Shop B2W Ceramics
Looking for handmade ceramic bakeware? Browse our Handmade Ceramic Muffin Pan and Handmade Stoneware Ramekin in the shop.
First Use: Seasoning Your Bakeware
Before using ceramic bakeware for the first time, wash it with warm soapy water and dry thoroughly. Some potters recommend a first-use seasoning — rub the interior lightly with a neutral oil, place in a cold oven, heat to 300°F, and allow to cool naturally in the oven. This is not strictly necessary for vitrified stoneware or porcelain, but it does no harm and can help with non-stick performance in unglazed or matte-glazed bakeware.
Oven Use
Ceramic bakeware is designed for oven use but requires one important precaution: always start in a cold oven. Place the ceramic piece in the oven before turning it on and allow it to heat gradually with the oven. Placing cold ceramic into a preheated oven creates thermal shock — the sudden temperature difference can crack even well-fired pieces.
The same applies when removing bakeware from the oven — do not place a hot piece on a cold or wet surface. Use a trivet or dry towel on a room-temperature surface.
Temperature Limits
Most stoneware and porcelain bakeware can handle standard oven temperatures up to 500°F (260°C) safely. Avoid broiler use unless the piece is specifically rated for it — broilers produce intense, direct radiant heat that creates uneven thermal stress. Never use ceramic bakeware on a stovetop burner or over an open flame.
Washing Ceramic Bakeware
Hand washing is preferred for ceramic bakeware. Use warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft sponge. For baked-on food, soak in warm water for 15–20 minutes before washing — most residue releases easily after soaking. Avoid metal scourers and abrasive powders which can scratch glazed surfaces.
Ceramic bakeware can go in the dishwasher but repeated cycles will eventually dull the glaze surface, particularly on decorative pieces. For pieces you want to keep looking their best, hand wash.
Storing Ceramic Bakeware
Store ceramic bakeware where it will not be knocked or dropped — it is heavy and a fall from cabinet height is likely to chip or crack it. If stacking multiple pieces, place a folded dish towel or felt pad between each piece to prevent glaze scratching. Do not store heavy items on top of ceramic bakeware.
Dealing with Stains and Discoloration
Ceramic bakeware can discolor over time with repeated use — particularly around the rim and on matte-glazed surfaces where oils and food residue build up. To clean:
- Baking soda paste — mix baking soda with a small amount of water to a paste, apply to stained areas, leave for 15 minutes, and scrub gently with a soft brush
- Bar Keepers Friend — effective on most ceramic stains. Apply with a damp sponge, scrub gently, rinse thoroughly
- Hydrogen peroxide soak — for stubborn staining, fill the piece with a mixture of warm water and hydrogen peroxide and leave overnight
