Clean
Wipe with a damp cloth; for stubborn residue, use mild dish soap and warm water. The glazed ceramic is dishwasher-safe for thorough cleaning. Avoid abrasive pads that can scratch the surface.
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Emile
The Emile Henry Salt Pig is crafted from high-fired Burgundy clay with moisture-wicking properties that prevent salt clumping in humid environments. Its sturdy ceramic construction features an extremely hard glaze that resists scratches and crazing. The traditional design offers convenient one-handed access to cooking salt while protecting it from kitchen splashes, making seasoning more intuitive and enjoyable.
The Emile Henry Salt Pig earns a solid 7/10 BIFL rating - excellent for its intended purpose with proper handling, but with clear limitations. It's a well-crafted ceramic vessel that maintains salt quality for 5+ years, loved by serious home cooks for its moisture-wicking properties and ergonomics. The premium price ($65) buys quality construction and a solid 10-year warranty, but the ceramic fragility means one accidental drop could render it unrepairable. Best for careful cooks who prioritize function and aesthetics over absolute indestructibility.
The Emile Henry Salt Pig scores poorly for repairability due to its ceramic construction that makes repair nearly impossible if damaged.
Bottom line: While durable during normal use, this is fundamentally unrepairable if dropped - it's a buy-it-for-life item only if you never accidentally knock it off the counter.
The Emile Henry Salt Pig shows solid durability with reported lifespans of 5+ years in regular use, though its ceramic construction presents an inherent fragility risk if dropped.
Bottom line: A well-built kitchen tool that will last many years with proper care, but the combination of ceramic fragility and QC inconsistencies prevents it from reaching heirloom status.
Emile Henry offers a 10-year warranty against manufacturing defects for the Salt Pig when used in normal domestic settings and following care instructions.
Bottom line: A comprehensive long-term warranty from a reputable manufacturer, though the ceramic nature of the product means accidental damage (which is common) isn't covered.
Emile Henry salt pigs are well-loved kitchen staples with a strong community following. Reddit users celebrate finding them at thrift stores and praise their ability to drastically increase pleasure in the kitchen. Many owners report using theirs for 5+ years, calling them permanent fixtures that make seasoning more intuitive.
Bottom line: A community favorite among serious home cooks who value the convenience and quality, though the high price and ceramic fragility if dropped keep it from perfect scores.
Based on 199 reviews
We rate products using a 10-point scoring system focused on what matters most: durability, reliability, and repairability. Our scores are built from a wide net of sources: Amazon reviews, Reddit threads, expert opinions, brand sites, Google reviews, and what people are actually saying online.
Keeps salt dry even in humidity
Heavy, sturdy ceramic construction
10-year warranty against manufacturing defects
Improves kitchen workflow for seasoning
Breaks easily when dropped
Inconsistent quality control reported
Expensive compared to alternatives
Cannot be repaired if damaged
Based on our comprehensive product research and scoring methodology

Main product view
Recommended: As Needed•Clean whenever the salt pig appears dirty or has absorbed moisture; regular wiping keeps it fresh and hygienic.
Wipe with a damp cloth; for stubborn residue, use mild dish soap and warm water. The glazed ceramic is dishwasher-safe for thorough cleaning. Avoid abrasive pads that can scratch the surface.
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No special conditioning required for ceramic salt pigs. Simply ensure the surface is dry before refilling. The natural ceramic and optional cork lid help prevent clumping and maintain freshness.
Store in a dry place. Use the cork lid to protect contents from dust and moisture. The stable base allows safe display on countertops or tables; avoid extreme temperature changes.
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