Teapot Guide & FAQ
Your Complete Guide to Yixing Teapots
Basic Knowledge
What is a Yixing teapot?
A Yixing teapot is a traditional Chinese teapot made from zisha (a rare type of clay) found in the Yixing region of Jiangsu Province, China. These teapots are highly valued for their ability to enhance the flavor and aroma of tea. Over time, the porous clay absorbs the tea’s essence, which can subtly improve the taste with each brew. They are also prized for their craftsmanship, with many being handmade and artistically decorated.
What makes Yixing clay unique?
Yixing clay is unique because it’s a special clay that’s naturally porous. This allows it to absorb the flavors and aromas of the tea brewed in it, gradually enhancing the taste over time. It also has excellent thermal stability, preventing off-flavors, and with regular use, the teapot develops a smooth, glossy finish that adds to its beauty.
Why is Yixing teapot popular among tea lovers?
Yixing teapots are popular among tea lovers because they are handmade with great skill, and their special clay gradually enhances the flavor and aroma of tea. The making process is extremely demanding, as shaping and firing the clay is difficult, resulting in a low yield and making each teapot rare and valuable.
Choosing a Teapot
1. How to choose your first Yixing teapot?
When choosing your first Yixing teapot, the key is to focus on the type of tea you drink most often. A good teapot should help the tea fully release its aroma and flavor. Start with a teapot that suits your personal tea-drinking habits, rather than trying to match it to every type of tea. Also, consider craftsmanship—handmade teapots with well-fired clay are ideal, as they enhance the tea’s taste and aroma over time.
2. What size teapot should I buy?
Yixing teapots are generally categorized by capacity:
Small (under 150 cc): Best for solo drinking, enjoying quiet moments.
Medium (150–300 cc): Suitable for a small group of friends.
Large (over 300 cc): Ideal for gatherings, or when you want multiple servings.
For beginners, a medium-sized teapot is usually a good starting point—it’s versatile for one to three people. Frequent tea hosts may need several teapots, as different teas or brewing methods require separate pots to avoid mixing flavors.
3. How to match teapot shape to tea leaf size?
The correct approach is to first consider the type of tea and its characteristics:
Fermented teas like black tea need a small-mouth, tall pot for better infusion and aroma concentration.
Pu’er or aged teas benefit from larger, round or square pots that allow more space for leaves to expand and release flavor.
For unfermented teas like green or white tea, wider, shorter pots allow gentle brewing without over-extraction.
In short: choose the pot shape to suit the tea, not the other way around. The goal is to let the tea leaves fully express their aroma and taste.
4. Is a lighter teapot always better?
Not necessarily. While lighter teapots are easier to handle, the weight alone does not determine quality. Heavier or well-balanced teapots can improve heat retention and brewing control, which is especially important for certain teas. What matters most is the clay quality, craftsmanship, and how well the teapot suits your tea and brewing style.
Tea Set Pairing
1. Teapot and Tea Cup Pairing
A Yixing teapot pairs best with small Yixing cups or porcelain cups, with cup size matched to the pot’s capacity; the shape of the cup also affects the tea experience, as narrow mouths concentrate aroma while wider mouths suit slower sipping.
2. Teapot and Tea Tray Pairing
A tea tray with horizontal grooves is ideal, allowing water to drain easily. It should be larger than the teapot for stability and convenience, and the tray’s material or color should complement the teapot for a harmonious look.
3. Teapot and Fair Cup (Gongdao Cup) Pairing
A fair cup should match the teapot’s capacity to distribute tea evenly, ideally made of glass or porcelain to preserve aroma and allow observation of the tea color, ensuring smooth pouring from pot to cup.
4. Teapot and Tea Strainer
If you want to filter tea leaves inside a Yixing teapot, you can use a tea bag, which completely contains the leaves, but the tea cannot fully expand inside the pot, which may affect the release of aroma. Using loose leaf tea is generally better. Some Yixing teapots have built-in filters at the spout—either a spherical mesh or multiple small holes—that can block larger leaves to some extent. Others have a single large hole, which allows more leaves to pour out; in this case, you can use a stainless steel ball filter in the spout to prevent leaves from escaping. Alternatively, you can place a strainer over the cup to filter leaves outside the pot, though some people feel that metal filters may slightly affect the tea’s aroma. There is no absolutely “correct” method—some people don’t mind swallowing a few leaves—so the key is to find the method that works best for you.
5. Overall Tea Set Style Pairing
The teapot and its accessories—cups, tray, and utensils—should coordinate in style, color, and pattern to form a visually pleasing, functional tea set that balances aesthetics and practicality.
Brewing Tea
How to clean a new teapot before use?
New teapots often have surface dust or residue from hand shaping and kiln firing, so it’s important to clean them before first use. Start by rinsing the teapot with clean water (tap water is fine) to remove kiln ash and clay particles. Next, pour boiling water over the outside of the teapot to preheat it—this helps prevent cracking. Then fill the teapot with boiling water for about one minute, and discard the water. Rinse the teapot again with clean water, alternating between hot and cold water. Finally, pour boiling water over the exterior to warm the teapot once more, then fill it with boiling water for another minute and discard it. After this process, the teapot is ready for use.
