These beautiful, durable cast iron teapots (tetsubin) come with fine mesh stainless steel tea infusers. Do not microwave. Do not heat directly on a stove because this can damage the interior enamel coating. Heat water in a kettle, then pour it into the teapot. Tetsubin hold heat very well, especially if preheated with hot water prior to steeping the tea. Clean by rinsing or gently wash by hand with mild soap. Do not use bleach or abrasive cleaners! If rust does form it's harmless and you can use a toothbrush to gently scrub it off. If you care for your tetsubin well, it will last for a lifetime. This item is packaged in an unadorned matte black cardboard box with some bubble wrap on the inside.