Ceramics
Caring For Your Terracotta Vessels: Tips to Keep Them Looking Their Best
Whether you've recently invested in gorgeous handcrafted terracotta vases or built up a beloved collection of local terracotta pottery pieces, these earthy ceramics require some extra care to maintain their rustic beauty in Singapore's humid climate.
With the right handling, cleaning and storage tips, you can ensure your terracotta vessels keep their vibrant, warm tones and natural textures looking radiant for many years to come.
Maintaining Terracotta Beauty Through Proper Display
Having beautiful ceramic pieces displayed in your home creates a sense of tranquility and sophistication. The key to keeping your cherished ceramics looking their best lies in how you display and arrange them.
Singapore's humid conditions can potentially damage ceramic pieces over time if not accounted for. When finding a spot to showcase your ceramics, avoid direct sunlight as it can cause fading and discolouration. Use UV-resistant window films or position pieces away from windows. Also steer clear of areas with fluctuating temperatures, as the combination of heat and humidity could lead to cracks, warping or other damage.
As you arrange your handcrafted vases, or sculptural pieces, factor in their varied sizes, shapes and colours. Grouping similar ceramic objects together creates a cohesive, visually appealing display. Pay close attention to balance and symmetry - you want the delicate details and focal points of each piece to be highlighted and complemented by its surroundings.
With thoughtful positioning and arrangement suited to Singapore's climate, your handcrafted ceramics and terracotta pieces will not only look stunning but stay beautifully preserved for years to come.
The Right Way to Clean Terracotta Pieces
When it comes to caring for terracotta ceramics in Singapore's humid climate, regular gentle cleaning is key to preventing buildup and maintaining their natural earthy tones. Singapore's moisture in the air means terracotta surfaces can quickly accumulate dust, grime or water spots that dull their rustic vibrancy if not addressed.
Always start by using just a soft cloth or cotton ball lightly dampened with distilled water. Gently wipe down the terracotta piece, being careful not to scrub too hard and potentially damage the porous clay surface.
For any stuck-on grime, make a mild abrasive paste by mixing baking soda with a few drops of water. Gently rub this paste onto the affected area using your fingertips, letting it sit briefly before wiping clean with the damp cloth. Baking soda's slight abrasiveness helps lift embedded dirt while being safe for unglazed terracotta pieces.
For tight grooves, crevices or sculpted designs on the terracotta, use a soft-bristled brush or cotton swabs dipped in the distilled water solution to gently scrub out any stubborn residue.
However, avoid fully submerging terracotta ceramics in water, as excessive moisture can cause the porous clay body to become saturated over time, potentially leading to cloudiness, cracking or deterioration.
With simple, regular cleaning using just water and gentle abrasives like baking soda, you can keep your local terracotta vases looking beautifully vibrant for years despite Singapore's humidity.
Caring for these gorgeous earthy pieces is well worth the minimal effort required to maintain their timeless artistry and rustic charm. Generations to come can continue to appreciate the work of talented terracotta artisans when you properly preserve these treasured pieces.
