You have got yourself a new goblet, carafe or bowl in pewter from Royal Selangor. You want to keep it clean — and you wonder if the dishwasher can handle it. The answer is no, and it is important to understand why.
Hand wash
Wash in lukewarm water and mild detergent. Rinse well and dry immediately with a soft cloth.
Polishing is easy
An easy polishing with a dry microfiber cloth removes fingerprints and restores the shine.
Tin paste for care
For deeper cleaning, special tin paste is used — available from Royal Selangor and Dano.
Why should tin not be in the dishwasher?
Royal Selangor pewter can withstand hot water and mild soap just fine — but the dishwasher is a different matter:
- High temperature: Dishwashers usually operate at 55–70°C. Tin has a relatively low melting point, and even if the piece does not melt, high heat over time can change the structure of the metal and the gloss on the surface.
- Strong detergents: Dishwashing tablets are formulated to dissolve grease and mineral deposits with chemical power. These chemicals are too aggressive for the pewter's surface and can produce a dull, gray finish that is difficult to reverse.
- Mechanical damage: The glass, china and cutlery moving in the machine can come into contact with the pewter and create scratches.
Proper cleaning of pewter
Fortunately, it is easy to wash pewter by hand:
- Rinse the piece with lukewarm water.
- Use a drop of mild dish soap and a soft sponge or cloth.
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- Dry immediately with a soft, dry cloth — do not let the piece air dry, as water spots may appear.
Tin stands up to time — but not the dishwasher. A minute with a soft cloth is all your piece needs.
— Dano Care Council
What about everyday use?
Royal Selangor cups and bowls used for cold drinks and dry food very rarely need washing beyond a dry wipe with a cloth. They do not collect bacteria and are neutral towards most foods. A more thorough wash is recommended after contact with acidic contents (citrus juice, vinegar) or after longer storage.
Summary
Keep Royal Selangor out of the dishwasher. A quick hand wash with mild soap and lukewarm water takes less than a minute and keeps the piece looking good for generations. It's low maintenance for something that will sit on your table for 30 years.
