A bamboo whisk (chasen) is essential to properly aerating and mixing matcha tea powder. Consistency is key to having the best experience.

The goal is to whisk enough to achieve a frothy texture on top of the tea. Foam not only adds to the experience of a smooth texture in the tea, but also helps retain flavor, it looks beautiful as well.

If you’re having trouble getting a frothy texture, you can try soaking the whisk in warm water prior to use. Softening the tines/strings a little can help!

The proper method of mixing involves rigorous whisking in a back and forth, zig zag motion. Think of it as whisking in the shape of a “W”. Be sure to avoid hitting the bottom of the bowl as you whisk as this may break the tines.

The bamboo whisk helps prevent messes since it mixes more gently than a spoon or electric mixers. The chasen also won’t scratch your matcha bowl (chawan).

In a pinch you can use other mixing tools to make matcha, but overall, using a bamboo whisk is the best and most traditional option.

Here is an example of how to prepare matcha tea:

To browse our matcha accessories such as bamboo whisks, click here!

Caring for your matcha whisk

Maintenance is vital to keeping your whisk in prime condition. Caring for your bamboo whisk is important and easy to do. Maintaining your whisk will help ensure you make a perfect bowl or cup of matcha every time.

After use, rinse the tines of the whisk in water, whether by a gentle stream from the faucet or by whisking in a clean bowl of water. It’s important to remove the clumps of matcha powder from the tines.

Bamboo whisks can be prone to mold if not properly cleaned and aired out. This is where a matcha whisk holder (kusenaoshi) comes in. The holder simultaneously helps to dry your whisk as well as maintain the whisk’s unique shape.

Be sure to treat the whisk gently. Soap and dishwashers will ruin it. Storing the whisk on its tines will cause them to bend and lose shape.

By taking the time to care for your whisk the correct way, it can last you a year or two. Once it loses its original shape or the tines start to break, then it’s time to purchase a new whisk.

Take a look at our selection of ceramic whisk holders here!