Clearing the Table

A well-set table is a pretty palette of china, crystal and linens that turns an ordinary meal into a memorable event. These hard-working pieces can be used again and again, bringing you years of pleasure, if cared for properly. Here’s how.
 

China and Porcelain

• Fine china should be handled with care. Line the bottom of the sink with a dish towel and hand wash each piece individually in warm, soapy water. Dry with a soft towel.
   
• To keep china chip — and dust-free, store in a closed cupboard, stacked in quilted storage bags (available at most home stores), with a paper plate dividing each plate and bowl. Stack china on lower shelves for easy access, using upper shelves to store other entertaining supplies, like serving pieces, vases, votive holders and greenery.
   
• Store bowls stacked inside each other. Use small bowls or ramekins to hold wine stoppers, wine glass charms, cocktail picks and other party items.
   
• Stack cups two deep, separated by a paper napkin. Turn the lids of teapots and serving pieces upside down to protect the handles. Slip a toilet paper roll over a teapot’s spout.
   
• Almost all casual dinnerware is dishwasher-safe. Store everyday dishes near the dishwasher, with mugs and cups hung on hooks to free up shelf space.
   
• Many items can be used instead of stored, decorating your home while saving space. Cake pedestals can double as candleholders, bowls can hold fruit or pinecones, serving trays can be used to display collections or organize items on a shelf.
   

Crystal and Glassware

• Delicate crystal and stemware should always be hand washed. Fill the sink with warm water and a mild detergent. Place a dish towel in the bottom of the sink, then dip glasses one at a time, cleaning inside the bowl with a soft cloth. Rinse in warm water and hand dry immediately. To remove water spots, gently rub with a cloth dipped in white vinegar.
   
• When storing fine crystal, leave a little room between pieces. To save space, turn every other glass upside down. Don’t stack crystal; it’s easily broken.
   
• Regular glassware is generally sturdy and can go straight in the dishwasher. To remove spots and film, add ½ cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle.
   

Linens and Lace

• Always launder table linens before storing to prevent mold growth. Cotton linens can be pre-treated for stains and tossed in the washer. Soak delicate or heirloom items in a sink filled with warm water and Woolite®. Gently agitate by hand, then rinse in cool water. If spots remain, sprinkle them with salt and saturate with lemon juice to form a paste. Carefully rub the paste into the stain, let it sit a few minutes, then rinse in cool water. Lay linens flat on absorbent towels and dry outdoors, if possible.
   
• Roll linens instead of folding them to minimize wrinkles. Wrap fine linens in acid-free tissue paper and store in a natural fiber bag. To keep linens smelling fresh, store them with scented candles.