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The Best Tea Infuser Travel Mug (And Why Real Tea Lovers Need One)

By Mindy Fox

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

I can hear my better half, Steve, now: “Do you really need a dedicated travel tea mug? Can’t you brew a cup of tea and then use any ol’ travel mug to take it on the go?”

Yeah, babe, you could. (And he probably knows what’s coming next.) But I like to have the right tool for the job, and there is good reason to be particular when it comes to a travel tea mug.

Sure, I could place loose tea leaves in a single-use paper steeper or basket steeper and use my favorite travel coffee mug for the job , but travel tea mugs are made with built-in tea steepers (ones that allow you to tightly close the lid while your tea steeps), which means no waste and a hotter finished brew. Plus, coffee mugs tend to take on coffee flavor over time. A dedicated travel tea mug helps keeps a serious tea drinker’s tea tasting pure and clean.

In my quest for the best travel mug to take my cuppa on the road, I sought out a leak-proof model that ranked high in the heat retention department . I also wanted a mug that was easy to grip and to drink from. And because it’s nice to have stylish gear, one that looked good, too. Here are my winning picks and how I tested:

The Very Best Tea Infuser Travel Mug: The Tea Spot Everest Tea Tumbler

The Everest’s double-walled, vacuum-sealed stainless steel insulation kept 22 ounces of tea hot and fresh tasting, and its screw down BPA-free top was terrifically leak-proof. I fell hard for its rugged adventure-meets-urban-chic look, and had a hard time deciding which of its four stylish colors I liked best.

The Everest also won my vote for smart design and functionality with an innovative screw-top and sipping mechanism that stay connected to the mug while you drink (which means when you remove the part of the lid that allows you to drink your tea, it won’t go tumbling down a cliff, through a subway grate, or down between that impossibly narrow space between the seat of your car and your cup-holding console).

The stainless steel steeper basket on this model provided ample room for water and tea leaves to mingle as my tea steeped, and its small holes kept fine leaves from passing into my tea, making a clean and full-tasting brew. The easy to grip exterior is much like that of the popular Hydro Flask water bottle so, if you’re a Hydro Flask fan , you’ll likely love The Tea Spot Everest, too.

The Everest fit well in a tote bag and was also comfortable to carry on the outside of a backpack, using a carabiner clip . And, like all of the travel tea mugs I tested, it can be used for iced tea as well as plain or infused fruit (aka spa) water.

Everest Tea Tumbler

The Next Best (aka Runner Up) Travel Tea Infuser Mug: The Tea Spot Voyager Tea Tumbler

The Voyager, also by The Tea Spot, won my runner-up vote. At 16-ounces, it’s a smaller mug than the Everest but that’s where most of the differences end. This mug kept my tea hot and fresh for 6 hours, and is fitted with the same type of high quality stainless steel steeper basket as the Everest. Its smartly designed leak-proof lid has a comfortable, easy to drink from sip-cup style and doesn’t require removing to use—simply press down on a pop top to drink, then press it again to lock the top into spill-free mode. With its sleek metallic, glossy finish and no loop handle (for carabiner or finger hold), this model is stylistically more ‘urban’ than ‘adventure’, but also, according to highly-rated reviews for both products, a bit more vulnerable to scratches than the Everest. It’s easy to grip and carries well in a tote bag or pocket of a backpack or gym bag.

The Tea Spot Voyager Tumbler

Other Brands I Tried:

Zojirushi travel mug with tea filter shocked me and my editor when this mug didn’t win over my other contenders. Though this darling brand of the product review world took the gold in our best travel coffee mug test and kept my tea even hotter than its competitors at 6 hours, it is designed with a problematic steeping mechanism. To use this mug, you place loose tea leaves inside and add hot water. A filter fitted at the top of the mug blocks the leaves from flowing out while you drink your tea, but, as any true tea drinker knows, for however long you travel with your tea, the tea continues steeping. So, whether we’re talking a few minutes post-ideal steep time or several hours, you’ll be drinking an over-steeped brew (not tasty!). (One reviewer on Amazon noted that tea leaves can be put into the strainer basket, steeped with the mug turned upside down, and then removed. But the basket is so small that, though this works with some tea leaf types, it allows neither ample space for leaves to mingle with water while steeping, nor enough room for large loose tea leaf varieties to steep.) The top, which is made up of multiple and functionally unclear parts (a pain to both wash and keep track of), must be entirely removed to drink the tea, which makes it awkward if not impossible to safely drink from on the go. Used as a canteen-style tea-steeping vessel (to pour tea from as soon as it’s steeped) or to keep tea that’s brewed in a bag or independently from and then transferred to the mug incredibly hot for over 6 hours, this is a great product, but as an on-the-go tea mug, it doesn’t cut the mustard.

