Seasoning (often called “opening” the pot) simply means cleaning a new pot and getting it ready for the tea you plan to use. Many elaborate methods circulate online; a gentle approach is safer for the clay and works perfectly well.

What you need

• Your new pot and its lid
• A clean pan or bowl large enough to hold the pot
• Hot water (not violently boiling if the pot sits in the pan)
• A small amount of the tea you plan to brew in this pot

Step by step

• Rinse the pot inside and out with warm water to remove dust from the kiln and packaging.
• Place the pot and lid in a clean bowl and pour hot water over them until covered. Leave for 15–30 minutes, then let the water cool naturally.
• Rinse again and check the spout and filter holes for any clay particles.
• Brew a pot of the tea you plan to use, let it steep for a few minutes and pour it away. Repeat once or twice.
• Dry the pot with the lid off in a well-ventilated place.

What to avoid

• Detergent or soap – the porous clay can absorb the scent.
• Sudden temperature shocks, such as pouring boiling water into a cold pot straight from an air-conditioned room.
• Boiling a pot in a pan with other pots touching it – they may chip.

Everyday care

After each session, empty the leaves, rinse with hot water and leave the lid off to dry. Over months of regular use, the surface develops a natural sheen. There is no need to polish it with tea or cloths – regular brewing does the work.