Usage Instructions for Clay Items: A Simple Guide to Keeping Them Like New

You’ve bought a beautiful clay pot or plate from the market, and you immediately start cooking—don’t ever do that! For clay items, being “delicious” and “durable” largely depends on how you use them the first time. Clay items need special care in our country’s climate. Let’s find out some real rules, from purchase to regular use.

The First Thing to Do After Getting New Clay Dishes

Clay items have tiny, invisible pores. If you don’t close these pores, the clay will absorb all your oil or gravy during cooking, and the vessel won’t be durable either.

Soaking in Water (Most Important): Submerge your newly purchased vessel in a large, clean bucket or basin for at least 12 to 18 hours. You’ll see tiny bubbles rising from the water—this means the clay’s pores are being filled with water.
Air Drying: Do not cook directly after taking it out of the water. Dry it thoroughly in a shaded but airy place or in light sunlight.
Oil Massage (for Cooking Pots): If you want to cook in the pot, rub a little mustard oil or edible oil on the bottom and sides after it has dried. Then place it on a very low flame for 5-10 minutes. This will increase the clay’s durability manifold.

Regular Use Tips No One Will Tell You

Don’t Rush the Fire: When starting to cook in a clay pot, never suddenly use a high flame or intense fire. Let the pan or pot heat up on the flame first, then slowly increase the heat.
Beware of Thermal Shock: Don’t put very hot clay items directly into cold tap water right after taking them off the stove. This can cause the clay item to crack instantly. Give it some time; let it cool down.
Gentle Cleaning: Do not ever use wire mesh or harsh scrubbers to wash clay items. A soft sponge or even just water is often enough to clean them.

For more detailed tips, you can check our Care and Maintenance page. We want your clay vessels to remain intact for years. And to know how carefully we deliver, read our Packaging and Delivery Policy.