At least once a week, someone asks us if it is OK to put antique Haviland Limoges porcelain in the dishwasher.  For the record, the answer is:  NO!!  Unlike contemporary dinnerware, antique Limoges porcelain should never be anywhere near a modern dishwasher!  For the very best results, hand wash your china in warm water using a grease-fighting dishwashing liquid and a soft sponge.  For the record, we use Dawn dishwashing soap... we don't own stock in the company, it works.

It is essential to protect your Limoges while washing it.  Fitted rubber sink liners are fabulous, but a large rubber dishpan works too.  Place it directly in the sink or on the counter top.  In an emergency, submerge a thick white or colorfast towel at the bottom of your sink.  While washing and rinsing, avoid making contact with the faucet, the sink or the other dishes.  Sadly, far too many cracks and chips get their start at the kitchen sink!

After your dishes are clean, towel drying will enhance their sheen.  Plastic dish racks are wonderful for beginning the drying process, but finishing it with a high quality cotton towel renders optimum results.  Be sure to use towels that have not been treated with fabric softener.  Softening agents leave a residue in fabric that dulls the glossy appearance of antique porcelain.  These residues also leave streaks on glass and mirrors by the way.  

Giving your antique Limoges the proper care is simple and inexpensive.  Doing so will not only protect your investment, it will enable your children's children to enjoy your Grandmother's Haviland as much as you have!