Almost all enthusiasts of purple clay pots are also Tea lovers, as their love for Drinking Tea leads them to be particular about the utensils used for brewing, thus choosing the efficient purple clay pot.

To obtain a good tea-drinking experience, brewing is indeed an important step, but storing tea also has a significant impact. Many enthusiasts use purple clay pots for brewing and purple clay jars for storage, demonstrating great attention to detail.

However, just as there are rules for nurturing a purple clay pot when brewing tea, there are also specific considerations when using a purple clay jar for storing tea. Today, I will discuss how to properly store tea in a purple clay jar, so your tea can be preserved better.

1. Characteristics of Various Tea Jars

Tea is a dried product that can absorb moisture and become damp, leading to changes in quality. It strongly absorbs water, odd odors, and its aroma is easily lost (thus, tea can also be used as a deodorizer, placed in a refrigerator to absorb odd odors).

If tea is not stored properly, it can deteriorate. Therefore, the type of container used and where it's placed are important considerations. Tea jars were created to meet the needs of people looking to store tea.

Those with some knowledge about tea know that during storage, tea often develops a storage flavor. If a completely airtight tea jar is used for storage, odd odors cannot escape, affecting the quality of the entire contents of the jar.

Speaking of tea jars, do you know the characteristics of various types of tea jars for storing tea?

Containers made of bamboo or wood are suitable for storing heavily roasted teas. These containers are convenient for carrying around but not ideal for long-term storage. The container should have a mild, non-irritating odor to avoid the tea absorbing any unwanted flavors.

Tin containers have strong airtight properties and excellent heat and moisture insulation, making them suitable for most types of tea, especially Pu'er tea.

Lacquer containers are widely used in Japan and Taiwan and are aesthetically pleasing. Lacquer tea jars are typically used to store matcha and White Tea.

Silver tea jars are finely crafted and suitable for appreciation, handling, and display. Similar to tin tea jars, they are generally used to store green, yellow, and white teas, combining practicality with collectible value.

Compared to other materials, purple clay tea jars have better breathability, which is beneficial for the post-storage transformation of tea while preventing moisture from entering. They are particularly suitable for teas that undergo slight post-storage transformations, such as Pu'er tea and white tea.

2. What Should You Pay Attention to When Storing Tea in a Purple Clay Jar?

Purple clay jars differ from purple clay pots. Since the jars are used for storing tea, they should not be washed with water. The porous nature of purple clay would absorb too much water, and even if dried later, it wouldn't be as dry as fresh out of the kiln;

Regularly wipe the exterior with a dry cloth, and clean the interior by brushing out dust. Wring out a damp cloth and wipe several times before air-drying;

Purple clay jars that are not in use for a long time should be placed in a dry and well-ventilated area. Before storing tea, place a small amount of activated charcoal inside for a few days to ensure no moisture remains;

Newly acquired purple clay jars are not immediately suitable for storing tea.

3. Daily Placement of Purple Clay Jars

Avoid humid areas, such as windows exposed to rain, corners with high humidity, easily damp warehouses, kitchens, and bathrooms;

Once placed, ensure the mouth of the purple clay jar is sealed;

If placed against a wall, keep it 10-20 centimeters away;

In the relatively dry climate of northern China, there is less concern about dampness. However, friends in the south must be more careful.

4. Beyond Storing Tea: Other Uses for Purple Clay Jars

It would be a mistake to view a purple clay jar merely as a container for storing tea. Its purpose extends beyond simply storing tea; it is also an elegant utensil and an item for appreciation, a work of art.

Purple clay jars often feature mud painting or colored decoration. Unlike teapots, jars don't require spouts or handles, providing broader creative space.

During the Qing dynasty, the Imperial Workshops commissioned the production of purple clay items, including purple clay tea jars. The Palace Museum still houses purple clay tea jars that were once used by the imperial family.

A well-decorated purple clay jar is undoubtedly a beautiful craft that enhances daily life. Even if not used for storing tea, it is worth acquiring purely for decorative purposes.

When storing tea in a purple clay jar, with the right method, the dual-pore structure of the clay can be utilized to its fullest extent, promoting the aging of the tea without overpowering its aroma.

I hope this knowledge about storing tea will help you preserve your tea better and enhance your tea-drinking experience.