Product Use & Care
Lenox
Dinnerware
FINE PORCELAIN & BONE CHINA
To Clean:- Rinse promptly after use to prevent staining.
- When washing by hand, place a towel or rubber mat on the bottom of your sink for protection.
- Use a mild detergent. Scouring powders, heavy-duty detergents, and steel wool pads should not be used.
- Check the base of your china for a dishwasher safe marking. If it is marked dishwasher safe, you can run it through the dishwasher. Load china on racks so that pieces are not touching and will not be dislodged by water action. Ensure metal objects such as pots, pans, and utensils do not touch the china.
- Use a mild liquid or powder detergent and wash on a mild wash cycle.
- Let china cool before removing.
- Metal marks: To remove streaks from foil, utensils, or other metal objects, use a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner and a wet sponge or cloth to rub the metal mark off the china. Rinse and dry.
- Food and beverage stains: If food or beverages remain on china for prolonged periods, it could result in stains. To avoid this, rinse china promptly after use. Should stains develop, use a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner and a wet sponge or cloth to rub the stain off the china. Rinse and dry.
- Stubborn food and beverage stains: Make a solution of 1 part chlorine bleach to 8 parts water. Allow stained pieces to soak in the solution for approximately one hour, then wash, rinse, and dry.
- Tarnish on platinum or gold details: Rub gently with a non-abrasive cleanser and a sponge or cloth. This should easily remove surface spots in a few seconds. Excessive rubbing is unnecessary and may cause damage. Rinse and dry.
- Never place china in contact with a direct flame or subject it to extreme temperature changes.
- Serving pieces should be at room temperature before putting hot foods in them or on them.
- Place a silver or stainless steel spoon in teacups before adding hot liquid.
- Ensure the storage location has sufficient space so china doesn’t touch other items or the sides or bottoms of the shelves.
- When stacking, put a cushion between each piece to prevent the surface from being scratched by the piece above it. You can purchase separators and zippered china protectors or simply use napkins, paper towels, or coffee filters.
- If the item is not marked as microwave safe on the bottom, do not place it in a microwave.
- Handle with an oven mitt or potholder after heating. Do not permit children to handle the item after microwaving.
- Do not heat the item empty in the microwave.
PORCELAIN
To Clean:- Remove food debris after use.
- Washing by hand: Use a mild liquid detergent. Scouring powders, heavy-duty detergents, and steel wool pads should not be used.
- Dishwasher cleaning: Almost all porcelain is dishwasher safe but confirm by checking the bottom of your piece for a dishwasher-safe marking. Load on racks so that pieces are not touching and will not be dislodged by water action. Use a mild liquid or powder detergent.
- Allow pieces to cool before removing them from the dishwasher.
- If the item is not marked as microwave safe on the bottom, do not place it in a microwave.
- Handle with an oven mitt or potholder after heating. Do not permit children to handle the item after microwaving.
- Do not heat the item empty in the microwave.
STONEWARE
To Clean:- Remove food debris after use.
- Washing by hand: Use a mild liquid detergent. Scouring powders, heavy-duty detergents, and steel wool pads should not be used.
- Dishwasher cleaning: Almost all stoneware is dishwasher safe but confirm by checking the bottom of your piece for a dishwasher-safe marking. Load on racks so that pieces are not touching and will not be dislodged by water action. Use a mild liquid or powder detergent.
- Allow pieces to cool before removing them from the dishwasher since stoneware is most prone to chipping when hot.
- Metal items could leave metal deposits on stoneware glaze. To remove these streaks, use a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner and a wet sponge or cloth to rub the metal mark off the item. Rinse and dry.
- If the item is not marked as microwave safe on the bottom, do not place it in a microwave.
- Handle with an oven mitt or potholder after heating. Do not permit children to handle the item after microwaving.
- Do not heat the item empty in the microwave.
EARTHENWARE
To Clean:- Older earthenware items are hand wash only. Modern pieces are dishwasher safe. Check the bottom for a dishwasher safe marking to be sure.
- You may choose to wash an item by hand even if it is marked dishwasher safe due to the figural or decorative nature of some pieces.
- Washing by hand: Earthenware should not soak in water prior to cleaning. Use a mild liquid detergent. Scouring powders, heavy-duty detergents, and steel wool pads should not be used.
- Dishwasher cleaning: Ensure an item does not touch other items and that it won’t be dislodged by water action. Load on racks so that pieces are not touching and will not be dislodged by water action. Use a mild liquid or powder detergent. Allow to cool before removing from the dishwasher.
- If the item is not marked as microwave safe on the bottom, do not place it in a microwave.
- Handle with an oven mitt or potholder after heating. Do not permit children to handle the item after microwaving.
- Do not heat the item empty in the microwave.
- Use rubber or wooden utensils with earthenware baking dishes.
- When hot, avoid immersing earthenware in water.
MELAMINE & BAMBOO
To Clean:- Remove food debris after use.
- Handwashing: Use a mild liquid detergent. Scouring powders, heavy-duty detergents, and steel wool pads should not be used.
