Noritake says gold and platinum trim can go in the dishwasher with care, but never in the microwave. The metal sits on top of the glaze, so heat and abrasive detergent wear it and microwaves spark off it.
The decoration is the problem, not the china. Gold and platinum bands are real metal laid over the glaze. Noritake advises liquid or gel detergent, no powder, no lemon-based detergent and a low heat setting, and to let pieces cool before handling because heat temporarily softens the metal. Lenox’s care page says to check the base for a dishwasher safe mark. Many people simply hand wash the good china.
| Dishwasher | Possible with care, per Noritake |
|---|---|
| Detergent | Liquid or gel. Avoid powder and lemon-based detergents |
| Cycle | Low heat or economy, and let it cool before handling |
| Microwave | No. Metal on the rim arcs |
| Lenox | Check for a dishwasher safe mark on the base |
How to wash gold rim china
- Check the base for a dishwasher safe mark, and hand wash the piece if there is none.
- Use a liquid or gel detergent and avoid powder and lemon-based ones.
- Choose a low heat or economy cycle and load the china so pieces do not touch.
- Let it cool to room temperature before you handle it.
- Dry and store it, and polish the rim gently if it dulls.
What happens when you get it wrong
- A worn rim. Heat, abrasive powder and rubbing wear the gold or platinum off the glaze.
- Sparks in the microwave. The metal band arcs, which can scorch the plate and the oven.
- Pitting. Noritake warns that lemon-based detergents can pit the trim.
Hand wash the good plates with mild liquid soap.
A plain white plate for the microwave, since any metal trim will spark.
Frequently asked questions
Can gold rim plates go in the dishwasher?
Noritake says gold and platinum designs can, with care: liquid or gel detergent, a low heat setting and cooling before handling. Hand washing is safer for valuable pieces.
Can gold rim plates go in the microwave?
No. Noritake says never to put anything with gold or platinum trim in the microwave, because metal reflects microwaves and arcs.
Does the gold wear off in the dishwasher?
It can, because the metal sits on top of the glaze. Powder detergent and high heat make it worse.
Is vintage china dishwasher safe?
Check the base for a mark, and if there is none, hand wash it.