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Science Popularization: What to Do When Pu-erh Tea Gets Moldy?

Tea News · Sep 02, 2025

 Storing Pu-erh tea requires a well-ventilated and dry place. If stored improperly, it may develop mold. Tea mold generally manifests as white hairs on the tea leaves, accompanied by a musty smell. Severely moldy tea may also clump together and develop green mold. Mold not only affects the taste but may also harm health.

 


 

So, what should we do if the stored Pu-erh tea gets moldy? Here are a few correct handling methods to ensure you can store tea easily and enjoy drinking it happily.

 


Using a Cloth

 

For raw Pu-erh tea, if the surface is moldy, use a slightly damp, clean cloth to wipe off the moldy parts. Store it in a ventilated, dry place—avoid sun exposure or heating. Repeat this daily for half a month or a month, and the mold should disappear.


 

Time Consideration

 

If the mold remains after a month, consider the tea's quality. High-quality tea from ancient trees may improve after a few months, especially after rainy weather. For ordinary, low-priced tea, it is better not to drink it.

 



Breaking Apart

 

For ripe Pu-erh tea that has developed mold, the best method is to break apart the clumps or small clusters. Place them in a bamboo basket in a ventilated, dry area, turning them several times daily. After half a month or a month, the mold should be gone.

Mold on Pu-erh tea is mainly due to poor storage. Pu-erh tea should be stored in a ventilated, dry place, avoiding direct sunlight. So, if your Pu-erh tea develops mold, never sun-dry it!

Related links: Golden Pearl Pu-erh, Golden Flower Fu Brick Tea

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