Different types of teapots

The cast iron teapot is a classic model. It is the ideal teapot for preparing tea in keeping with ancestral traditions. It is used for all types of tea, even intense teas that require a longer steeping time.
The cast iron teapot has a unique design, allowing you to serve your tea elegantly, especially if you have a complete tea set. It retains heat well, so you can enjoy a good hot cup of tea for a long time.
There are two types of cast iron teapots:

• The enameled cast iron teapot, also known as Tetsu kyusu, is used to brew tea — you cannot boil water in it. Most of the time they are fitted with a removable stainless steel filter. The interior is enameled to last over time and resist rust. It is generally made of ceramic and stoneware, then cast in an iron-carbon alloy.

• The cast iron kettle, known as Tetsubin, is used to boil water — that is its primary function. The interior is not coated with enamel. It is its surface that allows iron to seep into the water during boiling, which gives the tea a different taste, making it richer and less bitter. Tea prepared with the cast iron kettle is ideal for people who lack iron but particularly enjoy tea and do not wish to give it up.

These teapots will appeal to those who enjoy preparing tea following ancestral traditions.

The electric teapot

The electric teapot, not to be confused with the kettle — they are sometimes called tea machines. There are capsule electric teapots.
Electric teapots consist of a pourer, an integrated infuser, and a lid. You can prepare several cups of tea depending on the capacity of the pourer. You may find certain options such as:

• the automatic shut-off to prevent the tea from steeping too long,
• the kettle function,
• the self-plunging basket — the tea basket is removed as soon as the infusion is complete,
• removable parts: the pourer or the self-plunging basket to make cleaning easier.

Some tea machines allow you to prepare one to two cups, using loose leaf or bagged tea. They work like capsule teapots.

With the capsule electric teapot or tea machine, you can only prepare one to two cups, like coffee makers. The steeping time can be programmable or set according to the capsules.
They are very practical for daily tea consumption and will allow you to enjoy tea at the right temperature and appreciate the quality of your tea quickly. They will fit perfectly into the design of your kitchen.

The glass teapot

The glass teapot is ideal for delicate teas that require a short steeping time. It is also used for all kinds of infusions: green tea, black tea, white tea, and blooming tea. The transparency of the glass teapot allows you to watch the tea brew and to see more easily when the infusion is done. The transparency offers a visual experience in addition to a tasting experience.
Glass is a durable, aesthetic material, resistant to scratches, corrosion, and rust; it does not absorb odors. It is also 100% recyclable. It remains fragile and retains little heat. The tea will not stay hot as long as in a cast iron teapot or an electric teapot. The smooth surface of the glass makes cleaning easy.
There are different models of glass teapots: the borosilicate glass teapot, the glass kettle teapot, and the glass teapot for travelers.

Borosilicate glass teapot

The borosilicate glass teapot is made of a special glass that can withstand temperatures between -20 and 150°C, which allows it to be used as a kettle. If you use it as a kettle, don't forget that the handle will be hot, as it is also made of glass. The tea will stay hot as the glass retains heat well.

Glass kettle teapot

It can be used on all types of heat sources except induction hobs. The tea is prepared directly on the heat, unlike the enameled cast iron teapot where the water must be heated beforehand. It can be used to heat water, making it very practical — no need for a kettle in addition to a teapot. If you use it as a kettle, don't forget that the handle will also be hot as it is made of glass too.

Glass teapots for travelers

You can take your teapot with you and enjoy your tea. There are different models:

• the glass flask with infuser with a protective cover to prevent the glass from cracking,
• the double-wall flask with infuser,
• the portable tea infuser.

It is also called a teapot with an infuser that allows you to prepare just one cup.

Glass, cast iron, or electric teapots are not the only models available: there are also terracotta teapots, stainless steel or porcelain teapots. There are also plunger teapots and infusion teapots. Finally, teacup teapots in glass, porcelain, or ceramic are very practical for enjoying your tea anywhere.
More than just an accessory, a teapot can make a wonderful gift. See our other topics:

• Tea spoon
• Tea filters
• Matcha accessories
• Maté accessory