6 Types of Loose Leaf Tea Strainers: Which Infuser Is Best?

For many tea enthusiasts, there's nothing quite like the rich aroma and deep flavors of loose-leaf tea. Unlike their bagged counterparts, loose-leaf teas offer a more robust and customizable tea experience.

To brew these delightful herbs, you'll need a loose-leaf tea infuser, and there are several options available.  

1. Tea Infuser Mugs (Cups with built-in tea strainer)

If you're looking for a convenient and easy way to brew loose-leaf tea, the tea strainer mug tops the list. This method allows you to prepare your tea directly in your favorite mug. Simply add your herb of choice into the infuser, place it directly into your mug, and pour boiling water over the herbs. Cover it with a lid and let it steep to perfection. This method is favored for its simplicity and the pure flavor it extracts from the leaves.

2. French Press

The French Press isn't just for brewing coffee; it's also a fantastic tool for infusing loose-leaf tea. To use this method, add your desired amount of loose-leaf tea to the French Press, top it with boiling water, and allow it to steep for the recommended time. When you're ready, press or strain the tea, and you're good to go. This method is not only easy to use but also a breeze to clean up, making it a versatile choice. 

3. Tea Pot / Tea Kettle

The classic teapot method is another popular way to brew loose-leaf tea. Some teapots come with infusion chambers to hold the herbs directly, but if you have a basic teapot, simply add the loose herbs and water to the pot and either boil it over the stove or add boiling water and allow it to steep. When it's time for a cup of tea, use a strainer like this to pour in the brew. This method is best when you want a couple of cups of tea for yourself or to share with friends! Pro tip: only strain one cup at a time. The longer the herbs are in the water, the more of their medicinal value can be extracted.

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4. Tea Strainer Basket 

Another personal favorite option is the tea strainer basket. Shaped like a small basket or infuser, it's designed to fit snugly into your mug of choice, allowing you to brew your favorite loose-leaf tea effortlessly. To use it, you fill the basket with your favorite herbal blend, place it into your mug, and pour hot water over the herbs. The basket keeps the herbs contained while allowing the hot water to circulate freely, ensuring a thorough infusion. Once your tea has steeped to perfection, you can easily remove the basket, leaving you with a clean and flavorful cup of tea. 

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5. Compostable or Reusable Tea Bags 

A perfect option for those on the go or wanting a no-mess way to brew herbal tea. These bags can be filled with your favorite loose-leaf tea and steeped in hot water. You can also prepare a few in advance for easier brewing throughout the day. It’s important to use bags that are compostable or reusable to ensure an eco-friendly brewing option.

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6. Mesh Strainer Ball 

Similarly to the compostable tea bags, mesh strainer balls are my go-to choice when I’m on the go or at the office and still want to enjoy loose-leaf tea. These small, portable infusers can be filled with herbs and dunked into your cup or travel mug. While they offer a convenient way to brew loose-leaf tea away from home, some users find that they do not hold enough herb or release smaller herb particles into the tea.