Is Ceramic Dishwasher Safe? A Complete Guide to Caring for Your Handmade Pottery
Whether you've just purchased your first piece of handmade pottery or you're considering investing in ceramic dinnerware, one of the most common questions we receive at our studio is about dishwasher safety. Let's dive into everything you need to know about caring for your ceramic pieces.
Understanding Handmade Ceramics
Handcrafted ceramic pieces are created through a careful process of throwing, firing, and glazing. At Natasha Swan Ceramics, we create our pottery using stoneware clay and durable glazes, fired at high temperatures to ensure longevity and durability.
Can You Put Ceramics in the Dishwasher?
The short answer: Mostly yes but it can depend on how the piece was made. Here's what you need to know:
Professionally Made Stoneware
- High-fired stoneware (like our pieces) are generally dishwasher safe
- Properly applied glazes create a durable, non-porous surface
- Professional pieces are tested for dishwasher durability
- Stoneware can withstand high temperatures and regular washing
Find out more about the differences in clay from one of our expert insight blogs, here.
Factors That Affect Dishwasher Safety
- Type of glaze used
- Application method
- Overall construction quality
- Age of the piece
- Finishing details ie. gold lustre
The most important take-away for our mugs/pottery is that if it is finished with gold lustre it is NOT recommended for the dishwasher or microwave. All pottery pieces at Natasha Swan Ceramics are safe for the dishwasher however the gold lustre does not stand up well against the lengthy wash cycle and stronger detergents. You will risk losing your lustres shine if used in the dishwasher.
Best Practices for Washing Ceramic Pieces
Dishwasher Tips
- Place items securely to prevent knocking
- Avoid overcrowding
- Use gentle, ceramic-safe detergent
- Select normal wash cycle
- Allow items to cool completely before removing
When to Hand Wash
Consider hand washing your ceramics if:
- They're special occasion pieces
- They have metallic or lustre decorations
- They're vintage or antique
- They have intricate patterns or textures
- You notice any signs of wear/hairline cracks

Caring for Your Handmade Ceramics
To ensure the longevity of your ceramic pieces:
- Avoid extreme temperature changes. ie boiling water then straight into cold water
- Handle with care during loading and unloading
- Check for any chips or cracks regularly
- Store properly to prevent knocking
- Consider alternating between hand washing and dishwasher use
How Our Ceramics Are Different
At Natasha Swan Ceramics, we create durable, dishwasher-safe pieces by:
- Using high-quality stoneware clay
- Firing at optimal temperatures
- Applying professional-grade glazes
- Testing each design thoroughly for glaze imperfections
- Ensuring proper thickness and construction
Warning Signs to Watch For
Monitor your ceramic pieces for:
- Crazing (fine cracks in the glaze)
- Chips or cracks
- Glaze wear
- Discolouration
- Changes in surface texture
Making Your Ceramics Last
Whether you choose to hand wash or use the dishwasher, proper care will help your ceramic pieces last for years. Our handmade pottery is designed for both beauty and functionality, created to be enjoyed as part of your daily routine.
Feel free to check out our blog on microwaving pieces of pottery here.
Visit Our Studio
Experience our durable, dishwasher-safe ceramics in person at our Whitehead studio in Northern Ireland. See how we create pieces that combine beauty with practicality, ensuring they stand up to regular use while maintaining their handcrafted charm.
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