Please make sure to read the instructions before you use the clay baker. 

Before its first use, your RÖMERTOPF® needs a “really good soak.” Then clean it with a brush to loosen any clay dust particles from the manufacturing process. - Moisten your RÖMERTOPF® before every use. If you have very little time, it is sufficient to hold the lid under warm water for about 30 seconds. Its pores will store sufficient water in this time. However, ideally the RÖMERTOPF® should be placed in a basin of water for about 15 minutes before use. - Clean your RÖMERTOPF® with hot water and a few drops of liquid dish soap. After having used it for about 100 times you should boil it in clean water for 30 minutes. The pores will then be completely open again, able to breathe and absorb water as if the dish was brand new. - Store your RÖMERTOPF® by putting the lid upside-down in the bottom half and keeping it in a ventilated location. Even if you look after the RÖMERTOPF® with utmost care, it will change color in places or get darker. This is not a disadvantage; indeed, it shows that the dish is made from a living, natural material