In recent years, stoneware has become one of the most popular choices for kitchenware due to its durability and versatility. Stoneware is made from a type of clay that is fired at high temperatures, resulting in a material that is both sturdy and non-porous.

This makes it ideal for baking, cooking, serving, and storing food. From dinner plates to baking dishes, stoneware can be found in every corner of the kitchen.

It is especially loved for its ability to retain heat, keeping food warm long after it’s been taken out of the oven or microwave. However, with great popularity comes great responsibility – it’s essential to clean stoneware properly to maintain its quality over time.

The Importance of Proper Cleaning

Cleaning stoneware properly not only keeps it looking new but also helps extend its lifespan. Unlike other materials such as glass or metal, stoneware can get easily scratched or damaged by certain cleaning products or techniques.

Moreover, proper cleaning ensures there are no bacteria and germs leftover on the surface that could cause harm when you use your stoneware next time around. Cleaning ensures that any odors from previous cooking are removed so that you don’t impact your next dish flavor-wise (nobody wants their brownies tasting like salmon).

A Few Things To Keep In Mind Before Cleaning

Before diving into how to clean your stoneware properly let’s make sure we know what we’re working with:

• Glossy Glazed Stoneware: this kind of stoneware has a colored or clear coating applied on top which gives it an incredibly smooth finish.
• Matt Glazed Stoneware: this has the same coating as glossy glazed stoneware, but it’s not polished hence giving it a more matte look.
• Unglazed Stoneware: As the name suggests, this stoneware has no coating applied and is generally porous and prone to staining.

Now that we know what we’re working with let’s move on to how we can properly clean our stoneware so that it remains in tip-top shape.

General Cleaning Tips

Soft is Key

When it comes to cleaning stoneware, using a soft sponge or brush is essential. Scratching the surface of the stoneware can not only damage its appearance but can also cause it to wear down more quickly. A scratch here or there may seem like no big deal, but over time they can add up and leave your stoneware looking lackluster and dull.

Avoid Chemicals and Abrasives

While cleaning products that are made specifically for stoneware do exist, it’s important to avoid using any harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage the surface of the stoneware. Instead, opt for a mild dish soap and warm water solution. This will help keep your stoneware looking new while also preventing any damage from occurring.

Rinse First

Before washing your stoneware with soap, be sure to rinse it with warm water first. This helps to remove any loose debris or residue that may have accumulated on the surface of the dish.

Rinsing before washing also helps ensure that your sponge or brush is as clean as possible before you start scrubbing away at food particles and stains on your dish. Taking these extra measures in cleaning your stoneware will help keep it in good condition for years to come!

Removing Stains and Residue

Create a Paste of Baking Soda and Water to Remove Stubborn Stains

Stoneware is a great cooking tool because it can withstand high temperatures and is generally very durable. But sometimes, even the best stoneware can get stained with baked-on food or other stubborn stains that won’t come out with regular washing.

Luckily, there’s an easy solution: baking soda! To create a paste for stubborn stains, mix equal parts baking soda and water in a small bowl until it forms a thick paste.

Then, using your fingers or a soft-bristled brush, apply the paste directly onto the stain and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. The baking soda will work to break down the stain while you wait.

After 30 minutes or so has passed, use warm water and a soft sponge or brush to gently scrub away the paste. Rinse well with warm water before drying completely.

Soak Stoneware in Warm Water Mixed with White Vinegar to Remove Residue

If your stoneware has residue from cooking oils or other substances that won’t come off with regular washing, white vinegar can help do the trick. Start by filling your sink or a large bowl with warm water mixed with about half a cup of white vinegar.

Place your stoneware in the mixture and let it soak for at least an hour (or overnight if you have particularly stubborn residue). The acidity of the vinegar will help break down any leftover oils or other substances on your stoneware.

After soaking, use warm water and a soft sponge or brush to wash away any remaining residue. Rinse thoroughly before allowing to dry completely.

Use A Nylon Scraper for Tough Areas

For particularly tough areas that won’t come off even after trying these methods above, try using a nylon scraper. This tool is gentle enough not to damage your stoneware, but tough enough to get rid of any stubborn leftover messes.

Simply wet the area that needs to be cleaned and use the nylon scraper to gently work away the residue. Remember not to use metal scrubbers or anything too abrasive as this can damage your stoneware.

The nylon scraper should do the trick without harming your kitchen tool. By using these techniques, you’ll be able to remove even the toughest of stains and residue from your stoneware, leaving it looking as good as new!

