A cast-iron teapot (tetsubin) with an enameled interior requires special care. The enamel protects the cast iron from rust, but it is susceptible to sudden temperature changes and mechanical damage. Proper maintenance will ensure that your teapot lasts for decades.
🧼 Before First Use: Rinse the teapot: Pour boiling water into the teapot and rinse it out.
Repeat the process: Do this step 2 to 3 times.
Dry it: Pour out the water and wipe the inside and outside with a dry cloth.
🛑 What to NEVER Do:
Do not use detergents or harsh chemicals: Detergents and scouring pads could irreversibly damage the enameled surface.
Do not put it in the dishwasher: Wash the teapot exclusively by hand.
Do not leave water in it: Empty the teapot immediately after finishing your tea. Water left standing for a long time causes corrosion in areas where the enamel is missing (e.g., on the rim of the lid).
Avoid thermal shock: Never pour cold water into a hot teapot. The enamel could crack.
Do not place directly over an open flame: Enameled cast-iron teapots with stainless steel strainers are designed for brewing and serving tea, not for directly boiling water on a high-heat stove.
⏱️ Regular maintenance after each use
Clean water only: After use, thoroughly rinse both the kettle and the strainer with warm or hot clean water.
Thorough drying: Wipe the exterior and interior dry with a soft cloth.
Air-drying: Let the teapot dry without the lid in a well-ventilated area. Do not replace the lid until the teapot is completely dry.
💡 Final tip:
Over time, a fine reddish or brownish coating may form inside the teapot. This is a natural tea sediment (patina) that is not harmful. On the contrary, it protects the interior and enhances the flavor of the tea, so do not try to scrape it off forcefully.