How to Organize a China Hutch

Remove all items from the china hutch and dust or wash the shelves. Clean glass in display doors and replace burned-out bulbs in interior display lights.

Sort the contents of the hutch, retaining only the items that belong in it. Return all other items to their proper homes.

Arrange decorative items in an attractive pattern, displaying favorite or most meaningful pieces prominently. Use a plate rail or stand to display decorative plates and a mug tree for decorative cups.

Store fragile items carefully to avoid chipping and breaking. When stacking china dishes, place a coffee filter or paper plate between plate. Arrange stemware by alternating upside-down goblets with right side up goblets to fit them more closely on the shelf and avoid scratches.

Polish all sterling items before returning them to the china hutch. Store silver dinnerware in a felt-lined bag or box specifically designed for silver flatware storage.

Air out linen items and launder if necessary. Fold them neatly and store them in the drawers or a storage box in the china hutch. Do not iron or starch them until you're ready to use them, as starch attracts moths and can cause yellowing of the fabric if left too long.