Cast Iron Teapot

Cast iron teapots are sturdily-made and intricately-decorated works of art. Their heavy-duty cast iron material makes them a favorite amongst teapot collectors and also makes the perfect gift. With all of the charming styles available, most people decide to own several different styles. A cast iron teapot or a tetsubin tea pot can last for years and can be passed down through generations if they are used and cared for properly. Here's how to use each for the first time, how to properly brew tea or heat water inside, and how to clean and care for them so they will last a lifetime.

First Time Use
Using cast iron teapots (with an enamel coating) for the first time requires gentle seasoning. For a cast iron teapot or a tetsubin tea pot (non-kettle style), simply rinse the inside of the teapot with warm water to wash away any factory residue and to warm the metal. Then, dry the tea pot surfaces off with a dry cloth or towel while it is still warm. The warming of the metal with the water will allow for better evaporation of the surface so it thoroughly dries.

On the other hand, for a cast iron tea kettle or kettle-type tetsubin tea pot that can go on the stovetop, a different seasoning method is required. To season, rinse the kettle out and then fill it with water as if preparing to make tea. Boil the water on the stovetop. To complete the seasoning, simply pour the water out of the spout and allow the kettle to dry with the lid open. This will allow for all of the moisture to evaporate and will avoid rust occurrence. Just like an iron skillet should be dried thoroughly to avoid rust formation, so should a cast iron tea pot or tetsubin be washed with warm water to evaporate any water residue.

Ongoing Use and Care
A cast iron teapot or tetsubin (non-kettle type) is meant for brewing tea. Hot water from another source should be added to the tea pot and then the tea can be brewed inside. Some ground rules for caring for this type of non-kettle teapot are:

1. Never place the teapot on the stove; the fragile enamel lining will be damaged
2. Do not use scratchy, abrasive sponges or dish soap as this will also compromise the enamel coating
3. Do not place the teapot in the dishwasher or microwave
4. To clean, simply rinse with warm water and dry with a clean cloth
5. Never add cold water to a warm teapot

A kettle-type tetsubin tea pot as well as cast iron teapots can be safely used on the stovetop. However, there are also some rules to follow to properly care for and clean the teapot:

1. Do not leave water in the teapot for extended periods of time
2. Do not rub the inside of the kettle with anything to clean it; simply pour the water out and allow it to dry
3. The outside of the teapot can be kept beautiful simply by wiping it clean with a cloth dampened in some tea
4. Never add cold water to a warm kettle

By following these guidelines for caring for a tetsubin tea pot or cast iron teapots, you can have years of enjoyment and elegant tea times!