How to Clean a Pizza Stone

Last updated on Jul 3, 2023
Jason Kurtz

Nothing beats the taste of a perfectly cooked pizza with a crispy crust, and a pizza stone is an essential tool for achieving that texture. Just like any cooking tool, you must handle pizza stones with care for the best results. Whether you own a pizza shop or just feature pizza on your menu, failure to clean your pizza stone correctly can result in unnecessary damage to the stone and a decrease in pizza quality. We'll introduce what pizza stones are, what they are made of, and how to clean them below.

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What Is a Pizza Stone?

What Is a Pizza Stone

A pizza stone is a cooking surface that is placed in an oven and used to prepare authentic pizzas, strombolis, and certain types of bread. Stones absorb and distribute heat evenly and efficiently, ensuring that pizza dough is properly prepared. Pizza stones feature a porous surface that draws moisture out of wet areas in the dough as it cooks, resulting in a light and crispy pizza crust.

Pizza stones are known for their durability and can last for years if properly maintained. They should only be exposed to limited moisture and must be completely dry before being placed in your pizza oven. Therefore, it's essential to clean them properly after each use and store them in a dry place.

What Is a Pizza Stone Made Of?

A pizza stone can be made from various materials, but the most common are ceramic, cordierite, and cast iron. We've outlined the different materials, as well as what sets them apart, below:

  • Ceramic: Ceramic pizza stones are recognized as one of the most affordable options on the market. They do not respond to rapid heat changes as well as other stones and are prone to shattering or breaking during the cooling process.
  • Cordierite: Though they are more expensive than their counterparts, cordierite pizza stones offer increased durability. They can withstand rapid temperature changes, virtually eliminating the risk of breakage or fracture during use.
  • Cast iron: If you're looking for superior heat retention for even cooking, then cast iron pizza stones are the way to go. These stones heat up fast and offer excellent heat distribution but are the most difficult to clean.

Pizza Stone Cleaning

Pizza Stone Cleaning

Knowing the right way to clean a pizza stone is essential to avoid unnecessary damage. Never use soap or cleaning chemicals as you clean your stone, as they can be absorbed into the stone's surface and affect the taste and quality of your pizzas. Only use water to clean a pizza stone when necessary. Too much moisture can cause the stone to crack or break, rendering it useless. To clean your pizza stone, follow these steps:

  1. Let the stone cool: Before cleaning, make sure the stone has cooled down completely. Trying to clean a hot stone can cause it to crack.
  2. Remove excess food: Use a plastic spatula or pizza stone brush to remove any food residue from the stone's surface. Be gentle when scraping the stone to avoid scratching it. If the residue won't come off with a spatula or brush, use a damp rag to loosen it.
  3. Wipe: Wipe the stone with a clean rag to remove any excess debris.
  4. Dry: To prevent mold, mildew, or cracks from forming on the stone's surface, allow it to air dry completely before putting it away.

How to Clean a Stained Pizza Stone

How to Season a Pizza Stone

After multiple uses, pizza stones can become stained. While these stains are only cosmetic and do not affect the performance of the stone, some restaurant owners want to keep their pizza stone looking clean and presentable. To remove stains on your pizza stone, follow the steps below:

  1. Let the stone cool: Allow your pizza stone to cool before cleaning it to avoid unnecessary damage.
  2. Remove food residue: Using a spatula or scraper, remove any food residue or debris from the stone's surface.
  3. Mix paste: In a small bowl, mix equal parts water and baking soda until a paste forms.
  4. Scrub: Using a soft-bristled brush or cloth, gently scrub the paste onto any stains on the stone's surface. Be sure to cover the entire stain with the paste.
  5. Wipe: After scrubbing, use a damp cloth to wipe the stone's surface and remove any remaining paste.
  6. Dry: Let the stone air dry completely before using it again.

How to Dry a Pizza Stone

Once you have finished cleaning the stone, use a clean towel or cloth to wipe away any excess water. Then, place the stone in a well-ventilated area and let it air-dry completely. Do not put your pizza stone in the oven to dry, as the sudden change in temperature can cause the stone to expand and contract rapidly and lead to cracking.


A pizza stone is a unique kitchen tool that adds a layer of quality and authenticity to your signature pizzas. To preserve that quality, it's essential to understand what pizza stones are and how to clean them. With the information above, you can educate yourself on the pizza stone cleaning process and limit unnecessary damage to your pizza shop equipment.

The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice. Please refer to our Content Policy for more details.
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