Guidelines for use and care
Pottery
Before Use:
1. Smooth the Base: The rough base of pottery can easily scratch tables or crockery cabinets. Gently smooth it using fine sandpaper to prevent damage.
2. Remove Dirt: Due to the porous nature of pottery, air bubbles may form small holes on its surface, which can trap dirt or moisture, leading to stains, mold, or lingering odors from leftover food. It is recommended to clean the pottery twice using a soft sponge and neutral detergent. (Ceramics generally do not have this issue.)
3. Boil in Rice Water: Place the pottery in a pot and cover it with rice water. Boil for 30 minutes, then allow it to cool. The starch from the rice fills the small holes on the pottery’s surface, helping to prevent dirt and odors from penetrating.
4. Serving Food:
– For fried food, place it on paper first to absorb excess oil before serving.
– When using raw pottery bowls for fish, line the bowl with paper or coat it with a thin layer of salad oil.
– Avoid serving pickled foods in gold- or silver-colored ceramics, as these are prone to discoloration.
Pottery
Wash:
1. Handwashing Valuable Porcelain: For valuable pottery, handwashing is recommended using a neutral detergent. If using a dishwasher, avoid overloading it, as vibrations during cleaning may cause items to rub against each other and result in damage
2. Avoid Stacking Pottery: After meals, avoid stacking pottery pieces together. The unglazed foot ring can absorb grease, making it difficult to clean.
3. Care for Gold or Silver Accents: For vessels painted with gold or silver, note that these finishes are not fired and are more prone to peeling. Clean them gently, avoid scrubbing, and do not use a dishwasher.
4. Prevent Mold in Pottery: Pottery, being made from clay, may not dry easily during humid seasons, increasing the risk of mold. After washing, ensure the pieces are thoroughly dried and placed in a well-ventilated area. I personally recommend displaying them on an open wooden sideboard.
Pottery
Storage Guidelines:
1. Thorough Drying: Ensure all items are thoroughly dried after cleaning. Wipe off excess water immediately and allow them to air dry on a dish towel. Storage areas should be well-ventilated, as prolonged exposure to humidity can damage pottery, especially clay-based items. Avoid soaking dishes for extended periods after meals.
2. Avoid Stacking Pottery: After meals, avoid stacking pottery pieces together. The unglazed foot ring can absorb grease, making it difficult to clean.
3. Use of Boxes or Cages: For wine or tea sets, consider storing them in boxes or bamboo cages lined with cloth to protect them. Precious items often come with a paulownia box, which is insect- and fire-resistant, making it ideal for storing pottery and preserving its condition.
Pottery
Maintenance Guide:
1. Removing Tea Stains and Yellowing: Use a specialized tableware bleach for soaking to remove tea stains and yellowing. For pottery and other clay-based products, longer soaking may be required for effective cleaning. The brown discoloration in glaze cracks is natural and does not need to be removed.
2. Cleaning Cup Handles and Rims: Dirt on cup handles or rims can be scrubbed using a sponge with a mild abrasive, an acrylic dishwashing brush, or a toothbrush for detailed cleaning.
Ceramic
Ceramics Guide:
1. Initial Soaking: When you first receive your porcelain, soak it in warm water with a small amount of vinegar. This helps remove floating dust, residue, and trace amounts of free lead.
2. Cleaning: Porcelain has a smooth and durable surface, making it suitable for dishwashers. However, use mild detergents to prevent fading over time. For special hand-painted items, handwashing is recommended to preserve the design.
3. Avoid Abrasive Cleaners: Do not use sharp or abrasive cleaning tools, such as steel wool, as they can scratch the surface of the porcelain. Use soft cleaning tools to maintain its integrity and appearance.
4. Proper Storage: When storing porcelain in a box or cage, lay down a cloth on the shelf and place the porcelain upside down to avoid dust and insects. This helps maintain cleanliness and prevents contamination.
5. Avoid Overstacking: Minimize stacking porcelain. If stacking is necessary, limit it to 5 or 6 pieces to prevent imbalance and reduce the risk of damage.
Ceramic Decoration
1. Cleaning: For ornaments, especially those with intricate or handmade shapes, gently wipe the surface using a soft sponge or cloth. Use light pressure, as excessive force can cause delicate parts to break or fall off.
2. Placement: Place ceramic decorations in areas out of reach of children or far from the edges of tables. Ensure a safe distance from potential vibrations or movement that could cause the ceramics to topple.