Yixing Teapot, Purple clay

Expert Tips on How to Care, Clean, and Use Your Authentic Yixing Teapot

Authentic Yixing teapots, known for their unique craftsmanship and ability to enhance the tea-drinking experience, require proper care and maintenance to ensure their longevity and preserve their exceptional qualities

Cleaning is one of the most important aspects of Yixing teapot care. Being made from clay, they can absorb flavors and oils from tea, so proper cleaning ensures the teapot doesn’t accumulate undesirable residues.

  • Use ONLY water, never use kitchen dish detergents, soaps or alcohol. They can leave residue and affect the teapot’s ability to absorb the flavor of the tea
  • Use warm water and a soft brush to clean if needed.
  • Pay attention to the importance of gentle handling when soaking the teapot to prevent cracks or damage.
  • Use a soft clean piece of cloth to dry your teapot

TIP: Do not pour the water from the middle, but begin from the edge.

What to do after getting a Yixing teapot:
Put some used teas in the pot. Put the new teapots in the pot and cook until the water boils.
Leave the teapot inside the pot until the water cools down.

Seasoning Your Yixing Teapot

This video shows how to properly season a Yixing teapot before use, as well as how to maintain the seasoning for continued enjoyment

  • Seasoning helps build a layer of tea residue that enhances the flavor of tea brewed in the teapot.
  • Already brewed olong or pu-erh tea are commonly used in the process of Yixing teapot seasoning.
  • The teapot should be used regularly to build its seasoning over time and that it should not be washed with soap once seasoned.
Take the teapot out and wash it with hot water. Dry the teapot up with a clean towel.
Wipe the teapot with a towel gently, then leave the lid open to dry the teapot.

    Storage Tips for Yixing Teapots

    Proper storage of your Yixing teapot ensures it remains in good condition and is protected from environmental factors that could damage it.

    • Authentic Yixing teapots should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or excessive humidity, as these conditions can cause the teapot to crack or discolor.
    • A great way to protect your Yixing teapot is to keep it in a protective box or cloth bag when not in use.

    Taking proper care of your Yixing teapot is a must. The more care and attention you put into your teapot, the longer it will last, and the better the tea-drinking experience will be. This practice can enhance the character of the teapot and enrich the tea’s flavor with every brew.