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The Japanese cast iron teapot turn out to be the best equipment to prepare tea because they allow it to keep all its flavor and will keep it warm (or at least lukewarm) for as long as possible.
Drinking tea in the afternoon or in the morning is a tradition for many people, because beyond a simple cup of tea, it is a real moment of relaxation that you can share with others or spend alone.
And even if you can make an infusion directly in your teacup or mug, having a teapot will really add to the experience and will make you a better and authentic tea.
But before we get into the comparison of the best cast iron teapots that you can find, it is important to highlight the main points that will allow you to pick the right one.
See the 8 Teapots list now
Or read this important introduction about choosing the most suitable Japanese Cast Iron Teapot for your needs first:
How to choose a Japanese cast iron teapot?
The first thing to consider when buying a cast iron teapot is its capacity.
Making tea for a single person who is going to have only one cup is not the same as making tea for a family or for a tea lover who is going to drink four or five cups all day long and who doesn’t want to make a new infusion every time.
So, decide what you actually want or need before you go into research.
Outstanding sustainability
If you buy a cast iron teapot today, then we can guarantee it will last for at least a decade. Cast iron materials are known for their exceptional durability (specially those made in Japan)
The price of a cast iron teapot, especially of pure iron, is higher. The reason for this is that, sometimes, cast iron teapots from the 1800s can be found in modern households and the advantage is that such teapot will serve well to your children and even your grandchildren.
Without any chemicals
Another advantage of the cast iron teapot is that it is made of pure iron. As a result, you will never be exposed to chemicals such as perfluorocarbons(Fluorocarbons).
The latter is a substance found in some modern teapots. And we know that substance can heavily damage the liver.
May Help your Iron Deficiency
Iron deficiency is one of the world’s major public health problems. Because of unbalanced nutrition, people, even in rich countries, lack iron.
When you use a non enamel lined cast iron teapot, you will be less susceptible to such deficiency. By boiling the tea in this teapot, some amount of iron will mix with the tea, so it serves as nice way to supplement with additional iron to your diet.
This way of brewing your tea should give you all the iron you need. And if you are afraid of these iron leaks, know that there is no risk for your health, as the amount is far from any dangerous levels.
But these minimal doses can fill your iron deficiency if it’s not too severe. Note that this will not replace your balanced diet or taking supplements if recommended by your doctor. But the cast iron teapot would reduce the problems related to the lack of enough iron in your diet.
Why choose a Cast iron Teapot? Are there any Advantages?
Tea preparation is an art in itself. It is not enough to put the tea leaves in a kettle and wait for the magic to happen. Infusion is the main secret of making a wonderfully delicious tea.
By combining the proper infusion time, the right types of tea leaves and obviously a nice cast iron teapot. will give you a tea experience you will seek to enjoy everyday.
Keep in mind that you can have the best tea leaves in the world, but your tea will be wasted if you don’t use the right accessory. The cast iron teapot is an ancient tradition that will ensure you get things done right with an enjoyable results.
With an authentic cast iron teapot you can make a great tasting green tea, oolong tea or black tea. You may even try the Puerh tea that is gaining popularity recently among tea connoisseurs. Or you could make the delicious and sweet looking Sakuracha: Japanese Cherry Blossom Tea
By following this advice you will have no trouble extracting the flavor that has delighted many tea lovers for centuries. In addition to fighting iron deficiency, this type of teapot will allow you to have a unique flavor to your tea.
And when we talk about unique flavor, we’re really talking about a flavor that’s specific to your tea preparation. If you use the same types of tea, then your teapot will absorb them over time and make your next tea even better : ).
Cast Iron Teapot allows for Better extraction of nutrients from the Tea Leaf
Another reason to choose a cast iron teapot is its heat absorption. The cast iron absorbs evenly and more heat. The result is that you will have an intense and perfectly homogeneous heat throughout the teapot. This will allow the teapot to extract all the nutrients in your tea leaves.
Not only will your tea be more fragrant, but you will have a perfect connection of nutrients intermixed in the boiling water. You can also use a glass teapot. But the cast iron will preserve the heat better.
Then you won’t need a thermos. Your tea will stay warm for at least 60 minutes or more. And this teapot will be more resistant to breaking too. Even if you drop it from a some high point. It may have bumps here or there, but it will still be 100% functional.
And now lets take a brief look at its origin and history.
History of the Japanese Cast iron Teapot
The history of cast iron kettles and teapots dates around 900 years ago, at the beginning of the 12th century, in the (now) famous region of Tohoku (north of the main island of Honshu). In China, the manufacture of iron kettles (Satetsu) began as early as 1100 AD.
The specific type of cast iron teapot closest to what we use today is called “Tetsubin” in Japanese and dates back to the 17th century when it was introduced in Japan from China along with the preparation of sencha tea.
