How to care for a repaired object
✅ Do:
- Hand wash only – use only mild soap and clean it gently.
- Rinse and dry promptly after use – especially for tea, coffee, or soup.
- Dry gently with a soft, clean cloth – be thorough but with a light touch to prevent wear.
❌ Do Not:
- Never put it in the dishwasher – the lacquer will become brittle, and it may peel off.
- Do not immerse it in water for a long time – prolonged immersion can cause the gold to fade and affect the lacquer adversely.
- Don’t use anything rough or abrasive to clean– it would damage the surface.
- Avoid harsh chemicals or alcohol-based cleaners – these can damage the lacquer.
- Never put it in the microwave – the intense heat will damage the lacquer, and of course, metal-finished kintsugi can never be put in a microwave.
- Do not store in direct sunlight – this can lead to deterioration.
❗ Important – please note:
- Depending on the frequency of use and handling, if you are using a repaired mug, bowl or plate, it is likely that you will begin to see Bengara (red urushi) appear should the surface of the gold be rubbed or scratched. This can happen quite quickly unless the object is treated very gently.
- This does not affect the integrity of the restoration and is in line with the philosophy of wabi sabi. It is particularly appreciated in Japan.
- It is possible to re-decorate with gold again.
Brush rests and chopsticks rests: wipe with a damp cloth, and pat dry.