Japanese teapot tetsubin has greatly evolved. It originated as a vessel used centuries ago to heat water for tea and now is also used to provide warmth and humidity in every home during the winter or even all year round. With its amazing aesthetic and functionality, modern tetsubins now come in variety of style, design and sizes.
Japanese cast iron teapots are known for rugged durability. However, under certain circumstances, the cast iron can begin to rust. You see, apart from the usual care that you give to your utensils, cast iron teapots will demand more attention to ensure that you don’t get an overdose of rust.
Here are some tips to try to remove rust from cast iron:
Vinegar and Water Solution. A mixture of water and white vinegar is a good cleaning solution. With a little elbow grease this 50-50 vinegar and water mixture can remove the rust in your tetsubin. For tough rust, it may be a good idea to use baking soda as an abrasive. First, scrub the area with baking soda then add the vinegar and water solution.
Potato Method. Often when you research for home remedies for removing rust the idea of using a potato is often mentioned. Actually, there is no property that makes the potato any more useful than a scrub brush. Slice a potato and dip it in baking soda, or vinegar. One great thing about potatoes is that they are handy and available.
Olive Oil and Finely Grained Salt. Another great mixture for removing rust from your Japanese cast iron teapots is the olive oil and finely grained salt solution. Such combination is a good rubbing solution for the treatment of external rust on your cast iron teapots. However, the mixture has to be gently rubbed on to the affected area so that the teapot’s finish will not be scratched.
Remember, after you are done with using your cast iron teapot, clean and dry it up. Do not let tea or water to sit in your teapot for a long period of time. Cleaning is as simple as pouring out the remaining contents and showering it with water inside. Then invert the teapot and let it dry.
And that’s it. Caring for your precious teaware is really that easy. With proper knowledge on how to remove rust, your Japanese tetsubin teapot can definitely last for couple more generations if not a lifetime.