In a world full of plastic bottles and high-tech refrigerators, there is something deeply grounding about the scent of wet earth. If you’ve just brought home a beautiful Mitti ka Matka (clay water pot) or a terracotta handi, you’re not just buying a utensil—you’re bringing home a piece of ancient Indian wisdom.
But before you take that first refreshing sip, there’s a little “ritual” to perform. Clay is alive and porous; it needs a bit of love to wake up.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to season your clay pot for the first time and explore why drinking from terracotta is one of the best gifts you can give your health.
Step 1: Preparing Your Clay Pot for the First Time (Seasoning)
Unlike a steel or glass bottle, you can’t just rinse a clay pot and start using it. Because clay is porous, it contains tiny air pockets that need to be “set” to ensure durability and the perfect water temperature.
1. The Gentle Rinse
First, wash the pot thoroughly under running water. Never use soap or dishwashing liquid. Clay is like a sponge—it will absorb the chemicals and make your water taste like lemons and surfactants. Use a soft scrub or a coconut husk if needed.
2. The Deep Soak
Submerge your pot (and its lid) in a bucket of clean water for 12 to 24 hours. You might hear a slight “hissing” or bubbling sound—don’t worry! That’s just the clay drinking up the water and getting stronger.
3. The Sun Bath
After soaking, remove the pot and let it air dry completely in a well-ventilated area. If possible, let it sit in mild sunlight for a few hours. This helps the clay particles bond and prevents cracking later.
4. The First Fill
Fill the pot with water and let it sit for another 12 hours. Discard this water (use it to water your plants!). Now, your pot is seasoned, “tightened,” and ready to keep your water naturally chilled.
The Health Benefits of Drinking Water from मिट्टी (Terracotta)
Why do people across India still swear by the Matka? It isn’t just nostalgia; it’s science.
1. Natural Cooling (The Sweat Factor)
Have you noticed your clay pot “sweat” on the outside? That’s the secret! The porous walls allow water to evaporate slowly, which pulls heat away from the water inside. At Mittify, our handcrafted pots are designed with the perfect porosity to keep your water at a “throat-friendly” cool temperature—unlike the bone-chilling, harsh cold of a fridge.
2. It Balances Your Body’s pH
Most of the food we eat today is acidic. Clay is alkaline by nature. When water interacts with the clay, it helps neutralise the acidity, providing a perfect pH balance. This can help with gastric pain, acidity, and digestive issues.+1
3. Boosts Metabolism and Testosterone
Drinking from plastic bottles can lead to BPA (Bisphenol A) leaching into your system, which disrupts hormones. Pure terracotta water is 100% chemical-free and contains natural minerals that keep your metabolism high and hormone levels stable.+1
4. Gentle on the Throat
If you are prone to coughs and colds, fridge water is your enemy. Clay pot water provides the perfect “room-plus-cool” temperature that hydrates without shocking your respiratory system
Maintenance Tips for a Long-Lasting Pot
- Clean Weekly: Scrub the inside with a mix of baking soda and water to remove any salt buildup.
- Keep it Airy: Always keep your pot in a well-ventilated spot. The better the airflow, the cooler the water!
- Change the Water: Don’t let the same water sit for more than two days.
Ready to Upgrade Your Hydration?
If you haven’t experienced the earthy, sweet taste of Mitti ka Pani yet, you’re missing out on a simple life pleasure. Whether you need a small bottle for your desk or a large 11-liter pot for the family, our artisans at Mittify craft each piece with 100% natural red and white clay.
[Explore our handcrafted collection here: Mittify.in]
