A glass teapot lets you watch tea leaves unfurl and the color deepen as it steeps, which makes it perfect for green, herbal and blooming teas. Most are made from heat-resistant borosilicate glass, but not all are stovetop safe. Here is how to choose and use one.
The Short Answer
Borosilicate glass teapots are safe for hot tea and do not absorb flavors or odors. Some are designed for stovetop boiling, while many are steeping-only. Check the label, avoid sudden temperature shocks, and clean with a soft brush and baking soda.
Stovetop-Safe vs Steeping-Only
- Stovetop-safe glass: thick borosilicate kettles you can heat directly on gas or electric coil, like the borosilicate walnut boiling teapot or the thickened glass kettle with bamboo lid.
- Steeping-only glass: pour hot water in from a kettle, like the glass teapot with magnetic tea separation.
- Iced tea pitchers: for cold brew tea, try the heat-resistant glass cold kettle set.
Best Teas for Glass
Green tea, white tea, jasmine pearls, herbal and fruit tisanes, and blooming flower teas look beautiful in glass. Black tea works too; just remove the leaves on time.
How to Use a Glass Teapot
- Warm the glass with a little hot tap water first to avoid thermal shock.
- Add loose tea to the infuser (about 1 teaspoon per cup).
- Pour in water at the right temperature for your tea.
- Steep, then lift the infuser or separate the tea.
How to Clean a Glass Teapot
Rinse after every use. For stains, fill with warm water and 1 tablespoon baking soda for 15 minutes, then scrub gently with a long-handle bottle brush. Avoid abrasive pads that can scratch.
Equipment I Used
- 360-degree rotating spice rack: keeps every spice within reach.
Planning a busy week? The Slow Cooking for Busy Days guide covers time-saving slow cooker recipes and meal planning.
Glass Teapots FAQ
Are glass teapots safe?
Yes. Borosilicate glass is heat resistant, non-porous and does not leach flavors. Follow the maker’s heat instructions.
Can you put a glass teapot on the stove?
Only if it is labeled stovetop safe. Many glass teapots are for steeping only.
Do glass teapots keep tea hot?
Not as long as ceramic or cast iron. Use a tea cozy or a warmer if you sip slowly.
Why did my glass teapot crack?
Usually from a sudden temperature change, such as cold water in a hot pot. Warm the glass gradually.