The four remaining models I tested, the Uendure Glass Infuser Travel Mug , the Lotus Glass Tea Tumbler , the Pure Zen Tea Tumbler , and the Sacred Lotus Love Sacred Glass Tea Infuser Tumbler were constructed of glass and sell in the $25 to $28 range. None of them (even with easy-to-grip insulating neoprene sleeves complete with nifty loops for carrying) had heat retention capability that came anywhere close to that of my winning contenders, and, though they were sexy looking, they were too fragile for true on-the-go usage. (A note that came with one of the models warned that the glass “may break if you drop it, knock it, or bang it with a metal spoon”.) Their open top lids made for challenging drinking on the go. So, while these might be stylish for drinking at a desk (though you’ll have to watch your keyboard if the mug gets knocked over), they’re too fragile and not practical for real on the go use.

How I Tested

I brewed loose black tea in seven leading travel tea mugs. After brewing the tea, I removed the tea basket and took the temperature of each mug’s tea using a digital thermometer . I closed the lids tightly, then measured the temperature of each tea again after 1 hour, 4 hours, and 6 hours, recording the change in temperature at each interval.

In the breaks between temperature takes, I rolled my tightly closed filled travel tea mugs on the floor; turned them upside down, and gave them all a good shaking around to test for leaks. I took a look at how many parts came with each model and how easy they were to clean. I also considered sipping mechanism design, steeper basket quality (did the basket allow ample room for proper steeping), overall durability, and style.

The Takeaway:

The company Tea Spot makes the best tea infuser travel mugs—models that brew a great cup of tea and are easy to take on the go. Buy the Everest Tumbler for slightly larger capacity and a more rugged, outdoor-adventure-ready design. Buy the Voyager for a smaller travel tea mug that's perfect for urban commuters.

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The Best Tea Infuser Travel Mug (And Why Real Tea Lovers Need One) - Epicurious

by Mindy Fox for   Epicurious  

Photo by: Joseph De Leo

I can hear my better half, Steve, now: “Do you really need a dedicated travel tea mug? Can’t you brew a cup of tea and then use any ol’ travel mug to take it on the go?”

Yeah, babe, you could. (And he probably knows what’s coming next.) But I like to have the right tool for the job, and there is good reason to be particular when it comes to a travel tea mug.

Sure, I could place loose tea leaves in a single-use paper steeper or basket steeper and use my   favorite travel coffee mug for the job, but travel tea mugs are made with built-in tea steepers (ones that allow you to tightly close the lid while your tea steeps), which means no waste and a hotter finished brew. Plus, coffee mugs tend to take on coffee flavor over time. A dedicated travel tea mug helps keeps a   serious tea drinker’s tea   tasting pure and clean.

In my quest for the best travel mug to take my cuppa on the road, I sought out a leak-proof model that ranked high in the   heat retention department. I also wanted a mug that was easy to grip and to drink from. And because it’s nice to have stylish gear, one that looked good, too. Here are my winning picks and how I tested: 

The Very Best Tea Infuser Travel Mug: The Tea Spot Everest Tea Tumbler

The Everest’s double-walled, vacuum-sealed stainless steel insulation kept 22 ounces of tea hot and fresh tasting, and its screw down BPA-free top was terrifically leak-proof. I fell hard for its rugged adventure-meets-urban-chic look, and had a hard time deciding which of its four stylish colors I liked best.

The Everest also won my vote for smart design and functionality with an innovative screw-top and sipping mechanism that stay connected to the mug while you drink (which means when you remove the part of the lid that allows you to drink your tea, it won’t go tumbling down a cliff, through a subway grate, or down between that impossibly narrow space between the seat of your car and your cup-holding console).

The stainless steel steeper basket on this model provided ample room for water and tea leaves to mingle as my tea steeped, and its small holes kept fine leaves from passing into my tea, making a clean and full-tasting brew. The easy to grip exterior is much like that of the popular   Hydro Flask   water bottle so, if you’re a   Hydro Flask fan, you’ll likely love The Tea Spot Everest, too.

