Inspiration | Caring For Your Fine Bone Chinaware

Caring for your Royal Collection Trust China

You’ve built up a treasured collection of fine bone china; now learn the best methods to make sure it stays beautiful for many years to come. 

Our tea sets and collectible china pieces are suitable to enjoy in an everyday setting. Whether you choose to use or display them, here are our tips on how to care for your collection.

Storing Your China

  • When you’re not using it, you’ll want to show off your collection at its best. To protect your treasures from dust and breakages, a glass fronted cabinet is a good choice.
  • Don’t store cups by hanging them from the handle, as this may weaken the handle and cause breakages. We recommend storing them upright instead to keep your teacups and tankards in pristine condition.
  • Fine bone china is delicate and sensitive to rapid changes in temperature, so when serving tea, warm a cold cup before adding boiling water. Don’t put your china pieces in a microwave, freezer or oven, or expose them to a naked flame. 
  • If you are storing plates and saucers together, sliding one over another can cause marks in the glaze. We recommend separating pieces using cloth or acid free tissue paper to stop any chips or scratches.

Cleaning Your China

  • You should clean your collection every six months to avoid the accumulation of dust, as this can cause damage. Fine bone china is not suitable for use in dishwashers – instead, clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth or sponge. 
  • You might be tempted to use a scouring pad to remove a stubborn stain, but steer clear of abrasive materials, especially on the gold decoration. It’s best to soak pieces in warm water then gently hand wash. 
  • Tea stains on your tea set after your guests have gone home? A cleanser like baby utensil sterilising solution can work well on these; just remember to wash and rinse your china thoroughly before using again. Gentle cleaning with household toothpaste can be a good way to clean away grey ‘metal marks’ caused by cutlery.

Assembling Your China

Take care when assembling your fine bone china cake stands. To protect the surface of your item, the plastic washers must be inserted either side of the china when the cake stand is being assembled, and it is best to loosely put everything together before gently tightening. Once the cake stand is secured, it is ready for you to enjoy.