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Teapot care tips:
When you first get a new teapot, it's important to properly prepare it before using it for the first time. This process is known as "opening the pot."
1. **Boil in plain water**: Separate the lid from the body and place both in a cold pot of water. Heat slowly until boiling and let it sit for at least an hour. This helps release impurities and allows the clay to adjust to temperature changes.
2. **Cook with old tofu**: After boiling in plain water, add some old tofu and cook again for an hour. This step, called "de-fire," helps remove any harshness caused by high-temperature firing during the pot’s creation.
3. **Add a piece of tender cane**: Boil the pot with a small piece of tender cane (like a sugarcane tip) in clean water for another hour. This adds a subtle sweetness and enhances the pot’s character.
4. **Brew with tea leaves**: Finally, boil the pot with some tea leaves in water for at least an hour. This helps infuse the pot with the aroma of the tea and prepares it for long-term use.
Once these steps are complete, your teapot is ready to be used.
**Raising the pot** is the next phase—this is where the teapot truly begins to develop its character. Unlike opening, raising takes time and patience. It should be done gradually while brewing tea, not the other way around. A well-raised pot will have a soft, lustrous finish, often described as “quietly radiant.â€
Here are six key principles for raising a teapot:
1. Keep the inside and outside of the pot clean.
2. Avoid contact with oil or grease.
3. Moisturize the pot with tea juice after each use.
4. Gently brush the pot with a soft brush.
5. Dry the pot thoroughly after each use.
6. Allow the pot to rest between uses.
In practice, this means always keeping the pot clean, especially avoiding oil. When brewing, start by pouring hot water over the pot’s exterior, then into the inside—this is called “rinsing the pot.†Use a soft cloth to wipe the surface, and never leave tea residue in the pot, as it can cause stains over time. For zisha (purple clay) pots, letting them dry for a few days between uses helps maintain their porous structure.
**Common mistakes to avoid**:
- Never use sandpaper or abrasive materials to clean the pot. This can damage the delicate surface.
- Don’t leave tea overnight in the pot. It can turn sour and harm the pot’s structure.
- Don’t drink directly from the pot. Always make a full pot of tea for drinking.
Raising a teapot is a slow process that requires dedication. The quality of the pot itself plays a big role—only a good clay pot can truly be raised to its full potential.
A high-quality teapot should have three main qualities:
- A harmonious design with balanced proportions.
- Excellent craftsmanship.
- Practical functionality, such as comfortable grip and smooth spout.
Even the most expensive teapots will lose value if not properly cared for. Raising a teapot is more than just maintenance—it's a meaningful ritual that connects you to the art of tea.
When you pour tea into the pot, the liquid helps the pot absorb flavor over time, creating a unique patina. Some people even pour tea directly onto the pot after brewing, allowing it to dry naturally. This process helps the pot develop a rich, glossy sheen known as “tea soup pot.â€
For new pots, it's normal to have a slight earthy smell. You can gently rub it with fine gauze, then boil it in strong tea to help it mature. After a few months of consistent use, the pot will begin to show a soft, natural glow.
Regular cleaning with a soft brush or toothbrush helps maintain the pot’s appearance. Over time, a layer of “slurry†forms on the surface, which is a sign of proper care. Some people even use their hands to polish the pot, as the oils from your skin can enhance its shine. However, avoid using detergents, as they can strip away the natural finish.
There's also a traditional method involving grinding tiles into powder and wrapping it in gauze to gently clean the pot. Today, fine abrasive powders can be used instead for the same effect.
With time, patience, and care, your teapot will become a cherished part of your tea ritual.