Portmeirion Pomona, designed by Susan Williams-Ellis, combines vibrant fruit decoration with functional stoneware suitable for everyday use. Many pieces are oven-, microwave-, dishwasher- and freezer-safe, but users should follow product-specific labels and avoid thermal shock, abrasive cleaners and metal-on-glaze abrasion. For stubborn stains, try mild detergents or a baking-soda paste and consult manufacturer guidance before stronger chemicals.

Portmeirion Pomona: a classic for everyday life

Portmeirion Pomona is a long-running tableware range inspired by botanical fruit illustrations. Designed by Susan Williams-Ellis for Portmeirion, the collection pairs brightly painted fruit motifs with functional stoneware shapes intended for daily use.

The pattern celebrates seasonal fruit - apples, pears, cherries, plums and citrus - rendered in bold, appetizing color. The painted fruit sits cleanly on white stoneware, which keeps the look fresh on the table and lets the motifs read clearly with simple place settings.

Why people still choose Pomona

Collectors and home cooks appreciate Pomona for combining practical durability with decorative appeal. Many pieces are produced as oven-, microwave-, dishwasher- and freezer-safe stoneware, so the line moves easily from preparation and serving to cleanup. At the same time, the hand-painted look and recognizable fruit imagery keep Pomona popular for casual entertaining and gifting.

Practical care tips

Follow these updated, manufacturer-style precautions to protect glaze, decoration and structural integrity:

  1. Read the product label. Most Pomona stoneware pieces indicate their intended uses on packaging or labels. If in doubt, follow the manufacturer guidance for that specific item.
  1. Avoid thermal shock. Do not move a very hot dish directly to a cold or wet surface (for example, tile, stone, metal or a cold sink). Sudden temperature changes can crack stoneware.
  1. Use the oven as intended. Pomona ovenware is made from durable stoneware, but maximum safe oven temperatures vary by piece - check the item's label for a rated limit before use.
  1. Dishwasher and detergents. Many Pomona items are dishwasher-safe, but strong dishwasher cycles and high-alkaline detergents can accelerate glaze wear. If you want to preserve finish, use a mild detergent and a lower-temperature cycle when possible. Some sources recommend keeping dishwasher temperatures below certain limits; check the product guidance for the exact maximum temperature. 1
  1. Removing stains. For everyday marks, soak with warm water and mild dish soap, then rinse. For more stubborn discoloration, try a paste of baking soda and water and rub gently. Avoid harsh abrasive cleansers and metal scouring pads that can scratch glaze or decoration. If you consider using bleach or chemical stain removers, check Portmeirion's guidance for that pattern first. 2
  1. Avoid metal-on-glaze abrasion. Don't scrape or cut directly on glazed surfaces with metal utensils; repeated abrasion can dull decoration.

A style that endures

Portmeirion Pomona remains a practical choice for people who want cheerful, easy-to-live-with tableware. The collection bridges decorative appeal and everyday use - provided you follow the care basics and the product-specific instructions supplied with each piece.

  1. Confirm the specific maximum oven temperature rating for current Portmeirion Pomona ovenware pieces.
  2. Verify the manufacturer's recommended maximum dishwasher temperature or recommended dishwasher practices for Pomona.
  3. Verify Portmeirion guidance on use of bleach or chemical stain removers on Pomona decoration.

FAQs about Portmeirion Pomona

Is Portmeirion Pomona dishwasher safe?
Many Pomona pieces are dishwasher-safe, but dishwasher cycles and detergents vary. Use a mild detergent and a lower-temperature cycle to preserve glaze, and always check the product label for the item-specific recommendation.
Can I use Pomona bakeware in a hot oven?
Pomona ovenware is made from durable stoneware, but maximum safe oven temperatures differ by piece. Check the label or manufacturer's guidance for the specific temperature rating before use.
How do I remove stubborn stains from Pomona pieces?
Start with a soak in warm water and mild dish soap. For tougher marks, rub gently with a baking-soda paste. Avoid abrasive scouring pads and check manufacturer advice before using bleach or chemical stain removers.
Will the painted fruit wear off with frequent dishwasher use?
Frequent exposure to high-temperature, high-alkaline dishwasher cycles can accelerate wear on decoration. To extend the look, use gentler cycles, mild detergent, and avoid abrasive utensils.