How to Clean and Care for Stoneware
Precautions
The base of earthenware dishes and accessories can be rough and cause damage to unprotected surfaces. Always use a tablecloth, placemats, and hot pads when placing stoneware on tabletops or countertops. Also, stoneware retains heat, and although this is one of the best qualities of this type of dishware, potholders must be used when removing it from the microwave or a heated oven. In addition, this type of dishware will break with sudden temperature changes. Never attempt to clean hot stoneware in cool water, and never pick up hot stoneware with a wet cloth. It cannot be placed over a direct source of heat or flame, and it should not be used with microwave browning trays or beneath the broiler.
Getting the Most of Stoneware
Earthenware dishes are ideal for dining and serving food, but many people are unaware that it is microwaveable and oven-safe. Surprisingly it can also be placed in the freezer. When used for serving food, it will effectively keep hot foods hot for longer periods of time than china, melamine, ceramic, or other types of dishware. From the oven to the table, stoneware can help make mealtime easier than ever, and it is even easier to clean.
Safely Remove Baked-on Stuck-on Foods
Any type of dishware can end up with baked-on stuck-on foods, but unlike other types of tableware, stoneware should not be soaked in water. The base is unfinished, and when soaked in water, it can become damaged upon heating. If food is baked-on or stuck-on, clean it by filling the piece with very warm water and a small amount of detergent. Allow it to soak without submersion, and the baked-on or stuck-on food should come right off with a dishrag or sponge.
Clean Away Dark Marks
To clean dark marks or surface scratches and stains caused by stainless steel utensils use non-abrasive cleaning products. Baking soda is a safe non-abrasive cleaner that is completely natural, but commercial non-abrasive products can also be used to keep stoneware clean and free from dark marks and stains. Read and follow product label instructions for best results.
Clean and Prevent Stains
Foods and beverage that typically stain clothing can also cause stains on stoneware, but stains are easy to clean and remove. Prevent stains on stoneware by always rinsing it after use. Remove existing stains by soaking the interior with a solution of half water and half liquid bleach.
It really is very easy to clean and care for stoneware dishes and accessories. My stoneware is twenty years old, and it looks almost as good as it did the day it was purchased. I always rinse it shortly after use, and I clean and care for it using the aforementioned methods. Stains are very easy to remove. With simple methods to clean and care for stoneware, your earthenware pieces can also last for decades.
