Teapots have a long-standing tradition that suggests tea residue can be left in the pot for an extended period, which helps "raise" the pot over time. However, if not properly managed, odors may develop, especially during summer when souring and mold are more common. These issues can negatively affect the pot's condition and lead to the buildup of internal tea deposits. Leaving tea soup inside the pot and allowing it to dry can contribute to this accumulation, so it's important to control the amount of residue and clean it at the right time.
One of the unique advantages of using a teapot lies in its material properties, which allow it to "communicate" with the user. The more care and affection you put into using it, the more it will reflect your dedication—becoming more lustrous, elegant, and charming over time. That’s why the best teapots should be used often rather than kept on a shelf. As the Ming Dynasty scholar Zhou Gaoqi once said, “After years of use, the pot becomes brighter as it is wiped daily.†This statement highlights the fundamental method of pot maintenance and enhancement.
Here are some key steps to follow:
1. When you first get a new teapot, you can gently rub it with fine sandpaper (avoid coarse ones), but many potters already do this before selling. Wipe off any dust with a cloth, then rinse the inner chamber. Place the pot in a larger container, add strong tea, and simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes. This process helps season the pot for the first time. Afterward, let it dry naturally before using it for tea. While this isn't strictly necessary, many people prefer to boil the pot twice with water to prepare it.
2. Whether it's a new or old pot, after pouring tea, the pot’s surface will be warm. At this point, use a damp cloth or felt to wipe it down and dry it thoroughly. Repeating this process consistently can help the pot develop its "natural glow" within a few weeks.
3. If the pot is left unused for a long time or if tea residue isn’t removed promptly, mold or bad smells might develop. To eliminate these, fill the pot with boiling water, pour out a little, and then immediately immerse it in cold water. This technique can remove odors effectively. If needed, repeat the process 2-3 times. There's no need to worry about the pot cracking from temperature changes unless it's a very delicate type like Zhu Mucang. As ancient wisdom says, “A pot filled with hot water should never be suddenly cooled with cold water.â€
4. Teapots are highly sensitive to dirt and grease. If they become sticky or oily, they can lose their charm. For light stains, simply rub them with your hands. If the oil is heavy, use a soft cloth with a mild detergent or a toothbrush with toothpaste to gently clean the surface. Rub it by hand until it shines again, revealing its natural beauty. However, don’t overdo it—preserving the original appearance of antique teapots is also a sign of authenticity and age.
5. In Taiwan, there are complete sets of teapots designed for traditional tea ceremonies. According to the book *Chinese Tea Ceremony* by Huang Dunyan, the practice of "cultivating the pot" aims to enhance its ability to "preserve the fragrance" and maintain its own subtle luster. This is because ceramic pots absorb moisture over time, and prolonged exposure to tea enhances their function of "supporting the tea."
Movie Water Fountain,Digital Water Curtain Fountain,Waterfall Fountain Wedding,Graphic Water Curtain
Guangzhou Dewy water fountain Technology Co., LTD , https://www.dewyfountain.com