Care Information

Here at JAPAN IN A BOX, we are passionate about showcasing Japanese craftsmanship, meticulous design, and attention to detail.

All items are born to be loved and used in your everyday life. However, if you want to keep your purchase looking its best, we have a few tips here.

Knives

Japanese knife forging techniques are deeply rooted in the art of swordsmithing. Artisans have refined their craftsmanship of sword-making to produce and develop unique kitchen knives. Today, Japanese knives are renowned as one of the world’s finest by culinary professionals and home-cooking enthusiasts.

When you use

  • Please note that Japanese knives are exceptionally sharp with very thin blades, making them more susceptible to damage if pressed against a hard surface.
  • To preserve the sharpness of the blade, use a wooden cutting board. Bamboo cutting boards are not recommended for Japanese knives.
  • Avoid using them directly against hard surfaces like marble, glass, or steel. This may cause chipping and damage to the blade.

Care

  • Hand wash only. Wash immediately after each use with a soft sponge and mild dish soap.
  • Dry thoroughly with a clean cloth and store in a cool, dry place.
  • Black spots or a grey patina will develop over time through use. They are natural residues and work as a protective coating for rust prevention. However, if the rust appears reddish brown, this is a sign of rust and should be removed accordingly.
  • Sharpen the knife when the blade shows signs of brittleness.

Lacqureware

Japanese lacquerware has long been popular since ancient times due to its ability to combine beauty and practicality. The base material (usually wood) provides insulation, and the lacquer coating provides antiseptic and antibacterial properties.

When you use

  • Do not use in microwave or oven.
  • Please note that lacquerware is not suitable for sudden temperature changes. The lacquer coating may discolor or fade, or it may break.
  • Please do not use or store the lacquerware in a fridge or freezer. It will dry out and may cause it to crack.
  • Lacquerware is not suitable for storing liquids.
  • Lacquer is a durable coating by nature, so you can use it to put vinegar or oil. However, we do not recommend using lacquerware for storing those condiments.
  • New lacquerware can sometimes have a distinctive smell. If you are concerned about it, leave it in a well-ventilated place for a few days or run it through lukewarm water 2-3 times.

Care

  • Lacquerware is handwash only. Do not use the dishwasher or dish drier.
  • Wash with a sponge or something soft and wipe dry immediately after use.
  • You can use dish soap to remove grease. Please do not use bleach or any harsh cleaning chemicals.
  • Please do not soak the lacquerware in water for extended periods of time.
  • Lacquerware decorated with gold or silver powder (Maki-e technique) is very delicate. Please wash gently with a soft cloth (we recommend using something extra soft, such as a cotton gauze) and wipe immediately.
  • Store lacquerware in a place that is not exposed to direct sunlight and is not extremely dry.

Porcelain

Porcelain and Ceramics are often used as broad terms for tableware. However, it can be defined by the primary material used.

Porcelain is made primarily from stone, and it is glazed and fired in a kiln at high temperatures to vitrify the surface so it does not absorb water.

When you use

  • Microwave safe. Please note that items decorated with gold or silver powder cannot be used in a microwave.
  • Please do not use porcelain with an oven, grill, or hob.

Care

  • Some items are dishwasher safe. Please check the material details on each item page.
  • Handwashing is recommended to preserve the colors and patterns. Long-term use of the dishwasher may cause the paint or decoration to fade.
  • Please note that using metal scrubs or abrasive detergents may damage the surface.

Copper

Copper has been a favorite material of mankind for millennia due to its striking appearance and versatility of use. Also, its thermal conductivity is far higher than that of both stainless steel and cast iron, two other extremely popular metals such as the cookware market.

When you use

  • Avoid scratches and chipping: Copper is softer metals and can be prone to scratches or chipping. To prevent damage, avoid rubbing them against other objects or stacking it with other metal items.

Care

  • Handwash only. To maintain the quality and appearance of your item, gently handwash it with warm water and mild soap.
  • To prevent tarnishing or water spots, make sure to dry thoroughly after each use or wash.
  • Due to the nature of copper, contact with acidic or salty substances may cause discoloration. Wipe the surface clean after exposure to such substances.
  • Please avoid spraying disinfectants such as alcohol-based sanitizers, as this may damage the surface or alter the color of the metals.
  • Please do not soak in water for extended periods of time.