Have you ever admired a handmade ceramic mug and wondered whether it can go in the dishwasher? You're not alone! Here’s a simple guide to understanding what makes a ceramic mug safe for dishwashing.
Handmade ceramic mugs are often made from durable clay, like stoneware or porcelain, which can withstand the heat and pressure of a dishwasher. These materials are fired at high temperatures during the making process, making them tough and long-lasting.
Don’t all ceramics get fired at high temperatures?
While most tableware is fired at midfire to stoneware temperatures, which are generally considered dishwasher safe, there’s more to the story.
The key issue lies in the unglazed parts of the mug, often found on the base or areas where the mug sits on the kiln shelf. These raw clay surfaces can still absorb small amounts of water, depending on the type of clay and the firing temperature.
In a dishwasher, the mug gets repeatedly exposed to water and heat, saturating these unglazed areas over time. This gradual absorption can weaken the clay body, making the mug less durable in the long run.
Does that mean I have to handwash these handmade mugs?
At Eli.C Studio, all of the products are coated with Liquid Quartz™ Ceramic Sealer. Liquid Quartz™ is a non-toxic, food-safe, water-based sealer designed to transform unglazed decorative pieces into waterproof, stain-resistant functional items. It forms an invisible but powerful protective barrier that effectively repels water! See the photo below for a comparison.
How to Be Sure?
Always check with the maker if a mug is dishwasher safe. If they’ve tested it and give the green light, you're good to go. If not, it’s always safe to hand wash your mug to keep it looking its best for years to come.
Handmade mugs bring warmth and charm to your daily coffee or tea, and knowing how to care for them ensures they’ll stay part of your routine for a long time!
Stay tuned for part 2 where I'll touch on durability of ceramic glaze!
Thanks for reading :)
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