Can "pottery" and "porcelain" be used in a microwave?

Do you ever worry about things like:

"I don't know if I can use my dishes (earthenware/porcelain) in the microwave."

"I'm worried because I don't have accurate information on how to use earthenware and porcelain in the microwave."

"There's too much information on the internet, and I don't know what to believe."

This article, from the perspective of the tableware specialty store Studio1156, will clearly explain whether "earthenware" and "porcelain" can be used in the microwave, precautions and dangers even when they can be used, tips for safe use, knowledge and methods for making tableware last longer, and common misconceptions.

To conclude, porcelain is generally microwave-safe, but earthenware requires caution. Even dishes that look similar can have vastly different safety levels due to material differences.

This is because microwave ovens heat food and liquids inside dishes by vibrating their water molecules with microwaves. At this time, absorbent earthenware is prone to retaining water internally, and this water can expand when heated, potentially causing cracks or breakage.

On the other hand, porcelain is fired at high temperatures and has very low water absorption, making it a stable material even with microwave heat. For example, white, smooth porcelain such as "Mino ware" and "Arita ware" can generally be used in the microwave.

However, items with gold or silver decorations are not allowed as they may spark.

Furthermore, earthenware such as "Yachimun" and "Shigaraki ware," which have a rustic, earthy feel, are highly absorbent and require caution. Especially earthenware that has been used for a long time may have water entering through tiny cracks, which can cause it to break when heated. While porcelain is relatively safe, it is safest not to use earthenware in the microwave unless it is specifically marked as microwave-safe.

To ensure your favorite dishes last a long time, always check for the "microwave-safe" mark before use.

▪️For information on dishwashers, please see below:

Can "earthenware" and "porcelain" be used in a dishwasher?