Because porcelain dinnerware is fired at such high temperatures, it becomes a glass like material and tends to be quite thin and fragile. It’s this fragility (as well as the higher price) that sets it apart from the rest of your dinnerware and demands gentle handling to keep it from cracking or breaking.

Below are some tips for the proper care of porcelain dinnerware:

It’s best to hand wash china – especially if your particular set is an antique that’s been handed down through the generations. Age and use can add tremendously to the fragility of porcelain dinnerware. The best way to hand wash it is to begin with a rubber sink mat at the bottom of your sink. This will protect the dishware. Start by washing glassware followed by dinnerware, then utensils or flatware and lastly pots and pans. Remove as much of the meal residue and then rinse the porcelain dinnerware. After rinsing, wash with warm and soapy water and rinse well. Allow the china to dry but in a plastic dish rack rather than a metal one or – hand dry each piece with a soft dish towel. Its best to allow glass to air dry and then spot wipe them later.

The modern version of porcelain dinnerware is normally dishwasher safe. With that said, always follow manufacturer’s instructions on proper care and cleaning. When loading the dishwasher, separate each plate and don’t allow it to bang or rub against anything else. Never allow the metal utensils or any metal to come in contact with the dinnerware in the dishwasher. Use a light wash rather than a heavy duty cycle and refrain from citrus scented dish soaps as they can cause damage to your fine porcelain dinnerware.

With proper care, use and storage, porcelain dinnerware can last through many generations and many holidays and many marriages, births and other celebrations. Be sure to pass down the proper cleaning and storing instructions with each generational pass of your heirloom china to help make sure it’s still in great condition for the next receiver.

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Discount dinnerware sets can be an exceptional option if you wish to own a quality set but are leery of the expensive tag prices. If you consistently keep your eye on costly dinnerware such as copper pots and pans, you can wait and buy them when they go on sale. Manufacturers and stores oftentimes mark down prices to reduce inventory – or even just for a holiday – so it pays to be on the watch for a sale. With good timing it is possible to get discounts of up to 75%.

Clearance sales are tremendous for buying discounted dinnerware. These normally occur when manufacturers are phasing out some of their older model lines to make way for newer merchandise on their shelves. Sure you may not buy the latest seasons product, but with a long lasting item like dinnerware you are not looking for the latest trend, but a timeless classic. You will have bought an excellent dinnerware set at a greatly reduced price.

Restaurant suppliers are some of the best sources if you’re looking for the finest dinnerware sets at a discounted price. You can find most of the famous brands in these stores and you get a selection of trends and designs.

Some of the best discounts you can get from factory outlets. Most manufacturers of dinnerware use their own outlets to advertise and market their wares. You could get new products at very low prices from these stores, along with great prices on famous items

When buying discounted dinnerware it doesn’t mean your scrimping on the quality. Leftover production runs are commonly better bargains than, say, factory damaged items. Before paying for your dinnerware set, inspect the items for scrapes, blemish, cracks and other damage. If everything appears in order go ahead and purchase, and enjoy your discounted dinnerware set!

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