Although traditionally made in Japan for hundreds of years, the Japanese cast iron teapot did not become popular until the 18th and 19th centuries, when demand gradually increased over the years until the start of World War II. Designs from this era vary from minimalist and uncluttered to intricate art pieces with incredible decorations.
The best teapots include high quality handmade ornaments and are often decorated with gold or bronze inlays. Some of these models have been included in museum and private collections, although in limited numbers. This is because teapots were – and still are – made on a relatively small scale by master craftsmen.
In the late 90s, a new type of design, created especially for European and Western markets, introduced brighter colors. As some ateliers began to collaborate with international designers, the traditional tetsubin entered a new chapter and became a highly valued sought-after product all around the world.
Our list of the Top 8 Japanese cast iron teapots to guide you in your choice:
Note: Among the 8 teapots, the last one from IWACHU Brand is the only one in the list which is 100% made in Japan.
Primula Cast Iron Teapot
Blue Floral Design w/Stainless Steel Infuser,34 oz (The most Stylish)
With its relatively large capacity, it allows you to serve more than four cups and is suitable for use in a working environment with colleagues or when you are camping.
It has a stainless steel infuser that can be removed for cleaning, which is very practical.
It’s best to rinse with clean water and avoid washing it with any cleaning detergent.
Rust Formation: Oxidation may occur at the handle and lid if the Teapot is not frequently cleaned, dried and maintained properly.
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- Stove-top safe : no, it’s better to heat the water before pouring into the teapot to avoid damaging the painting design.
- Filter/tea infuser inside : yes
- Item weight: 3.6 pounds
- Enamel coating on the inside : yes
Hwagui Cast Iron Teapot Tea Kettle
With Stainless Steel Infuser, Black 23 oz/27 oz/41 oz (The most Practical)
This teapot with a strong design is made to last.
A beautifully and efficiently manufactured piece that allows it to keep a tea warm for a long time. The heat from the boiling water is evenly and quickly distributed by the cast iron material and infuses the tea homogeneously for a perfect and great tasting result.
This teapot is available in three capacities, i.e. 650 ml, which allows you to make two to three cups, 800 ml version for four large cups, and 1200 ml which will may be a little heavy to handle when full.
Rust Formation: Oxidation may occur at the handle and lid if the Teapot is not frequently cleaned, dried and maintained properly.
- Stove-top safe : yes, low to medium heat is recommended
- Filter/tea infuser inside : yes
- Item weight: 3.27 pounds
- Enamel coating on the inside : yes
Sotya Tetsubin Tea Kettle
1200ml, Black (The most Popular)
This teapot has a beautiful line with an elegant and practical handle, its notable feature that makes it stand out is its large capacity of 1.2 liter, which may seem too much for some, so we recommend you to fill it only at 3/4 of its capacity for everyday personal use.
Its other strong point is its double use as a Kettle and a Teapot. It could be filled directly with water and placed on the fire with the leaves added inside or they can be placed into its removable stainless steel filter and brewed.
We found that the handle and the cover lid behave perfectly when you pour without falling, so it is safe to use the teapot without having to hold the lid from above.
The teapot is glazed and is completely made of cast iron, which gives a much longer conservation of the heat from hot water, but make sure to properly dry it after use to avoid the formation of small rust spots.
Rust Formation: Oxidation may occur at the handle and lid if the Teapot is not frequently cleaned, dried and maintained properly.
- Stove-top safe : yes, low to medium heat is recommended
- Filter/tea infuser inside : yes
- Item weight: 3.85 pounds
- Enamel coating on the inside : yes
Optier Cast Iron Teapot
Multiple Colors, 22 oz/ 30 oz/ 32 oz/ 40 oz (The most Affordable)
The Optiar teapot allows gradual and even heating. It will help infuse the greatest amount of flavor from the tea leaves into the water.
This teapot serves 1-2 people, 2-3 mugs when the tea kettle is full-loaded. The stainless-steel infuser helps separate tea leaves from the water, which can be removed and cleaned easily.
The material of this cast iron tea kettle is sturdy and protects the teapot from being damaged easily, which greatly extend the life of cast iron teapot. The fully enameled interior helps preserve the taste of the tea original and pure and allows for easy care.
This cast iron teapot is crafted with the modern wave pattern on its surface, which is a symbol of natural simplicity and purity
Rust Formation: Oxidation may occur at the handle and lid if the Teapot is not frequently cleaned, dried and maintained properly.
- Stove-top safe : yes, low to medium heat is recommended
- Filter/tea infuser inside : yes
- Item weight: 3.19 pounds
- Enamel coating on the inside : yes
Bredemeijer Jing Teapot
1.25-Liter – Blue (The most Robust)
It will certainly find its place among the favorite accessories in your kitchen.