- Dishwasher cleaning: Top rack dishwasher safe only. Load on the top rack without pieces touching. Use a mild liquid or powder detergent.
- Never place in the microwave.
- Never place in the oven.
- Avoid serving very hot liquids on these dinnerware items.
METAL SERVEWARE
To Clean:- Hand wash only. Use dish detergent and rinse thoroughly.
- Do not leave food or water on the item for an extended period.
- If discoloration occurs, gentle rubbing with a metal polish should address the discoloration.
- To help protect the metal finish from discoloration from foods that contain acidic substances or fatty acids, coat the item with a nonstick spray before use.
- Do not place in the microwave.
TIERED SERVERS
To Assemble:- Place metal handle in the center dish aligned with hole.
- Ensure plastic washer is between china and metal.
- Align screw underneath dish with handle.
- Ensure plastic washer is between china and metal screw.
- Turn screw clockwise into handle to tighten.
- Disassemble before cleaning. To disassemble, turn handle counter clockwise.
- Always wash by hand with a mild liquid detergent. Scouring powders, heavy-duty detergents, and steel wool pads should not be used.
KITCHEN
GLASS FOOD STORAGE
To Clean:- Remove food debris after use.
- Washing by hand: Use a mild liquid detergent. Scouring powders, heavy-duty detergents, and steel wool pads should not be used.
- Dishwasher cleaning: load on racks so that pieces are not touching and will not be dislodged by water action. Use a mild liquid or powder detergent.
- Plastic lids are top rack dishwasher safe only. Wooden lids should be washed by hand.
- Microwave and freezer safe.
- Do not put plastic lids in the microwave.
BAKERS
To Clean:- Washing by hand is recommended for heavy soilage. Use a mild liquid detergent. Scouring powders, heavy-duty detergents, and steel wool pads should not be used.
- Dishwasher safe; load on racks so that pieces are not touching and will not be dislodged by water action. Use a mild liquid or powder detergent.
- Refrigerator, freezer, and oven safe.
- Always use potholders when handling bakeware.
- Do not place hot bakeware directly on the counter or table. Use a protective trivet.
- Do not use bakeware to make popcorn, caramelize sugar, make candy, or deep fat fry.
- Do not place empty bakeware in oven. Avoid overheating.
- Allow bakeware to cool before placing in sink or water.
TEA KETTLES
To Clean:- Prior to first use, remove all labels and wash the inside and outer surfaces of the teakettle with hot, soapy water. Then, rinse thoroughly.
- Hand wash only. Use dish detergent and rinse thoroughly.
- Do not place a hot tea kettle in cold water.
- Empty the product of excess water after each use and wipe dry.
- For the whistle to function properly, fill the teakettle to just below spout opening.
- Never fill the teakettle higher than 2" from the rim. Overfilling results in boiling water being forced out of the spout.
- Place the teakettle on the stove burner so that the spout is not pointed toward the front of the stove. When boiling water, always point the spout away from you.
- Do not place the teakettle on a heating element that is larger in diameter than the bottom of the product.
- After water in the teakettle has come to a boil, turn off the heat and wait at least 30 seconds before handling. The handle, lid, and spout cap may be hot to the touch. Always use a potholder or oven mitt when handling the tea kettle.
- Make sure the lid is secured while pouring. Do not tilt the teakettle more than 80 degrees to prevent possible burn injury. Hot steam may escape from the lid of the teakettle if it is tilted more than 80 degrees.
- Do not place an empty tea kettle on a flame or hot burner and never allow water in the tea kettle to boil dry.
FLATWARE
18/0 and 18/10 STAINLESS STEEL- Wash promptly after each use to prevent tarnish from food oils and acids.
- Avoid prolonged soaking as hard water may cause pitting or staining.
- Dishwasher cleaning: Use a mild detergent to avoid spotting. Avoid using acidic dishwashing detergents (e.g. lemon, orange, grapefruit). Loosely load your dishwasher so water circulates freely and avoid contact with aluminum, other metal objects, and the heating element, as high heat can be corrosive. Load spoons and forks with the handles facing downwards and knives with the handles facing upwards.
- Washing by hand: Use hot, soapy water. Avoid using acidic dishwashing detergents (e.g., lemon, orange, grapefruit). Rinse and immediately dry flatware with a soft cloth.
- Dark marks caused by ingredients in coffee, vinegar, tea, and salad dressings can be removed using metal polish.
CUTLERY
Cleaning & Care:- Wash cutlery promptly after use; leaving food on cutlery or soaking it in soapy water for an extended period creates rust spots on blades.
- We highly recommend washing your cutlery by hand. This will extend the life of the product and retain the sharpness of the blades. Use hot water, a non-abrasive cloth or sponge, and a mild detergent. Avoid acidic or highly chlorinated detergents. Rinse thoroughly and dry promptly with a soft towel.
- Our cutlery is top-rack dishwasher safe (unless it has a wooden handle). Be sure to load the dishwasher so each piece does not touch other items. After a dishwasher cycle is complete, cutlery must be promptly and fully dried to prevent rust spots on the blades.
