Includes pottery, porcelain and stoneware. Ceramics refers to any item made from clay and fired in a kiln (from the Greek keramos meaning clay).

Cleaning

• Generally clean with a soft brush. For bad areas gently clean with warm water (and preferably distilled water) with a small amount of washing-up liquid.
• Apply with slightly dampened cloth or use cotton wool or a cotton bud. Also, an artist's brush should be used to clean intricate and delicate pieces.
• Wash one item at a time preferably using a plastic bowl for protection.
• For delicate pieces, clean only small areas at a time and dry immediately.
• Do not immerse in hot water, do not use dishwashers, do not scrub and do not use strong abrasives or detergents.  Detergents may expose and damage repairs if present.
• Note, unglazed pieces which are absorbent, should not be exposed to water.

Repair

• Do not paint, glue or attempt to repair broken ceramics yourselves. Consult a professional conservator.
• Treat all ceramics that have repairs with special care. Heating, even gentle washing, etc., can easily expose, weaken or stain the more porous repaired areas.
• Minor stains can be treated with a solution of hydrogen peroxide with a few drops of ammonia using a cotton swab.

Display

• Display cabinets are generally the most suitable display media for ceramics (the greatest danger for any ceramic are cracks or breakage)
• Avoid areas prone to vibration and unstable shelves that can be easily jarred or "knocked".
• Plates can be displayed using plate stands but ensure that these are of the correct size, are robust and stable and sufficient space is provided between each item on display.
• For best protection, free standing items items can be placed on a piece of felt, cut to size to fit the base, but do not glue felt to the item.
• Wire wall mounts for plates are not generally recommended, but if you feel you need to display plates on a wall use plastic coated wall mounts of the correct size.
• Ceramics can also be affected by sunlight, rapid variations in temperature and humidity and smoke so avoid direct sunlight and areas prone to coal or cigarette smoke.

Handling

• Always hold with two hands, support by the base and set down gently.
• Preferable wear white cotton gloves. Fingers can leave greasy marks that eventually may also stain.
• Do not hold cups, vases or pots by their handles.  These areas are often weakened by age.
• Always be aware of loose pieces such as lids etc. Remove these pieces and carry separately.

Storage

• Always store by wrapping in acid free tissue (newspapers are very acidic).
• If storing more than one item make sure that they do not touch.
• Always pack firmly (but not over tightly) to ensure that there is no movement.
• Clearly label packed boxes.