Indian households use earthen jars called matkas extensively for keeping drinking water at home during the summer. These pots naturally keep water cool. Nevertheless, while bringing a matka from the market, one often makes an erroneous practice, which involves washing the matka using one’s hands by putting them inside it.Although it may sound like a regular cleaning process, the truth is that the method of washing a newly bought matka has significant impacts on its lifespan, water quality, and even hygiene. There is a specific way of preparing a matka, which guarantees more positive outcomes.
What makes a new clay pot delicate
New clay pots are very fragile inside. Being made of natural clay, their interior sides are not smooth, but have small pores that help cool water but increase their sensitivity to any pressure or friction.If you insert your hands into the pot and scrub it inside, particularly forcefully, you may harm its inner side by making microscopic cracks in it or damaging its structure.
Why you should not clean a new matka by putting your hands inside
Various issues might arise when one tries to clean a matka using their hands. Firstly, there might be a risk that your hands will put strain on the inner parts, which could result in cracks. Even though you don’t see them immediately, cracks weaken the pot.Secondly, your hands could have some residues of oil, soap or even dirt. As mentioned before, clay is very porous, and anything absorbed into it would mix with the water. This would not only harm the quality of the liquid but also its taste. This is why hands should never be used for the cleaning process.
The correct way to wash a new clay pot
Properly cleaning a newly bought matka is not difficult if it is done correctly. Rather than scrubbing the pot manually, the process should begin with rinsing it thoroughly using clean water both externally and internally.One may fill up the pot with water and allow it to sit for several hours. Doing so will ensure that any loose clay particles present on the pot’s interior are washed away. The interior of the pot should be swirled rather than scrubbed manually.Once the soaking is complete, the water should be emptied out of the pot, followed by another round of rinsing. Once the pot has dried up completely, it should be filled with drinking water.
How to maintain hygiene while using a matka
After the preparation of the vessel for use, hygiene remains crucial. Make sure to always add water to the matka through a clean glass or ladle rather than dipping your hands inside.Cover the pot to keep dust and dirt particles away. Wash the outside surface frequently and the inside surface now and then with water that does not contain any chemicals.
Common mistakes to avoid when cleaning a clay pot
Most people unknowingly commit errors when they clean their newly acquired matka. One of the most common errors involves using soap or detergents, which the clay can absorb, affecting the taste of the water.Another error includes scrubbing the inner surface of the container with hands or any other material. This action may result in damaging the matka and affecting the quality of water.
Why proper cleaning of a matka matters
It is important to remember that although a matka appears very simple, it needs proper treatment. Washing the matka by dipping one’s hands into it could destroy its form as well as contaminate the water.Using the appropriate method of rinsing, soaking, and refraining from placing hands directly into the matka will ensure its longevity.
