Caring for your flatware and dinnerware properly is an important part of keeping it looking beautiful. However, many of us no longer know how to correctly take care of china, silver, and other tableware. Here are a few tips to help you make sure that your dinnerware stays in the best shape possible.

- Antique and vintage china must be washed by hand, never in the dishwasher. Age and use can make these pieces fragile, so they should be gently scraped and carefully washed in warm water with a little soap. Rinse them thoroughly and air dry. Never use harsh cleansers, lemon detergents, or abrasive cleaners on fine china.

- Put a dish towel or rubber mat at the bottom of your sink when washing breakables. This keeps your crystal and dinnerware from being cracked or broken. When washing dishes by hand, wash glasses first, then dinnerware and flatware. Save pans for last.

- Dinnerware that's not vintage or antique can usually be machine washed. However, you should take care to load the dish washer so that the china won't be rubbed by other dishes. Flatware should be washed away from fine china, because it can leave gray streaks on the surface.

- If your dinnerware does pick up metallic streaks, a very mild abrasive should be used. Bon Ami is a popular choice. Rinse thoroughly to remove all cleanser. When washing china, do it on the shortest cycle, and avoid lemon detergents.

-Whenever possible, cups should be stored on hooks. Plates and bowls should be stored with a cloth, paper towel, or dish protector between them. Earthenware should be treated with extra care, since it's a low temperature ceramic and is more fragile. Stoneware requires less care, and porcelain, the hardest type of china, is much less likely to chip. However, you should always look at the manufacturer's directions to find out what your china's care routine should be.

- Plates and cups with metallic trim should never be placed in the microwave or dishwasher - this can damage the machine and the dish. If dishes become damaged or broken, you should talk to your manufacturer or seller to find the missing pieces, or use a china replacement service. When you find out that your pattern line will be discontinued, it's time to replace missing items and stock up on pieces that break often.

Caring for your dishes properly will help them last longer and continue to beautify your table. It's important to know as much as you can about your china and flatware to make sure that you treat it well. When in doubt, ask the manufacturer or gently wash and dry by hand.