Handmade ceramics are not just functional items—they’re works of art. Whether you’ve made them yourself or purchased them from a talented artisan, your ceramic pieces carry a special charm and individuality that mass-produced goods simply cannot replicate. As with any handmade item, proper care is essential to ensure its longevity and preserve its beauty for years to come.
Ceramics are made to last, but like any delicate object, they require thoughtful handling. From properly cleaning your mugs to maintaining your pottery’s glaze, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to care for your handmade ceramics.
1. Handle with Care
Why It’s Important:
Ceramics are relatively sturdy, but they are also prone to cracking or chipping if handled improperly. The beauty of ceramics lies in their handcrafted nature, which can make them a little more delicate than factory-made items. Therefore, it’s important to handle your ceramic pieces with care to avoid accidents.
How to Do It:
- Avoid Dropping or Bumping: Be mindful when handling your ceramics, especially if they have thin edges or delicate designs. Even sturdy stoneware or pottery can break if dropped from a height. When storing ceramics, make sure they are placed securely in cabinets or shelves to avoid bumps and knocks.
- Avoid Using Too Much Force: Some pieces, especially intricate cups or plates, can be more delicate than they appear. Handle your ceramics gently and avoid using excessive force when lifting or moving them.
Tip: For mugs or teacups with thin handles, avoid pulling them too forcefully. Instead, hold the base of the cup or the handle securely when lifting.
2. Cleaning Your Ceramics
Why It’s Important:
Keeping your ceramics clean is crucial for maintaining their appearance. Proper cleaning will also help prevent stains, buildup, and preserve the integrity of the glaze. Handmade ceramics are often finished with unique glazes that can be affected by harsh chemicals or abrasives, so it’s essential to clean them with care.
How to Do It:
- Hand-Washing is Best: While many ceramics are dishwasher-safe, it’s always best to hand wash your handmade pieces, especially if they’re glazed with special finishes. Avoid soaking your ceramics for long periods, as this can weaken the glaze and make the surface more susceptible to staining.
- Use a Soft Sponge or Cloth: Always use a soft sponge or cloth when cleaning ceramics. Avoid abrasive scrubbing pads or steel wool, as they can scratch the glaze and leave marks. If there’s stubborn food or grime on your ceramics, a mixture of baking soda and water can gently lift stains without damaging the surface.
- Dry Immediately: After washing, dry your ceramics immediately with a soft towel to prevent water spots. Avoid letting your ceramics sit in water for too long, as prolonged exposure to moisture can weaken certain types of clay and glazes over time.
Tip: For ceramic mugs or cups, avoid submerging them in water for long periods. Simply wipe them with a damp cloth, followed by a dry one to maintain their finish.
3. Storing and Displaying Your Ceramics
Why It’s Important:
Proper storage and display are key to keeping your ceramics in excellent condition. Ceramics, especially those with delicate shapes or detailed decorations, can become damaged if they are stored carelessly.
How to Do It:
- Store in a Dry Place: Ceramics should be stored in a dry, cool place, away from humidity or extreme temperatures. Moisture can cause ceramic to weaken over time, and drastic temperature changes (like moving from a hot room to a cold one) can result in cracking.
- Use Display Shelves or Cabinets: If you’re displaying your ceramics rather than storing them, use shelves with enough space to keep your pieces from touching each other. This will prevent accidental chipping or cracking if they bump into one another.
- Avoid Stacking: While ceramic pieces like plates may seem stackable, it’s best to avoid stacking your ceramics too high, especially if they are fragile. Use plate racks or dividers to store them vertically.
- Use Felt Pads or Coasters: If you’re using ceramic pieces on hard surfaces (like wooden tables), consider using felt pads under the bottoms of vases or bowls. These pads will help prevent scratches on both the ceramics and the surface.
4. Avoiding Extreme Temperatures
Why It’s Important:
Ceramics can be sensitive to extreme temperature changes. Rapid heating or cooling may cause thermal shock, leading to cracks or even breakage. This is particularly true for more delicate ceramic items, such as thin-walled teacups or handcrafted pottery.
How to Do It:
- Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes: Don’t place hot ceramic items directly into cold water or put them on cold surfaces immediately after heating. For instance, avoid placing a mug just out of the microwave directly into the freezer, as the sudden temperature shift may cause it to crack.
- Don’t Expose to Direct Flames: While ceramics like cookware are made to withstand heat, never place handmade ceramics directly on an open flame or in a broiler. Some types of pottery or glazed ceramics may not be designed for direct flame exposure.
- Allow Items to Cool Gradually: If you’ve used your ceramic pieces in the oven or microwave, give them time to cool down gradually before handling them. Sudden temperature changes can weaken the material and result in cracks over time.
5. Repairing Cracks and Chips
Why It’s Important:
Even the most carefully handled ceramics can occasionally get chipped or cracked. While minor imperfections can add character to a piece, larger cracks can affect both its functionality and aesthetic appeal. Fortunately, with the right materials and techniques, you can repair your ceramics and restore them to their former glory.
How to Do It:
- Use Epoxy or Ceramic Repair Kits: If a ceramic piece has a small crack or chip, you can use a ceramic repair kit or two-part epoxy to fix it. These kits are designed to bond ceramics without compromising their look or function. Make sure to clean and dry the surface before applying the adhesive.
- Avoid Using Damaged Items: If a ceramic item has a large crack or broken section, it may be best to stop using it for food or drink purposes, as the crack could harbor bacteria or cause further damage. For decorative pieces, a small repair may restore its look, but be cautious if the item is regularly handled or exposed to moisture.
- Seek Professional Help: For more serious damage, such as large cracks or breaks, it’s best to seek a professional repair service. Experts in ceramic restoration can often fix pieces without losing their original charm.
6. Protecting Your Ceramics from Stains
Why It’s Important:
Ceramic glazes can sometimes absorb stains from liquids like coffee, wine, or food, especially if they are porous. Even glossier glazes can develop spots over time due to frequent exposure to certain substances. Taking care to prevent staining will help maintain the beauty of your ceramics.
How to Do It:
- Use Coasters: Always use coasters when placing cups or mugs on surfaces, especially if they contain liquids like coffee, tea, or wine. This prevents staining on the surface of the ceramic and the table beneath it.
- Clean Stains Promptly: If a ceramic piece gets stained, clean it as soon as possible to avoid buildup. Use gentle cleaners, like baking soda or a mild soap solution, to remove stains without damaging the glaze.
- Choose a Non-Porous Glaze: If you’re purchasing or making ceramics, ask about the type of glaze used. Some glazes are more porous than others and can absorb stains more easily. A well-glazed piece will resist staining and retain its luster for much longer.