When storing Pu'er Tea, it's important to ensure it is sealed, protected from light, free of odd odors, well-ventilated, and kept at a moderate temperature and humidity.
Generally speaking, there are three methods for storing Pu'er tea. The first method involves placing the tea in a Kraft Paper bag, squeezing out excess air, sealing the bag, and keeping it in a study or tea room. The second method is suitable for frequently accessed or opened Pu'er tea, which can be wrapped in cotton paper and stored in a jar. The third method is for whole bundles of Pu'er tea, which should be stored in their original packaging and sealed in a cardboard box.
Three Methods for Storing Pu'er Tea
Method One: Kraft Paper Bag
For individual cakes or small quantities of Pu'er tea, Kraft paper bags can be used.
1. Take a clean Kraft paper bag, place the Pu'er tea inside, squeeze out any excess air, and seal the bag. Most bags have zip closures for convenience.
2. If you have several cakes, package them individually and store them in a dry area such as a study or tea room, ensuring good ventilation.
For areas with excessive moisture, it's best to have a Dehumidifier and a hygrometer on hand.
Under normal weather conditions, the dehumidifier isn't needed; just maintain the indoor humidity. During prolonged rainy days, close the windows and doors of the small room and turn on the dehumidifier to create a relatively dry indoor environment.
Method Two: Ceramic Storage
This method is suitable for frequently accessed or already opened Pu'er tea, ideal for short-term storage.
1. Choose a ceramic pot or jar and place the tea cake inside.
This is because ceramic products allow for good ventilation and breathability, making them very suitable for storing Pu'er tea. This method can also be used to air the tea.
2. After each use, cover the jar and return it to its original location, allowing it to naturally ventilate, remain dust-free, and prevent foreign objects from entering.
Method Three: Cardboard Box Storage
Cardboard boxes are a practical method that is convenient for home storage and doesn't take up much space.
If your Pu'er tea cakes are part of an intact bundle, storing them is simple: use the original packaging and seal them in a cardboard box.
1. When using cardboard boxes, pay attention to any odors the box may have. Ensure that the box you obtain is clean and free of any smells. If there is an odor, let it sit for a while until the smell dissipates before storing the Pu'er tea cakes.
2. If storing in a cardboard box, keep the tea in its original packaging if possible. For smaller quantities, wrap them in aluminum foil or Kraft paper bags before placing them in the box.
When storing in cardboard boxes, be mindful of the weather; in humid climates, such as in southern China, the moisture can easily dampen the cardboard. It's also important to store the boxes off the ground and away from walls.