Discover how to get the most from your traditional gourd bottle. From first use to daily cleaning and care, this guide will help your drinking gourd last for years while keeping every sip a special experience.
Before First Use
- It’s normal to see small particles during the first rinse — simply rinse them away.
- Before first use, fill the gourd with strong tea or high-proof alcohol (such as vodka) and let it sit for 24 hours. Repeat if necessary to reduce the natural lacquer scent. The scent will gradually fade with use.
- Afterward, rinse thoroughly and allow the gourd to air dry in a well-ventilated place.
- Video tutorials for accessories: Visit our blog at emberoldways.com
Safety Notes
1. To help your gourd last, always twist the stopper gently when inserting or removing it — avoid pulling it straight out.
2. For daily use, we recommend liquids below 140°F (60°C). If using boiling water, leave the stopper off and let it cool before sealing.
Cleaning & Care
- For daily cleaning, simply rinse with water and let your gourd air dry.
- For a deeper clean, once dry, add a small amount of coarse salt or rice and shake gently.
- For occasional sanitizing, a little high-proof alcohol works well.
- Occasionally apply a little food-grade oil to the exterior to help maintain its natural finish.
- When not in use, store your gourd in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place with the stopper removed.
More behind the scenes and daily use on Instagram: @emberoldways
If you’d like to carry one of your own, you can explore our small-batch gourds here.
