Stoneware plates are more than dishes. They add a handcrafted feel to meals and make tables look cozy and inviting. If you’re using them daily or for special dinners, a little care goes a long way. You don’t have to be an expert to keep them in great shape. Just follow a few easy steps, and your plates will stay strong and beautiful for years.
- Handle with Care
Stoneware is tough, but it’s not unbreakable. Don’t bang plates together when washing or stacking. They can chip at the edges if knocked around. Use soft sponges when cleaning. Skip the steel wool or anything scratchy.
If you notice a crack, don’t ignore it. Even a hairline crack can grow worse. Set the plate aside and check if it’s still safe to use. Heat and pressure can make a small crack split deeper.
- Avoid Sudden Changes in Temperature
Stoneware doesn’t like fast temperature jumps. For example, don’t take a plate straight from the fridge and place it in a hot oven. That quick change can cause it to crack. Let it warm up slowly.
If you’re reheating food, let the plate sit at room temperature for a few minutes first. Then pop it into a warm—not hot—oven or microwave.
Avoid pouring cold water on a hot plate. That’s a quick way to weaken the material. Always let it cool down first.
- Wash the Right Way
Stoneware plates can go into the dishwasher, but hand washing is gentler. Warm water and a soft cloth do the trick. Don’t soak them for too long. Soaking can wear away the glaze, especially on older pieces.
If there’s stuck-on food, let the plate sit in warm water for 10–15 minutes. Then scrub gently. Baking soda can help with tough spots. Just sprinkle a little and use a damp cloth.
Always dry your plates well. Leaving them wet can cause mold or weak spots, especially where the glaze is thinner.
- Store Them Right
Stacking can be risky. Too much weight on the bottom plate may cause stress cracks. Try using felt or cloth between plates. This reduces pressure and keeps the glaze safe.
Keep your plates in a dry spot. Moisture in the air can damage unglazed bottoms over time. Use shelves that allow air to flow.
- Use Them Safely
Stoneware is made to handle heat, but always read the maker’s note. Some plates can go in the oven, others can’t. Never use them on a stove or open flame.
If your plate has been heated, place it on a towel or wooden board. Hard counters can cause stress if the plate cools too fast.
Also, avoid using sharp knives directly on the plate. Over time, this can scratch the glaze. Cut softer items or use a cutting board instead.
- Watch for Stains
Food like berries or tomato sauce can stain. That’s more likely if the glaze has tiny cracks. These tiny cracks are called “crazing,” and they often happen with age or misuse.
To treat stains, make a paste of baking soda and water. Rub it gently on the area and rinse. You can also use white vinegar for light stains. Always rinse well afterward.
Avoid bleach or harsh cleaners. They can strip away the finish and weaken the surface.
- Respect Handmade Work
Stoneware plates from studios like Always Azul Pottery are crafted with care. They’re not like factory-made dishes. No two are exactly the same. That’s part of their charm.
That also means each plate may have its own limits. Some are thicker, some thinner. If you’re using them to serve hot foods or pottery platters during big meals, warm them first. Let them sit in a warm oven (not hot) for a few minutes. That gets them ready without stress.
Never put a cold plate straight on a hot table. Use mats or cloth under them to ease the heat transfer.
- Keep the Glaze Strong
The glaze protects your plate. It keeps out stains and locks in the color. But the glaze can wear down with time, especially if scrubbed too hard.
Avoid stacking heavy items on top of your plates. That can rub the glaze away. And don’t use them for harsh kitchen tasks like pounding meat or opening jars.
Treat the glaze like you would treat paint. If it starts to dull, use a soft polishing cloth after washing to keep it shiny.
- Refresh the Look
If your plates start to look dull or show light marks, there’s hope. You can rub a bit of baking soda with water to clean the surface. For deeper glaze care, mineral oil helps. Just dab a little on a cloth and rub lightly.
Always test a small area first. And don’t use oils if you plan to heat the plate soon after. Let it absorb fully and dry before using.
Some people like the worn-in look. Others want to keep their plates looking fresh. Either way, care makes all the difference.
Conclusion
Stoneware plates deserve proper care. They’re more than just dishes—they’re everyday pieces of art. With a few habits, you’ll keep them strong and stylish. Wash with care. Avoid shocks from heat or cold. Store safely. Keep the glaze happy. Whether you’re using them for dinner or showing off your pottery platters, the steps above will help them last.
Always Azul Pottery crafts unique stoneware that’s made to last and easy to love. Their handmade pieces bring beauty and function to your table. With care, these plates stay as charming as the day they were made. Add a touch of art to every meal—only from Always Azul Pottery.