This is a bit of a nuisance of a teapot. You have to be careful not to leave the lid on while heating or water will boil out of the spout. Even after removing from the heat (while you're letting your tea steep or just enjoying it) you gave to leave the lid cracked or the steam will force the water out, since it doesn't properly vent. Also I've only had it for a couple of weeks and the paint is already chipping. It stains easily and is hard to clean and try. Unfortunately I'll be going back to old teapot, it's years old and is in better shape than this one.