How to Clean & Store Your Matcha Whisk (Chasen)
Your bamboo whisk, or chasen, is one of the most important tools in your matcha ritual. It helps you create a perfectly smooth, frothy bowl of matcha. However, because it’s made from natural bamboo, it can be a bit fragile and requires some extra care — but for the best reasons, as it ensures you get the best matcha experience each time.
Here’s how to treat your bamboo whisk with care, so it stays by your side for many calm, energising moments.
Before First Use
Before using your bamboo whisk for the first time, soak it in hot (not boiling) water — around 70–80°C — for 1 to 2 minutes.
This allows the bamboo tines to soften, making them more flexible and less likely to break when whisking.
Before Every Use:
Always soak your whisk for 30 seconds to 1 minute in hot (not boiling) water — around 70–80°C before whisking matcha.
This keeps the bamboo supple and ready for a smooth whisk.
After Every Use:
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Rinse your whisk under warm water — no soap needed. Or, gently whisk it in the warm water to remove any matcha residue.
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Shake off excess water gently.
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Let your whisk air dry on a whisk stand (kusenaoshi) to help it hold its shape or store it upright on its handle in a dry, open space.
When to Replace Your Whisk?
With regular use and proper care, your bamboo whisk will naturally show signs of wear over time. We recommend replacing your chasen around every 3-6 months (depending on how frequently it’s used), or as soon as you notice any changes, such as an unusual smell, discolouration, or if the tines lose their shape.
A fresh whisk helps you enjoy smooth, creamy matcha every time.
Extra Tips:
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Avoid using detergents or placing the whisk in the dishwasher.
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Make sure the whisk is completely dry before storing in a closed container.
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Over time, the tines will naturally bloom outward — this is part of the whisk’s aging process and normal for bamboo tools.