Posted by Anwesha Manandhar
on August 27, 2025
Fondue is all about gathering friends and family around the table, dipping into warm cheese, chocolate, or oil / broth. But once the fun is over, there’s one important step left which is cleaning the fondue pot properly.
Not all fondue pots are made the same, and the right cleaning method depends on whether yours is cast iron, ceramic, stainless steel, copper, aluminum, or electric. Here’s a simple guide to help you keep your fondue set in great shape.
1. General Cleaning Tips for All Fondue Pots
Always let the pot cool completely before cleaning, sudden temperature changes can crack ceramic or damage coatings.
Avoid harsh abrasives that can scratch enamel, ceramic, or stainless steel surfaces.
Wipe the rechaud (stand), base, and burner with a damp cloth or sponge instead of submerging them in water.
2. Cast Iron Fondue Pots (Lugano, Lucerne, Sierra, Ticino)
Cleaning method: Hand wash the pot in warm soapy water and dry thoroughly.
Do not put cast iron in the dishwasher, it can rust or lose its seasoning.
For stubborn cheese, soak briefly in warm water before washing.
Make sure the pot is fully dry before storing to prevent rust.
3. Ceramic Fondue Pots (Jura, Heidi, Gruyere)
Cleaning method: Hand wash with warm soapy water and dry well.
Avoid sudden changes from hot to cold water, which can cause cracking.
Use a soft sponge to prevent scratches.
4. Stainless Steel Fondue Pots (Zuri)
Cleaning method: Hand wash in warm soapy water.
Stainless steel is durable but can spot if not dried right away.
5. Copper Fondue Pots (Lausanne, Biel)
Cleaning method: Hand wash only.
Copper should never go in the dishwasher, it can tarnish and lose its finish.
Use a copper-safe cleaner if you want to restore shine.
6. Chocolate Fondue Mugs & Sets (Nostalgia, Sweetheart, Kindle, Glow)
Many chocolate fondue mugs are dishwasher safe, but check your set carefully.
In most cases, the ceramic mugs and bowls can go in the dishwasher.
7. Electric Fondue Pots (Arolla)
Cleaning method: Pot is usually dishwasher safe.
Never submerge the electric base or cord, wipe them with a cloth.
Make sure all parts are completely dry before reassembling.
Clean your fondue pot based on its material: hand wash cast iron, ceramic and copper; some stainless steel and chocolate pots are dishwasher safe (check first). For electric sets, wash only the pot, never the base. With proper care, your fondue pot will last through many more cozy meals.
