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Before first use

Rinse every piece with warm water and let it dry. Check the product page for anything specific to that item.

Borosilicate glass

Most of our glass teapots and cups are made of borosilicate glass, which handles hot water well. Even so, avoid sudden changes in temperature: do not pour boiling water into glass straight from the fridge, and do not rinse a hot pot under cold water. Do not put glass on a hob or open flame unless the product page says it is suitable. Clean with a soft sponge and a little washing-up liquid.

Porcelain and ceramics

In cold weather, warm a cup or pot with some hot water before you fill it with boiling water. Glazed porcelain is easy to keep clean; let unglazed bases dry completely before you put them away. A small knock against a hard surface can leave a hairline crack, so set pieces down gently.

Painted and decorated pieces

Pieces with ink-wash painting, gold or rose-gold details, or metal parts are best washed by hand with a soft cloth. Avoid scouring pads and strong cleaning products, and do not put them in the dishwasher or microwave.

Bamboo, walnut and other wood

Handles, saucers, lids and tea trays made of wood or bamboo do not like to soak. Wipe them with a damp cloth, dry them straight away and let them air-dry fully. Keep them away from radiators and direct sunlight. If the wood looks dry, rub in a few drops of food-safe oil now and then.

Tea trays

Empty the water tray after every session, rinse it and leave it open to dry so no water stands overnight.

Portable tea sets

Empty, rinse and dry every part before packing the set back into its case. A case closed while still damp can start to smell or grow mould.

Tea stains

Tea leaves a natural film over time. Soak the piece in warm water with a spoonful of baking soda or citric acid for 15 minutes, then rinse well. Do not use bleach.

Dishwasher and microwave

We recommend washing all teaware by hand. Never put pieces with wood, bamboo, metal or painted decoration in the dishwasher or microwave.

When to stop using a piece

Stop using glass or ceramics that are cracked or chipped, especially with hot water.

Storing tea

Keep tea in an airtight container in a cool, dry and dark place, away from strong smells such as spices or coffee. Use a clean, dry spoon. After opening, green and lightly oxidised oolong teas taste best within a few months; darker teas keep their flavour longer.

Storing dried fruit

Close the pack well after opening and keep it in a cool, dry place. In warm or humid weather, keep it in the fridge. Use it by the date on the pack.

Brewing at a glance

• Green tea: 75–80 °C, 2–3 minutes
• Oolong: 90–95 °C, 1–3 minutes, several short infusions
• Black and dark tea: 90–100 °C, 3–4 minutes
• Herbal and flower teas: 95–100 °C, 5–7 minutes

Taste and adjust: more leaf and shorter steeping gives a fuller cup with less bitterness.