While hand washing is recommended, you can wash them in a dishwasher with a cold or warm setting (not hot). We do not recommend using soap, because it is usually toxic. You can sprinkle some baking soda in the pots before putting them inside your dishwasher, with no need to add soap. The dishwasher setting should be set on "rinse".

MEC products are versatile, and they can be used on a wide variety of heat sources. The list below tells you which heat sources need a heat diffuser and which don’t. You can get a heat diffuser to go with your MEC order here.

You can use MEC on the following surfaces WITHOUT a heat diffuser:

  • Gas stove
  • Oven
  • Open flame
  • As a slow-cooker insert
  • Outdoor grill
  • Solar oven

With these natural heat sources heat is steadily and evenly spread, so there is no need for a diffuser in these cases – provided you keep the heat setting between low and medium-low throughout the cooking process.

You can use MEC WITH a heat diffuser on the following heat surfaces:

  • Wood stove
  • Ceramic/Glass Cooktop
  • Induction stove

A diffuser is needed with these heat sources because electric heat is sporadic and uneven. A diffuser in these cases help spread the heat out evenly to the 100% natural pot.

What is the maximum temperature in an oven (+ wood fired oven)?

In the oven (both types), the recommended max temperature is 450 Degrees Fahrenheit. Start at lowest temperature (~250 Degrees F) and increase to desired temperature after 5-10 minutes.