A zisha Teapot, once in hand, marks the beginning of a bond between the pot and its owner. A true aficionado of teapots not only knows how to “read” a teapot but also how to use and care for it. Without the ability to “read” a teapot, one may find it difficult to acquire a desirable one; and if one does not know how to use or care for it, even an excellent teapot will be wasted. Therefore, mastering the correct methods of using and caring for a zisha teapot is essential for every collector.

Caring for a Zisha Teapot is Essential

Caring for a zisha teapot is a crucial aspect of collecting them. Storing a zisha teapot away as if it were a sacred object without using it is not the way of a true collector. The purpose of seasoning a teapot is to enhance its ability to retain flavor and fragrance, and to develop a patina (also known as “baojiang”) that becomes increasingly lustrous with use, reflecting a refined taste.

For example, a small red clay teapot, after long-term care, can become as red as southern red beans; a teapot decorated with calligraphy and engraving will see the three-dimensionality of its patterns enhanced, imbuing it with a scholarly air. Moreover, caring for a teapot can help identify the quality of the clay used; the better the clay, the better its breathability, and the faster the patina develops.

Some collectors only know how to use and admire their teapots but do not fully understand how to care for them. In reality, after firing, a teapot has a heavy “fire spirit” and its micro-porous structure is loose, making it brittle and susceptible to thermal expansion and contraction. Only through proper care can the teapot's “character” be changed. Even the finest zisha teapot lacks luster if not properly cared for.

Different Teas Require Different Zisha Teapots

Zisha teapots are well-suited for brewing Tea, though this is a general statement. Based on the experience of many tea lovers, zisha teapots are best for brewing semi-fermented or fully fermented teas. For example, Tieguanyin, Oolong, and Pu'er. Additionally,

the type of tea suitable for a particular teapot depends on both its shape and the clay used. It is important to note that regardless of the type of tea, once chosen, a zisha teapot should be used consistently for the same type of tea.

A Zisha Teapot Should Not Be Used for More Than One Type of Tea

Due to the unique double-pore structure of zisha, a teapot should be dedicated to a single type of tea to ensure the freshness and purity of its flavor. If one brews Pu'er today, oolong tomorrow, and floral tea the next day, the flavors will mix, greatly reducing the teapot's suitability for brewing tea.

Should a Zisha Teapot Be Cleaned After Use?

After using a zisha teapot during the day, it should be cleaned properly. This is a habit to cultivate when using a zisha teapot.

(1) Immediately remove the tea leaves after brewing and Rinse the inside and outside of the teapot thoroughly with hot water to maintain hygiene.

(2) Do not leave tea leaves or tea in the teapot to season it, as this will result in a foul odor and sourness over time, which can breed bacteria, harmful to both health and the teapot.

(3) Avoid using soap or cleaning agents to clean the teapot, as they can leave behind unwanted odors.

(4) After cleaning, wipe the teapot with a clean cloth to prevent unsightly water stains or tea residue. Also, slightly open the lid to allow any remaining moisture to dry naturally and avoid any unpleasant smells.

Over time, a teapot cared for in this manner will naturally develop a luster that is characteristic of zisha, achieving excellent results in seasoning. Seasoning a teapot requires patience and persistence. The effects of long-term use and care are most pleasing. Seeking quick results is not recommended, as boiling the teapot or applying oil will yield unnatural results without a sense of achievement. Seasoning a teapot is purely a form of self-entertainment.

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