Though tea balls and strainers are often used for tea that isn’t pre-bagged, ideal methods of infusing loose leaf teas employ strainers that allow for the tea leaves to completely unfurl and release their flavor. Teapots with removable strainers for tea will allow a fuller flavor.

Some tea enthusiasts dispense with using strainers altogether and drop leaves in the pot directly and then strain the tea when serving into cups. When employing this method be sure to pour out all tea or remaining liquid will get bitter from over-steeping.

We aim to provide times and temperatures that reduce the risk of allowing the actual tea leaves (or other delicate herbs in blends) to taste bitter due to too much steep time or to get scorched from too much heat.

If you desire a stronger cup, we suggest using more tea rather than a longer steep time to minimize the potential for a more bitter flavor.