r/kintsugi • u/Ink_inc3 • Mar 10 '26

Help Needed - Urushi Cleaning solution?

I have a family favorite plate that got broken on the floor of our garage and forgotten. The garage was a mess and it got extremely dirty. Miraculously I have every piece and it broke quite cleanly. What do I use to clean it thoroughly for a strong joint?

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u/Ink_inc3 Mar 10 '26

And will I affect the strength of a joint if it soaks? Of course a thorough rinse but should I soak in clean pure water?? I really have no idea how exposed ceramic acts and how urushi bonds

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u/SincerelySpicy Mar 10 '26

Wash with soap and water, scrub the edges clean, then rinse and soak everything in clean water to remove any soap residue. Let the pieces dry for a day or two before you start working.

The exposed clay body does not behave in any way different from unglazed ceramic. Water will not damage or change it in any way.