Teaware that is properly cared for performs better, looks more beautiful, and lasts a lifetime. Here's how to clean and maintain the most common types of teaware — without damaging them.
The First Rule: No Soap on Unglazed Clay
The most important rule in teaware care: never use soap, detergent, or dishwasher on Yixing clay teapots. The porous clay absorbs everything — including soap residue — which will contaminate future brews. For all other teaware, mild soap is acceptable but usually unnecessary.
Caring for a Yixing Clay Teapot (紫砂壶)
- After each use: Empty the leaves, rinse thoroughly with hot water, and allow to air-dry completely with the lid off.
- Never use soap — only hot water. The natural oils from tea season the pot over time; soap removes this seasoning.
- Dedicate to one tea type — oolong, puer, or red tea. Mixing different teas in the same pot dilutes the seasoning benefit.
- Do not wipe with cloth while hot — let it cool naturally.
- Seasoning a new pot: Rinse with boiling water, then brew a few sessions of the tea you plan to use it for before treating it as "ready".
- Store uncovered — let it breathe. Do not store with the lid sealed tight.
Caring for a Gaiwan
- Most gaiwans are glazed porcelain — safe to rinse with hot water and occasionally mild soap.
- Rinse immediately after use while still warm — tea stains are easier to remove.
- For stubborn stains inside a white gaiwan: soak in warm water with a small amount of baking soda for 30 minutes, then rinse.
- Glass gaiwans: clean like glassware — hot water, gentle handling. Avoid sudden temperature shock (don't pour cold water into a hot glass).
Caring for Glass Teapots and Kettles
- Rinse with hot water after each use.
- For tea stains: fill with warm water and a tablespoon of white vinegar or baking soda, let sit 15 minutes, then rinse.
- Avoid sudden temperature changes — let glass cool before adding cold water.
- Handle with care — glass teapots should not be placed directly on open flame unless specifically rated for it.
Caring for Tea Cups (Piala)
- Glazed ceramic cups: rinse with hot water after use. Occasional mild soap is fine.
- Jian Zhan (tenmoku / oil spot glazed) cups: rinse with hot water only. The mineral glaze can react with detergents.
- Glass cups: standard glassware care applies.
Caring for Chabans (Tea Trays)
- Bamboo chabans: wipe dry after use. Never soak in water — bamboo will crack and mold.
- Wood chabans: same as bamboo. Dry immediately after use.
- Stone or resin chabans: rinse freely, dry with a cloth.
Removing Tea Stains
Tea stains (from tannins) are natural and develop on most teaware over time. On white porcelain they may look unsightly. To remove:
- Soak in warm water with baking soda for 20–30 minutes.
- Or rub gently with a cut lemon half.
- Rinse thoroughly afterward.
Teaware at Gaba Tea House
We carry a full range of quality teaware — from Yixing clay teapots and handcrafted gaiwans to glass kettles and hand-painted cups. Explore our Teaware collection →