How to cure a mate gourd: a simple, quick guide to do it properly

Curing a mate gourd is an important step when preparing traditional calabash or wooden mates before using them for the first time. This process helps seal the natural pores in the material, prevents leaks, and reduces the initial bitterness so you can enjoy a smoother and more balanced mate from day one.
While many modern mates don’t require curing, people who choose a traditional gourd still rely on this process to improve durability and flavor right from the start.

What a mate is and why it needs to be cured

A mate (or mate gourd) is the traditional container used in Argentina, Uruguay, and neighboring countries to prepare and drink yerba mate. It comes in different materials—calabash, wood, stainless steel, glass, or ceramic—and its purpose is to hold the yerba and hot water while drinking through a bombilla (metal straw).

When the mate is made of calabash or wood, the inside has natural pores that can release bitter flavors, absorb moisture, or shed small fibers during the first uses. Curing the gourd helps seal those pores, improves the taste, and extends the life of the mate.

Which mate gourds need curing (and which don’t)

Not all mate gourds need to be cured. Only porous materials require the process. Here’s a clear guide to help you determine whether your mate needs curing:

Mates that do need curing

-Calabash mate gourd: the most traditional one. It always requires curing because the inside is natural and porous.

-Wooden mate: especially algarrobo and palo santo. Curing helps seal the material and stabilize the flavor.

-Handcrafted porous mates: some artisanal models combine natural materials that also benefit from curing.

Mates that do not need curing

-Stainless steel

-Glass

-Ceramic or porcelain

-Silicone

-Gourds with internal aluminum, acrylic, or resin coating

These materials don’t absorb water or release fibers, so they’re ready to use immediately.

What you need before you start

Curing a mate doesn’t require anything complicated. Just make sure you have the basics ready:

• Yerba mate (used or new)

• Hot water – ideally warm to hot, but not boiling

• A spoon to remove the yerba after soaking

• A plate or stable surface to rest the gourd during the process

Step-by-step: how to cure a mate the right way

Here’s the complete curing process explained in a simple, practical way so anyone—beginners or experienced mate drinkers—can do it confidently.

1- Rinse and inspect the inside

Rinse the inside with water to remove dust or natural particles.
If it’s a calabash gourd, you may see loose fibers. Don’t remove them yet—they’ll soften during the process.

2- Fill the mate with yerba

Add yerba mate all the way to the top. It can be used yerba (from the same day) or fresh yerba.
Yerba acts as a natural sealant and helps reduce bitterness in your first pours.

3- Add hot water (not boiling)

Pour warm or hot water over the yerba until it’s fully moist.
Avoid boiling water—it can damage the gourd or create internal cracks.

4- Let it sit for 12 to 24 hours

Place the mate on a plate and let it rest.
During this time, the moistened yerba releases compounds that help seal the pores of the calabash or wood.

5- Remove the yerba and scrape gently

Empty the gourd and use a spoon to gently remove loose fibers or softened membranes inside.
Never use knives or sharp tools—they can damage the gourd.

6- Repeat only if needed

Some new calabash gourds may need a second 12-hour round if they still release fibers.
If the interior looks firm, darkened, and clean, your mate is ready.

How to know if your mate is ready

Before you prepare your first mate, make sure the curing worked. These signs indicate that the gourd is ready:

• No loose fibers or membranes inside

• The interior looks darker and even, without soft residue

• No excess moisture or strange smells—only a natural yerba aroma

• The inside feels firm, with no areas that peel off easily

If your mate meets these conditions, it’s perfectly cured.

How to take care of your mate after curing

Proper daily care keeps your mate in great condition:

• Remove used yerba right after each use to avoid moisture buildup

• Rinse only with water—never use soap or detergent

• Let the gourd dry upside down so it drains and airs out

• Don’t store it while wet or sealed, especially wooden or calabash mates

• Let it air out in the sun occasionally, but avoid strong heat for long periods

These steps help prevent mold, unpleasant smells, and material deterioration.

Where to buy mate gourds, yerba, and accessories from Argentina and Uruguay with international shipping

You can find mate gourds, yerba, and accessories at Pampa Direct, with free shipping to the United States.
At pampadirect.com you’ll find more than 10,000 traditional products from Argentina and Uruguay—from dulce de leche, alfajores, and yerba mate to clothing, kitchen tools, vinyl records, and more.

Place your order today and receive it in 3 to 7 business days. We ship to more than 80 countries, including Canada, Australia, Germany, Israel, Italy, France, China, and many more.