A genuine purple Clay teapot should have no unusual smell when you purchase it. If there is any smell, it would typically be the scent from firing in the kiln, a smoky odor, or an earthy smell from the clay. The unusual smells we refer to are pungent odors, fragrances, or other types of odors.
So where do these odors in purple clay Teapots come from?
Chemically treated teapots: Chemical colorants are added to achieve desired colors, which can result in a pungent smell. For example, manganese oxide and cobalt oxide are used for coloring. Therefore, when buying a teapot, it's not recommended to purchase those that are brightly colored and eye-catching.
Improper storage: After using a Purple Clay Teapot for some time, if it isn't properly cleaned, tea residue often remains inside.
After Cleaning a purple clay teapot, some people like to use paper towels to absorb excess water inside. Purple clay has a double-pore structure that allows air to pass through but not liquid, making it easy for the teapot to absorb odors. If the paper towel used has a fragrance, it can easily be absorbed by the teapot. Therefore, when storing a purple clay teapot, it should be placed in a well-ventilated area, on a display shelf or tea table. It shouldn't be kept in a brocade box because the sponge inside the box might be glued with adhesive, and keeping the teapot inside can cause it to absorb the box's smell.
If during later use, the teapot inadvertently absorbs an unusual smell, it's suggested to recondition it by placing it in a clean pot filled with water and some tea leaves. Boil gently over a low flame, let it cool naturally after boiling, and then it will be fine.
Personal suggestion: During normal use, after brewing tea, promptly clean out the teapot, rinse it thoroughly with clear water, wipe the exterior with a tea cloth, and place it on the tea table… For teapots not currently in use, ensure they are cleaned and dried (to prevent mold), and store them in a well-ventilated area away from cooking fumes.