The Everest fit well in a tote bag and was also comfortable to carry on the outside of a backpack, using a   carabiner clip. And, like all of the travel tea mugs I tested, it can be used for iced tea as well as plain or infused fruit (aka spa) water. 

The Next Best (aka Runner Up) Travel Tea Infuser Mug: The Tea Spot Voyager Tea Tumbler

The Voyager, also by The Tea Spot, won my runner-up vote. At 16-ounces, it’s a smaller mug than the Everest but that’s where most of the differences end. This mug kept my tea hot and fresh for 6 hours, and is fitted with the same type of high quality stainless steel steeper basket as the Everest. Its smartly designed leak-proof lid has a comfortable, easy to drink from sip-cup style and doesn’t require removing to use—simply press down on a pop top to drink, then press it again to lock the top into spill-free mode. With its sleek metallic, glossy finish and no loop handle (for carabiner or finger hold), this model is stylistically more ‘urban’ than ‘adventure’, but also, according to highly-rated reviews for both products, a bit more vulnerable to scratches than the Everest. It’s easy to grip and carries well in a tote bag or pocket of a backpack or gym bag. 

How I Tested

I brewed loose black tea in seven leading travel tea mugs. After brewing the tea, I removed the tea basket and took the temperature of each mug’s tea using a   digital thermometer. I closed the lids tightly, then measured the temperature of each tea again after 1 hour, 4 hours, and 6 hours, recording the change in temperature at each interval.

In the breaks between temperature takes, I rolled my tightly closed filled travel tea mugs on the floor; turned them upside down, and gave them all a good shaking around to test for leaks. I took a look at how many parts came with each model and how easy they were to clean. I also considered sipping mechanism design, steeper basket quality (did the basket allow ample room for proper steeping), overall durability, and style.

The Takeaway:

The company Tea Spot makes the best tea infuser travel mugs—models that brew a great cup of tea and are easy to take on the go. Buy the  Everest Tumbler  for slightly larger capacity and a more rugged, outdoor-adventure-ready design. Buy the Voyager for a smaller travel tea mug that's perfect for urban commuters.

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I need Best Tea Infuser Travel Mug and this article seems to be very informative. And this article also helped me in decorating my shelf ware and even anyone can give some artistic look or taste. Thank you for sharing this article.

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Snarky Nomad

Traveling the world, one ridiculous disaster after another

Best tea infuser travel mugs

Okay, so admittedly I had a bit of a predicament here, as I wasn’t entirely sure that tea infuser travel mugs are the best piece of gear in the universe to take with you whilst galavanting around said universe, but my dorkily accumulated expertise on the subject knows no earthly bounds and thus demands narcissistic recognition.

Besides, a high quality vacuum-insulated tea infuser travel mug is not only spectacular for keeping drinks hot in the winter, but also for keeping ice water cold in the summer. The fact it also makes tea is effortlessly easy to ignore, and you can just swap out a regular water bottle for this instead, and you’ll gain the added bonus of having an awesome travel tea mug with no additional hassle. Win win!

So, here are my picks for the…

1) Espro Travel Press

This is a relative newcomer, but definitely a major improvement to the French press style of steeping either tea or coffee; once the tea is steeped, you press down the plunger (with different components for steeping tea or coffee), which presses the leaves into a confined area, and stops them from over-steeping. The result is a better flavor, and you don’t have to remove any insert to start drinking. The filter is also much finer, which is especially great for tea drinkers, as it makes the brew a lot cleaner than typical French presses.

Better yet, the cap fits over the top once the plunger is down, which isn’t the case with most French presses. This means it won’t leak if you toss it into a bag, as long as the cap is screwed down.

• 12 oz (0.35 L)
• Stainless steel
• Vacuum sealed
• 360° drinking
• Tea or coffee steeping
• No need to remove brewed coffee or steeped tea

The Amazon listings seem to be 3rd party sellers, so the prices are occasionally wildly incorrect, perhaps also because it’s a Canadian company that sells the product, so it’s generally available through intermediaries. If something goes weird, just visit their site too.

2) Timolino TeaGo Mug

This has been quite a reliable one for a long time, and although I’ve seen a few other designs since originally writing this list, it’s still a great choice for people who want something simple, and reliable. Just steep the tea in the insert basket, and take it out when you’re done.

