Clay dishes have been part of our kitchens for thousands of years, yet they still raise questions – especially when it comes to caring for them. Before you reach for a sponge and dish soap, it's worth knowing what kind of ceramic you're dealing with. Whether or not a piece is glazed makes a huge difference to how you should wash it and use it day to day.
What's the difference between glazed ceramics and plain fired clay
The clay our dishes are made from is shaped and then fired in a kiln at high temperature. At this stage the piece becomes hard, but still porous – meaning its surface has microscopic openings that moisture, grease, and odours can seep into.
Glazed dishes are covered with an additional layer of glaze – a glassy coating that, once fired in the kiln, forms a smooth, impermeable surface. The glaze "seals" the clay's pores, making the piece resistant to absorbing moisture, easier to clean, and safer for contact with food.
Dishes made from plain fired clay (even if hand-painted with ceramic paints or decorated with engobes) don't have this protective glass layer. Decorative painting gives them their look, but it doesn't seal the pores the way real glaze does. These pieces remain absorbent – they pick up moisture, grease, and odours more easily, and with improper care they can crack or crumble over time.
How to wash glazed dishes
- You can wash them with plain water and a gentle dish soap
- Most are dishwasher safe (unless the manufacturer advises otherwise)
- They don't need any special "seasoning" or sealing
- They handle contact with greasy and acidic foods well
How to wash dishes made from clay without a glaze
- Wash by hand, ideally without soaking for long – porous clay absorbs moisture
- Avoid long soaking and dishwasher use
- After washing, dry thoroughly, ideally upside down so water can evaporate freely
- Avoid sudden temperature changes – this can lead to cracking
- If the dish comes into contact with grease or strongly staining foods (like beetroot or curry), wash it as soon as possible to avoid lasting stains
Summary
Glaze isn't just about looks – it's primarily a functional protective layer. Glazed dishes are more convenient for everyday use and more resistant to moisture and staining. Dishes made from plain fired clay – even beautiful, hand-painted ones – need a bit more care, but in return offer an authentic, natural character that can't be imitated.
Whichever type of ceramic you choose, the right care will make it last for years.
🧡 The Yeno Team
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