A commonly used method to store white tea is the “three-layer packaging method,” which involves preparing a cardboard box, an aluminum Bag, and a plastic bag. First, take out the white tea and put the tea leaves into the aluminum bag, squeezing out the air and sealing it. Then place an outer layer of plastic bag over it and tie the bag's opening securely. Take a five-layer corrugated cardboard box, put the tea inside, and seal it with tape. Finally, store the tea in a dry, cool room free from odors, keeping it off the floor and away from walls.
White Tea Storage Methods
1. Hot Water Bottle Storage Method
Hot water bottles are common tools with good airtightness and stable temperatures, making them ideal for storing white tea. To store white tea using a hot water bottle, simply place the tea leaves into a new hot water bottle and seal it.
2. Refrigerated Storage Method
Storing tea in the refrigerator is a common method. Seal the tea in Bags or tea cans and store them in the refrigerator, ideally at 5°C. For home storage, first, seal the white tea in a tin foil bag and then place it in a high-density, strong, odorless, sealed plastic bag before refrigerating. If you plan to consume the tea within 20 days, storing it in a dry, cool place will suffice. For long-term storage (over one year), place it in the refrigerator separately to maintain its original color.
3. Charcoal Storage Method
The charcoal storage method works because charcoal can absorb moisture and odors. Store an appropriate amount of charcoal in a small cloth bag at the bottom of the container where you keep your tea. Place the packaged tea in layers on top, and seal the container. Replace the charcoal every month.
4. Canister Storage Method
The canister storage method is a common, convenient, and practical way to store tea. Place the tea in a tea canister to prevent crushing. Choose a tin canister if possible, followed by iron or paper canisters, ensuring that the canister has good airtightness.
5. Quicklime Storage Method
The quicklime storage method is similar to the charcoal method. Before storing, use quicklime to absorb moisture and then store the tea in a sealed, dry container. Since the dry leaves of white tea have a loose texture with many pores and are highly absorbent, avoid storing them near cosmetics, camphor balls, or other items that emit odors. It's best to store them separately; otherwise, the tea may absorb unwanted flavors, making the tea unpalatable.
Precautions for Storing White Tea
1. Sealed Storage
The natural aging of white tea comes from the natural conversion of substances within the tea, so it must be stored in a sealed container, such as a sealed tin can, a Ceramic can with a tightly sealed opening, or a tin can.
2. Avoid Light Exposure
Light causes oxidation on the surface of the tea, affecting its taste.
3. Store at Room Temperature
White tea does not require refrigeration. Also, avoid placing it near radiators in northern winters.
4. Store in an Odor-Free Area
Tea contains high-molecular-weight palmitic acid and terpenoid compounds that readily absorb various odors, so avoid exposing it to mixed or strange smells.
5. Store in a Dry Place
Only tea with low moisture content can be stored for long periods without spoiling, so also avoid exposing it to moisture.
In summary, when storing white tea at home, pay attention to sealing, dryness, avoiding light exposure, and keeping it in an odor-free environment. Additionally, do not handle the tea directly when taking it out or using it. As long as the white tea is of good quality and stored properly, it will become “more fragrant with age.”