Is Spode Blue Italian dishwasher safe?
Sometimes — the earthenware body is dishwasher safe, but the gold trim and decals will degrade over time with repeated dishwasher use.
Quick facts
| Dishwasher safe? | Sometimes — Sometimes — with care |
|---|---|
| Category | Dinnerware |
| Source | AI-reviewed · manufacturer guidance & material science |
| Last checked | 2026-07-28 |
Why
Spode Blue Italian is made of earthenware ceramic with a glaze and overglaze decals (the iconic blue pattern) and often features gold or platinum accents. The earthenware body itself is vitrified and can withstand dishwasher heat and alkaline detergent without warping or absorbing moisture. However, the overglaze decals and metallic trims (gold/platinum) are vulnerable: the harsh alkaline detergent and high heat (55-75°C) can cause decal peeling, fading, and metallic trim erosion. The manufacturer, Spode (Portmeirion Group), officially recommends hand washing to preserve the decoration, especially for pieces with metallic accents. For plain white or non-metallic pieces, the body is dishwasher safe, but the pattern may still fade after many cycles. The specific failure modes are decal peeling, gold/platinum trim erosion, and pattern fading — all cosmetic but permanent. There is no lid, gasket, or blade; it is a single-piece dinner plate.
How do you wash Spode Blue Italian?
- Rinse food residue immediately after use to prevent staining.
- Hand wash with a soft sponge or cloth in warm water (not hot) using a mild dish soap.
- Avoid abrasive scrubbers, steel wool, or harsh detergents that can scratch the glaze or decals.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove all soap residue.
- Dry immediately with a soft, lint-free towel to prevent water spots and mineral deposits.
- Store plates with felt or cloth separators between them to prevent scratching of the decals.
What happens if you put Spode Blue Italian in the dishwasher?
If you put a Spode Blue Italian plate with gold trim in the dishwasher, after one wash you may notice a slight dulling of the metallic sheen. After repeated washes (10-20 cycles), the gold trim will begin to erode, revealing the underlying ceramic, and the blue decals may start to fade or peel in small patches. The damage is purely cosmetic — the plate remains functional for serving — but the pattern loss is permanent and irreversible. For pieces without metallic accents, the pattern may still fade gradually over many cycles due to the alkaline detergent attacking the overglaze. The earthenware body itself will not warp or crack unless subjected to extreme thermal shock (e.g., preheating in oven then cold water). Overall, the risk is aesthetic degradation, not structural failure.
Frequently asked questions
- Can Spode Blue Italian be used in the microwave?
- Yes, the earthenware body is microwave-safe, but avoid microwaving pieces with metallic gold or platinum trim, as the metal can spark and damage both the plate and the microwave.
- What water temperature can Spode Blue Italian withstand?
- The ceramic body can withstand temperatures up to about 200°C (392°F), but sudden temperature changes (thermal shock) should be avoided. Do not transfer from freezer directly to oven or microwave.
- Will the blue pattern fade over time?
- Yes, especially with frequent dishwasher use. The overglaze decals are durable but can gradually fade or peel due to abrasive detergents and high heat. Hand washing preserves the pattern.
- Is Spode Blue Italian oven-safe?
- Yes, the earthenware is oven-safe up to 200°C (392°F), but avoid using under a broiler or on a stovetop. Always place in a cold oven and allow to heat gradually.
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Last updated 2026-07-28. General guidance — always check your product’s care label. How we verify · Dishwasher care guides.