Purple clay Teapots are considered the best among Tea wares, perfect for brewing tea as they neither overpower the aroma nor introduce a cooked taste, which is why many people prefer using them.
While enjoying your purple clay teapot, it's important to “nurture” it properly. A well-nurtured teapot will have a warm and dignified appearance, exuding a subtle elegance. Neglect, however, can result in an unsightly sheen or uneven coloring, ruining the beauty of the teapot.
Let's discuss some key points to remember when nurturing your teapot.
1. After use, the purple clay teapot must be cleaned thoroughly; do not allow tea residue to accumulate.
The unique dual-pore structure of purple clay teapots allows them to absorb tea flavors, but you should not leave tea leaves in the pot just to nurture it. Over time, this can lead to the buildup of tea scale, also known as “tea mountain,” which is unhygienic.
2. When using the teapot, it's best to use a tray or place a mat under the teapot.
Many enthusiasts place their teapots directly on a tea tray, and when pouring water or tea, the liquid often spills over the bottom of the teapot. If not cleaned regularly, the bottom of the teapot may become stained.
3. Use one teapot for one type of tea, and avoid mixing different teas.
Purple clay teapots have absorptive properties, so it's best to use one teapot for one type of tea. Using the same teapot for various types of tea can cause flavor contamination. If you need to switch between teas, make sure to clean the teapot thoroughly.
4. Do not use detergent to clean a purple clay teapot.
Cleaning the teapot with plain water is sufficient; avoid using detergents. To remove tea scale, simply rinse the teapot several times and add a small amount of edible baking soda for cleaning.
5. After cleaning, let the teapot air-dry before storing.
After cleaning the teapot, there will be some residual water inside. Do not store it immediately; instead, let it air-dry and then place it in a well-ventilated area to preserve its condition.
6. Take care when handling and storing to avoid oil stains.
Ensure your hands are clean before using the teapot after meals. Also, take care not to Stain the teapot with oil. Oil stains are difficult to remove and can ruin the appearance of the teapot.
Daily Usage
Using the teapot daily and maintaining cleanliness contributes to its internal nurturing. Over time, it will naturally develop a lustrous patina. If tea is poured over the teapot and left without cleaning, it can easily stain the surface, causing uneven discoloration.
In summary, cleanliness is crucial during daily use, and the foundation of nurturing a teapot is keeping it clean!