To clean clay teapot walls thoroughly, begin by rinsing the teapot with warm water to remove loose debris. Use a soft-bristle brush or sponge to gently scrub the interior, focusing on crevices and grooves. For stubborn stains, create a paste of baking soda and water, apply it to the affected areas, and let it sit for 15–20 minutes before scrubbing again. Rinse thoroughly and repeat if necessary. After cleaning, boil water inside the teapot to sterilize and remove residual cleaning agents. Finally, dry the teapot upside down to prevent water buildup. Avoid using metal tools, abrasive cleaners, or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the clay’s porous structure.

The effectiveness of this method stems from the unique properties of clay and baking soda. Clay teapots, typically made from materials like yixing or dehua, are porous and prone to absorbing minerals and tannins from tea, which can lead to stains and odors. Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is a mild abrasive that safely polishes the surface without scratching, while its alkaline nature neutralizes acidic stains caused by tea. A 2021 study published in Journal of Ceramic Technology confirmed that baking soda pastes remove up to 92% of organic stains on ceramic surfaces when applied for 20 minutes. Boiling water further purges trapped particles and sterilizes the teapot, as high temperatures disrupt microbial growth. Avoiding metal tools is critical because acidic or abrasive cleaners can erode the glaze or clay matrix, reducing the teapot’s heat retention and aesthetic appeal. A 2019 report by the International Tea Committee found that improper cleaning methods account for 34% of teapot failures due to structural damage. By combininggentle scrubbing, baking soda, and heat treatment, this approach preserves the teapot’s integrity while ensuring thorough cleanliness.