- To clean cutlery blocks, wipe with a clean, dampened cloth.
- To help preserve a wooden knife block’s luster and to prevent it from cracking over time, apply a wood-safe mineral oil.
- Hold sharpening implement (honing steel) at an arm’s length away from your body.
- Hold knife by the handle with the tip of the blade pointing upward.
- Move knife blade from the bolster to tip across the honing steel, always pointed away from your body.
- Adjust position of honing steel as needed for optimal control and safety.
- Handle knives with respect; mishandling can result in injury.
- Use the correct size and type of knife for the job.
- Always hold knives by their handles.
- Never try to cut an item that you are holding in your hand.
- Do not use knives for tasks other than their intended purpose, such as opening bottles, opening drawers, or lifting lids.
- Do not test blade sharpness by running your finger across the blade.
- If a knife drops, do not attempt to catch it.
- As with all sharp objects, keep knives out of reach of children.
DRINKWARE
GLASS
To Clean:- By hand, use warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or sponge to wash glassware. Avoid abrasive scrubbers as they can scratch the glass.
- Be gentle when handling delicate glassware to prevent chips or cracks.
- After washing, rinse thoroughly to remove soap residue.
- Dry glassware with a soft, lint-free towel or cloth to avoid water spots and streaks.
- If you prefer air-drying, turn the glass upside down on a clean, dry dish rack or towel.
- Avoid washing glass with very hot or cold water.
- If glassware is dishwasher-safe, place it in the top rack, away from other items that might cause it to knock around.
- Use a gentle cycle with a mild detergent.
- For tough stains (such as from wine or tea), soak the glass in a mixture of warm water and baking soda or vinegar.
- A paste made from baking soda and water can restore shine and remove stubborn stains.
- Hard water can leave mineral deposits on glass. To prevent this, dry glassware promptly after washing.
- You can also use a vinegar solution (equal parts white vinegar and water) to remove water spots.
- Store glassware in a secure, safe place to avoid breakage. Use shelving that is sturdy and deep enough to accommodate the size of the glasses.
- Avoid stacking delicate glassware (e.g., wine glasses) too high, as this can cause them to tip over or become damaged.
- If you need to store glasses in a cabinet, ensure they are separated or cushioned to avoid chipping or scratching.
- Glass can be sensitive to sudden temperature changes. Don’t pour hot liquids into cold glass or vice versa, as this can cause cracking.
CRYSTAL
To Clean:- By hand, use warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or sponge to wash crystal glassware.
- Avoid abrasive scrubbers, as they can scratch the glass. Avoid using extremely hot water, which can cause thermal shock and cracking. Be gentle to prevent chips or cracks.
- After washing, rinse thoroughly to remove soap residue.
- Dry promptly to avoid spots from hard water. Use a soft, lint-free towel or cloth to avoid water spots and streaks.
- If you prefer air-drying, turn the glass upside down on a clean, dry dish rack or towel.
- Use a vinegar solution (equal parts white vinegar and water) to remove water spots.
- For tough stains (such as from wine or tea), soak the glass in a mixture of warm water and baking soda or vinegar.
- A paste made from baking soda and water can restore shine and remove stubborn stains.
- If the crystal is dishwasher-safe, place it in the top rack, away from other items that might cause it to knock around. Use a gentle cycle with a mild detergent.
- Store glassware in a secure, safe place to avoid breakage. Use shelving that is sturdy and deep enough to accommodate the size of the glasses.
- Avoid stacking delicate glassware (e.g., wine glasses) too high, as this can cause them to tip over or become damaged.
- If you need to store glasses in a cabinet, ensure they are separated or cushioned to avoid chipping or scratching.
- When using stemware, hold it by the base or stem rather than the bowl to avoid weakening the structure.
- Never store crystal stemware upside down. The lip is the most fragile part of the glass and in time will crack and chip from the weight of the bowl and stem.
- Always allow air space around each piece of crystal when you store it. Since glass expands in hot temperatures, extra air space eliminates the possibility of the crystal breaking because it has expanded and touched another piece.
ACRYLIC
To Clean:- Always hand-wash acrylic glassware. The high heat and abrasive detergents can cause warping or scratching.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals like ammonia or bleach as they can damage the surface of acrylic. Stick to mild dish soap or a specialized acrylic cleaner.
- Use lukewarm water. Avoid very hot or very cold water, as extreme temperature changes can stress the material.
- Use a soft microfiber cloth or a non-abrasive sponge to clean acrylic. Avoid scrubbers or rough sponges that can scratch the surface.
- Dry the glassware with a soft towel or microfiber cloth to prevent water spots or streaks. Avoid air-drying, as this can leave marks on the surface.
- For smudges or fingerprints, you can use a solution of water and a small amount of dish soap, or a dedicated acrylic cleaner. Buff gently with a microfiber cloth to restore shine.
- For stubborn stains, use a mild, non-abrasive cleaner specifically made for acrylic.
- If your acrylic glassware starts to lose its shine, you can use a small amount of acrylic polish. Apply it with a soft cloth and buff gently in a circular motion to restore the clarity.
