What is how to clean a pizza stone?

Here's information about cleaning a pizza stone:

Cleaning a pizza stone properly helps prolong its life and maintain its performance. Here's a guide:

• Cool Down Completely: Allow your pizza%20stone to cool down completely after use. Attempting to clean it while hot can cause it to crack due to thermal shock. This may take several hours.

• Scrape Off Excess Debris: Use a pizza%20stone%20scraper or a metal spatula to gently scrape off any burnt food, cheese, or sauce. Avoid using soap or detergents at this stage.

• Dry Brush: Use a stiff-bristled dry%20brush (like a pastry brush or a dedicated pizza stone brush) to remove any remaining loose particles.

• Avoid Soap and Water (Usually): Pizza stones are porous and can absorb soap and water, which can then affect the taste of future pizzas. Generally, it's best to avoid using soap.

• Stubborn Stains: For really stubborn baked-on food, you can try these methods sparingly:

  • Baking Soda Paste: Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to form a paste. Apply the paste to the stained areas, let it sit for a few minutes, and then gently scrub with a non-abrasive pad. Rinse very lightly with water and dry thoroughly in a low oven.
  • Oven's Self-Cleaning Cycle (Use with Caution): Some people place their pizza stone in the oven during the self-cleaning cycle. However, this method can be risky and may cause the stone to crack or warp. If you choose to use this method, be extremely careful and monitor the stone closely. Many manufacturers advise against this method.

• Drying: After cleaning (especially if you've used any water), dry the pizza%20stone completely in a low-temperature oven (around 200°F or 93°C) for about 30 minutes to an hour. This helps prevent mold and ensures the stone is completely dry before storage.

• Embrace the Patina: Don't be alarmed by stains or discoloration on your pizza%20stone. These are normal and will develop over time. They add to the stone's character and don't affect its performance. This patina is part of what makes the stone non-stick.

• Storage: Store your pizza%20stone in a dry place, preferably inside the oven.