• Hidden chamber in the cap (for extra tea, or sugar)
• Removable tea infuser
• Drinking ports in the lid (rather than one gigantic opening)

The final point on that list is an important one, since it not only helps prevent hot drinks from spilling all over your face, but it also minimizes the amount of cold (or hot) air that can trickle into the chamber and ruin everything. Also, the cap comes off after just a brief twist, rather than having to rotate it a million times in order to take a sip. It’s a nice touch.

I also like the fact that it’s small, but you can find this one (and, as of somewhat recently, a larger version) from  David’s Tea , which has more colors as well.

3) Highwave TeaMo XL

This one is rather similar when compared to the Timolino pictured above, but adds a push-button locking mechanism that adds another layer of protection to the whole procedure.

• Vacuum insulated
• Locking seal
• Removable tea infuser basket
• Hard-to-spill drinking ports

The locking mechanism means you can take off the cap and leave it upside down on the table, then leave the tea infuser nesting inside it, while leaving the mug on the table by itself, where its lock button will prevent it from spilling (and losing heat) even when the cap has been removed.

It sounds a lot more complicated than it actually is. Short version: It’ll work great.

4) Libre glass and polycarbonate tea mug

This is an interesting design, which modified a fairly popular all-glass version made by other brands so it would suck a lot less. It’s glass on the inside, and indestructible polycarbonate on the outside.

• Available in 9 oz and 14 oz bottles, or 10 oz mug with handle (0.26 L, 0.41 L, and 0.29 L)
• Glass inside
• Polycarbonate outside
• Tea infuser hidden in the lid

The lid is actually where the tea goes. You stick the tea leaves in the cage, fill the mug with hot water, close it up, and turn it upside down. When it’s done, you turn it right-side up again, and the tea is no longer in contact with the hot water, so it can’t oversteep.

On the downside, it doesn’t insulate nearly as well as other designs, especially since you have to remove the entire cap to drink. This makes it good for hanging out somewhere, but not so great for bus rides, since it’s also easier to spill.

Also: Hot water can get stuck in the lid. When you turn it upright, the surface tension can hold it in there, so make sure to tap it to make the water fall out before you remove the lid, or you might spill it all over yourself.

5) Aladdin Tea Infuser Mug

This one’s pretty clever. You flip a switch to drop the infuser into the chamber, then switch it back to remove the tea from the hot water.

• Snap-open sippy lid
• Microwave and dishwasher safe
• BPA-free plastic construction

Some of the above versions have the issue of either needing you to remove the infuser basket, or needing you to drink a certain amount of tea, so that the level of water drops below the tea leaves, so the tea can’t oversteep, This one skips that problem by having the drop-in mechanism, which is helpful if you’re taking this onto a bus and can’t deal with daintily leaving an infuser basket somewhere.

6) Any French press travel mug

Okay, so this one might be even better if you’re a huge coffee junkie as well, though on the other hand, many of the above options (particularly the ones with fine filters) work well enough for coffee too. If you shove a French press plunger all the way down so it squishes the leaves, it prevents them from contacting the water any further and becoming oversteeped.

The recent newcomer Espro listed above is probably a better choice at this point, but this sort of design has been around for a while, and it’s certainly reliable.

This one features:

• 15 oz (0.45 L)
• Flip-top drinking port
• Rubberized grip
• Built-in plunger
• Dishwasher safe

Keep in mind it might not provide a perfect seal, so don’t fill it up with boiling water and then throw it in a bag or something. That would be bad.

7) Contigo’s Tea Infuser Insert

So if you’re a big fan of Contigo travel mugs , you’ll be a big fan of this little accessory. You just stick it into a Contigo mug with some tea inside, and you can steep the tea right inside. Then you remove the insert, and drink.

Contigo mugs are pretty famous for their heat retention, so you might want to change the brew time to a be a little quicker, but then it’ll stay warm for quite some time.

The Contigo has also been updated since its original design; the well-known model, known as the West Loop, had a feature added that makes it easier to clean, as well as a locking mechanism that prevents the top from opening just from grabbing it. Both of these additions made it into a much more usable product, and it’s popular enough that’s easy to find quite cheaply, too.

More tea infuser travel mugs?

There are probably billions out there, but I excluded quite a few because there are simply superior alternatives listed here, particularly since many of the options are made entirely of glass and are a horrible idea for traveling around. So these are some of the best options out there for great tea infuser travel mugs that’ll last as long as any other item you love to bring along wherever you go.

