Is Bone China dishwasher safe?
Sometimes — fine bone china is generally dishwasher safe, but antique, hand-painted, or metallic-trimmed pieces should be hand washed.
Quick facts
| Dishwasher safe? | Sometimes — Sometimes — with care |
|---|---|
| Category | Dinnerware |
| Source | AI-reviewed · manufacturer guidance & material science |
| Last checked | 2026-07-28 |
Why
Bone china is made from bone ash, kaolin, and feldspar, fired at high temperatures, making it vitreous and non-porous. It resists moisture absorption and thermal shock better than earthenware. However, the dishwasher's high heat (up to 70°C/160°F) and alkaline detergents can cause decal peeling, gold or platinum trim fading, and crazing (fine cracks in the glaze) over repeated washes. Modern bone china from reputable brands (e.g., Wedgwood, Royal Doulton) is often labeled dishwasher safe, but they still recommend a gentle cycle and avoiding harsh detergents. Antique or hand-painted pieces lack a durable overglaze, so decals and metallic accents will degrade quickly. The specific failure modes are decal peeling, metallic trim erosion, and glaze clouding or etching. There is no gasket or lid nuance; the entire piece is uniform. Always check the manufacturer's care label; if in doubt, hand wash.
How do you wash Bone China?
- Rinse immediately after use to remove food residue.
- Use a mild, non-abrasive liquid detergent.
- Wash with a soft sponge or cloth; avoid steel wool.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
- Dry with a soft, lint-free towel immediately.
- Store with felt pads between stacked plates to prevent scratching.
What happens if you put Bone China in the dishwasher?
If you put bone china in the dishwasher, after one wash you may notice no change. After repeated washes (20+), gold or platinum trim will begin to fade and eventually wear off completely. Decals may peel or become cloudy. The glaze may develop a fine network of cracks (crazing) if the china is not fully vitrified or if the dishwasher cycle is too hot. These changes are cosmetic initially but can become permanent and unsightly. For pieces without metallic trim, the main risk is etching from harsh detergents, leaving a dull, cloudy surface. The structural integrity is rarely affected, but the aesthetic value is significantly reduced. Antique or hand-painted pieces can suffer irreversible damage after just a few cycles.
Frequently asked questions
- Can bone china go in the microwave?
- Most modern bone china is microwave safe, but avoid pieces with metallic trim or gold accents, as they can spark. Always check the manufacturer's label.
- How should I store bone china to prevent damage?
- Stack plates with felt or paper liners between them to prevent scratching. Store cups and bowls separately to avoid chipping. Avoid stacking too high.
- What causes bone china to craze?
- Crazing is caused by thermal shock or a mismatch between the glaze and body expansion. Dishwasher heat and sudden temperature changes can accelerate it.
- Can I use bleach or abrasive cleaners on bone china?
- No, bleach can damage the glaze and cause discoloration. Abrasive cleaners will scratch the surface. Use only mild detergents.
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Last updated 2026-07-28. General guidance — always check your product’s care label. How we verify · Dishwasher care guides.