A gaiwan is a lidded brewing bowl used to steep tea and pour it into a separate cup or serving vessel, with the lid helping to hold back the leaves. A teapot brews tea inside a vessel with a handle and spout, making it convenient to pour and share. Choose the style that feels comfortable and suits your brewing routine.

Yes. An infuser mug lets you brew loose-leaf tea directly in your cup. Add tea to the infuser, pour in water at a temperature suited to your tea, then remove the infuser when the tea has steeped to your taste. Check that the infuser has enough room for the leaves to open.

Consider how many people you usually serve, the size of your cups, and your brewing style. Smaller vessels work well for short, repeated infusions, while larger vessels can be convenient for longer steeps or sharing. Compare the listed capacity with the amount of tea you want to serve in each round.

Follow the care instructions for each item's material and finish. Allow teaware to cool before cleaning, avoid sudden temperature changes, and use a soft sponge. Check the manufacturer's instructions before using a dishwasher, microwave, or cleaning detergent, especially for unglazed clay, decorative finishes, or parts made from wood, bamboo, or metal. Let all pieces dry fully before storing.