Or a somewhat related note, check out my picks for best portable water purifiers if you’re off to the wilderness and want crystal clear water wherever you go.

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About SnarkyNomad

Eytan is a pretentious English major whose rant-laden sarcastic tirades occasionally include budget travel tips and other international nonsense. You can follow his every narcissistic word on Facebook or Twitter .

14 Comments on “Best tea infuser travel mugs”

Thanks Eytan for taking the time to write this post to help us save time in picking an appropriate tea travel mug! Great post.

I’m sold on the one from David’s Tea, but one thing is unclear–neither you nor the website explained this bit:

Does the infuser need to be removed in order to drink the tea?

I like the idea of being able to remove it, should I choose to limit the steeping… but is it necessary to remove it every time I want to take a sip?

(Thanks for the post!)

It’s not totally necessary, but you would usually want to remove the tea before you drink, so the tea doesn’t oversteep and become bitter. But if on the other hand you just drink enough of the tea that the water level is too low to immerse the leaves, then it would work fine. The leaves would just get a splash each time you drink and it wouldn’t be such a big deal.

It’s for getting through a day on campus. When I head out in the morning, I usually go with a rooibos blend which tends to resist oversteeping. Then, I transition to my greens, blacks, etc. Throughout the day, I usually drink it the second it’s ready.

…and really, oversteeping is a small price to pay for: 1) having a container I know won’t break (like my glass one just did today); 2) having portable tea, in general.

In fact, I’ve been dealing with the other one and its ‘eternal-steep’ mechanism… so even the option to remove the strainer is just a bonus.

Yeah, with rooibos you’re usually fine. One trick you can do is fill the mug halfway up with hot water, and turn it upside down for a few minutes to steep. Then turn it right-side up and the water level is too low to oversteep the leaves. Some other tea mugs are specifically designed for this, but the trick will work for most designs anyway, though you might have to refill a little more often. Leaving the basket inside might slow down the flow, but if you’re on the bus or walking, it’s just something you’ll have to deal with, and it’ll probably be just fine, since you usually just want to sip anyway.

I had the same question…So I clicked thru to David’sTea Website…from the pictures, it’s clear that I’d have to remove the strainer to drink the tea liquor…is that right? Show stopper for me…because where I would put the strainer on the train or bus? thanks to Nomad for writing an elaborate review…I want to try it in Davids’ tea store, though…

Technically you don’t have to. The infuser is up at the top of the mug, so if you only fill the mug up to about 2/3 of its capacity, the water level won’t touch the tea leaves, so you could brew upside down, then flip right side up to stop the steeping, and drink. It’s an imperfect method, but it’ll work.

I like to find one that has a steel top so my water does not get on plastic. Plus 20 ounces would be nice.

I want to find a Stainless steel 20oz thermos that has a loose-leaf steeper that can start/stop steeping.

Thank you for the great review of tea infusers – just what I needed to know. Have ordered the Aladdin as this will suit my friend perfectly, just a shame it’s $17 on Amazon.com and I just had to pay £23 on .co.uk!! It’ll be worth it though for her as she is a special needs teacher and doesn’t have time to sit and drink a cup of tea. Angela

Thanks for the insightful reviews!

I’d love to know your thoughts on glass versus stainless steel. I have a glass tea infuser from Grosche ( http://www.grosche.ca/ ) that I love and prefer because I find the stainless steel mugs alter the taste of my tea. Does anyone else find that? Maybe it was just the brand I bought. I’ll love to hear your thoughts.

Stainless steel needs to be rinsed out a few times before it’s usable, but after that it shouldn’t be much of a problem. Glass doesn’t do this. You still need to rinse it out, just in case it’s dusty, but that’s about it. I just like stainless steel better because sooner or later I’ll drop it. There are some glass bottles with a silicone bumper on the outside, and those are good, but I expect I’ll manage to break it sooner or later.

Would it be possible to update this list? I hope travel tea infuser mug technology has progressed.

I had the Aladdin Tea Infuser Mug. It was clever, but the bottle didn’t insulate well (would get cold after a couple hours), and the basket was a pain to clean out.

Still looking for that elusive ideal tea travel mug. So far I haven’t found anything that solves the problem of over-brewing.