How much tea should I put in a Yixing teapot?
Fill the teapot about 70% full with loose leaf tea to allow room for the leaves to expand.
How hot should the water be?
Use near-boiling water for black, oolong, and dark teas (around 90–100°C / 194–212°F) and slightly cooler water for green or white teas (70–85°C / 158–185°F).
How to pre-warm a teapot?
With the lid on, pour hot water in a circular motion around the outside of the teapot. Then open the lid and pour hot water in a circular motion inside the teapot. This prevents cracking and helps maintain steeping temperature.
How to pour water correctly?
Pour slowly in a circular motion over the tea leaves to ensure even saturation and avoid splashing.
How long should tea steep in a Yixing teapot?
Steeping time depends on tea type and leaf size—generally 30 seconds to 2 minutes for the first infusion, longer for subsequent brews. Adjust based on taste.
Should I close the lid during brewing?
Yes, closing the lid helps maintain temperature and allows the tea to infuse evenly.
How to pour tea without dripping?
Tilt the teapot steadily, pour in a controlled stream, and finish with a slight twist to prevent drips.
How to use a tea tray with a teapot?
Place the teapot on a tray with grooves or drainage to catch spills. A tray also helps organize cups and utensils neatly.
Can I brew multiple teas in one teapot?
It’s best to use one teapot for one type of tea. Yixing clay absorbs flavors, and mixing teas can affect taste.However, if you want to use multiple types of tea, that’s completely fine, as long as you feel it doesn’t negatively impact the flavor.
Care & Maintenance
How to clean a teapot after each use?
Rinse the teapot thoroughly with clean water, both inside and outside, right after use. Avoid scrubbing too hard—just swirl water inside and gently wipe with a soft cloth to remove tea residue.
Can I use soap to clean a Yixing teapot?
No. Soap or chemical detergents can be absorbed by the clay, altering its aroma and flavor. Always clean with plain water, or use food-grade baking soda for occasional deeper cleaning.
How to remove tea stains?
For stubborn stains, gently scrub with a soft brush or cloth using warm water and a little baking soda. Avoid abrasive tools like steel wool to protect the teapot’s surface.
How to dry a teapot naturally?
After rinsing, leave the teapot with the lid off in a dry, well-ventilated place. This allows moisture to evaporate and prevents odors or mold.
How to prevent mold inside a teapot?
Empty and rinse the teapot promptly after each use, keep the lid off while drying, and store it in a dry area with good air circulation. Avoid sealing it in airtight boxes while still damp.
How to handle a teapot crack?
Small hairline cracks can sometimes be stabilized by gentle use, but deeper cracks usually require professional repair, such as kintsugi or ceramic mending. Avoid using it with boiling water if the crack is severe.
How to store a teapot between uses?
Keep it in a clean, dry place away from strong odors and direct sunlight. If possible, store it separately from other items to avoid bumps, and leave the lid slightly open to maintain airflow.
Tea & Teapot Pairing
Black Tea / Dark Tea / Ripe Pu-erh → 200 ml, stable full-bodied shapes such as Shipiao or Fanggu.
Oolong Tea (Wuyi Rock Tea, Tie Guan Yin, Dan Cong) → 120–180 ml, tall or round shapes such as Lishi, Duoqiu, Duo Zhi.
White Tea / Raw Pu-erh → 180–220 ml, upright and stable shapes such as Shipiao.
Green Tea → 150–180 ml, tall elegant shapes such as Handuo or Qinquan, lid can be kept open when brewing.
Shou Mei (White Tea) → 180–200 ml, upright shapes such as Dezhong to preserve thickness while allowing aroma to settle.
Lao Liu Bao (Dark Tea) → 200–220 ml, heavier stable shapes such as Shipiao for mellow and rich brews.
Aged Oolong (10+ years) → 180–200 ml, round body shapes like Xishi or Fanggu to balance aged aroma and mouthfeel.
Tuocha (Compressed Pu-erh) → 200–220 ml, Shipiao shapes for full extraction.
GABA Oolong → 120–160 ml, tall shapes such as Lishi Shape to highlight aroma concentration.
Jin Jun Mei (Black Tea) → Xishi or Rongtian shapes to enhance sweetness and smoothness.
Oriental Beauty (Bai Hao Oolong) → 120–160 ml, rounder shapes such as Duoqiu to retain delicate floral-honey fragrance.
Fu Brick Tea → 200 ml+, stable shapes like Shipiao for deeper, thicker infusions.
