Ceramics Care 101: How to Look After Your Robert Gordon Pieces
Robert Gordon ceramics are the kind of pieces you reach for daily. Morning coffee mugs. Dinner plates that see everything from pasta nights to Sunday roasts. Designed to be lived with, not treated like precious display pieces.
That said, a little care goes a long way. If you’ve invested in quality stoneware, here’s how to keep your Robert Gordon ceramics looking good and feeling great for years to come.
1. Are Robert Gordon ceramics dishwasher safe?
Short answer: yes.
Most Robert Gordon stoneware is dishwasher safe and designed for everyday use. The glazes are fired at high temperatures, making them durable and resilient
That said, if you want to extend the life of your pieces:
• Avoid overcrowding the dishwasher
• Use a gentle cycle when possible
• Make sure pieces aren’t knocking against each other
For mugs and bowls you use daily, the dishwasher is absolutely fine. For serving platters or special pieces, occasional hand washing can help preserve the finish long-term.
2. Can Robert Gordon ceramics go in the microwave?
Yes again. Robert Gordon stoneware is microwave safe, making it ideal for reheating leftovers or warming your morning coffee.
A small tip: ceramics retain heat, so always check the temperature before handling, especially with larger bowls or plates.
3. Avoiding chips, cracks and wear
Stoneware is strong, but it’s still ceramic. A few easy habits can help prevent chips:
• Don’t stack pieces too tightly
• Place a soft cloth or paper towel between plates if space is tight
• Avoid sudden temperature changes (like moving from fridge to oven)
Tiny variations, slight glaze differences or subtle texture changes are part of the charm. They’re signs of thoughtful production, not flaws.
4. Best way to store your ceramics
Plates and bowls are happiest stacked neatly. If you’re short on cupboard space, alternating plates face-up and face-down can help distribute weight more evenly.
Mugs should be stored upright rather than stacked, especially if they have handles or a heavier base.
If you love your ceramics enough to show them off, open shelving is always a good idea. Robert Gordon pieces look just as good on display as they do in use.
5. Stains, marks and everyday wear
Over time, stoneware may develop light marks, especially on matte or lighter glazes. This is completely normal and part of the lived-in feel of handmade ceramics.
To remove marks:
• Use a gentle baking soda paste for stubborn spots
• Avoid harsh abrasives or steel wool
• A soft sponge is your best friend
6. Designed for real life
One of the reasons we love Robert Gordon ceramics at Jade and May is because they’re not fussy. They’re made for everyday meals, shared tables and homes that are lived in.
These are pieces you’ll reach for without thinking. The ones that quietly become part of your routine.
And honestly, that’s where good design really shines.
