry immediately — Pat dry with a soft microfiber cloth — never air dry, as water spots can stain

Is Bone China Dishwasher Safe?

Some modern bone china is labeled dishwasher safe, but hand washing is always recommended to preserve the glaze, decoration, and longevity. If you do use the dishwasher: use the gentle cycle, low heat drying, and avoid overcrowding. Never put gold or platinum-trimmed bone china in the dishwasher — the metallic decoration will fade.

Removing Stains from Bone China

For tea or coffee stains, make a very gentle paste with baking soda and water. Apply with a soft cloth, rub very gently, and rinse immediately. Never use Bar Keepers Friend or abrasive cleaners on bone china — they scratch the delicate glaze.

What to Avoid with Bone China

Abrasive scrubbers or steel wool
Harsh chemical cleaners or bleach
Very hot water or sudden temperature changes
Stacking without protective padding between pieces
Dishwasher for gold or platinum-trimmed pieces
Microwave (unless specifically labeled safe)

Storing Bone China

Stack plates with soft felt or paper plate separators between each piece to prevent scratching and chipping. Store cups upright rather than stacked to protect the rims.

Final Thoughts

Bone china requires gentle hand washing with mild soap, a soft cloth, and warm water. Dry immediately with a microfiber cloth to prevent water spots. Treat it gently and it will last for generations.

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