There’s something special about clay utensils.
The earthy texture. The rustic charm. The way food tastes richer and feels closer to nature.
At Jaadu, we believe that clay isn’t just a material but a story of craftsmanship, tradition, and sustainability. And when you bring clay utensils into your kitchen, you’re bringing home a piece of art that deserves a little love and care.
If you’ve ever wondered how to take care of clay utensils so they last long and look beautiful, this guide is for you.
Let’s walk through some easy, everyday practices that keep your clayware strong, shiny, and ready to make every meal memorable.
1. Season Your Clay Utensils Before First Use
Clay is porous. That’s what gives it its natural appeal—but it also means your utensils can absorb water or oil if not seasoned properly.
Before you use any clay pot, bowl, or pan for the first time, give it a simple treatment:
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Soak the utensil in water for about 24 hours.
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Let it dry completely.
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Apply a thin layer of cooking oil (like sesame or mustard oil) inside the utensil.
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Place it in a cool oven or under the sun for a few hours to help the oil soak in.
This process seals the pores, strengthens the clay, and prevents cracks or leaks later.
Think of it as giving your new clay piece a good spa session before it starts its work.
2. Gentle Cleaning is Key
Harsh detergents can strip the natural finish of clay utensils. Instead, use mild cleaning agents and soft scrubbers.
Here’s the best way to clean your clayware:
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Rinse with warm water soon after use.
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Use a soft sponge or coconut coir with a pinch of baking soda or mild dish soap if needed.
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Avoid steel scrubbers or strong chemicals—they can scratch the surface or leave residues that affect taste.
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Clay has a natural ability to neutralize acids and balance flavors, but only when it’s cared for gently.
If you notice slight discoloration over time, don’t worry—that’s completely natural and part of its charm.
3. Dry Completely Before Storing
Moisture is the biggest enemy of clay utensils. Always dry your pieces thoroughly before storing them.
After washing, leave them upside down on a clean towel or under sunlight until there’s no trace of moisture. Even a little dampness can cause fungus or a musty smell, especially in humid weather.
If possible, store them in a cool, dry place with good air circulation.
4. Handle with a Little Extra Care
Clay is strong but fragile when handled roughly.
Always lift your pots and pans gently, and avoid sudden temperature changes.For example:
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Don’t place a cold clay pot directly on a hot flame.
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Don’t pour cold water into a hot clay utensil.
Let your clayware adjust to temperature gradually. Sudden shifts can cause cracks.
If you’re using clay cookware, always start on low flame and increase heat slowly.
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5. Avoid Soaking for Too Long
While soaking is great before first use, it’s not ideal for regular cleaning. Long soaking after every meal can weaken the material and cause odor buildup.
A quick rinse and gentle scrub are all you need.
If your utensil has absorbed strong food smells (like from curries), you can soak it in warm water with a little baking soda for 15–20 minutes. It’ll be as good as new.
6. Give It a Sunbath Occasionally
Just like us, clay utensils love sunlight.
Once every few weeks, leave them in the sun for a few hours. This helps remove any residual moisture and keeps them fresh and odor-free.
It’s also a simple way to maintain that beautiful, natural terracotta tone that makes clay so timeless.
7. Repair Minor Cracks Naturally
Sometimes, a small crack might appear—especially in older pieces or those used for cooking. Don’t panic.
You can fix minor cracks naturally:
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Mix baking soda and water into a thick paste.
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Apply it to the cracked area and let it dry completely.
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Heat the utensil gently to seal the repair.
For decorative or non-cooking items, a mix of multani mitti (Fuller’s Earth) and water also works as a natural filler.
8. Rotate Their Use
If you own multiple clay utensils (and at Jaadu, we know you might!), rotate their use regularly. Using one piece constantly while the others sit unused can lead to uneven wear and moisture imbalance.
Give every piece its time to shine.
Appreciate the Imperfections
One of the best things about clay is that it’s never perfect—and that’s what makes it beautiful. Each utensil carries its own texture, shade, and shape, formed by hand and fire.
With regular care, your clayware will age gracefully, developing a deeper color and smoother finish over time.
When you know how to take care of clay utensils, they don’t just last longer—they become part of your family’s story.
Why Clay Deserves the Extra Effort
Clay utensils are more than just cookware. They are natural, non-toxic, and sustainable alternatives to plastic and metal. They help retain nutrients in food, enhance flavor, and bring a touch of slow living into our fast-paced world.
At Jaadu, each piece is crafted with love by local artisans who understand the rhythm of clay, the warmth, the imperfections, and the timeless appeal.
Taking care of your clay utensils is your way of keeping that tradition alive.