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In many Indian households, as soon as the summer season arrives, buying the matka or clay pot and using it for cold water is a common sight. It is not out of nostalgia alone, but also because of need. As temperatures begin to soar high and refrigerators work overtime, gulping down a glass of naturally cold water that doesn’t feel harsh on the throat feels extremely satisfying. Unlike the chilled water of a refrigerator, matka water is gently cooled through evaporation, keeping it refreshing and not too cold.
What makes this even more appropriate at present is the growing awareness around the use of energy and traditional practices that truly work. The matka water tastes softer, and the temperature is more balanced. But sometimes, the water does not reach that cooling point that you may have thought. That perfect cooling comes from how you place the matka, use it, and maintain it.
Benefits Of Drinking Matka Water
Matka water is not just about temperature, but it’s about texture too. Unlike the refrigerated water, which can sometimes feel too sharp, matka water has a moderately cool taste, making it easy to sip throughout the day and quenching the thirst nicely. The porous clay lets slight evaporation, which not only cools down the water but also gives it a subtle, sweet taste.
Traditionally, having matka water is favoured in Indian diets, particularly during summer, as it complements the meals without shocking the system.
How To Keep Matka Water Cool
With a few thoughtful practices listed below, you can easily keep the matka water consistently cool, even during the peak of summer.
Choose The Right Placement
Where you keep the matka matters more than you may know. Placing it in a shaded, airy corner lets the natural airflow keep the cooling process. Keeping the claypot in direct sunlight or closed cabinets should be avoided, as heat buildup will lower the evaporation process. Now you know why matkas are often kept near windows or the airy verandahs. Even if you have a modern kitchen setup, a place near a window or a cross-ventilation area can work best. The aim is to let the outer surface remain a little moist, which helps in maintaining a constant cooling throughout the day.
Pro Tip: Place the matka on a stand or on the ring to allow air circulation on the bottom as well.
(Image credit: Freepik)
Keep The Surface Slightly Damp
The cooling of a matka depends heavily on the evaporation process from its outer surface. Lightly sprinkling some water on the outside once or twice a day will help in maintaining this process, particularly during the peak summer heat. As the moisture vanishes, it pulls heat away from the water inside it, keeping it cool naturally. That is why you may have noticed that some homes often had damp cloths covered around water pots. It is a simple, low-effort process that makes a noticeable difference, particularly during the extreme summer season heat when temperatures rise.
Pro Tip: Take a clean cloth, dip it in water and wrap it loosely around the matka to get better cooling.
Fill It With Fresh Water Regularly
Water that has been filled for 2-3 days tends to lose its freshness and cooling appeal. Refill the matka with fresh water every day or every alternate day to maintain both its taste and temperature. Fresh water soaks up the cooling effect in a better way, whereas the older water feels flat and less refreshing. This also ensures that what you’re drinking also feels light, clean, and satisfying, which is particularly important during hot weather when hydration is important.
Pro Tip: Avoid topping up repeatedly with already filled water. Empty, rinse, and refill every day.
Clean The Matka Properly
A clean matka always cools better. Over time, the deposition of mineral or residue can block the pores of the clay, decreasing its natural cooling capacity. Rinse the matka with plain water, and occasionally, scrub it gently with a soft brush to help in maintaining its porosity. Avoid using too much strong soap, as it can go deep into the clay and also impact both taste and safety. A clean matka not only keeps water clean but also ensures that the cooling process works efficiently.
Pro Tip: To clean the matka, use a mix of baking soda and water occasionally without damaging the clay.
Keep It Covered But Breathable
While it’s essential to keep your matka covered to prevent the dust, using an airtight lid can trap heat. Use a loose-fitting lid or a traditional clay or steel cover that works best, and let the slight air exchange while maintaining the water protected. This balance maintains a constant temperature inside. The idea is to save the water without cutting off the natural cooling method. It may be a small detail, but it makes a noticeable difference in how cool and refreshed the water feels throughout the day.
Pro Tip: Use a small steel plate or a cloth cover instead of a tight plastic lid to cover the claypot.
(Image credit: Freepik)
Avoid Overfilling The Matka
Filling the matka up to the brim might seem to be applicable, but in return, it reduces the space required for air circulation within, which affects the cooling. Leaving a little headspace lets the regulation of the better temperature and ensures the water remains invariably cool. This simple adjustment can help in maintaining a more consistent cooling effect, particularly during hotter days.
Pro Tip: Fill the matka only up to 80–85% capacity for maximum cooling effect.