Cleaning Specific Types of Stoneware

For glazed stoneware, avoid soaking for too long as it can damage the glaze

Glazed stoneware is coated with a layer of glass-like material that gives it a shiny, smooth finish. While the glaze protects the stoneware from scratches and stains, it can be easily damaged if soaked for too long.

To clean glazed stoneware, fill up your sink or a large bowl with warm water and add some mild dish soap. Gently scrub the surface using a soft sponge or brush, taking care not to use any abrasive cleaners or rough materials that could scratch the glaze.

Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry with a soft cloth or allow the stoneware to air dry. If there are stubborn stains on your glazed stoneware, make a paste by mixing baking soda with water to create an effective cleaning solution.

Apply the paste to the stained area and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off with warm water. Avoid using any sharp objects like knives or metal scouring pads that may scratch or damage the glaze.

For unglazed stoneware, use a bit more elbow grease as it tends to absorb stains more easily

Unglazed stoneware doesn’t have a protective coating like glazed stoneware does; therefore, it is more porous and susceptible to absorbing stains. To clean unglazed stoneware effectively, soak it in hot soapy water for about an hour before scrubbing gently using a nylon brush or sponge.

Make sure you don’t use excessive force while scrubbing as this may damage the surface of your unglazed stoneware. Baking soda is also effective in cleaning unglazed stoneware but unlike glazed ones where you create paste from baking soda and water – you use a dry baking soda.

Sprinkle baking soda generously over the surface of your unglazed stoneware, add a few drops of water so that it sticks to the surface, and leave it for 30-40 minutes before scrubbing off with hot soapy water. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry with a soft cloth or let it air dry.

When it comes to cleaning stoneware, taking care of the specific type you have can make all the difference in maintaining its quality. Whether you have glazed or unglazed stoneware in your kitchen, cleaning them properly will ensure that they last for years to come.

Drying and Storing Stoneware

Allow Stoneware to Air Dry Completely Before Storing

After cleaning your stoneware, it’s essential to let it dry completely before storing it away. Stoneware takes longer to dry than other materials, so don’t be in a rush to put it away. You can towel dry the surface to absorb excess water, but it’s best to let it air dry completely.

One thing you need to avoid is storing wet stoneware. When you store wet dishes or bowls, mold and bacteria grow quickly.

They can cause unpleasant smells and even damage the stoneware itself. So make sure that all parts of the stoneware are completely dry before you store them.

If you’re in a hurry and need your stoneware ready for use quickly, placing them in a warm oven for 10-15 minutes can help speed up the drying process without risking any damage. Remember always to handle hot stoneware with care.

Store in a Cool, Dry Place Away from Direct Sunlight

After your stoneware is completely dry, make sure that you store it properly so that it lasts long without losing its quality. Store your dishware in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight as heat and humidity can cause damage or discoloration over time.

Many people like displaying their decorative or colorful dishes on open shelves where they’re easily accessible while also adding character to the kitchen decorum. However, keep in mind that prolonged exposure of such displayable items to direct sunlight or artificial light sources can fade their colors or even create cracks due to heat exposure.

If you must display your beloved dishes on open shelves, consider rotating them periodically so that each piece has an opportunity for limited light exposure for an equal amount of time. Cleaning is crucial when dealing with stoneware, but so is drying and storing.

If you take the time and care to follow all the steps, your stoneware will stay beautiful for years to come. Air-drying completely and storing in a cool, dry place away from sunlight are important steps to factor in as well.

Conclusion

After reading this article, you should have a good understanding of how to clean stoneware effectively while maintaining its quality. Stoneware is a versatile material that can be used for cooking, serving, and storing food. Proper cleaning is essential to keep it in good condition and prevent any damage or stains.

It’s important to use a soft sponge or brush when cleaning stoneware to avoid scratching the surface. Harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners should be avoided as they can damage the stoneware.

Instead, use baking soda and water or white vinegar to remove stains and residue. When cleaning glazed stoneware, avoid soaking it for too long as it can damage the glaze.

For unglazed stoneware, you may need to use a bit more elbow grease as it tends to absorb stains more easily. It’s also important to allow the stoneware to air dry completely before storing it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Cleaning stoneware may seem like a daunting task at first but with these simple tips and tricks, you’ll be able to keep your stoneware dishes looking their best for years to come. Don’t let the fear of cleaning stop you from using this beautiful material in your kitchen – with proper care and maintenance, your stoneware will continue to shine like new!