During the rare occasions when they’re used, delicate china and silverware heirlooms are treated with the utmost respect. Because of sentimental and monetary value, it’s important to utilize the same degree of care when they aren’t being used as well, which means care in storing and packing them.
If your nice china or flatware are used semi-regularly, protective foam sheets can be helpful to prevent scratches and chipping when you stack and store them for their next use. Thin pieces of foam or durable fabric sections layered between each plate can keep them accessible but protected. If you’re short on storage space and your nicer wares have to share space with daily-use items, more substantial protective materials can be used to guard against the in-and-out of the other items. Things like economical packaging foam with an eggcrate cushion design or plastic bubble wrap can offer extra protection over rags or paper towel sheets.
For long-term storage or moving, going even further and using thicker, more durable foam types like the kind used to cushion furniture can absorb impact and shocks even better to keep everything safe. Microfiber cloths are also helpful for wrapping utensils, as they won’t leave behind dust or lint that needs to be cleaned off later.
Fortunately, all these packing materials are affordable and reusable, and considering the value of the things you’re protecting, are definitely worth the investment.
