Keeping Powder from Scattering

Matcha particles run 1 to 10 microns, an order of magnitude below wheat flour at 30 to 60. That fineness is why it goes airborne so readily.

When it happens

Opening a bag quickly Air pushes out and carries powder with it. Open slowly.

Heaping a spoon It spills in transit. Level it off.

Pouring from height More distance, more dispersal. Bring the spoon close to the container.

Working near the sink Airborne powder landing on wet surfaces is difficult to clean.

Useful tools

A levelable measuring spoon A tablespoon holds roughly 9 to 10 g, so 20 g is about two heaped tablespoons.

A smaller spoon Less per trip, less spillage.

A funnel For transferring into small containers without coating everything nearby.

A strainer Breaks up clumps while filling, and helps prevent lumps later.

Static

In dry seasons, powder clings to container walls electrostatically.

Plastic containers are the worst for this. Metal or glass performs better.

Cleaning spills

Remove it dry first. A damp cloth immediately spreads green across the surface.

Dry cloth or vacuum, then wipe with a well-wrung cloth.

On fabric, matcha is a pigment and sets over time. Rinse with water promptly.

Sequence prevents most of it

Powder in first, liquid second.

Adding powder to a container that already holds liquid causes splashing and floating. Powder into an empty vessel, paste it with a small amount of liquid, then add the rest — less mess and no lumps.