Porcelain cleaning and care for your Rosenthal tableware

Porcelain cleaning and care requires skill if you want your fine porcelain tableware to remain beautiful and shiny for years to come.

Elegance, quality, and suitability for everyday use: the high-quality tableware from Rosenthal is found on many tables as a symbol of good taste and the highest quality porcelain. To ensure that your fine tableware looks as beautiful as it did on the first day, even after many years, it is worth paying attention to the proper cleaning and care of porcelain.

Find out what is important when cleaning and caring for porcelain in everyday life – from gentle dishwasher use and temperature and oven resistance to careful handling of gold trim. Look forward to practical tips, in-depth knowledge, and comprehensive Rosenthal expertise to ensure that your porcelain will last for generations.

Cleaning Rosenthal porcelain tableware: the basics

Cleaning porcelain requires careful handling of the tableware to preserve its shine and decoration. The various Rosenthal tableware designs are generally all dishwasher safe. However, the most common damage occurs when loading and unloading the dishes from the dishwasher, which is why you should always place the dishes in the dishwasher in such a way that they cannot knock against each other. When washing your decorated porcelain tableware, however, it is essential to observe the label with the washing instructions. For Rosenthal products, you will find this in our online shop and in the product details on the respective product pages.

White Rosenthal porcelain set with teapot, cup and plate – elegant and easy to care for.

Porcelain in the dishwasher: friend or foe?

When cleaning porcelain tableware, it depends on the decoration. White porcelain tableware without decoration is generally dishwasher-safe and easy to care for. However, even the Rosenthal tableware collections with elaborate decorations are usually dishwasher safe. Look for corresponding information such as “dishwasher safe” or “dishwasher suitable” in the product description. Rosenthal porcelain also has the best properties in terms of abrasion and scratch resistance.

Gold rims and decorations in the dishwasher: special care for special details

In Rosenthal tableware designs with decorations, the colors are melted into the glaze at over 1000°C. This softens the glaze and the decoration sinks into it. This makes the porcelain tableware indestructible in terms of color and luminosity. Decorations marked in this way have been tested by the Institute for Materials Technology (IWT) at Rosenthal GmbH. This makes care and cleaning of the porcelain tableware very easy.

The tableware can be safely cleaned in the dishwasher. Although Rosenthal porcelain tableware is highly resistant to abrasion and scratches, a little more care and special attention is required for gold and platinum decorations. Due to their natural material properties, gold and platinum coatings are not completely scratch-resistant. For elaborate gold decorations, therefore, use the gentle cycle at a maximum temperature of 55°C in the dishwasher or wash by hand using a mild detergent and soft sponges.

Dishwasher-safe bone china – elegant, translucent, easy to care for

Bone china is one of the finest types of porcelain in the world – light, delicate, yet particularly sturdy. The surface appears silky smooth and slightly translucent, but is technically a glass-like layer that should be treated accordingly. Rosenthal uses bone china in selected collections, such as the Rosenthal Brillance collection or the minimalist Jade tableware collection, which perfectly combine elegance and everyday practicality.

Despite its delicate nature, bone china is dishwasher safe, provided that a few points are observed: Over the years, deposits or discoloration can occur due to starch deposits from food, hard water, or incorrect detergent dosages – especially if dishwashers are not set optimally. These deposits can develop into a thin but stubborn film over time. To prevent this, we recommend the following measures:

the correct dosage of detergent, dishwasher rinse aid, and salt,
regular maintenance of the dishwasher,
occasional cleaning of the porcelain with a liquid porcelain or ceramic hob cleaner.

Such stains do not affect the glaze – they can usually be removed completely. The harder and denser the material, the better it is protected against the effects of machine cleaning – a clear advantage of bone china and hard porcelain. Rosenthal uses only high-quality bone china, which not only looks impressive but also impresses in everyday use with its high dishwasher resistance.

Is porcelain heat-resistant and oven-proof?

Whether porcelain is oven-proof depends on how it is manufactured. High-quality porcelain, such as that produced by Rosenthal, is generally temperature-resistant and can be used in the oven. However, you should avoid sudden changes in temperature, as these can cause tension in the material.

Therefore, do not preheat the oven, but place the porcelain in the cold oven and heat it slowly. Avoid direct contact with open flames or hotplates. It is also possible to freeze porcelain, but it should be completely thawed before reheating to avoid overstressing the material.

Microwave-safe tableware

Rosenthal porcelain without metal trims can be safely used in the microwave – ideal for quickly reheating food. Series with gold or platinum rims are excluded from this. If in doubt, please refer to the information on the product detail page.

Hand wash for high-quality decorations

With this decor, the appearance of the porcelain and its artistic design are paramount. Dishwasher safety is deliberately not a priority here. The use of high-quality colors and the subtle design mean that the dishwasher should not be used. This decor has been tested by the Institute for Materials Technology (IWT) at Rosenthal GmbH. The tableware should only be washed by hand.

Rosenthal porcelain: quality that impresses

Rosenthal has stood for excellent porcelain quality and innovative design for over 140 years. The products are characterized by their high temperature resistance, dishwasher safety, and durability. The Rosenthal Dining Collections offer a wide range of tableware collections that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

The use of high-quality materials and careful porcelain production and processing ensure that Rosenthal porcelain retains its shine and beauty even with regular use. The combination of tradition and modernity makes each piece a timeless and durable companion.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about porcelain care

Yes, high-quality porcelain such as Rosenthal is generally ovenproof. However, avoid sudden temperature changes and place the porcelain in the oven while it is still cold before heating it up to avoid tension caused by sudden temperature differences.

Porcelain is heat-resistant up to certain temperatures. The exact temperature limit depends on how it is manufactured. Rosenthal porcelain is suitable for use in the oven as long as temperature changes are gradual.

