Quick Answer
To keep your Staub stoneware ovenware set in top condition, hand wash with mild detergent and avoid thermal shock. While the pieces are dishwasher safe, hand washing preserves the glaze and prevents water spots.
Why Hand Washing Is Often Better
Staub stoneware is durable and dishwasher safe, but the high heat and harsh detergents in a dishwasher can gradually dull the glossy finish. Hand washing with warm, soapy water is gentler and helps the rich Dark Blue glaze stay vibrant for years.
Stoneware is porous underneath the glaze. If you frequently cook acidic foods like tomato sauce, hand washing immediately after use prevents staining and keeps the surface smooth.
Avoiding Thermal Shock
Stoneware can crack if exposed to sudden temperature changes. Never move a hot dish directly from the oven to a cold countertop or run cold water over it while it is still hot. Always let the piece cool gradually on a wire rack or trivet before cleaning.
This is especially important for the oval baking dish in the set, which is designed for oven-to-table use but still needs a moment to adjust to room temperature.
Dealing with Stubborn Stains
Baked-on food and mineral deposits from hard water can leave marks on stoneware. A paste of baking soda and water works well as a gentle abrasive. Apply it with a soft sponge, let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
For tea or coffee stains, a diluted bleach solution (one part bleach to three parts water) can be used sparingly, but always rinse very well afterward. Avoid metal scouring pads, which can scratch the glaze.
Step-by-Step Cleaning and Care
- Let the dish cool completely: After cooking, place the stoneware on a trivet or wire rack and wait until it reaches room temperature. Do not plunge a hot dish into cold water. Thermal shock is the most common cause of cracks in stoneware.
- Wash with warm, soapy water: Use a soft sponge or cloth with mild dish soap and warm water. Avoid abrasive pads and steel wool, which can scratch the glaze. If you prefer the dishwasher, place the pieces securely and use a gentle cycle, but hand washing is gentler on the finish.
- Remove stubborn stains with baking soda: For baked-on food, make a paste of baking soda and water, apply it to the stain, let it sit briefly, then scrub gently and rinse. Avoid chlorine bleach on colored glazes; test any cleaner on a small hidden area first.
- Dry thoroughly before storing: Dry the stoneware with a clean towel or let it air dry completely. Store pieces with a soft cloth or paper towel between them to prevent scratches. Moisture left in stacking can lead to mildew or water marks.
Product Spotlight
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Buy Staub Stoneware Ovenware set: This 2-piece oval baking dish set from Staub is made of durable stoneware and is available in Dark Blue. The set is built for everyday oven-to-table use, so following simple care steps will keep both pieces looking new and performing well.
Buy Staub Stoneware Ovenware set