- To avoid scratching, always store acrylic glassware away from sharp objects or other glassware. You can use a soft cloth or protective pads between items when stacking.
- Store acrylic glassware in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause discoloration and make acrylic brittle.
- Avoid stacking acrylic glassware unless it’s designed for stacking, as the weight of one piece can cause pressure on the others and lead to cracks or scratches.
GOLD- OR PLATINUM-BANDED DRINKWARE
To Clean:- Always wash by hand.
- Use a mild detergent to clean stems.
- To remove discoloration from bands, use a mixture of half water and half vinegar to wipe the gold band. If the mixture is unsuccessful, try using straight vinegar to remove the tarnish.
- If vinegar doesn’t remove discoloration, rub the gold area with a fine polishing cream to remove discoloration on the surface. Avoid using a soft-scrub cleaner. The abrasives in soft scrubs may scratch or remove the gold edge line.
- Do not use lemon. Lemon detergents tend to be more aggressive. Over time, aggressive cleaners can attack even the crystal. When this happens, the crystal can have a hazy or cloudy look.
CERAMIC TRAVEL MUGS
To Clean:- Always wash by hand using warm, soapy water.
- Do not use bleach or chlorine cleaners.
- Mug is microwave safe. Lid is not microwave safe.
- After microwaving beverage, replace lid to seal.
- Ensure lid is securely attached before drinking.
Wood Products
To Clean:- Use a soft cloth moistened with lukewarm soap and water.
- A thin coat of beeswax protects Lenox wood products from stains, unless it encounters a spill that is acidic or remains on the wood for an extended period of time. Polish occasionally with beeswax or mineral oil to maintain finish.
- Never place it in a microwave, a freezer, or an oven.
- Avoid exposure to harsh chemical waxes, glass cleaners, and direct sunlight.
- Do not place hot pans on wood.
- Do not use place mats that are made with rubber as it has a tendency to cause damage to the wood finish.
- Do not store the wood in environments that are overly damp or dry.
- Do not allow liquid to remain on the item.
Oneida
Dinnerware
PORCELAIN
To Clean:- Remove food debris after use.
- Washing by hand: Use a mild liquid detergent. Scouring powders, heavy-duty detergents, and steel wool pads should not be used.
- Dishwasher cleaning: Almost all porcelain is dishwasher safe but confirm by checking the bottom of your piece for a dishwasher-safe marking. Load on racks so that pieces are not touching and will not be dislodged by water action. Use a mild liquid or powder detergent.
- Allow pieces to cool before removing them from the dishwasher.
- If the item is not marked as microwave safe on the bottom, do not place it in a microwave.
- Handle with an oven mitt or potholder after heating. Do not permit children to handle the item after microwaving.
- Do not heat the item empty in the microwave.
STONEWARE:
To Clean:- Remove food debris after use.
- Washing by hand: Use a mild liquid detergent. Scouring powders, heavy-duty detergents, and steel wool pads should not be used.
- Dishwasher cleaning: Almost all stoneware is dishwasher safe but confirm by checking the bottom of your piece for a dishwasher-safe marking. Load on racks so that pieces are not touching and will not be dislodged by water action. Use a mild liquid or powder detergent.
- Allow pieces to cool before removing them from the dishwasher since stoneware is most prone to chipping when hot.
- Metal items could leave metal deposits on stoneware glaze. To remove these streaks, use a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner and a wet sponge or cloth to rub the metal mark off the item. Rinse and dry.
- If the item is not marked as microwave safe on the bottom, do not place it in a microwave.
- Handle with an oven mitt or potholder after heating. Do not permit children to handle the item after microwaving.
- Do not heat the item empty in the microwave.
MELAMINE & BAMBOO MELAMINE
To Clean:- Remove food debris after use.
- Handwashing: Use a mild liquid detergent. Scouring powders, heavy-duty detergents, and steel wool pads should not be used.
- Dishwasher Cleaning: Melamine is top rack dishwasher safe only. Load on the top rack without pieces touching. Use a mild liquid or powder detergent.
- Never place melamine in the microwave.
- Never place melamine in the oven.
- Avoid serving very hot liquids on melamine dinnerware items.
Stainless Steel Flatware
- Wash promptly after each use to prevent tarnish from food oils and acids.
- Avoid prolonged soaking as hard water may cause pitting or staining.
- Dishwasher cleaning: Use a mild detergent to avoid spotting. Avoid using acidic dishwashing detergents (e.g., lemon, orange, grapefruit). Loosely load your dishwasher so water circulates freely and avoid contact with aluminum, other metal objects, and the heating element, as high heat can be corrosive. Load spoons and forks with the handles facing downwards and knives with the handles facing upwards.
- Washing by hand: Use hot, soapy water. Avoid using acidic dishwashing detergents (e.g., lemon, orange, grapefruit). Rinse and immediately dry flatware with a soft cloth.
- Dark marks caused by ingredients in coffee, vinegar, tea, and salad dressings can be removed using metal polish.
