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The History of Cast Iron Teapots

The History of Cast Iron Teapots
By Georgina Wilson 6 years ago 12274 Views No comments

Originally created in Ancient China, the cast iron teapot has become a widely-known traditional Japanese artefact as more people are now drinking loose teas. The designs of the teapots include different symbols which have a range of meanings, such as joy, strength, happiness and blessings. The traditional name for a teapot is tetsubin and the way tea is brewed is called kyūsu. Over time, the designs have evolved, with the style or design of the teapot reflecting the class or desired class of the owner, therefore becoming a status symbol in society.

Benefits of a cast iron teapot

These teapots are extremely durable and are made to last. Cast from Iron, these teapots are coated internally in enamel to make it easy to clean and prevent rusting. Cast iron has exceptional thermal conductivity which allows the tea to stay hotter for longer than conventional ceramic or glass teapots. Equipped with a removable stainless steel mesh infuser, these teapots are perfect for brewing loose tea leaves. The strainer allows you to enjoy the very best that the tea has to offer in terms of flavour, without the chunks of bitter leaves ending up at the bottom of your cup.

Our styles of teapot:

The “Tilly Brook” teapot is designed in the traditional Japanese tetsubin style that symbolises strength. The design is simple and stunning and is available in 2 sizes.

23 Aug 2018 14:19:41


The Dragonfly” teapot is styled on the traditional Japanese teapot which featured a dragonfly on the side. The traditional name for dragonfly in ancient Japanese is "kachimushi", meaning victory insect. The dragonfly is celebrated in many pieces of Japanese art, representing power and agility. It was often found on the uniforms of Japanese soldiers and Samuri to show off their strength. This cast iron teapot's design is classic and finished in a navy-blue.

The “Bamboo” basket teapot is styled on a basket and represents the collection of happiness in your life. The light green/grey finish is calming and is suitable for a range of loose teas.

Brewing tips for the perfect cuppa:

23 Aug 2018 14:26:26

  • Pre-heat the cast iron teapot with hot water first, tip out and then add leaves and water as normal. This allows the pot to remain hotter for longer!
  • Tea can be served at different strengths
  • For strong tea, leave to strew for several minutes
  • If you like it weaker, then pour soon after adding water.
  • You can continue to add water, meaning the supply of tea will last longer but will get weaker the more water you add. This works well with Chinese Teas such as Oolong, Green and Jasmine tea whereby the taste becomes less bitter the weaker it is.

[Photograph: Vicky Wasik]

The benefits of drinking loose and herbal teas:

For centuries, it has often been stated that drinking tea has a range of health benefits. Loose tea has larger leaves, meaning you get more of the good nutrients and related health benefits. Different teas can bring different benefits.

  • Green tea can help to regulate high blood pressure and improve blood flow.
  • Oolong tea has a great source of vitamin C, can help with weight loss, lower cholesterol and relax you.
  • Pu-Erh tea aids digestion and weight loss, and has a high level of vitamin C.
  • Black tea is rick in fluoride, promotes bone strength and reduces fatigue.

Herbal teas can have a range of health benefits too, from calming chamomile that helps with sleep, to peppermint tea that is good for your digestive system.

Click here to see the rest of our Cast Iron Teapots & Kettles.

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