1. Core Tea-Brewing Equipment
As the foundation of tea preparation, this equipment directly influences the final flavor of the tea.
- Purple Clay Teapot: Ideal for fermented teas such as Pu'er and Oolong. Its breathable material can enhance the tea's aroma over multiple brews. When selecting, ensure it is odor-free and has a tight-fitting lid to lock in flavor.
- Glass Teapot: Perfect for green and white teas. Its transparent body allows you to watch the tea leaves unfurl, adding a visual enjoyment to the brewing process. Prioritize heat-resistant glass to avoid cracking when pouring hot water.
2. Tea-Dividing & Tea-Tasting Tools
These tools ensure balanced taste and a refined tasting experience.
- Fair-Shaped Teacup (Gongdao Cup): Evens out the concentration of tea, preventing the first pour from being too weak and the second from being too strong. Ceramic or glass materials are recommended for their durability and neutral impact on flavor.
- Small Tasting Cup: Choose a cup with a capacity of 50-80 ml. This size allows you to savor the tea’s aroma and taste in small sips. White porcelain cups are the best choice, as they highlight the natural color of the tea liquor.
3. Indispensable Auxiliary Tools
These small tools improve hygiene, convenience, and the ritual of tea preparation.
- Tea Strainer: Filters out tea dregs, ensuring the tea liquor is clear and smooth to drink.
- Tea Clips: Lets you handle teacups or tea leaves without direct hand contact, maintaining hygiene while adding a sense of ceremony.
- Tea Tray: Collects wastewater from brewing, keeping your table clean. Wooden trays need regular maintenance (such as oiling) to prevent cracking; bamboo trays are lighter and require less upkeep.
4. Crucial Storage Tools
Proper storage is key to preserving the tea’s freshness and original aroma.
- Tea Cans: Protect tea from moisture, odors, and light.
- Tin cans: Offer the highest airtightness, making them suitable for long-term storage of precious teas (e.g., aged Pu'er).
- Ceramic cans: More decorative, ideal for displaying on shelves and short-term storage of frequently used teas.
This list balances practicality and cost-effectiveness. Whether you are a beginner building your first tea kit or an experienced tea drinker upgrading your equipment, you can find suitable options here—turning every tea-drinking moment into a pleasant ritual.