Cutlery
Cleaning & Care:- Wash cutlery promptly after use; leaving food on cutlery or soaking it in soapy water for an extended period creates rust spots on blades.
- We highly recommend washing your cutlery by hand. This will extend the life of the product and retain the sharpness of the blades. Use hot water, a non-abrasive cloth or sponge, and a mild detergent. Avoid acidic or highly chlorinated detergents. Rinse thoroughly and dry promptly with a soft towel.
- Our cutlery is top-rack dishwasher safe (unless it has a wooden handle). Be sure to load the dishwasher so each piece does not touch other items. After a dishwasher cycle is complete, cutlery must be promptly and fully dried to prevent rust spots on the blades.
- To clean cutlery blocks, wipe with a clean, dampened cloth.
- To help preserve a wooden knife block’s luster and to prevent it from cracking over time, apply a wood-safe mineral oil.
- Hold sharpening implement (honing steel) at an arm’s length away from your body.
- Hold knife by the handle with the tip of the blade pointing upward.
- Move knife blade from the bolster to tip across the honing steel, always pointed away from your body.
- Adjust position of honing steel for optimal control and safety.
- Handle knives with respect; mishandling can result in injury.
- Use the correct size and type of knife for the job.
- Always hold knives by their handles.
- Never try to cut an item that you are holding in your hand.
- Do not use knives for tasks other than their intended purpose, such as opening bottles, opening drawers, or lifting lids.
- Do not test blade sharpness by running your finger across the blade.
- If a knife drops, do not attempt to catch it.
- As with all sharp objects, keep knives out of reach of children.
Glass Drinkware
To Clean:- By hand, use warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or sponge to wash glassware. Avoid abrasive scrubbers as they can scratch the glass.
- Be gentle when handling delicate glassware to prevent chips or cracks.
- After washing, rinse thoroughly to remove soap residue.
- Dry glassware with a soft, lint-free towel or cloth to avoid water spots and streaks.
- If you prefer air-drying, turn the glass upside down on a clean, dry dish rack or towel.
- Avoid washing glass with very hot or cold water.
- If glassware is dishwasher-safe, place it in the top rack, away from other items that might cause it to knock around.
- Use a gentle cycle with a mild detergent.
- For tough stains (such as from wine or tea), soak the glass in a mixture of warm water and baking soda or vinegar.
- A paste made from baking soda and water can restore shine and remove stubborn stains.
- Hard water can leave mineral deposits on glass. To prevent this, dry glassware promptly after washing.
- You can also use a vinegar solution (equal parts white vinegar and water) to remove water spots.
- Store glassware in a secure, safe place to avoid breakage. Use shelving that is sturdy and deep enough to accommodate the size of the glasses.
- Avoid stacking delicate glassware (e.g., wine glasses) too high, as this can cause them to tip over or become damaged.
- If you need to store glasses in a cabinet, ensure they are separated or cushioned to avoid chipping or scratching.
- Glass can be sensitive to sudden temperature changes. Don’t pour hot liquids into cold glass or vice versa, as this can cause cracking.
- Store glassware in a secure, safe place to avoid breakage. Use shelving that is sturdy and deep enough to accommodate the size of the glasses.
- Avoid stacking delicate glassware (e.g., wine glasses) too high, as this can cause them to tip over or become damaged.
- If you need to store glasses in a cabinet, ensure they are separated or cushioned to avoid chipping or scratching.
- When using stemware, hold it by the base or stem rather than the bowl to avoid weakening the structure.
- Never store crystal stemware upside down. The lip is the most fragile part of the glass and in time will crack and chip from the weight of the bowl and stem.
- Always allow air space around each piece of crystal when you store it. Since glass expands in hot temperatures, extra air space eliminates the possibility of the crystal breaking because it has expanded and touched another piece.
Reed & Barton
Crystal
To Prepare New Crystal for First-Time Use:- Fill with a room-temperature solution of 50% water and 50% vinegar or citric acid (i.e., lemon juice).
- Let stand for 24 hours.
- Empty and rinse well with warm water.
- This procedure will remove any residue from production, shipping, or storage and properly prepare your new crystal for washing.
- Hand wash each piece of crystal in warm soapy water and avoid extremely hot or cold water for cleaning.
- Do not use abrasives or scouring pads on your crystal.
- Rinse in clean water and dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
- Store your stemware upright so that the rims do not touch. This will help to prevent chipping.
- Avoid storing beverages in crystal containers for extended periods of time.
- Change the liquid contents of all crystal containers frequently. This will help preserve the product’s finish, avoid film build-up, and chemical erosion of the crystal’s interior surface.
Cutlery
Cleaning & Care:- Wash cutlery promptly after use; leaving food on cutlery or soaking it in soapy water for an extended period creates rust spots on blades.
- We highly recommend washing your cutlery by hand. This will extend the life of the product and retain the sharpness of the blades. Use hot water, a non-abrasive cloth or sponge, and a mild detergent. Avoid acidic or highly chlorinated detergents. Rinse thoroughly and dry promptly with a soft towel.
