You’ve invested in a beautiful, handcrafted piece of pottery. Now, how do you care for it so it lasts a lifetime? Because these items are artisanal, they sometimes require a little more mindfulness than mass-produced ceramics. As part of our welcoming and clear service, here is our simple guide to pottery care.
For Glazed Pottery (Most Vases, Teapots, and Bowls): The glassy, non-porous finish of a glaze makes these pieces the easiest to care for.
Washing: We recommend hand-washing all handcrafted pottery with mild soap and warm water. While some glazed items can be dishwasher safe, the harsh detergents and high heat can dull the glaze over time or cause thermal shock (cracking).
Stains: For tea or coffee stains inside a teapot, a simple paste of baking soda and water left for 20 minutes will gently lift the stain without scratching.
Water Use: All our glazed vases and teapots are designed to be watertight and are perfectly safe for holding water.
For Unglazed & Earthy Pottery (Terracotta, etc.): Unglazed pottery, like pieces from our Earthy collection, has a beautiful, natural, porous surface. This requires different care.
Washing: Do not soak unglazed pottery. Wipe it clean with a damp cloth or a soft brush. Since the surface is porous, it can absorb soaps or oils, which may cause staining.
Water Use: Unless specifically stated, most unglazed, low-fire pottery (like traditional terracotta) is porous and not 100% watertight. They are best used for dried arrangements or as sculptural objects. If you wish to use them for fresh flowers, we recommend placing a small glass or plastic liner inside.
A little gentle care will ensure your pottery remains a beautiful part of your home for years to come.
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