Care

Care Guide

High-Fire Stoneware Ceramics

Thank you for choosing a handmade piece from Shumska Ceramica. Each object is formed slowly, fired with intention, and made to live with you for years — not seasons.

High-fire stoneware is durable, functional, and created for everyday rituals. With proper care, your piece can last a lifetime.

About High-Fire Stoneware

Our ceramics are fired at high temperatures (typically above 1200°C), which fully vitrifies the clay. This means:

  • The material becomes dense and non-porous

  • It is food safe

  • It is highly durable

  • It resists everyday wear

Because every piece is handmade, slight variations in glaze, tone, and surface are part of its character. No two pieces are identical — and that is intentional.

Dishwasher Use

Most high-fire stoneware pieces are dishwasher safe.

To extend their life, we recommend:

  • Placing items securely to avoid knocking

  • Avoiding overcrowding

  • Using mild, eco-friendly detergents

Hand washing is always the gentlest and most sustainable option, reducing long-term surface wear.

Microwave Use

Our high-fire stoneware is generally microwave safe.

Please note:

  • Avoid sudden temperature changes

  • Do not microwave empty pieces

  • Pieces with metallic details should not be microwaved

Ceramics can become hot during heating.

Oven Use

High-fire stoneware can tolerate oven use if:

  • Placed in a cold oven before heating

  • Not exposed to sudden temperature shock

  • Not used over open flame or stovetop

Never place a cold ceramic piece into a preheated oven.

Avoid Thermal Shock

Rapid temperature changes may cause cracking. To prevent this:

  • Do not pour boiling liquid into a frozen piece

  • Do not transfer directly from freezer to oven

  • Allow pieces to cool naturally

Ceramic is strong — but it prefers patience.

Sustainability & Longevity

Shumska Ceramica is built on the principle of slow production and long life.

High-fire stoneware is:

  • Designed for decades of use

  • Made to replace disposable or mass-produced alternatives

  • Non-toxic and safe for daily food use

By choosing handmade ceramics, you are supporting:

  • Small-scale production

  • Reduced industrial waste

  • Thoughtful consumption over impulse buying

The most sustainable object is the one that lasts.

Caring for your ceramic properly extends its lifespan, reducing waste and the need for replacement. Repair, reuse, and longevity are at the heart of sustainable living.

Handling & Storage

While durable, ceramics are not unbreakable.

  • Avoid impact with hard surfaces

  • Store carefully to prevent chipping

  • Use protective padding when stacking

Treat your pieces as tools — but also as companions.

Natural Wear

Over time, minor surface marks from cutlery may appear. These can often be gently removed using baking soda and water.

Such traces are signs of use — and use is part of the story.

A Final Note

Each Shumska Ceramica piece carries small variations that reflect the hand that made it. These are not imperfections, but evidence of presence.

With mindful care, your ceramic will gather years, meals, conversations, and quiet mornings — becoming more meaningful with time.