The Don'ts: What Never to Do With a Jian Zhan

We've covered what to do. Now the equally important list of what never to do with your Jian Zhan. One careless habit can undo years of careful seasoning — or permanently damage the piece.

The Absolute Don'ts

1. NEVER use soap or dishwasher. This is the #1 killer of Jian Zhan. Chemical detergents strip the glaze's micro-pores, erasing the bloom and preventing future seasoning. Dishwashers also subject the cup to thermal shock and abrasive spray. Hand rinse only, hot water only.
2. NEVER microwave. The iron-rich body heats unevenly in a microwave, risking thermal shock cracks. A genuine Jian Zhan is for tea, not reheating.
3. NEVER pour boiling water into a cold cup. Sudden thermal shock can craze or crack the glaze. Warm the cup first with a rinse or pour the tea in stages.
4. NEVER use it for non-tea liquids. Coffee, juice, or alcohol deposit stains and oils that muddy the patina. A dedicated tea vessel should stay dedicated.
5. NEVER scrub with abrasives. Steel wool, abrasive pads, or harsh powders will scratch the crystalline glaze — permanent damage.

Handling Don'ts

6. Don't stack cups. Glaze on glaze creates micro-scratches over time. Store your Jian Zhan with a cloth between pieces, or individually.
7. Don't leave tea sitting overnight. Stagnant tea breeds tannin staining that's hard to remove and dulls the glaze.
8. Don't expose to extreme cold. A frozen cup is brittle; never refrigerate or freeze a Jian Zhan.

Respect these rules and your cup will outlive you, deepening in beauty with every year. Back to the care guide →