Is Spode Christmas tree plates dishwasher safe?
Sometimes — the plates themselves are generally considered dishwasher safe by the manufacturer, but the gold-trimmed or hand-painted versions are not; the decals and metallic accents can degrade in the dishwasher.
Quick facts
| Dishwasher safe? | Sometimes — Sometimes — with care |
|---|---|
| Category | Dinnerware |
| Source | AI-reviewed · manufacturer guidance & material science |
| Last checked | 2026-07-28 |
Why
Spode Christmas tree plates are made of earthenware ceramic with a glaze and decorative decals, often including gold or platinum metallic accents. The ceramic body itself is durable and can withstand dishwasher heat and alkaline detergent without warping or structural damage. However, the metallic trim (gold or platinum) is applied as a thin layer over the glaze and is not fired at high temperatures; it is vulnerable to etching, fading, and peeling when exposed to harsh dishwasher detergents and high heat. The manufacturer, Spode, officially states that their fine china with precious metal decorations should be hand washed to preserve the finish. Repeated dishwasher use will cause the metallic accents to dull, wear away, and eventually expose the underlying glaze, which is a cosmetic but permanent failure. For plates without metallic trim, the dishwasher is safe, but decals may still fade over time with harsh detergents.
How do you wash Spode Christmas tree plates?
- Check the underside of the plate for any metallic trim or hand-painted details; if present, proceed with hand washing only.
- For hand washing, use a soft sponge or cloth with mild dish soap and warm water.
- Avoid abrasive scrubbers or pads that could 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.
- If the plate has no metallic accents and you choose to use a dishwasher, place it on the top rack away from heating elements and use a gentle cycle with a mild detergent.
- Remove promptly after the cycle ends and hand dry to avoid prolonged moisture exposure.
What happens if you put Spode Christmas tree plates in the dishwasher?
If you put a Spode Christmas tree plate with gold or platinum trim in the dishwasher, after one wash you may notice a slight dulling of the metallic sheen. After repeated washes (5-10 cycles), the metallic accents will begin to flake or wear away in patches, revealing the white glaze underneath. The decals (the Christmas tree design) may also fade or become cloudy due to etching from alkaline detergents. The damage is cosmetic and does not affect the plate's structural integrity or food safety, but it significantly reduces the decorative value. For plates without metallic trim, the dishwasher is generally safe, but over many cycles the decals may still show minor fading. The ceramic body itself will not warp or crack under normal dishwasher conditions.
Frequently asked questions
- Can Spode Christmas tree plates go in the microwave?
- Yes, the ceramic body is microwave safe, but avoid microwaving plates with metallic trim as the metal can cause sparking or damage.
- What water temperature can Spode Christmas tree plates withstand?
- The ceramic can withstand temperatures up to about 350°F (177°C), but sudden temperature changes (e.g., from hot oven to cold water) can cause thermal shock and cracking.
- Will the gold trim wear off over time even with hand washing?
- Yes, even with gentle hand washing, the metallic trim can gradually wear off over many years due to friction and mild abrasives in detergents.
- Are Spode Christmas tree plates oven safe?
- Spode recommends against using their fine china in the oven, as the decorative elements and glaze are not designed for direct oven heat.
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Last updated 2026-07-28. General guidance — always check your product’s care label. How we verify · Dishwasher care guides.