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Daily-use ceramic tableware, as our intimate companion during every meal, places safety and aesthetics at the forefront when making a purchase. Among the wide array of household ceramic products, ceramic tableware is deeply loved by families for its unique artistic charm and practical functionality. Among these, overglaze decoration and underglaze decoration are two mainstream decorative techniques. So, is overglaze tableware safe? When selecting ceramic cups, bowls, and plates, is underglaze better or overglaze? This guide provides a detailed analysis for you!
• Underglaze: The Safe and Gentle Guardian
Craft: Originated in the Eastern Han Dynasty. Patterns are painted directly onto the clay body using pigments, then covered with a layer of clear or light-colored glaze, and fired once at a high temperature of 1200-1400°C.
Features: Soft, elegant colors; patterns are fully sealed under the glaze and have no direct contact with food. The surface is smooth and jade-like, making it resistant to dirt.
Key Advantage: Extremely safe — the ideal choice for household ceramic tableware that comes into direct contact with food, especially bowls and plates.
• Overglaze: The Brilliant Artist
Craft: Originated in the Northern and Southern Dynasties. Patterns are painted with pigments on an already high-fired glazed ceramic piece, then (optionally) covered with a clear glaze and fired again at 600-900°C.
Features: Exceptionally bright and vivid colors, rich patterns, and strong decorative appeal.
Potential Risk: Since the pigment layer is on or above the glaze, it is directly exposed. If low-quality pigments (possibly containing lead, cadmium, mercury, etc.) or improper firing is used, long-term use with acidic foods or repeated friction may cause heavy metals to leach, posing a potential health risk.
Underglaze tableware: Thanks to the glaze’s physical barrier, pigments—regardless of composition—are securely sealed beneath the glaze and cannot contact food, effectively preventing heavy metal leaching. The dense glaze surface is also easier to clean and less prone to bacterial growth. When safety is the top priority, underglaze is the more reassuring choice.
Overglaze tableware: Its safety depends heavily on pigment quality and firing craftsmanship. Low-cost, inferior products carry higher risks. Even qualified products may pose hidden dangers over time, especially in the patterned areas (such as inner walls) when used for hot or acidic foods. Extra caution is needed when choosing brands and quality.
Important Tip: The bright colors of overglaze often rely on pigments containing heavy metals, which is a fundamental source of its safety risks. Choosing overglaze tableware without inner wall decorations or with minimal decorations can reduce the risk.
Underglaze: Known for its safety, gentle beauty, and durability. Though its colors are not as vivid as overglaze, it offers classic, elegant, and timeless appeal. Especially suitable for families that prioritize health, safety, and a minimalist style for daily use.
Overglaze: Known for its bright colors, delicate patterns, strong expressiveness, and a wide range of personalized choices. Ideal for consumers who seek high aesthetic value and artistic appeal on the dining table. The safety of overglaze from major brands and mature craftsmanship is relatively more reliable.
When choosing ceramic cups, bowls, and plates for daily use, balance safety, quality, and aesthetics:
✅ Check the texture:
Look: The texture should be fine and uniform, with no obvious impurities, black spots, or bubbles.
Tap: Gently tap with your knuckles; a clear, pleasant (metal-like) sound usually indicates high vitrification and dense quality.
Feel: The surface and edges should be smooth and delicate, without roughness. Quality ceramic tableware feels warm and smooth to the touch.
✅ Inspect the craftsmanship:
Pattern colors: Underglaze patterns should appear clear and soft; overglaze should be bright but not glaring, with smooth lines and no smudges or defects.
Details: Check rims, edges, handle joints, and foot rings carefully. They should be even and smooth, without deformation, cracks, or glaze flaws (except for intentional crackle glaze), and no obvious glaze defects (pinholes, glaze shrinkage, etc.).
✅ Prioritize safety:
Choose underglaze first: Especially for bowls, plates, and spoons that directly contact food, underglaze is the safer basic choice.
Be cautious with overglaze:
Go for reputable brands and labels — look for certifications like “food-grade” or “GB 4806.4-2016 National Food Safety Standard for Ceramic Products.”
Avoid inner wall decorations — opt for overglaze tableware with plain or unpainted inner walls. Avoid bowls and plates with large, bright inner wall patterns or gold/silver accents.
Beware of overly bright colors — products that are unnaturally vivid or dark are more likely to exceed heavy metal limits.
✅ New tableware treatment: Before using new ceramic tableware, boil it in vinegar water or hot water for a few minutes to help remove any trace harmful substances (especially for overglaze). Then rinse with clean water.
Overglaze and underglaze represent different directions in ceramic decoration. Underglaze stands out for its excellent safety and is the top choice for health-conscious families, especially for frequently used bowls and plates. Overglaze, with its brilliant artistic appeal, satisfies the pursuit of dining aesthetics — but be sure to choose quality products and pay attention to safety details.
When selecting daily-use or household ceramics, decide based on your priorities — whether safety and health come first or you’re seeking visual impact. Mastering these tips will help you easily choose ceramic cups, bowls, and plates that are both safe and pleasing, making every meal a secure and beautiful experience!
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