Why buy it ?
This cast iron teapot model is known for many advantages including :
- it will keep your tea hot for 30 minutes to an hour depending on your ambient temperature
- It is carefully designed to retain the flavor of the tea
- Its Asian design appeals to almost everyone
- An easy-to-use and practical teapot
- relatively cheap model
Sufficient capacity
For fans of one of the most consumed drinks in the four corners of the globe (tea), this teapot has a capacity of 1.25 L, which allows you to prepare a large amount of tea in a short time.
Note that it comes with a removable stainless steel filter, which is handy, sturdy and easy to wash accessory.
An easy-to-wash cast iron teapot
This teapot is very easy to clean. Why? Because its interior is enameled. It is therefore enough to wash it with hot water, and not forgetting to dry it well to avoid the appearance of rust, which would be nasty.
For this reason it is strongly recommended to wash and dry well this bredemeijer teapot when it’s not in use.
- Stove-top safe : yes, low to medium heat is recommended
- Filter/tea infuser inside : yes
- Item weight: 4.63 pounds
- Enamel coating on the inside : yes
Japanese Style Cast Iron Tetsubin Teapot
with Tea Cups Trivet Magpie on the Plum Design (The Gang Fu style)
Cast iron teapots conducts and retains heat much better than any other type teapot material you’ll find in the market. There’s a good reason so much people swear by and love their cast iron pots and pans. In addition to its excellent conductivity properties, cast iron also becomes “seasoned” with use. When it comes down to tea, seasoning will greatly enhance the taste of the tea over time as the teapot absorbs some of the flavor of the tea with each subsequent use.
The capacity of the teapot is about 3 1/2 cups, which is quite a lot of tea for the traditional teacups without handle that come with the set, which are also made of cast iron. Unlike the expensive and very fragile Chinese clay tea sets that can’t be heated over a stovetop. This set is virtually indestructible.
It’s a really well crafted complete tea set, perfect for entertaining your guests or just for bragging to your friends. You just can’t fully appreciate the details and craftsmanship just by looking at the photos. You have to hold it in your hands to appreciate its beauty and quality.
For the price of a beautiful cast iron teapot, you can get a full set of matching pots, mugs, and trivets. You’ll love this set and will be glad you bought it. If you enjoy the art of Chinese, Japanese or Korean tea, you will love this set for sure.
- Stove-top safe : yes
- Filter/tea infuser inside : yes
- Item weight: 6.45 pounds
- Enamel coating on the inside : yes
KIYOSHI Luxury 7PC Japanese Tea Set.
“Turquoise Koi”
Since it’s made out of cast iron, one thing to keep in mind is to be careful not to burn yourself as it can get quite hot to the touch. Other than that, the teapot is a wonderful product, especially if you are a dedicated tea lover, like me :-).
- Stove-top safe : yes
- Filter/tea infuser inside : yes
- Item weight: 7.04 pounds
- Enamel coating on the inside : yes
Iwachu Japanese Cast Iron Tetsubin Teapot (The Made in Japan Teapot)
Medium, Black Hailstone Pattern
If you are looking for one of the best cast iron teapots on the market, the Iwachu Japanese Cast Iron Tetsubin Teapot authentic model is sure to please you!
Piece of art! Beautiful decor in the house. Japanese quality!
💡 Check the 7 best high Japanese quality cast iron products from Iwachu Brand in this detailed guide
A teapot of the right size
Intended to hold about 1.25 L of tea, this teapot can serve up to 4 people. It has a good capacity and fairly wide diameter. People who are looking for a teapot that can hold a sufficient amount of tea for the whole day will be totally satisfied by this cast iron teapot.
The model really stands out for its generous size. And really, having a diameter of 21 cm, it can contain more tea than most other models.
Its built-in filter, made of stainless steel, is very practical and easily washable. Also, this beautiful teapot can make tea quickly due to its heat conducting material. Its heavy weight is justified by the quality of the cast iron it is made of. This original teapot will also have the benefit of genuinely wowing your guests while serving them a hot delicious tea.
This teapot, can also be used in a dishwasher. After washing, be aware that this model requires the use of a clean towel to wipe it dry. The teapot will regain its original basic appearance after washing without the quality deteriorating. So there you have it. A very trendy stylish teapot, with great value for the money and very easy to use.
Although it must always be dried properly after washing to avoid rust, it satisfies its users with stylish design and practicality. That’s why we give it a high rating in our list.
- Stove-top safe : Not recommended to use over an open flame
- Filter/tea infuser inside : yes
- Item weight: 2.94 pounds
- Enamel coating on the inside : yes
💡 Check the 7 best high Japanese quality cast iron products from Iwachu Brand in this detailed guide
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are there any benefits of using a cast iron teapot?
