How to Clean and Care for Your Pampered Chef Stoneware: A Comprehensive Guide

How to Clean and Care for Your Pampered Chef Stoneware: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to cooking delicious homemade pizzas, nothing beats the performance of a Pampered Chef pizza stone. However, caring for stoneware can sometimes feel a bit daunting, especially if you've accidentally used the wrong cleaning method. If you're like many home cooks, you might have experienced the momentary panic that comes with discovering streaks or stains on your beloved stoneware. Fear not! In this blog post, we'll guide you through the proper cleaning techniques to keep your pizza stone looking and performing its best.

Why Stoneware?

Pampered Chef stoneware is renowned for its ability to retain heat and promote even cooking. It’s perfect for pizza, bread, and even roasting vegetables. With the right care, it can last for years and become your go-to kitchen companion.

Common Cleaning Mistakes

As I learned the hard way, one of the biggest mistakes is using soap or harsh detergents on your stoneware. Many stoneware pieces are seasoned to create a natural, non-stick surface. Dish soap can strip away this seasoning, which can lead to unwanted discoloration and unpleasant food flavors.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide

1. Immediate Cleanup: After using your stoneware, allow it to cool completely. Cleaning it while hot can cause cracking.

2. Scraping Off Food: 

Use a plastic spatula or a nylon brush to gently scrape off any stuck-on food. Avoid metal utensils, as they can scratch the surface.

3. Baking Soda and Water: For stubborn stains or stuck-on residue, create a paste of baking soda and water. Martha Stewart recommends a 3:1 ratio of baking soda to water. Apply this paste to the affected areas and scrub gently with a nylon brush or a non-abrasive sponge. The mild abrasiveness of baking soda helps lift stains without damaging the stoneware.

4. Rinsing: 

Once the cleaning is done, rinse the stoneware with warm water. Be sure to avoid using soap, as this can disrupt the seasoning.

5. Drying: 

Allow the stoneware to air dry completely before storing it. You can place it in a warm oven (turned off) for a short period to ensure all moisture evaporates.

6. Seasoning (if necessary): 

If your stoneware looks particularly dry or dull, you can reseason it by applying a thin layer of vegetable oil and baking it in the oven at a low temperature for about an hour.

Storing Your Stoneware

To avoid chipping or cracking, store your stoneware carefully. If you stack your stoneware, consider placing a paper towel between pieces to prevent scratching.

Conclusion

Cleaning your Pampered Chef stoneware doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. With the right techniques, you can ensure your stoneware stays in excellent condition, enhancing the flavor of your favorite foods for years to come. Just remember: skip the soap, use baking soda as a gentle scrub, and always let your stoneware cool completely before cleaning.

For more detailed information about cleaning stoneware, check out Martha Stewart's cleaning guide here.

Happy cooking, and enjoy many delicious pizzas with your perfectly maintained Pampered Chef stoneware!