Even though manufacturers often label porcelain with gold or platinum decorations as “dishwasher safe,” fine tableware with gold decorations should be washed gently and ideally by hand to protect the decorations.

If you wash particularly fine porcelain by hand, soak it in warm water with a little vinegar or baking soda. Use a soft cloth to clean and rinse thoroughly.

Almost all Rosenthal collections are dishwasher safe, especially if the decorations have been baked at high temperatures. However, hand washing is recommended for delicate decorations.

With the right care, your porcelain will remain a shining companion for years to come. Discover the variety and quality of the Rosenthal collections, which combine tradition and innovation in perfect harmony.

Cleaning and care tips for glasses

To keep your glasses looking their best, it is important to clean them correctly. Depending on the type of glass and decoration, it may be advisable to wash particularly high-quality glasses by hand – especially delicate, hand-finished or fine, long-stemmed glasses.

Although many Rosenthal glasses are generally dishwasher safe, delicate stems or elegant decorations may be more sensitive to machine washing.

Elegant Rosenthal glasses – for stylish enjoyment and gentle cleaning.

Cleaning dishwasher-safe glasses correctly

Many glasses today are dishwasher safe – however, there are a few things to keep in mind when cleaning them. If possible, use the gentle cycle at a maximum temperature of 60°C and a mild detergent to protect the material and decoration. Place the glasses securely in the dishwasher basket so that they cannot knock or rub against each other. A slight tilt is ideal so that the rinse water drains well and no stains form.

Even though Rosenthal glasses are designed for everyday use, gentle cleaning protects them from premature clouding or a dull shine – especially clear, long-stemmed glasses.

Hand wash for delicate decorations

For glasses with printed decorations, gold or platinum embellishments, and lead crystal, we recommend washing by hand. Harsh cleaning agents and high temperatures in the dishwasher can quickly damage delicate surfaces or cause colors to fade. Instead, use lukewarm water and a mild dishwashing detergent.

Our tip: Never place several glasses in the sink at the same time – this prevents scratches or breakage. After rinsing, you should immediately dry the glasses with a soft cloth. When polishing tumbler glasses, be careful not to twist the stem – this can cause it to break off.

Cleaning and care tips for cutlery

The care of your cutlery is as individual as the material it is made of. Whether stainless steel, silver, or gold-plated, each material has its own requirements to maintain its brilliance and quality in the long term. Even though Rosenthal cutlery is generally dishwasher safe, hand washing is recommended for particularly delicate items. Gold-plated cutlery should always be cleaned by hand due to its delicate material.

Versace cutlery by Rosenthal – luxurious design, gentle cleaning recommended.

Stainless steel and PVD cutlery – robust but not indestructible

Cutlery made of stainless steel or with a high-quality PVD coating is generally dishwasher safe. However, Rosenthal recommends cleaning by hand to minimize external influences. In the dishwasher, aggressive detergents, high temperatures, or prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to staining or rust, especially on knife blades.

Care instructions for dishwasher-safe stainless steel cutlery:

Rinse cutlery as soon as possible after use to remove any acidic or salty food residues (e.g., vinegar, mayonnaise, fish stock).
Arrange cutlery upright with the handles facing down in the cutlery basket – make sure that spoons do not slip into each other.
Remove the cutlery immediately after the wash cycle has ended, even if it appears dry, and dry it by hand.
Avoid washing stainless steel and silver cutlery in the same cutlery basket of the dishwasher to prevent contact corrosion.
Light stains can be easily removed with a non-abrasive stainless steel cleaner.

Cleaning silver cutlery – timeless elegance, gentle care

Silver-plated cutlery brings shine and tradition to the table – and deserves special attention. Even though it is generally dishwasher safe, hand washing is recommended to preserve its shine and patina in the long term. The shine of silver cutlery is best preserved when it is used daily.

Special features of silver care:
Silver tarnishes when it comes into contact with substances containing sulfur – such as egg yolk, mustard, legumes, or fish.
Sulfur-containing gases in the air also cause discoloration during prolonged storage.
Use silver care products that prevent tarnishing in the form of cloths, pastes, or immersion baths for regular cleaning.
Store your silver in a specially lined cutlery tray or in impregnated felt cloths.

Gold-plated cutlery – elegant but delicate

Gold-plated cutlery is characterized by its elegant and shiny surface. During the gold-plating process, the finest hard gold is applied to the cutlery items by electrolysis. Rosenthal's high-quality gold-plated cutlery impresses with its luxurious appearance. To ensure that the gold coating retains its shine, hand washing only is recommended.

How to clean gold-plated cutlery correctly:

Rinse immediately after use to prevent deposits from forming. Do not allow food residues or other liquids to dry, as these can attack the gold plating.
Use a soft cloth, mild detergent, and lukewarm water.
Make sure to thoroughly clean the spaces between tines, e.g., between the prongs of a fork.
Rinse each piece from top to bottom and dry it immediately by hand to prevent water spots.
Store your gold cutlery in a dry and protected place – ideally in a separate cutlery tray.
Polish your cutlery once or twice a year with a polish that is specifically designed for gold cutlery.
Switch between cutlery items regularly to ensure even wear.

Cleaning and care tips for picture frames

With its new interior and lifestyle collections, Rosenthal is expanding its range to include stylish design objects and gift sets for the entire home – including elegant picture frames that impress with their perfect design and high-quality materials. To ensure that these special pieces retain their appeal for many years to come, careful maintenance is essential.

All picture frames from Rosenthal are tarnish-proof, which means you don't need to clean them. Therefore, please never clean a tarnish-proof item with silver polish. Simply dusting or cleaning with a normal soft cloth is sufficient to keep your frame looking beautiful for many years to come.