Using Yixing Teapots

Pots from the Yixing region of central China are renowned for their artistry and their tea-making ability. Each pot is handmade and is left unglazed. The semi-porous pot will absorb and influence the flavor of tea over time. For this reason, it is recommended that a single type of tea be used exclusively in any given pot. Oolong teas are traditionally brewed in Yixing pots, but green and puerh teas are also used.

SEASONING THE POT
Rinse the pot with warm water. Completely immerse the teapot and lid in a large pot full of water. Add the leaves of the type of tea you will be using with the pot. Use 1 teaspoon of tea per 8 oz. of water. Slowly heat the water, leaves, and teapot to ~190 degrees (just below boiling) and keep it there for about one hour. Do not let the water boil. Remover the pot from the heat and let it cool for 6-8 hours. Rinse the teapot well with warm water and repeat the process. Allow the teapot to cool and rinse it extremely well with hot water

CLEANING YOUR YIXING
Simply rinse your Yixing pot well with warm water after each use. Do NOT use any kind of soap and do not scour or scrub the pot. Over time, the pot will develop a rich patina. The surface may become glossier as the colors intensify. This is a natural and desirable transformation.