Q.   Are Mamma Rò ceramic pieces dishwasher safe and microwavable?

A.   Yes!  Mamma Rò dinnerware and accessories are dishwasher safe and microwavable.  Items used in the microwave will get as warm as the food you are cooking.  Special note: Cookware pieces specifically designed for conventional oven use ONLY and should not be used in the microwave or dishwasher.  See below for more information.

Q.   Why is each piece of my Mamma Rò slightly different?

A.   These beautiful ceramic pieces were carefully hand-crafted by skilled Italian artisans.  No two pieces are exactly alike because of the individual workmanship.  The variations in finish or appearance you may find are not considered imperfections,  but rather the mark of a unique hand-worked item.

Q.   Why did my dinnerware "sing" to me the first time I washed it?

A.   The first time Mamma Rò is subject to a change in temperature, there is a natural settling process that can be heard as a pinging or tingling sound.   Again this is a natural occurrence and is not harmful to the integrity of the piece.

Q.   Why are there little white lines on my new red dinnerware?

A.   Our unique red sometimes experiences an extraordinary occurrence after the initial washing.  Raised white lines or specks may appear on part or all of the piece.  These can be simply wiped away with a damp cloth or repeat washed 2 to 3 times as necessary.   These lines will disappear after a few washings never to return.  This happens as a result of a slightly different firing condition at the factory and does not always occur.   The white substance is a mineral component of the glaze and it is not considered harmful.

Q.  Can I keep liquid in my serving pieces at all times?

A.  As with any ceramic container, you should not store liquids for more than 24 hours.  Earthenware pottery is by nature more porous than glass and some liquids can seep through the glaze.  Please use the serving pieces for service only.

Q.  Do Mamma Rò ceramics meet federal safety standards?

A.  Each different Mamma Rò design and color have been independently tested for lead, cadmium and other contents and have been found to consistently  pass U.S. safety standards.  The Federal Drug Administration also performs periodic checking of merchandise shipped to us from Italy.

Q.   Is there anything special I should do to ready my new "Oven to Table" pottery for use?

A.   Before the FIRST use of ovenware, immerse the pottery in warm water for at least one hour and then use the item without drying.  Soak the article thoroughly before each use (At least 10 minutes) and use immediately while still wet.

This allows the absorbed water to steam the food from below and keep in all the flavor.  It also makes cleanup easy because the food will not stick to the surface of the cookware piece.  After use, hand wash and let dry in an open rack until very dry before placing in a closed cupboard. 

Important note:  Casserole lids are for SERVICE ONLY And should not be placed in the oven at any time.

Q.   What is the reservoir cup used for in the Mamma Rò Bean Pot?

A.  Fill the cup with water and cook the beans as normal.  Over time, you will need to pour more water over your slow cooking beans.  Use the water from the reservoir cup and refill it from the tap.  The water in the cup is about the same temperature as the beans you are cooking.  This ensures that your beans will not burst or shrivel.

Q.  Can these cookware pieces be used on the stovetop burners?

A.   Yes.  However, when used on a flame or electric burner, it is advisable to avoid direct contact.  We recommend that that you place a fine wire mesh diffuser between the flame/burner and the cookware piece.

Important: Only saucepans may be used on the stove top.  Casseroles and Bean Pots are for oven use only.

Additional Note:  To avoid a "wet ring", place the cookware pieces on a tray or plate when serving on the table.