Solution for sticking of ceramic tableware during storage

When storing ceramic tableware, if it sticks together, it will cause inconvenience in daily use and may even lead to damage of the tableware. Here are some practical solutions for you:

Physical separation method

Warm water soaking: Soak the adhered ceramic tableware in warm water for a period of time. The water temperature should not be too hot to touch, approximately 40-50 ℃. Warm water can soften the gel-like substances between tableware and reduce the tightness of their adhesion. After soaking for 15 to 30 minutes, try to gently rotate or separate the tableware. If the adhesion is not particularly serious, they can usually be separated relatively easily. For example, the bottoms of two ceramic bowls are stuck together. After soaking, they might be separated with a little force.

Hot towel application: Apply a hot towel to the adhered area. The heat from the hot towel will be conducted to the tableware, causing the adhered substances to soften due to heat. Change the hot towel every few minutes to keep it warm. After applying it continuously for 10 to 20 minutes, try to separate the tableware. This method works well for some tableware with local adhesion and will not cause damage to the tableware.

Freezing separation: Put the adhered ceramic tableware in the freezer of the refrigerator and freeze for 1-2 hours. Low temperatures can cause the moisture between tableware to freeze and expand in volume, thereby generating a certain separation force. After taking it out, quickly separate the tableware. However, it should be noted that the freezing time should not be too long to avoid cracks in the ceramics due to thermal expansion and contraction.

Lubrication assistance method

Apply edible oil: Drop a few drops of edible oil, such as olive oil or peanut oil, on the adhered area, and then gently rotate the tableware to allow the oil to fully penetrate the adhered area. Edible oil can play a lubricating role, reduce the friction between tableware and make separation easier. Wait for 5 to 10 minutes and then try to separate the tableware. If it cannot be completely separated at one time, you can add some more oil and continue the operation.

Dishwashing liquid lubrication: Apply an appropriate amount of dishwashing liquid to the adhered area. The surfactant in the dishwashing liquid can reduce the surface tension of water, playing a role in lubrication and separation. Gently rub the adhered area with your hands to allow the detergent to work fully, and then try to separate the tableware. This method is simple to operate and the detergent is easy to clean thoroughly.

Chemical dissolution method

Soaking in white vinegar: Put the adhered ceramic tableware into a container filled with white vinegar, and the amount of vinegar should cover the adhered area. The acetic acid in white vinegar can undergo a chemical reaction with some sticky substances, causing them to dissolve. After soaking for 30 minutes to 1 hour, take out the tableware, rinse it clean with clear water, and then try to separate it. If the adhesion is relatively severe, the soaking time can be appropriately extended.

Baking soda solution soaking: Add an appropriate amount of baking soda to a small bowl, then add warm water and stir until the baking soda is completely dissolved to make a baking soda solution. Soak the adhered tableware in the solution. Baking soda has the functions of removing dirt and softening, which can help separate the adhered tableware. After soaking for 20 to 30 minutes, gently wipe the adhered area with a soft cloth and then try to separate it.

Measures for preventing adhesion

Keep dry: Before storing ceramic tableware, make sure the tableware is completely dry. The tableware can be dried with a clean towel or placed in a well-ventilated area to air dry naturally. Because moisture is one of the main causes of tableware sticking together, keeping it dry can effectively prevent the occurrence of sticking problems.

Padding materials: When storing ceramic tableware, place soft materials such as napkins, cotton cloth, foam pads, etc. between the tableware. These materials can act as buffers and isolates, reducing direct contact between tableware and thereby lowering the risk of adhesion.

Categorized storage: Store ceramic tableware of different shapes and sizes separately to avoid mutual squeezing and collision. For instance, placing plates, bowls, cups, etc. in different compartments or storage boxes can not only prevent them from sticking together but also make it convenient to take them out.