How To Clean Pestle And Mortar

In this guide, we’ll look at the proper care of a marble or heavy duty stone pestle and mortar. These tools are not only practical but also add a touch of elegance to your kitchen.

To preserve their beauty and effectiveness, it’s important to follow the right steps for cleaning and maintenance.

We will provide you with detailed instructions on how to clean and sanitise your marble pestle and mortar, as well as tips for proper storage and care.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure your tools remain in excellent condition for years to come.

Shop pestle and mortar here or read our guide on How To Use Pestle and Mortar


Cleaning your marble pestle and mortar is essential for maintaining its quality and longevity. Follow these steps for proper cleaning:

  • Remove Debris: Empty any remaining contents from the mortar and rinse with warm water.
  • Scrub Gently: Use a soft brush or non-abrasive sponge to scrub the surface. Avoid using harsh detergents as they can damage the marble.
  • Use Mild Soap: If needed, apply a small amount of mild dish soap to the sponge and gently clean the mortar and pestle.
  • Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse both the pestle and mortar thoroughly with warm water to remove any soap residue.
  • Dry Completely: Use a soft cloth to dry the mortar and pestle thoroughly. Marble can absorb water, so it's important to dry it completely to avoid stains.
  • Sanitise: Occasionally, sanitise the mortar and pestle by rubbing them with a cut lemon and a pinch of salt. Rinse and dry thoroughly after sanitising.
  • Avoid Soaking: Do not soak the marble in water for long periods as this can cause damage.

Cleaning your marble pestle and mortar regularly will keep it in excellent condition. Make sure to clean it immediately after each use to prevent staining from strong flavours or colours.

Marble is porous, so it’s crucial to avoid letting liquids sit in it for too long.

Proper care and regular cleaning will ensure your marble pestle and mortar stays beautiful and functional for years to come.

Shop pestle and mortar here

How to Season a Pestle and Mortar

Seasoning a pestle and mortar, particularly a granite one, is crucial for optimal performance. Here's how to season a granite pestle and mortar:

  • Rinse with Water: Rinse the mortar and pestle with warm water and let them dry completely.
  • Grind Rice: Add a handful of uncooked white rice to the mortar. Grind it with the pestle until the rice turns into a fine powder. This removes any stone particles.
  • Discard Rice Powder: Discard the rice powder and repeat this process until the powder remains white, indicating that all stone particles are removed.
  • Add Garlic: Crush a few cloves of garlic in the mortar. Spread the garlic paste all over the surface to fill in any tiny grooves.
  • Add Salt and Pepper: Add coarse salt and whole peppercorns to the mortar. Grind them together with the garlic paste.
  • Rinse and Dry: Rinse the mortar and pestle with warm water and let them air dry.

Seasoning your granite pestle and mortar prepares the surface and removes any residual stone dust.

It also helps in creating a smoother surface for grinding and enhances the flavours in your ingredients.

Regular seasoning, especially when new, will improve the performance of your granite pestle and mortar, making it an essential tool in your kitchen.

This process ensures that your pestle and mortar are ready for use, providing the best results in your cooking.


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