A Small Ritual with Deep Meaning
Hi, I’m Roy — a tea culture researcher from China and founder of RoyTea.
If you’ve ever watched my videos, you may have noticed that I always pour away the first brew of tea.
To some, this might seem like a waste. But in Chinese tea culture, this step—called “washing the tea” (洗茶)—is full of meaning.
Let me explain why this simple gesture matters.
1. Washing the Tea: Clean and Awake
The first quick rinse does two things:
Cleans the leaves – removing dust or residue from harvesting and storage
Wakes up the tea – helping the leaves open and release their true aroma and flavor
It’s like warming up before a performance.
2. When I Rinse, and When I Don’t
At RoyTea, here’s how I decide:
✅ Pu-erh, Oolong, Dark Teas: Always rinse to remove earthy notes and awaken the tea
⚠️ Green and Fresh White Teas: Usually no rinse, to preserve their light, delicate flavor
3. It's Not Waste—It’s Respect
This ritual shows care—for the tea, for tradition, and for the person drinking it.
By letting go of the first brew, we make space for something better.
🌿 Final Sip
At RoyTea, I believe tea is more than a drink—it’s a moment of peace and intention.
So next time you brew, try rinsing your tea first. Let it breathe. Then enjoy what follows.