Best Matcha Accessories to Buy First

Key takeaways

• If you’re building a first setup, focus on matcha accessories that improve texture (smooth, lump-free, lightly foamy) before anything decorative.

• The true matcha set essentials are the ones that make whisking easier: a wide bowl + a good whisk + a way to prevent clumps. 

• A whisk holder isn’t “extra”, it’s one of the most practical matcha accessories because it helps the whisk dry and keep its shape. 

Matcha has a funny way of doing this: you buy a tin because it looks beautiful, then you realise the real luxury isn’t the label, it’s the bowl that turns out smooth. The kind of cup that tastes clean, not gritty. Foamy, not flat. And if you’re wondering what do you need to make matcha, the answer is refreshingly small.

Consider this your edit of matcha tools for beginners the few essential matcha accessories worth buying first, plus what you can skip (for now), and what you can substitute if you’re easing into the ritual.

The “buy first” list: matcha set essentials that actually change the cup

1) A bamboo whisk (chasen)

This is the heartbeat of traditional matcha. A chasen is designed to mix fine powder into water quickly and add that signature light foam. If you’re building matcha set essentials, this is your anchor.

• Pre-soak it in warm water for a few seconds before whisking (helps the tines flex).

• Rinse with warm water after use; let it dry fully (your future self will thank you).

2) A matcha bowl (chawan)

If you’ve been debating matcha bowl vs regular bowl, here’s the real difference: a chawan is shaped for whisking. It’s typically wider, with curved sides that give your whisk room to move, so matcha turns smooth instead of splashing or clumping. 

This is why a bowl is one of the most underrated matcha accessories, you feel it instantly in the texture.

• Choose a bowl that feels good in your hands (you’ll use it more).

• If you like lattes often, a bowl with a small spout can make pouring cleaner (optional, but practical).

3) A sifter (or fine mesh strainer)

The easiest upgrade for a smoother cup sift your matcha. Clumps are normal, matcha is ultra-fine and loves to stick together. A quick sift makes whisking faster and the foam finer, which is why it earns its place among essential matcha accessories.

• Sift directly into the bowl to keep the ritual simple.

• If you’re short on space, a small tea strainer works.

4) A whisk holder (naoshi / kusenaoshi)

This is the quiet MVP. A whisk holder supports your chasen while it dries, helping it keep its bell shape and dry evenly (which can help prevent warping and that damp smell). 

If you’re building matcha set essentials for daily use, this is one of the most practical matcha accessories you can add.

• Place the whisk on the holder after rinsing so it dries open and airy. 

• Don’t store it in a closed cabinet while damp.

5) A scoop (chashaku) ,  optional, but lovely

A chashaku is a traditional bamboo scoop used for portioning matcha. Is it required? No. But it does make measuring feel consistent and ritual-like, which is part of why people fall in love with the process.

If you’re assembling matcha starter kit accessories, this is the “nice-to-have” that makes the routine feel complete.

If you’re not ready for the full kit: matcha whisk alternative tools

Not everyone starts with a whisk, and that’s fine. If you’re looking for matcha tools for beginners on a budget, a small milk frother or a shaker bottle can mix matcha surprisingly well, especially for iced drinks. (The technique still matters make a quick paste first, then add more liquid.)

That’s your simple answer to what do you need to make matcha if you’re starting from zero one mixing tool you’ll actually use.

What to skip at first (unless you’re collecting)

• Multiple bowls (one great bowl beats three okay ones).

• Fancy canisters (nice, but doesn’t improve the cup as much as sifting does).

• “Everything sets” that include tools you won’t use daily.

If you do want to buy a set, look for the best matcha tea set for beginners that includes: chasen + chawan + sifter (and ideally a holder). That combination covers the real essential matcha accessories without clutter.

FAQs

What do you need to make matcha at home?

At minimum: matcha + a bowl/cup + a mixing tool. For the best texture, your matcha set essentials are a chasen and a wide bowl (chawan). 

What are the most essential matcha accessories to buy first?

A bamboo whisk, a matcha bowl, and a sifter. Add a whisk holder if you make matcha often, it helps the whisk keep shape and dry well. 

Matcha bowl vs regular bowl: does it really matter?

Yes, chawan are designed for whisking with a wider shape and room to move, which makes it easier to whisk matcha smooth. 

What’s the best matcha tea set for beginners?

Look for a simple set with the true matcha set essentials: whisk + bowl + sifter (and a holder if possible).