Many customers ask whether Japanese kyusu teapots require special “pre-treatment” before first use.
These care instructions apply mainly to Japanese stoneware teapots such as Tokoname and Banko kyusu.
Most Tokoname and Banko teapots are fired at sufficiently high temperatures and can simply be rinsed thoroughly with warm or hot water before first use.
Unlike some lower-fired or more porous pottery, boiling Tokoname or Banko teapots in rice water is generally unnecessary.
Pre-treatment Before First Use
Some people recommend boiling pottery in rice water before first use. This practice may occasionally be beneficial for certain porous ceramics depending on the clay and firing method.
Because pottery characteristics vary considerably, it is often advisable to consult the shop or craftsman from whom the piece was purchased.
For most wheel-thrown Tokoname and Banko kyusu, however, simply rinsing the teapot thoroughly with warm or hot water is sufficient.
Boiling teapots in rice water may occasionally cause problems if starch residue remains inside the teapot. If the teapot is stored before it has completely dried, mold may develop inside the pot, particularly when it is kept inside a box or enclosed cabinet.
Drying and Storage
After rinsing or using your teapot, allow it to dry completely before storing it on a shelf or inside a box.
This is especially important for unglazed clay teapots, which may retain moisture inside the body or lid for some time after use.
Proper drying helps prevent unwanted odors, mildew, and mold growth.
Removing Tea Stains and Residue
Over time, tea residue may accumulate inside the teapot. If this begins to affect the flavor of the tea, soaking the teapot overnight in warm water with a small amount of baking soda may help remove the buildup.
In areas with hard water, mineral deposits may reduce the effectiveness of baking soda cleaning and make stains more difficult to remove.
Some tea drinkers have also found unscented denture cleaning tablets effective for removing tea residue. If used, the teapot should be rinsed thoroughly afterward with clean warm water.
Caring for Ceramic Mesh Filters
Care should be taken when cleaning delicate ceramic mesh filters such as sasame.
Excessive brushing or vigorous scrubbing may eventually damage the fine ceramic mesh over time.
This is especially important for ceramic mesh filters with very fine holes.
For most teapots, gentle rinsing with warm water is sufficient for regular care.
Tea Stains and Aging
Over time, unglazed Japanese teapots may gradually develop a richer surface tone through regular use. Many tea drinkers appreciate this natural aging process as part of the character of the teapot.
Small changes in color and surface appearance are therefore considered normal in many Tokoname and Banko teapots.