How to Take Care of Clay Cooking Pots: Simple Tips for Long-Lasting Use

Cooking in a clay pot feels special. The slow heat, the earthy aroma, it’s like bringing old traditions back to life. But to keep that magic, your pot needs a bit of care. If you’ve just bought one or are planning to, here’s how you can take care of it the easy way.

Seasoning Your Clay Cooking Pot Before First Use

Before you start cooking, your new clay pot needs to be seasoned. This simple step strengthens the pot and helps prevent cracks.

Here’s how to do it:

• Soak & Scrub - Immerse in water for a few hours and scrub it.
• Smoke - Fill with rice water, boil on low flame then wash.
• Sun-Dry - Once done, discard the rice water and rinse the pot well.
• Season - Apply a little cooking oil inside the pot and let it rest for a while.

Now your clay pot is ready for everyday cooking!

Handle Clay Cookware with Gentle Care

Clay pots are strong, but they can break if not handled properly. Treat them with care so they can stay with you for years.

Keep in mind:

• Don’t place a hot pot directly under cold water — it can crack.
• Avoid using harsh soaps or detergents.
• Never place an empty pot on high flame; always start on a low to medium flame.
• Don’t stack heavy items on top of your clay cookware.

A little patience while handling goes a long way in keeping your pot strong and safe.

The Right Way to Clean Your Clay Cookware

Clay pots don’t like harsh soaps or chemicals. They need gentle cleaning to keep their natural finish.

Follow these steps:

• Clean – Remove food leftovers. Sprinkle salt, rice flour, or gram flour inside and scrub gently.
• Care – Rinse thoroughly and sun-dry completely.
• Conserve – Store safely. Avoid stacking or placing heavy pots on top.
• Cook – Once dry, it’s ready to use for your next delicious meal.

Avoid using detergents, as clay absorbs soap and it can spoil the taste of your next meal.

Proper Drying and Storage of Clay Cookware

Moisture can slowly weaken the clay. Always make sure your pot is fully dry before storing it.

Here’s how to store it right:

• Keep the lid slightly open to let air circulate.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from dampness.
• If you don’t use it often, wrap it in a clean cotton cloth to keep away dust.

Clay pots give a special touch to your cooking. With a little care, they’ll serve you for many years and make every meal taste like home.