Caring for Antique Stoneware Pottery

Keeping American Salt Glaze Crocks in Good Condition

Feb 7, 2010
Lorraine Syratt

Antique Salt Glaze Stoneware Jugs - Lorraine Syratt

Some antiques need special attention when it comes to handling and cleaning them. Old salt glaze stoneware is no exception. A few extra steps is all that's needed.

The older American salt-glaze pottery needs special care if it's going to remain in good condition. These old crocks, jugs and other pieces of pottery are heavy in weight and many never made through the past two centuries intact. Keeping them intact requires a little care when handling them.

Using Antique Stoneware

Antiques are meant to be used, but should be used with care for their longevity. When in comes to antique stoneware, the collector should only use the pottery for display purposes. Antique stoneware crocks shouldn't be used as flower pots, but could be used to hold dry materials, like rolled towels for the powder room, pine cones for the fire, and even as umbrella stands with care. But consider the value of the piece first and decide it's simply a display piece like art or if it's utilitarian and still has a function.

Tips for Handling Antique Stoneware

Use both hands with a firm grip. Stoneware is heavy.
Never drag the piece across a table, but lift it.
When cleaning, add a soft padding to the table, counter or work top.
Never stack one crock on top of another when handling antique stoneware.
Give the pottery plenty of space on the shelf to avoid them touching.

Tips for Cleaning Antique Stoneware

If there are no cracks, chips or hairline fractures in the pottery, it's fine to use warm water with a mild dish washing liquid. There are also special soaps available for ceramic and pottery cleaning.
Place the crock on a soft pad inside the sink, but only use a few inches of warm water.
With a soft cloth, wipe away the dust and grit.
For really tough areas, use a soft tooth brush. Salt glaze stoneware is pitted, some heavier than others and the brush may be necessary for a thorough cleaning.
Bleach, powered cleansers and steel wool are never recommended.
It there are cracks, chips or hairline fractures, placing the crock in water is not recommended. Water can be deadly to the raw unglazed stoneware beneath the cracks and can cause further damage.
Careful spot-cleaning with a damp soapy cloth is the best alternative to placing the crock in water if the piece shows damage.

Restore of Preserve Antique Stoneware

Collectors may occasionally find stoneware that has been badly repaired rather than restored. If the piece is very valuable, it may be best not to restore it at all, but preserve it. Whether the collector decides to restore or preserve a rare piece of antique stoneware may still require the assistance of a professional restorer. An online search for "pottery restorer" brings up millions of results, so the collector is bound to find a pottery restorer in her area.