Well, I’ve seen some here and there, but they’re not fundamentally different…I could add them, but they’re just going to be variations of the same kind of thing.

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Steeping Instructions

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Steep perfect hot or iced tea on-the-go with no mess. | 16oz - 470ml

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Stop-Infusion Travel Mug in choice of black or white & 3 essential teas for your day

HOW IT WORKS

Add loose leaf tea to the mug.

* It will also work with tea bags, or even (gasp!) coffee. We won't judge.

Add warm water to either the Hot or Iced fill line.

Leave the press up so your tea can steep.

Push the press all the way down when you're ready to stop infusion.

SEE STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Add loose leaf tea to the mug.

2. Add warm water to either the Hot or Iced fill line.

3. Leave the press up so your tea can steep.

4. Push the press all the way down when you're ready to stop infusion.

We went to great lengths to keep your stuff dry. The Stop-Infusion Travel Mug is 100% leakproof, so go ahead and throw it in your bag. As long as you've screwed the lid on tightly, you're good to go.

Zero leaks (Seriously)

Ever been sipping in a car when the driver hit the brakes? No worrying about getting soaked here, thanks to the unique flow control valves we designed into the top of the press. Just a perfect sip, every time.

no-splash flow control

Safe for you to use day after day. The mug is made of medical-grade stainless steel. The press is made of Eastman Tritan, a rigorously tested food-safe material that is BPA-free and Bisphenol-free, and is durable and safe even in boiling water.

TOXIN-FREE MATERIALS

MORE TO LOVE

make hot or iced

It's easy to make it how you like it. We designed the press with an innovative chamber for ice and added 2 fill lines – top for hot, bottom for iced – on the interior of the mug. We recommend doubling the amount of tea you use when going iced. Then simply add ice to the chamber before inserting the press, and be on your way.

easy to clean

The press fully disassembles for easy cleaning. Use warm, soapy water to clean the mug and press. Make sure the press components, mug, and lid are completely dry before storing.

stylish & comfortable to use

Our travel mugs are powder-coated in 6 stylish colors for a high-end look and feel. We also tapered the lip for comfort, and added a non-slip base.

YES, IT'S REALLY THAT GREAT.

“Best Tea Tumbler”

Saw the ad for Firebelly and took a chance and I’m glad I switched to this tea tumbler over the metal basket versions. Great design, great product, and I’m drinking more tea.

“Had My Doubts But...”

I am really enjoying my travel tea maker. I’ve made tea and transferred to a thermos or various drink containers and always burn or spill my tea. The container lip and splash guard actually works.. Plunger works beautifully... I love the feel and it hasn’t leaked. Try it – I love it!

CHRISTOPHER

“Outstanding”

Absolutely outstanding in every way. Holds heat for 12 hours, easy to open and easy to clean. Wholly recommend.

“Great Tea Travel Mug”

I have tried many travel mugs, most of which have been disappointing for tea even if they work for coffee. I was skeptical of this mug but decided to give it a try – and I’m so glad I did. It is well built, feels great in the hand and to drink from, and seals perfectly. I have been enjoying using it every day.

My #1 problem as a tea drinker was that I couldn't make loose leaf tea on-the-go.

I absolutely love tea. And I drink the good stuff – high-quality loose leaf tea. Most travel mugs are designed with coffee in mind. We put tea first. After decades of designing tea accessories, this is by far the one I'm most proud of. - David, co-founder & tea lover

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I absolutely love tea. And I drink the good stuff – high-quality loose leaf tea. Most travel mugs are designed with coffee in mind. We put tea first. 

After decades of designing tea accessories, this is by far the one I'm most proud of. - David, co-founder & tea lover

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ASK US ANYTHING

WHAT MATERIALS IS THE TRAVEL MUG MADE WITH?

It's critical that we use the very best materials, and that's what we did. The mug itself is made of medical-grade stainless steel, and the colors are powder coated to feel great in the hand, look fantastic, and last a long time. The press is made of a material called Eastman Tritan. This material is rigorously tested for safety and durability, even in contact with boiling water. It does not contain BPA.

HOW DOES THE TRAVEL MUG STOP TEA INFUSION?

The press inside our mug works very similarly to a French press, with some innovative upgrades.

When you push the press firmly all the way down, the leaves are trapped at the bottom of the mug. The tiny perforations on the bottom of the press prevent particles from escaping, and the flexible seal further prevents continued infusion.

