Yixing Teapots

These Yixing teapots are the real deal, made from the special purple clay of Yixing, China, that's been prized for centuries. Each one is unglazed, so it soaks up the flavor of your tea and seasons over time, making every brew a little richer than the last.

  • Unglazed zisha clay
  • Handmade in Yixing
  • Sizes from 4 to 12 oz
  • For oolong, pu-erh, and black tea
  • ✓ Authentic zisha clay from Yixing, China
  • ✓ Unglazed interior seasons with each use
  • ✓ Excellent heat retention for multiple infusions
  • ✓ Handcrafted by skilled artisans

Why choose a Yixing teapot?

Yixing teapots are not just teapots; they're a tea lover's companion. The porous clay absorbs the tea's oils and flavors, so over time, the pot becomes seasoned and brews a richer, more complex cup. That's why we recommend dedicating one pot to one type of tea, like oolong or pu-erh, to let the pot develop its own character.

How to pick the right Yixing teapot

When choosing your Yixing teapot, think about the size that fits your tea ritual. A smaller pot (4-6 oz) is perfect for solo sessions or gongfu style, where you brew multiple short infusions. A larger pot (8-12 oz) is great for sharing with a friend or two. Also, consider the clay: zisha (purple) is the most common, but you'll also find duanni (buff) and hongni (red), each with subtle differences in porosity and color.

Caring for your Yixing teapot

Caring for your Yixing teapot is simple, but there are a few rules to follow. First, never use soap , it will clog the pores and ruin the seasoning. Just rinse with hot water after each use and let it air dry. Second, don't brew different types of tea in the same pot, as the flavors will mix. And third, store it in a dry place, away from strong odors. Granny's tip: if you're not using it for a while, put a few dry tea leaves inside to keep it fresh.

Clay Type Color Best For
Zisha Purple-brown Oolong, black tea
Duanni Buff/beige Green tea, lighter oolongs
Hongni Red-brown Pu-erh, black tea

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to season my Yixing teapot before first use?

Yes, it's a good idea. Rinse the pot with hot water, then brew a pot of the tea you plan to use, and let it sit for a few hours. Discard the tea, rinse again, and it's ready. This helps open the pores and remove any dust.

Can I use my Yixing teapot for all types of tea?

We recommend dedicating one pot to one type of tea, especially for strong teas like pu-erh or smoky oolongs, because the clay absorbs flavors. If you switch teas, the old flavors will come through and muddle the taste.

How many infusions can I get from a Yixing teapot?

Yixing teapots are great for multiple infusions. Depending on the tea, you can get 5-10 steeps, especially with oolong or pu-erh. The clay retains heat well, so each steep is consistent.

Is it safe to wash my Yixing teapot with dish soap?

No, never use soap or detergent. It will be absorbed by the clay and ruin the flavor of your tea. Just rinse with hot water and wipe the outside with a soft cloth. If there's stubborn residue, use a gentle brush with just water.

What's the difference between Yixing and other clay teapots?

Yixing clay is unique because it's highly porous and contains minerals that interact with tea, enhancing its flavor. Other clay teapots may be glazed or made from different clays that don't season the same way. Yixing pots are also unglazed, which is key to their function.