How to Clean Terra-Cotta Pots—an Essential Task for Healthy Plants

Terra-cotta pots are a favorite among plant lovers for their appearance, as well as their functionality. Made of kiln-fired clay, terra-cotta’s porous material wicks the water out of the soil, which helps to prevent over-watering. However, these same absorbent properties encourage the formation of mineral deposits. Left unattended, such deposits can be accompanied by algae growth, pests, mildew, and mold, which can harm your plants.

Cleaning your terra-cotta pots ensures your plants stay healthy and are protected from potential contaminants. To help, we turned to cleaning and gardening experts who shared their tips for how to clean terra-cotta pots the right way.

How Often to Clean Terra-Cotta Pots

Generally, you should aim to clean terra-cotta pots between planting cycles in order to remove any pests, diseases, or salt buildup from the previous use. “Cleaning ensures a well-aerated environment for healthy root development,” says founder and CEO of Gardenuity, Donna Letier.

Even if you’re not replacing plants, Letier suggests an annual or biannual cleaning in order to prevent any harmful buildup of residues. In between cleanings, regularly inspect your pots for any unwanted buildup. If you see white, crusty salt deposits or any mold growth, it’s time to clean the pots. 

Materials You’ll Need

Ensure you have these materials on hand when cleaning your terra-cotta pots.

• Quality dish soap
• Soft brush or sponge
• Warm water
• Clean towel for drying
• Vinegar (optional)
• Bleach (optional)

How to Clean Terra-Cotta Pots 

To give your terra-cotta pots a thorough cleaning, follow Dawn senior scientist Morgan Eberhard’s go-to method.

1. Remove any soil or plant debris from the terra-cotta pot.
2. Rinse the pot with warm water to remove any loose dirt.
3. Apply a mild dish soap directly onto the pot.
4. Pour warm water over the pot.
5. Use a soft brush or sponge to scrub the pot gently, ensuring all areas are covered.
6. Rinse the pot thoroughly with warm water to remove all soap residue.
7. Dry with a clean towel.

How to Disinfect Terra-Cotta Pots

Disinfecting terra-cotta pots is an essential part of the cleaning process, says Carylanne Brown of The Grove Collaborative. After cleaning with dish soap, she recommends using this method to remove any stubborn algae spots or unwanted residue.

1. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a container.
2. Soak the pots in the solution for at least 30 minutes.
3. Scrub the pots with a soft brush or sponge to remove any dirt or stains.
4. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
5. Allow the pots to dry completely before reuse.

Tips to Keep Your Terra-Cotta Pots Clean Longer

Keep these expert tips in mind to ensure the longevity of your terra-cotta pots.

• Clean pots regularly: Clean your terra-cotta pots with each plant change to prevent the buildup of salts and minerals, which can affect the pot’s breathability and the health of the plant, says Eberhard.
• Dry pots thoroughly: Ensure you dry your pots thoroughly with a clean towel after cleaning to prevent mold growth. 
• Avoid abrasive materials: Avoid using abrasive materials when cleaning terra-cotta pots, as they can scratch or damage the pot. 
• Schedule deep cleans: Schedule a deep cleaning whenever you notice a buildup of salts or mold. Soak the pot in warm water and a mild dish soap, scrub it gently, rinse, and dry completely.
• Store the pots properly: If you're not using your terra-cotta pots after cleaning, store them in a clean, dry location, rim-side down.