3 Musts for Porcelain Care

1.Gentle Handling

Porcelain is delicate, so always handle it with care. When lifting larger pieces, support the base with one hand and grasp the neck with the other. For pieces with two handles, don't lift by just one handle. If your porcelain has a lid or stand, handle each part separately. This way, you can avoid accidentally dropping or breaking your precious items.

2.Safe Storage

The ideal way to store porcelain is in custom - made boxes with sponge or foam padding. This prevents pieces from knocking against each other. If you're displaying your porcelain, choose a sturdy wooden shelf. Avoid storing two pieces of porcelain directly touching one another, as friction can cause scratches over time. 

3.Regular and Proper Cleaning

For daily maintenance, use a damp cloth, a soft paintbrush, or a gentle brush. Different stains require different cleaning methods. For example, a mild alkaline water can remove oil stains, while white vinegar is great for getting rid of stubborn marks. However, always control the water temperature to prevent thermal shock to the porcelain. 

5 Taboos in Porcelain Care

1.No Rough Contact

Avoid any rough contact with your porcelain. When handling porcelain, don't wear jewelry with sharp edges that could scratch the surface. Also, never use rough materials like steel wool or abrasive sponges to clean it. Even a small scratch can damage the glaze and reduce the porcelain's value and beauty. 

2.Don't Stack or Overcrowd

Stacking porcelain pieces directly on top of each other or overcrowding them in storage is a big no - no. If you need to store two pieces close together, use a layer of foam or soft fabric in between to separate them. Porcelain is brittle, and the slightest collision can lead to chips or cracks. 

3.Avoid Temperature Extremes

Porcelain is sensitive to sudden temperature changes. For example, in winter, when cleaning thin - walled porcelain, make sure the water temperature isn't too hot or too cold. The rapid expansion and contraction caused by extreme temperature differences can cause the porcelain to crack. 

4.Refrain from Chemical Abuse

Steer clear of using strong chemical cleaners on porcelain, especially those with harsh acids or alkalis. This is particularly important for painted or decorated porcelain. Chemicals can react with the glaze and pigments, causing the colors to fade or the surface to become dull.

5.Never Handle with Wet or Dirty Hands

Wet or dirty hands can transfer grime, oils, and moisture onto the porcelain. Moisture can seep into tiny cracks, leading to further damage over time, while dirt and oils can leave hard - to - remove stains on the porcelain surface.