The Guide to Caring for Your Ceramics

Posted by

Lana

7 October 2025

On 11 September 2025

Taking care of your ceramic pieces is easy, and with a little bit of care, they can last for generations. Each piece is unique and tells a story, and with the right care, you can ensure they remain beautiful heirlooms in your home.

Washing

While some handmade ceramics are dishwasher-safe, we always recommend hand washing them to keep them in the best condition. Abrasive materials or harsh detergents in dishwashers can cause your ceramics to lose their luster over time. To hand wash, use warm water, a soft sponge, and a gentle dish soap. Avoid using anything abrasive, like steel wool or scouring pads, as this can scratch the surface or glaze.

Temperature Control

Ceramics can be sensitive to sudden changes in temperature, a phenomenon known as thermal shock. Avoid pouring boiling water into a cold mug, or placing a dish directly from the refrigerator into a hot oven. It's best to allow the ceramic to warm up or cool down gradually.

The Secret to Displaying Flowers in Any Vase

While a fired ceramic piece with a properly vitrified clay body and a flawless glaze should be waterproof, some handmade pieces, particularly raku or low-fire ceramics, can remain slightly porous. This means they might "weep" or slowly leak water over time, which can damage furniture surfaces. To prevent this, a simple and effective solution is to place a waterproof container inside the vase. You can use a glass, a small plastic bottle with the top cut off, or a test tube, depending on the size and shape of the vase opening. This inner container holds the water and protects the outer ceramic piece and the surface it rests on, allowing you to display fresh flowers without worry.

Understanding the Piece

Not all ceramics are made for the same purpose. Some pieces are oven-safe, while others are purely decorative. Before using your ceramics in a microwave, oven, or freezer, check with the maker to confirm their intended use.

What to Consider

As you use your ceramics, they may develop small marks or variations. Rather than seeing these as flaws, embrace them as part of the piece's unique journey with you. These are signs of a well-loved item, and they add to its story. By caring for your ceramics, you're not only preserving a beautiful object but also honoring the craftsmanship that went into making it.

Every work of art is its own movement guided by the rhythm of fire, time, and the hands that shape it. No two pieces are ever the same; even when they appear similar, each holds its own voice, its own soul, its own story. Each is a soloist in the great symphony of creation.

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