A Graceful Comeback

In a world of quick trends and throwaway goods, vintage and antique china is making a graceful comeback. Whether passed down through generations or discovered at estate sales and vintage shops, these delicate and detailed pieces offer not just beauty- but surprising practicality. And for those hesitant to accept inherited china, it may be time to reconsider.

Modern Convenience Meets Heirloom Beauty

Many shy away from vintage china, believing it requires delicate handling, constant handwashing, and special occasion-only use. But the reality is that numerous vintage and antique china patterns (especially those from the 1950s onward) were made with durability in mind. While handwashing remains the gold standard for longevity, a good number of these pieces are dishwasher safe when handled with care.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

- Air Dry Over Heat Dry: Always skip the heated drying cycle to prevent crazing or glaze damage. Let your pieces air dry or towel dry gently.

- Gentle Detergents Only: Avoid citrus-based or abrasive detergents that can wear down delicate patterns.

- No Microwave for Metallic Trims: China with gold, silver,or platinum verge (rim, border or accent decoration) should never go in the microwave, as metallic accents can spark and damage both the dish and microwave and potentially ignite a fire.

Dishwasher-Safe Vintage Patterns- to name a few:

If your goal is to blend tradition with convenience, here are some specific vintage and china patterns known to be dishwasher safe:

- Noritake Colorwave and Progression Lines – Stylish, durable, and specifically made for microwave and dishwasher use.

- Mikasa French Countryside and Intaglio – Timeless designs with sturdy composition and no metallic trim.

- Wedgwood Edme and Patrician – Classic English elegance that stands up to modern dishwashers.

- Lenox Eternal (no trim versions) – Some newer variants are dishwasher-safe.

- Royal Doulton Expressions and Everyday lines – Dishwasher-friendly and designed for regular use.

- Fiesta by Homer Laughlin (post-1986) – Iconic, colorful, extremely durable, and made to go in both dishwasher and microwave.

There are many others. Always check for manufacturer markings on the underside of the plate or verify through research if your pattern is approved for modern appliance use.

More Than Just Dishes – They’re Decor, Too

For those who feel they’re not ready to use china in everyday life, there’s no need to let it collect dust, or worse, give it away! Many younger collectors are creatively displaying china on walls, using single plates as art, or mixing vintage pieces into modern kitchens for a curated, eclectic look. And with time, they often come to appreciate their practicality for entertaining or even daily meals.

Heirlooms with a Future

Don’t let outdated myths about upkeep or “inconvenience” prevent you from holding onto family china or vintage finds. These pieces were often made with more care and craftsmanship than today’s mass-produced dishes, and more importantly, they carry stories too.

Before giving up the opportunity to own timeless tableware, take a moment to research your set. You may discover it’s not only dishwasher-safe but also increasingly valuable and uniquely beautiful. Even if you’re not ready to set the table with it now, that time may come; And when it does, you’ll be glad you kept it.

With a little knowledge and gentle care, vintage china becomes more than something you inherit, it becomes something you live with, decorate with, and one day, pass on.

Why not share this with the kiddos who are reluctant to accept family relics, so they aren’t faced with the “if I knew then what I know now” adage? TAP HERE for a past article that may also be helpful and convincing.

But when all else fails, you have us to fall back on. We have so many people shopping in our store that will cherish and keep your family tableware alive. If you are looking to pass it on, just use the “interested in selling” feature on the dishfun.com website!

For those who let family tableware slip through their hands and you are on a hunt to replace it, our retail store and online Ebay shop are great places to start your search.