Ceramic – Care and Usage Guide

Ceramic stoneware (usually derived from clay) is a common material choice for baking tools, pans, pizza stones and cloches. The first use is thought to be 9,000 BC, and it’s commonly used to this day for its durability. However, ceramic is a brittle material, and it can be prone to cracks. Impact and thermal shocks can break the form, and it’s important to take care when using ceramic bakeware.

Enamel-coated Ceramic

Ceramic bakeware is often coated in enamel glaze to improve function or to add decoration. Enamel, a powdered, melted glass, creates a smooth and vitreous surface that can be easily wiped clean. Emile Henry is typical of this enamel coating technique.

Enamel glaze is likely to be water-proof and enhance the usability of a more porous core.

What’s the maximum temperature enamel-coated ceramic bakeware can withstand?

Always check the guide provided by the manufacturer. Generally, enamel-coated ceramic can withstand temperatures up to 250-450 degrees C.

Is enamel-coated ceramic dishwasher safe?

The smooth enamel surface should repel stains easily. For this reason, hand-washing with water should suffice. Furthermore, a light wiping motion will also help protect the enamel coating and limit potential flaking.

What causes ceramic to crack?

Thermal Shocks

Thermal shocks can occur from strong shifts in temperature. This can be mitigated by slowly changing the heat source your ceramic is exposed to.

Tips:

• Leave your ceramic pizza stone, or ovenware, in the oven to cool.
• Apply warm tap water before use.

Sources: National Trust

 

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