How to Care for Your Stoneware and Ceramic Serving Pieces to Make Them Last

Stoneware and ceramic serving pieces are the backbone of any well-dressed table. From rustic dinner parties to elegant holiday feasts, these durable, handcrafted items bring warmth and texture to every meal. But without proper care, even the finest ceramics can chip, crack, or lose their luster over time.

Whether you’ve just invested in a set of Small Bowls or are looking to preserve your cherished Lazy Susan, understanding how to clean, store, and handle your stoneware and ceramic pieces is essential. This guide covers everything you need to know to keep your servingware looking beautiful for decades.

Understanding Stoneware vs. Ceramic: Key Differences in Care

Stoneware and ceramic are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct properties that affect how you should care for them. Stoneware is a type of ceramic that is fired at higher temperatures, making it denser, more durable, and less porous. It’s ideal for everyday use and can often withstand oven and microwave heat. Traditional ceramic (earthenware) is fired at lower temperatures, making it more porous and prone to chipping if not handled gently.

Knowing which type you own helps you decide on washing methods, storage, and whether to expose them to extreme temperatures. Most modern stoneware from Year & Day is dishwasher-safe, but hand washing is always the gentlest option. For delicate ceramic pieces, always check the manufacturer’s recommendations before placing them in the dishwasher or microwave.

• Stoneware: high-fired, dense, chip-resistant, often oven-safe.
• Earthenware/ceramic: lower-fired, more porous, requires gentler handling.
• Always check the bottom stamp or product page for specific care instructions.

Daily Cleaning Best Practices for Stoneware and Ceramic

The golden rule for cleaning stoneware and ceramic is to avoid sudden temperature changes. Never plunge a hot dish into cold water, as this can cause thermal shock and lead to cracks. Instead, let the piece cool to room temperature before washing. Use a soft sponge or cloth with mild dish soap—avoid abrasive scrubbers that can scratch the glaze.

For stubborn food residue, soak the piece in warm, soapy water for 10-15 minutes before gently scrubbing. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals, as they can dull the glaze over time. If you own items like the Appetizer Flatware Set, you can wash them alongside your ceramic pieces, but keep metal utensils separate to prevent scratching the glaze.

• Let hot dishes cool completely before washing.
• Use only non-abrasive sponges and mild detergent.
• Avoid stacking wet pieces—they can stick or chip each other.

How to Store Your Serving Pieces to Prevent Damage

Proper storage is just as important as cleaning. Stacking bowls and plates directly on top of each other can lead to scratches and chips. Place a soft cloth, paper towel, or felt pad between each piece to cushion the surfaces. For larger items like a Lazy Susan, store it flat on a shelf or in a cabinet where it won’t be jostled by other cookware.

Hanging mugs or cups by their handles can weaken the attachment over time—instead, store them upright on a shelf. If you have a collection of Small Bowls, nest them with a cloth separator to prevent the glaze from rubbing off. Keep your ceramic pieces away from high-traffic areas in the kitchen where they might be knocked over.

• Use felt pads or paper towels between stacked items.
• Store large pieces like Lazy Susans on flat, stable shelves.
• Avoid hanging cups by handles for long-term storage.

Dealing with Stains, Scratches, and Minor Chips

Even with careful use, stoneware and ceramic can develop stains from coffee, tea, or tomato sauce. To remove stains, make a paste of baking soda and water, apply it to the stained area, and let it sit for 15 minutes before scrubbing gently. For tough stains, a diluted hydrogen peroxide solution can work wonders—just rinse thoroughly afterward.

Minor scratches in the glaze are often cosmetic and don’t affect functionality. If you notice a small chip, you can smooth the edge with fine-grit sandpaper (use a wet/dry type) to prevent it from worsening. However, if the chip exposes the clay body, it’s best to retire the piece from food use to avoid bacteria buildup. Consider repurposing it as a decorative catchall or plant pot.

• Baking soda paste works for most organic stains.
• Use fine-grit sandpaper for smoothing small chips.
• Discard heavily chipped pieces from food service.

Long-Term Maintenance: What to Avoid

To extend the life of your stoneware and ceramic serving pieces, avoid exposing them to extreme heat or cold. While many stoneware pieces are oven-safe, they should not be placed directly on a stovetop burner or under a broiler. Similarly, never put a cold dish straight into a hot oven—let it come to room temperature first.

Metal utensils can leave gray marks on glazed surfaces. Use wooden, silicone, or plastic utensils when serving from ceramic bowls. If you use the Steak Knives at the table, be mindful not to scrape them against the inside of a ceramic serving bowl. Over time, even gentle metal contact can wear down the glaze.

• Never place stoneware on a direct flame or stovetop.
• Avoid thermal shock: let dishes acclimate to room temperature.
• Use non-metal utensils for serving to protect the glaze.

Caring for your stoneware and ceramic serving pieces doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few simple habits—gentle cleaning, thoughtful storage, and avoiding temperature extremes—you can keep your favorite pieces looking beautiful for years. Explore our collection of Small Bowls and other durable servingware to find pieces that are as easy to care for as they are stunning.