- Our cutlery is top-rack dishwasher safe (unless it has a wooden handle). Be sure to load the dishwasher so each piece does not touch other items. After a dishwasher cycle is complete, cutlery must be promptly and fully dried to prevent rust spots on the blades.
- To clean cutlery blocks, wipe with a clean, dampened cloth.
- To help preserve a wooden knife block’s luster and to prevent it from cracking over time, apply a wood-safe mineral oil.
- Hold sharpening implement (honing steel) at an arm’s length away from your body.
- Hold knife by the handle with the tip of the blade pointing upward.
- Move knife blade from the bolster to tip across the honing steel, always pointed away from your body.
- Adjust position of honing steel as needed for optimal control and safety.
- Handle knives with respect; mishandling can result in injury.
- Use the correct size and type of knife for the job.
- Always hold knives by their handles.
- Never try to cut an item that you are holding in your hand.
- Do not use knives for tasks other than their intended purpose, such as opening bottles, opening drawers, or lifting lids.
- Do not test blade sharpness by running your finger across the blade.
- If a knife drops, do not attempt to catch it.
- As with all sharp objects, keep knives out of reach of children.
Flatware
STAINLESS STEEL
Cleaning & Care:- Before first use, thoroughly wash and dry your flatware by hand.
- Never leave flatware dirty or soaking in water overnight.
- Avoid acidic detergents (e.g., lemon, orange, grapefruit) or highly chlorinated detergents.
- Use a quality metal polish to remove any discoloration. Dark marks caused by ingredients in coffee, vinegar, tea, and salad dressings can be removed using metal polish.
- If discoloration or markings appear, we recommend using a quality metal polish to remove them.
- Do not store your flatware wrapped in plastic or other materials that can trap moisture.
- After each use, promptly rinse flatware to prevent food acids and/or oils from discoloring, corroding, or pitting.
- Load your dishwasher lightly so water circulates freely for more effective cleaning.
- Ensure flatware doesn’t touch other metal objects, which could cause discoloration.
- Load spoons and forks with the handles facing downwards and knives with the handles facing upwards.
- Use a mild detergent to avoid spotting. Avoid using acidic dishwashing detergents (e.g., lemon, orange, grapefruit).
- Remove flatware immediately after dishwasher cycle is complete and hand-dry with a soft microfiber cloth to remove any remaining water before storing.
- Always use hot water and a mild detergent or soap to wash your flatware.
- Rinse in clean, hot water.
- Dry promptly and thoroughly with a soft microfiber cloth before storing.
STERLING SILVER
Cleaning & Care:- Wash promptly after using. Foods like eggs, mayonnaise, and vinegar can stain sterling silver if left on the pieces for as little as an hour.
- Wash by hand with hot water, a gentle dishwashing liquid, and a soft sponge or cloth. Rinse each piece then dry immediately to prevent the formation of water spots. When the pieces have cooled, put them away.
- Store in a silver flatware chest, a drawer that has been lined with tarnish-preventive cloth, or in a felt bag.
- Occasionally, use a non-abrasive liquid or polish to keep sterling silver tarnish-free and to restore its luster. Dips and solutions are not recommended as they may remove the oxidation that can enhance the detail of the pattern.
- Sterling silver flatware becomes more beautiful over time as it develops a soft patina and satin shine. By using silver often and rotating pieces to ensure even wear, you enhance its luster and value.
SILVERPLATE
Cleaning & Care:- Wash promptly after using. Foods like eggs, mayonnaise, and vinegar can permanently damage silverplate if left on the pieces for as little as an hour.
- Wash by hand with hot water, a gentle dishwashing liquid, and a soft sponge or cloth. Rinse each piece then dry immediately to prevent the formation of water spots. When the pieces have cooled, put them away.
- Store in a silver flatware chest, a drawer that has been lined with tarnish-preventive cloth, or in a felt bag.
- Occasionally, use a non-abrasive liquid or polish to keep sterling silver tarnish-free and to restore its luster. Dips and solutions are not recommended as they may remove the oxidation that can enhance the detail of the pattern.
Flatware Storage Boxes
Cleaning & Care:- Dust your flatware chest with a soft cloth as often as you would your furniture. Cleaning avoids dust accumulating in the chest or on your flatware.
- If necessary, spot clean with a damp cloth.
- Keep your flatware chest out of direct sunlight as sun can fade it over time.
Collectibles & Décor
STERLING SILVER
Cleaning & Care:- Occasionally, use a non-abrasive liquid or polish to keep sterling silver tarnish-free and to restore its luster.
- Dips and solutions are not recommended as they may remove the oxidation that can enhance the detail of the pattern.
SILVERPLATE
Cleaning & Care:- Occasionally, use a non-abrasive liquid or polish to restore its luster.
- Dips and solutions are not recommended as they may remove the oxidation that can enhance the detail of the pattern.
- If there is no tarnish present, clean with a phosphate-free detergent.
- Use a polish that needs to be rinsed; these are less abrasive as polishing ingredients are suspended in the liquid. If you use this type of polish, dry the piece immediately with a cotton towel to avoid spotting.