Aside from being sturdy and making a wonderful traditional Japanese tea, there are some supposed health benefits when using a cast iron teapot too. As we mentioned earlier, a non enamel lined cast iron teapot may help you alleviate a benign iron deficiency. Though, you shouldn’t rely on the teapot to completely satisfy your daily iron needs, for this you’ll have to ensure to have a proper and healthy diet.
Can I brew any type of tea in a cast iron teapot?
Basically, yes. You can make any traditional loose leaf, herbal, green, black or oolong tea in your cast iron teapot as you do in a ceramic teapot. Just make sure you follow the specific tea preparation methods as they are different for each type of tea.
How long should I brew the tea in my cast iron teapot?
The brewing time will differ with each type of tea you use, so there is not an universal measure for how long you should be brewing your favorite tea. Usually the more tea leaves you add and the longer you brew the tea, the stronger the taste and more elemental nutrients will be releases. So, keep that in mind.
Criteria for choosing a cast iron teapot
When you want to buy a cast iron teapot, you have to look carefully at its origins.
If the Teapot is made in Japan, then it’s the best choice. But Western brands are also inspired by the Japanese know-how in this field.
Regarding brands, Bredemeijer, Deuba or Iwachu are very well known for cast iron teapots. They usually offer pure cast iron products and teapots.
Some models will also feature a stainless steel filter. Despite this touch of modernity, it does not affect the quality or the flavor of the tea you make in them.
Check the origin and Materials the Teapot is made of
One of the problems nowadays is that manufacturers are using the term cast iron teapot for many of their models.
We saw teapots, that mention cast iron in their product description, but are actually made from an alloy coating. Check that the teapot has a Tetsubin design. This clearly indicates original and traditional Japanese design .
Real Tetsubin cast iron teapots are quite hard to find and are rare as they are made of pure iron by following a specific centuries old Japanese tradition in making teapots.
And what makes them even more unique is, that they are entirely handmade by local artisans.
Check The quality of the Teapot
When you go through the different cast iron teapots. Check the origin of the manufacture. You will get the best products if they come from Japan.
Don’t hesitate to check the origin of the seller and ask for the materials that make up the teapot. And in the product description, check whether they mention pure iron or cast iron as a production material.
A rust protection coating
Although the cast iron teapot can last for decades, it is vulnerable against rust. This is why some manufacturers apply oxidation treatment on the inner wall. The material of the teapot remains cast iron, but the surface that is in contact with your tea is protected from rust formation.
Aesthetics
When we talk about the tea ceremony, aesthetics is crucial. Fortunately, most cast iron teapots have a very neat design. You can have really nice patterns that cover the entire teapot.
But you can also have different shapes and forms. Even if we recommend keeping the classic design of a Japanese Teapot, a more original aesthetic look can’t hurt, right. But you also need to know how you’re going to keep in balance with your kitchen.
If your kitchen is purely modern style with stainless steel in every corner, your cast-iron teapot is going to really stand out the landscape.
The capacity of your teapot
The cast iron teapot is usually available in several capacity versions. Generally, you will have teapots ranging from 0.5 to 1.2 liters. The price varies a little with the different capacity, because it is the design and the overall look that will determine the final price.
If you are enjoying your tea alone, then a small 0.8 liter or 0.5 liter teapot is more than enough for your needs. On the other hand, if drinking tea is a ritual you do with your friends, then take the 1.2 liter model just to be safe.
Some Tips and Precautions when using a Cast iron Teapot
In order for it to last for many years, you have to properly take care for your cast iron teapot. We’re giving you some general advice below.
- No detergent or other washing products – never wash your cast iron teapot with detergent or other washing products. You must rinse it with hot water after brewing your tea. Use the water and rinse it with your bare hands. Then use a dry, soft cloth to wipe the teapot.
- No abrasive cloth or other modern cleaning equipment – it is a traditional accessory and should be cared for the old-fashioned way.
- No microwave or dishwasher – also never put the teapot in a microwave or dishwasher. This could cause irreparable damage.
- Avoid keeping the tea for a long time – when you have prepared the tea, avoid keeping it in the teapot for hours. The leaves or the tea may stick to the bottom. In general, do not keep the tea for more than 60 minutes.
- The Teapot is only for tea – do not use the teapot for other preparations except tea. This preparation requires skills and care. And if you put in other ingredients, then they might release aromas that may stay in the teapot and spoil your next teas.
Final thoughts
So, when choosing your next cast iron teapot make sure it is from proven origin (preferably Japan), it’s made from cast iron and it suits your aesthetes needs. Most important of course is the teapot you choose makes you the fragrant and delightful tea you are seeking. We hope this guide has helped you in making your choice on the best Japanese cast iron teapot for your home tea brewing.
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