the pot should be pre warmed before you add the hot water, it stays fresher in the pot for longer, normally it should be approxamitly a 2 pint size teapot and it is 2 to 3 bags per full pot, you should never add more hot water to a already steeped pot, it makes it bitter unless you take the teabags/leaves out first and only add sugar and milk to your cup not to the pot.