DIY Network

China and Crystal SOS China and Crystal SOS From "Talking Dirty With the Queen of Clean" episode DQOC-116

You want to set a beautiful table when you're having a dinner party. Here are tips on how to care for and mend your own good china and tableware.

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	Figure A
	Figure B

• A temporary fix for hairline cracks in china: Soak the piece in warm milk for 30 to 60 minutes (figure A). The milk fat penetrates the cracks and makes them disappear. Wash and dry as usual.

• For drying silverware, use a soft lint-free cloth. Never store in plastic bags or bundle together with rubber bands since both materials can cause the silverware to tarnish. Never wash silverware on a plastic mat.

• Store silver in a tarnishproof bag or wrap it in acid-free tissue paper (figure B).

• Handle silver wearing cotton gloves to prevent fingerprints and moisture from inviting tarnish.

• Never store glassware rim down: moisture that gets trapped inside the glass can cause damage to the crystal and the shelf it's stored on. Also, the rim is the most delicate part of the glassware and the most easily damaged. Storing upright lessens the chances of nicking the rim of the glass.

• When you're storing china, stack flat items with a napkin, paper towel or paper plate between each piece to avoid scratches.
  

Now you know the way to make your table sparkle. But one last thing: don't forget the candles. They set a warm mood, and you'll never have to panic if the power goes out. Remember, even if you present the meal on paper plates, what's important to your guests is the warm feeling that only you can create in your home.