Immediate Action is Key

• Blot the excess soy sauce gently with a paper towel or soft cloth. Avoid rubbing the stain, as this can push the liquid further into the surface or spread it wider.
• Rinse the bowl quickly under lukewarm water to remove any loose residue before it has a chance to set.

Pre-Treatment Strategy

• Soak Briefly: Fill the ceramic bowl with enough lukewarm water to cover the stained area, and let it soak for about 10-15 minutes. This helps loosen the soy sauce residue.
• Create a Mild Cleaning Solution: Mix a few drops of dishwashing liquid with lukewarm water. This combination is gentle on ceramic surfaces while effectively breaking down the stain. Be sure to use a product that’s designed for delicate surfaces to maintain the bowl’s finish.

Gentle Scrub Techniques

• Use a Non-Abrasive Sponge: Dip the sponge into your cleaning solution and gently scrub in circular motions over the stain. A soft sponge minimizes the risk of scratching the ceramic.
• Baking Soda Paste Option: For extra stubborn stains, mix a small amount of baking soda with water to form a paste. Apply this to the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before gently scrubbing with your non-abrasive sponge. Baking soda acts as a mild abrasive that can help lift embedded residue.

Rinsing and Final Inspection

• Rinse Thoroughly: Once you notice the stain fading, run the bowl under lukewarm water to remove any leftover cleaning solution or baking soda paste. This step ensures no residue interferes with future use.
• Inspect the Stain: Check the bowl under good lighting. If remnants of the stain remain, repeat the soaking and gentle scrubbing process until the soy sauce is no longer visible.

Extra Tips for Ongoing Maintenance

• Immediate Care: Tackle spills as soon as they occur; the less time a stain has to set, the easier it will be to remove.
• Long-Term Soaking: For ceramic pieces that are used frequently, consider occasional soaking in a mild dishwashing liquid solution. This helps prevent stains from becoming deeply embedded over time.
• Avoid High Heat When Cleaning: High temperatures can sometimes cause stains on ceramic surfaces to set more firmly. Stick to lukewarm water until you are sure the stain has been removed.