Ceramics
All VIETRI dinnerware and serving accessories are dishwasher safe. We recommend using the low-energy/air-dry cycle and not overloading the dishwasher. Hand washing is recommended for decorative or oversized pieces. Over time, crazing – the formation of miniscule lines in the glaze – may occur on ceramics. This contributes to the unique visual appeal of quality Italian earthenware and does not affect the durability or safety of the product.  Since earthenware is porous, it expands and contracts with extreme heat and cold. Do not place ceramics in the freezer. All dinnerware and serving accessories meet FDA and Prop 65 requirements. If you choose to use ceramics in the microwave, please use caution when removing as they may retain high heat due to natural air pockets in the clay and may craze over time, creating an aged look. 

Microwave Use
After extensive testing of several product lines, VIETRI has determined that certain collections may be used in the microwave. These items will be marked as such on the bottom of the piece and will be indicated on this website in the product details for those collections.  These include all pieces in the Incanto and Incanto Mare Collections as well as the eating pieces in Bellezza and the entire Cucina Fresca Family of Dinnerware.  Eating pieces refers to the following:  Service Plate/Charger, Dinner Plate, Salad Plate, Berry Bowl, Pasta/Soup Bowl, Cereal Bowl, Mug, Cappuccino Cup, Espresso Cup & Saucer, Canape Plate, and Condiment Bowl.

The temperature of VIETRI pieces may vary after microwave use due to the handmade nature of quality, natural earthenware.  Thus, as with all products used in a microwave, please use the following precautions:

• Always use a pot holder or oven mitt when handling the product as item may get hot.

• Do not permit children to handle any product that has been heated in a microwave.

• Do not put any products into a microwave without food or liquid on or inside the piece.

• Allow item to cool before taking it out of the microwave.

Flatware – Acrylic-Handled and Stainless
VIETRI flatware is made of the highest quality18/10 stainless steel.  VIETRI acrylic-handled and stainless steel flatware is dishwasher safe.  For the dishwasher, we recommend using the low-energy/air-dry cycle with the handles placed up in the basket. Use a lemon-free, mild and non-abrasive detergent that does not contain chlorine, alcohol or perfume. Overly hot dishwashers may tarnish the necks of flatware. Dry flatware with a soft towel after washing to prevent mineral or stain buildup. Do not leave acrylic-handled flatware in the sun for an extended period of time.  

What does 18/10 stainless mean?
The 18/10 combination is the highest quality alloy (metal mixture) available for making stainless steel flatware. 18/10 stainless has 18% chrome for maximum corrosion resistance and 10% nickel for a silver-like luster. Nickel is the more rare and expensive metal. Chrome is what is mixed with steel to make it stainless steel.

Why do stains occur on some stainless?
Stainless steel is not stain proof. Ingredients found in tea, coffee, salad dressing, vinegar and salt can cause discoloration. Pitting or spotting is usually caused by hard water or foods with high salt content. Avoid mixing other non-stainless metal items with your flatware as aluminum may stain other metals when placed in the dishwasher at the same time. Wash immediately after using flatware to avoid stains.

How do I remove stains?
A high-quality, stainless cleaner will remove stains on the tines and blades of your flatware caused from minerals. Drying your flatware with a soft towel as you put it back in your drawers is an excellent way to prevent mineral or stain buildup.

Flatware – Pewter
VIETRI pewter flatware is made of the highest quality18/10 stainless steel paired with pewter handles.  We recommend washing our pewter flatware by hand as hard water (water with a high mineral content) may cause tarnishing or pitting.

What does pewter consist of and what is the best way to care for my pewter flatware?
Pewter is an alloy (a combination of base metals) that is made of tin, copper and antimony.  Pewter requires almost no maintenance, however, if you would like to polish your flatware, a standard metal polish will do.  To clean your pewter, hand wash in warm water with a mild, lemon-free liquid dish soap and dry pewter completely.

Glass
VIETRI seeks durability as well as artistry in selecting its glass drinkware, serving pieces and decorative accessories. Mouth-blown and handmade by master artisans, each piece is unique. The "clouding" of glass is in response to exposure to extreme heat, i.e. the heat-drying cycle of a dishwasher. To prevent clouding of glass, refrain from harsh detergents and use the low-energy/air-dry cycle of the dishwasher or hand wash. We recommend a lemon-free, mild and non-abrasive detergent that does not contain chlorine, alcohol or perfume. Do not place glass in the freezer.

Vases, Urns, Pitchers, and Outdoor Accessories
VIETRI ceramic accessories make strikingly attractive containers for plants and flowers. For these pieces, we recommend using a liner underneath them to protect surfaces from moisture and scratches as well as not placing liquid in these pieces for an extended period of time. Planters, cachepots, tiles and decorative stones should be brought inside during winter months as freezing water or freezing temperatures may cause cracks. Rustic Garden accessories can withstand freezing outdoor temperatures. Handles on vases and planters are decorative. Always lift by the base, not by the handles.

Oven-to-Table Servers, Casseroles and Baking Dishes
VIETRI's casseroles and baking dishes can be used in most conventional ovens and dishwashers. They are handmade of very dense clay and fired at extremely high temperatures, making them heat resistant to 400º Fahrenheit. Some baking accessories can also be used in the microwave and are indicated as such on this website. ** Please note: Incanto Baking Pieces do not need to be cured before use**

Before use: It is important that ceramic baking pieces be "cured" before use. The dish should be fully submerged and soaked in water for 12 hours prior to first use. Each time the dish is used, soak again for 10 minutes. Soaking prepares the dish, reduces cooking time and prevents food from sticking.

Care and Use: Always place the dish in a room temperature oven allowing it to heat slowly. Do not preheat oven. Hot casseroles and baking dishes should never be placed on cool, damp or unprotected surfaces. Baking dishes should never be taken directly from the refrigerator to the oven, and they should never be placed in the freezer. Handles are decorative and should not be used for support. Please remove baking dishes from the oven by holding the body of the dish, supporting the base. Do not use casserole lids in the oven.

Table Linens
Reed & Raffia – To clean, wipe with a soft damp cloth using cold water. 

Terra Linens – Made of 100% pre-shrunk cotton.  Machine wash cold or warm, do not bleach. Tumble dry low and use a warm iron if necessary.

Signature Linens – Linens will shrink approximately ¼” to ½” on all sides after drying. Machine wash cold, do not bleach, dry flat or tumble dry low and use a warm iron if necessary.

Accent Napkins – Wash in cold water. Dry flat only. Warm iron if necessary.

Damask – To clean, wipe with a soft damp cloth.