Q: Can I put salt in my pepper mill and vice versa?
A: This depends entirely on the mechanism. Salt can only be used in a mill that has a nylon or ceramic mechanism. Salt cannot be used in a carbon steel mechanism. Pepper can only be used in a mill that has a ceramic or carbon steel mechanism. Pepper cannot be used in a nylon mechanism. The only mills where salt and pepper can both be used are if they have a ceramic mechanism.
Q: My salt mill appears to be clogged up, what should I do?
A: Firstly, ensure that the salt you use in your mill is perfectly dry and free flowing and always keep your refill container in a dry place. Adding a few grains of rice to the salt in the mill helps to absorb any latent moisture in the salt. The rice will be ground up with the salt and will be noticeable in your food.
Q: Can I put my mills in dishwashers or ovens?
A: No, Cole & Mason Mills cannot be put in dishwashers or ovens.
Q: What is the best way to clean my mills?
A: The best way to clean a mill is to use a damp (not wet), colorless cloth. After cleaning, dry the mill straight away - do not leave wet. The mechanisms should not be rinsed, submerged in water, placed on a wet surface or get wet in any way. Please do not use cleaning products on the mills, for example, anti-bacterial spray.
Q: Why has my mill gone rusty/moldy?
A: The primary reason why your mill would have rusted is water exposure. Putting the mill in a dishwasher, washing it in a sink, wiping it with a damp cloth and not drying after.
Incorrect storage, like leaving the mill in a damp place or leaving it outdoors could also cause rust.
Q: Why has the salt in my mill become discolored and is it harmful for me to still eat the salt?
A: Your salt mill could have gotten discolored due to water exposure, food residue stuck at the base, storing in a damp place or being left on an unclean surface. We would advise that you do not eat the salt and dispose of any that may have come into contact with the discoloration. If the mechanism has discolored, it cannot be washed and should not be used.
Q: Where are Cole & Mason salt and peppercorns sourced from?
A: Our salt is currently sourced from Belgium and peppercorns are sourced from Vietnam.
Q: What types of salt can be used in Cole & Mason salt mills?
A: You can use sea salt, rock salt and Pink Himalayan rock salt in mills with a nylon mechanism. However, we would recommend using a mill with a ceramic mechanism for prolonged use. Rock salt is harder than sea salt and will wear down the mechanism quicker over time. However this is less likely to happen with a ceramic mechanism.
Q: Can I use pink or red peppercorns in my mill?
A: No, red and pink peppercorns come from a berry. They naturally have more liquid, so we recommend not using these as it could corrode the mechanism.
Black and white peppercorns are recommended in our pepper mills. If you would like to use pink or red, use a mill with a ceramic mechanism or use our pestle & mortar.
Q: Is my mill covered by a guarantee?
A: Yes. All Cole & Mason Salt and Pepper Mills are covered with a mechanism guarantee (ranging from 10 Year to Lifetime). The mills themselves are covered by a 2 year guarantee. Accidental breakage and damage from misuse are not covered by the mechanism guarantee.
Q: How long is the manufacturer's guarantee?
A: For mills, our manufacturer's guarantee covers any other parts outside of the lifetime mechanism guarantee for 2 years from the date of purchase. On non-mill items, the manufacturer's guarantee is 2 years on all parts.
Bray Salt & Pepper Shaker Set
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