Authenticity & Craftsmanship
How to Tell if a Teapot is Real Yixing Clay
A genuine Yixing clay teapot has a matte surface with no overly bright or artificial colors. The texture feels warm and smooth to the touch, but not slippery. If you gently rub the lid against the teapot’s rim, you should hear a pleasant sandy, raspy sound. When you open the lid and smell the inside, there may be a faint earthy scent but never a sharp chemical odor. With the lid on, pour hot water over the exterior—the water will not bead into large droplets, but instead spread evenly into a thin film before being slowly absorbed by the clay.
What Seals Are Found on a Yixing Teapot
A traditional Yixing teapot typically features three seals: one on the base of the pot (base seal), one on the underside of the lid (lid seal), and one beneath the handle or on the handle’s root (handle seal). These seals usually bear the potter’s name, studio name, or an artistic inscription, serving both as a signature of craftsmanship and a mark of authenticity.
How to Check the Craftsmanship Quality
Examine the teapot’s proportions, symmetry, and balance—handles, spouts, and lids should align perfectly. The lid should fit snugly, with no wobbling, and pour smoothly without dripping. The clay surface should be even in texture, with clean trimming and no rough, unintended bumps or scratches. For functional quality, check that the water flow from the spout is steady and stops promptly when you tilt the pot upright.
How to Read a Potter’s Seal
To read a Yixing potter’s seal, first look at the characters to see if they indicate the maker’s name, clay type, or production date. Check the script style—seal script, clerical, or regular—and observe whether the seal is raised (relief) or carved in (intaglio). Genuine seals are usually clear and well-defined, while fakes may be shallow or blurry. Comparing the seal with reliable references helps confirm the potter’s identity.
Are Famous Potters’ Teapots Worth the Price
Teapots made by recognized masters can be worth the price due to their artistry, rarity, and collectible value. However, the premium is often for the craftsmanship and signature, not just functionality. If your main goal is brewing tea, a well-made pot by a skilled but lesser-known artisan can perform just as well. For investment or collection purposes, famous potters’ works can appreciate over time, provided they are authentic.
History & Culture
If you’re interested in the history and culture of Yixing teapots, you can check out our article: The Ultimate Guide to Yixing Zisha Teapots: Everything You Need to Know.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is TEAPOTARTISAN?
We are a family-run business specializing in handcrafted Yixing teapots. There are no middlemen—we craft and sell directly, ensuring you receive teapots straight from the source. Plus, we’re committed to providing service that leaves every customer satisfied.
What is Yixing teapot?
A Yixing teapot is a traditional Chinese teapot with a history of over 500 years, crafted from a unique clay called zisha. Each teapot is meticulously handmade by skilled artisans. The special properties of zisha clay enhance the aroma and flavor of tea, making every brew rich and fragrant. For more details, feel free to explore our in-depth article about it.
Do you offer a money-back guarantee?
Yes, we offer a 30-day unconditional return policy after you confirm receipt of your order.
How much does it cost?
Our prices vary based on the teapot's quality and craftsmanship. Each teapot has a detailed product page. Please visit our product page for more information.
Where can I learn more about you?
You can explore other sections of this website, such as the "About Us" page or our blog, to learn more about our company, mission, and team.
How to Use a Yixing Teapot?
Using a Yixing teapot isn’t difficult at all! The most important thing is to handle it with care and avoid bumps or drops, as repairs can be quite tricky. For a step-by-step guide on how to use your teapot, check out our detailed guide!
Why Choose a Yixing Teapot?
At TeapotArtisan, every Yixing teapot is entirely handcrafted by us, making each piece truly one of a kind. Each teapot carries its own unique and beautiful design. The premium zisha clay enhances the aroma of tea with every brew, creating a richer experience over time. Whether you’re enjoying a solo tea moment, sharing tea with family, or hosting a business tea session, a Yixing teapot offers an unforgettable experience for every tea lover.
How do I season a new Yixing teapot?
Since the teapot is made and fired during its crafting and firing process, there may be some dust residue left on its surface. To season your new Yixing teapot, simply rinse it with warm water first, then follow up with two rinses using boiling water. Just be sure to handle with care to avoid burns!
Can I use one teapot for different types of tea?
Yes, you can, but it’s not recommended. A Yixing teapot is best suited for brewing one type of tea, as it will gradually absorb the flavors and aromas, becoming more aromatic over time with consistent use for the same tea.
How do I choose the right Yixing teapot?
It all depends on your personal preferences! Whether you prefer a round or flat design, one with carvings or clay painting, or a larger or smaller size—these options are all available on our product pages. If you're unsure about which teapot is best for your tea, feel free to email us. We’d be more than happy to help!
Can Yixing teapots go on direct heat?
No, Yixing teapots should not be placed directly on a flame or used to boil water. While the teapot is fired at high temperatures in the kiln, exposing the finished teapot to direct heat from an open flame can cause the surface to darken or even result in cracking. It's best to avoid using it on direct heat.
What tea is best for Yixing Zisha teapots?
Yixing Zisha teapots are ideal for loose leaf teas like black, green, oolong, white, and yellow tea. Tea bags can be used, but loose leaf tea brings out the best flavor.