- Don't use polishes that have dried up as the abrasive particles are now much too concentrated and can be harmful.
- Never use steel wool, scouring pads, or toxic dips. To remove dried-on polish, use a wet horsehair brush, cotton ball, or toothpick. To avoid fingerprints, wear cotton gloves when handling your silver-plated pieces.
PEWTER
Cleaning & Care:- After each use, hand wash your pewter with soap and warm water, then follow with a good towel drying.
- Do not put pewter in the dishwasher.
- Do not use pewter as a storage container.
- Line your pewter with glass or plastic if you intend to use it for plants or flowers.
- Do not allow pewter to become hot.
Cambridge
Flatware
To Clean:- Before using your Cambridge stainless for the first time, we recommend that you hand wash it thoroughly in hot water using a mild soap or detergent, then rinse in clean hot water and dry promptly using a soft microfiber cloth.
- Do not let food remnants remain on your flatware for prolonged periods. Remove food soil immediately, as some foods are harsh to stainless steel and can cause pitting. This includes vinegar, salt, mustard, mayonnaise, and more.
- Avoid soaking your flatware for prolonged periods before washing. If food remnants are difficult to remove, let your utensils sit in warm water with mild detergent for no more than 10 minutes, and avoid soaking with aluminum or copper materials. Soaking too long can lead to stains, corrosion, or a filmy buildup on your utensils.
- Avoid washing it alongside aluminum or copper items. You should also never use dish detergent that contains harsh chemicals, a lemon scent, bleach, or chlorides.
- Dishwashing: Load forks and spoons with their handles down and avoid “nesting.” Place knives in a separate section with blades pointed down to prevent contact with other metals and potential scratching. Load flatware loosely for good water circulation between flatware pieces. Avoid dry heat cycle as hot air drying will increase the probability of discoloration/corrosion. Drying by hand with a soft cloth is recommended. Avoid "Heavy Duty" or highly chlorinated detergents as these can harm flatware surfaces.
- Washing by Hand: Use hot water and mild detergent. Rinse in clean, hot water and dry promptly. Do not use detergents with citrus additives as they can harm flatware surfaces. Wash stainless flatware as soon as possible after each meal. Prolonged contact with harsh, acidic foods may cause discoloration, corroding or pitting. Never let flatware soak or leave unwashed overnight. Avoid using metal scrub brushes, scrapers, or steel wool, and do not use the scouring or abrasive side of your sponge. This can lead to scratches and increases the risk of corrosion.
- When washing your flatware in the dishwasher, it’s best to use a rinse aid to help remove water and reduce the drying time, which prevents spots and streaks.
- If you are hand-washing flatware, you should always avoid air-drying. Instead, use a soft cloth to remove moisture from your flatware and store it in a dry place until you’re ready to use it again.
- Wipe the flatware down with a cloth dipped in vinegar until stains disappear.
- Once the stains are gone, clean each piece to remove the vinegar. This should brighten your flatware and bring its luster back.
- Occasionally, you may choose to use a polish to remove film buildup or staining. Make sure to use polish specifically made for stainless steel.
- Once polished, rinse thoroughly. Do not use stainless steel polish on flatware that is plated or coated.
- Brushed or satin-finished products can be polished with Scotch-Brite pads. Simply place the utensil between a folded pad and gently move it up and down along the length of the item.
- All flatware should be stored in a dry place (such as a drawer) until you’re ready to use it again.
- Do not store stainless flatware in plastic or other wrappings that can trap moisture.
Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) Flatware
- Products coated with PVD are easy to care for and can be cleaned in the same way as uncoated stainless steel because the color itself is a hard coating.
- You should avoid using abrasive pads that can cause scratching and potentially remove the PVD layer.
- It’s crucial to prevent item-to-item contact in the dishwasher or when handling flatware to minimize the risk of scratches and premature wear.
Cutlery
Cleaning & Care:- Wash cutlery promptly after use; leaving food on cutlery or soaking it in soapy water for an extended period creates rust spots on blades.
- We highly recommend washing your cutlery by hand. This will extend the life of the product and retain the sharpness of the blades. Use hot water, a non-abrasive cloth or sponge, and a mild detergent. Avoid acidic or highly chlorinated detergents. Rinse thoroughly and dry promptly with a soft towel.
- Our cutlery is top-rack dishwasher safe (unless it has a wooden handle). Be sure to load the dishwasher so each piece does not touch other items. After a dishwasher cycle is complete, cutlery must be promptly and fully dried to prevent rust spots on the blades.
- To clean cutlery blocks, wipe with a clean, dampened cloth.
- To help preserve a wooden knife block’s luster and to prevent it from cracking over time, apply a wood-safe mineral oil.
- Hold sharpening implement (honing steel) at an arm’s length away from your body.
- Hold knife by the handle with the tip of the blade pointing upward.
- Move knife blade from the bolster to tip across the honing steel, always pointed away from your body.
- Adjust position of honing steel as needed for optimal control and safety.
- Handle knives with respect; mishandling can result in injury.
