People choose Yixing clay pots for drinking Tea, not only because they enhance the aroma of the tea but also because these pots can be “nourished.” Nourishing the pot refers to the jade-like luster that appears on the surface of the Yixing clay pot after a period of use and care. This luster radiates from within, is subtle yet bright, has an ancient elegance, and is much loved by many people.

In fact, to nourish a pot, one must first select the right pot. If the clay material isn't suitable, even if you cuddle with it every day, it might not yield any results; it would be like trying to catch fish by hugging a tree. If, under normal use and care, a Yixing clay pot shows no change after a month, then it's considered unsuitable. Secondly, we need to understand that a Yixing clay pot is primarily a practical utensil. Using it frequently to brew tea fulfills its purpose and is the best way to nourish the pot.

The saying goes, “A jade without polishing is not a fine object; a Teapot without nurturing lacks spirit.” Only through frequent use and care can a Yixing clay pot truly come alive. Before brewing tea in the pot, rinse it with hot water to wake it up and preheat the pores, which will help absorb the tea later.

The first infusion of tea is usually for rinsing the leaves. The rinse water can be used to pour over the pot, making good use of what would otherwise be discarded. Of course, if you prefer a cleaner approach, you could use the second infusion instead. After pouring tea over the pot, use a soft-bristled brush or a special pot-nourishing pen to gently brush the surface. Why?

This helps distribute the tea evenly across the pot and prevents residue and scale from accumulating on the surface, which could block the pores. After doing this, take some time to enjoy your tea. Don't rush; don't miss out on the wonderful fragrance. When you're almost done drinking, pour more tea over the pot while it's still warm and use a damp cloth or a tea towel to wipe it down. Be careful not to apply too much force, as scratching the surface would be counterproductive.

Additionally, when you have a moment between sips, take the pot in your hands and fondle it. This will transfer a tiny amount of oil and sweat onto the pot. Not only does this nourish the pot, but over time, a bond forms between the pot and the person, creating a sense of unity that is truly delightful, like having a trusted friend. Lastly, after finishing your tea, remember to rinse the pot with clean water promptly, wipe it dry with a soft cloth or tea towel, and leave the lid open to air dry naturally.

While it's true that a Yixing clay pot can keep tea fresh overnight during summer without spoiling, leaving it soaked for extended periods is not beneficial. Therefore, the pot should have times of use and rest, which allows it to fully absorb the tea each time, helping it to mature faster.

New pots may have a slightly earthy smell. To address this, place the pot in water with tea and simmer on low heat until boiling, then turn off the heat and let it cool. Repeat this process two or three times. It's recommended to use lighter teas, such as Green Tea, rather than darker ones like Black Tea or Pu'er. If there are moldy residues in the pot, clear them out, rinse with boiling water, and then immerse the pot in cold water. Repeating this several times should eliminate any unpleasant odors. In addition to these steps, avoid exposing the pot to detergents or oils, as these can result in a glossy and unappealing appearance.

Zhou Gaoqi of the Ming dynasty said, “After long-term use, daily cleaning brings out a dark luster that shines like a mirror when held in hand.” Achieving this “dark luster” is the ultimate goal of pot nurturing. Reaching this level is not difficult; regular use and attention will get you there. Remember, nurturing a pot doesn't require much effort; a few simple actions during tea time suffice.

There are many methods for maintaining a Yixing clay pot. Let's start with a detailed procedure.

Initiating the Pot (Opening the Pot)

Before using a new pot, it needs to be prepared, a process known as initiating the pot. There are various ways to do this. Here's one method:

1. Boil the pot in plain water for at least one hour.

Specifically, separate the lid from the body and place both in a pot of cold water. Place the pot on a stove and slowly heat it to boiling point over a low flame. After one hour, turn off the heat. This step uses thermal expansion and contraction to release the earthy smell and impurities contained within the pot.

2. Boil the pot, along with a piece of old tofu, in fresh water.

Follow the same method as above, for at least one hour. This step is called removing the fire taste, aiming to eliminate the smoky flavor imparted by high-temperature firing during the pot-making process.

3. Boil the pot, along with a piece of fresh sugarcane, in fresh water.

Follow the same method as above, for at least one hour.

4. Boil the pot, along with tea leaves, in fresh water.

Follow the same method as above, for at least one hour.

After completing these four steps, the Yixing clay pot is ready for use.

Nourishing the Pot

Once a new pot has been initiated, it can be used, and the process of nurturing the pot begins. Compared to initiating the pot, the process of nurturing it is longer and requires patience.

Always focus on enjoying tea while nurturing the pot, not the other way around.

Nourishing a pot is akin to cultivating one's character. A well-nourished pot should have a “subtle” color, with a luster that is “restrained,” like a humble gentleman, dignified and stable.

The methods of nurturing a pot vary widely, but their fundamental principles are essentially the same. They generally involve the following six points:

1. Thoroughly wash the inside and outside of the pot.

2. Avoid contact with oil and grease.

3. Use tea juice to moisturize the surface of the pot.

4. Wipe and brush moderately.

5. Clean and dry the pot after use.

6. Allow the pot to rest periodically.