How to Care for Handmade Stoneware Pottery (So It Lasts a Lifetime)

You've just brought home a piece of handmade pottery — maybe a pink-dipped mug that caught your eye, or a bowl that felt like it was made just for you. Now you're wondering: how do I actually look after it?

Great question. Handmade stoneware is wonderfully sturdy, but it does have a few quirks that set it apart from the mass-produced stuff. Here's everything you need to know to keep your pieces looking and feeling their best.

Is Handmade Pottery Dishwasher Safe?

The honest answer: it depends, but hand-washing is always the kindest option.

My Pink Pottery pieces are fired to high temperatures, which makes them strong and food-safe. Many will tolerate the occasional dishwasher cycle — but the harsh detergents, high heat, and forceful water jets can gradually dull the mother of pearl and gold lustre glaze over time. Think of it like washing a favourite linen shirt on a hot cycle. It won't fall apart, but it won't thank you for it either.

Our recommendation: hand-wash with warm water and a gentle dish soap. It takes about thirty seconds and your pieces will reward you by staying beautiful for decades.

Caring for Your Pottery Mugs Day to Day

If you're a daily mug person (welcome to the club), here's a simple routine that keeps things happy:

• Rinse soon after use — don't let coffee or tea sit in the mug for hours. Tannins can slowly work their way into unglazed areas if left long enough.
• Wash with a soft cloth or sponge — avoid steel wool or abrasive scourers, which can scratch the glaze.
• Dry upside down — this lets any moisture escape from the foot ring (the unglazed base) and prevents any chance of musty smells.
• Stack with care — if you stack mugs or bowls, place a folded tea towel or piece of felt between them to prevent chips.

Can I Use My Pottery in the Microwave?

Generally yes — stoneware handles microwave use well. The exception is pieces with metallic glaze details (gold or silver lustre), which should never go in the microwave. When in doubt, check the product listing or drop us a message.

What About Temperature Shock?

Handmade pottery doesn't love dramatic temperature swings. Avoid pouring boiling water straight into a cold mug from the fridge,  give your pieces a moment to adjust and they'll be perfectly fine.

The Unglazed Foot Ring

You'll notice the base of most handmade pottery has an unglazed ring — this is completely normal and intentional. It's where the piece sat in the kiln. Because it's bare clay, it's slightly more porous than the glazed surface. Keep it dry between uses and it'll stay in beautiful condition.

A Note on the Character of Handmade Pieces

Each My Pink Pottery piece is thrown by hand, which means no two are exactly alike. Small variations in glaze colour, texture, and form aren't flaws — they're the fingerprints of the making process. A tiny bubble in the glaze or a slightly asymmetrical rim is evidence that a real human made your cup, not a machine.

These little differences tend to become your favourite things about a piece over time.

Ready to Find Your Next Favourite Piece?

If you're looking for a mug that'll be part of your morning ritual for years, browse our handmade pottery mugs. Or if you're after something for the table, our ceramic bowls are made with the same care and attention.

Any questions about caring for a specific piece? Send us a message — we'd love to help.