- Use the correct size and type of knife for the job.
- Always hold knives by their handles.
- Never try to cut an item that you are holding in your hand.
- Do not use knives for tasks other than their intended purpose, such as opening bottles, opening drawers, or lifting lids.
- Do not test blade sharpness by running your finger across the blade.
- If a knife drops, do not attempt to catch it.
- As with all sharp objects, keep knives out of reach of children.
Barware
Dishwasher-Safe Barware:- Place in the top rack of your dishwasher.
- Avoid cleaning stainless steel pieces in the same load as those made from other metals like aluminum.
- You should also ensure that your barware products are not touching each other in the dishwasher to avoid scratches and premature wear.
- Barware noted as hand wash only should be washed with warm, soapy water, then dried immediately with a soft, clean towel.
- Use a mild detergent and gentle sponge to avoid scratching the product.
Glass Barware
- Never use glass items that are visibly damaged, scratched, chipped, or cracked, as they can be a safety hazard.
- You should also avoid hard impacts and sudden, drastic temperature changes (such as pouring a boiling liquid over ice inside glass barware) – both of which can cause breakage.
- Dishwasher-safe barware can be placed in the top rack of the dishwasher. Avoid cleaning stainless steel products in the same load as products made with other metals such as aluminum. Separate your barware pieces in the dishwasher to avoid breakage, scratches, and premature wear.
- Etching can occur on glassware due to soft water, high temperatures, or too much dish detergent. To avoid this issue, reduce the amount of dishwasher detergent used (but be sure to use at least one tablespoon), keep the water temperature no higher than 140 degrees, and load fewer items into the dishwasher at a time to ensure thorough rinsing.
- To hand-wash glassware, use a non-scratch pad and gentle detergent.
Shakers & Insulated Drinkware
- Dishwasher-safe products can be placed in the top rack of your dishwasher.
- Avoid washing stainless steel items in the same load as those made from other metals like aluminum.
- Keep products from touching each other in the dishwasher to avoid scratches and premature wear.
- Barware noted as hand-wash only should be washed with warm soapy water, then dried immediately with a soft, clean towel.
- Do not soak insulated drinkware in water.
Ice Buckets
- It’s important to clean and dry your ice bucket after every use to avoid bacterial growth.
- For ice buckets that are hand-wash only, thoroughly scrub the entire bucket, including the interior where the bottom meets the sides. Dry the product immediately after washing.
Hampton Forge
Flatware
Cleaning & Care:- Before first use, thoroughly wash and dry your flatware by hand.
- Never leave flatware dirty or soaking in water overnight.
- Avoid acidic detergents (e.g., lemon, orange, grapefruit) or highly chlorinated detergents.
- Use a quality metal polish to remove any discoloration.
- Do not store your flatware wrapped in plastic or other materials that can trap moisture.
- After each use, promptly rinse flatware to prevent food acids and/or oils from discoloring, corroding, or pitting.
- Load your dishwasher lightly so water circulates freely for more effective cleaning.
- Ensure flatware doesn’t touch other metal objects, which could cause discoloration.
- Remove flatware immediately after dishwasher cycle is complete and hand-dry with a soft microfiber cloth to remove any remaining water before storing.
- After each use, wash flatware as soon as possible to prevent food acids and/or oils from discoloring, corroding, or pitting.
- Always use hot water and a mild detergent or soap to wash your flatware.
- Rinse in clean, hot water.
- Dry promptly and thoroughly with a soft microfiber cloth before storing.
Cutlery
Cleaning & Care:- Wash cutlery promptly after use; leaving food on cutlery or soaking it in soapy water for an extended period creates rust spots on blades.
- We highly recommend washing your cutlery by hand. This will extend the life of the product and retain the sharpness of the blades. Use hot water, a non-abrasive cloth or sponge, and a mild detergent. Avoid acidic or highly chlorinated detergents. Rinse thoroughly and dry promptly with a soft towel.
- Our cutlery is top-rack dishwasher safe (unless it has a wooden handle). Be sure to load the dishwasher so each piece does not touch other items. After a dishwasher cycle is complete, cutlery must be promptly and fully dried to prevent rust spots on the blades.
- To clean cutlery blocks, wipe with a clean, dampened cloth.
- To help preserve a wooden knife block’s luster and to prevent it from cracking over time, apply a wood-safe mineral oil.
- Hold sharpening implement (honing steel) at an arm’s length away from your body.
- Hold knife by the handle with the tip of the blade pointing upward.
- Move knife blade from the bolster to tip across the honing steel, always pointed away from your body.
- Adjust position of honing steel as needed for optimal control and safety.
- Handle knives with respect; mishandling can result in injury.
- Use the correct size and type of knife for the job.
- Always hold knives by their handles.
- Never try to cut an item that you are holding in your hand.
- Do not use knives for tasks other than their intended purpose, such as opening bottles, opening drawers, or lifting lids.
- Do not test blade sharpness by running your finger across the blade.
- If a knife drops, do not attempt to catch it.
- As with all sharp objects, keep knives out of reach of children.