Hosaki (the small strands) are ideal for best dissolving Tea powder in water and creating the typical Matcha Tea foam. Our Chasen is composed of 100 hosaki to ensure maximum durability, ease of use, and sturdiness. We recommend soaking the chasen, before each use, in a cup of lukewarm water for a few seconds so as to soften the bristles of the bamboo utensil.The bamboo wood will absorb the moisture from the water and the bristles will become more pliable and less prone to breakage during the matcha green tea preparation steps. After use, it is necessary to store the chasen utensil in the ceramic chasen holder. This allows for proper drying of the utensil as well as will maintain the correct shape of the accessory. To clean the bamboo whisk, it is necessary to soak it for a few seconds in warm water and rinse it under running water to remove any matcha green tea residue. Since it is a delicate tool, storing it in the dishwasher is strongly discouraged.