HOW DOES THE SPLASH-PROOF FLOW CONTROL WORK?

This is a special feature, and just one of the ways we went above and beyond to make your experience better.

When designing the press, we included valves along the top. These valves are carefully sized and placed to limit the flow of liquid when the mug is tilted. That means that even drinking from the mug while in motion or tilting it for those last few sips, you get a smooth, controled flow. No water on your nose, no splashes down your shirt.

IS THIS TRAVEL MUG ACTUALLY LEAKPROOF?

Short answer: YES. Now only did we test this rigorously during development, but our customers have, too. We can confidently say that as long as you screw the lid on fully, your travel mug Will. Not. Leak. Throw it in your tote bag. Toss it in your backpack. Your laptop, passport, or anything else you're carrying will be safe and dry.

HOW LONG WILL TEA STAY HOT OR COLD?

You can expect your tea to stay hot or cold for over 12 hours. We constructed the Firebelly travel mug with double-wall vacuum insulation to make sure of it, and a quick scroll through the reviews will tell you it worked. We've even tested it against a leading competitor known for temperature maintenance, and the Firebelly travel mug maintained a higher temperature for longer every time.

HOW DO I MAKE LOOSE LEAF TEA?

First, add your tea leaves to the mug. We normally recommend about 1 tbsp. Next, add your warm water to the appropriate fill line – that's the top line for hot tea or the bottom line for iced tea. When the press is in an "up" position, the leaves can freely open and infuse in the warm water. When you push the press firmly all the way down, the leaves are trapped at the bottom of the mug, and infusion stops. There's no need to remove the leaves before you enjoy your tea, so no reason to make a mess while you're out. You can even put the lid on without fully pressing down the press so that you can steep on the go, and stop the infusion wherever, whenever.

HOW DO I MAKE ICED TEA?

It's a snap (that's a cold pun – we couldn't resist). First, add your tea leaves to the mug. We recommend using around double the normal amount of leaves you would use for hot tea. Use about 2 tbsp, or to your taste. Next, add your warm water to the bottom fill line inside the mug. Now, unscrew the lid on the press and add ice to the chamber. Put the lid back on. When you're ready to stop steeping, push the press firmly all the way down, trapping the leaves at the bottom of the mug and stopping infusion.

WHAT'S YOUR RETURN POLICY?

You'll enjoy a 30-day free returns period, so you can place your order with confidence. Just get in touch with our support team via email to start a return.

Our travel mug has been rigorously tested, and we stand behind the quality. If you believe you've received a damaged or defective mug, please reach out to us right away.

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• What to Buy
• Coffee & Tea

The 10 Best Tea Infusers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Just the right tools to make perfect cups

The Spruce Eats / Derek Rose

Every cup of tea starts with a simple decision between tea bags and loose leaf . Many people instinctively choose tea bags because they are quick, convenient, and easy to find in the grocery store, but the right tea infuser makes preparing a cup of loose leaf just as easy as bagged tea—and even more delicious. Infusers are typically made of mesh stainless steel, but there are many unique options, including ones on this list, that can add a personal touch to each and every sip.

How We Tested

Other options we tested.

• What to Look for

Why Trust The Spruce Eats?

Best overall, finum stainless steel mesh brewing basket.

• Durability 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Ease of Cleaning 5 /5
• Overall Value 5 /5

Extra-fine mesh keeps leaves in

Reasonably priced

Strong flavor

Large capacity

Plastic could be thicker

Tea leaves love space to roam around; the more room, the better the flavor. That's why basket-shaped infusers are so popular and effective, perhaps none more so than the Finum Brewing Basket. It's large enough for tea leaves to diffuse flavor into every nook and cranny of your mug, and the micro-fine mesh traps in the smallest tea particles. The mesh is even fine enough to brew coffee.

After testing it ourselves, the infuser surpassed all expectations. It was one of the easiest to use and the best at retaining tea leaves. All we had to do was scoop tea into the basket, place the basket into a mug, pour hot water, and wait. The Brewing Basket is also dishwasher safe for simple post-tea cleaning. The item is available in multiple sizes and colors, and the lid functions as a drip tray for added convenience. While it leans toward the more expensive end for an infuser, we think it's reasonably priced and an excellent value for money considering the quality.

Material: Plastic and stainless steel mesh | Dimensions: 2.05 x 2.4 x 2.95 inches | Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Best Budget

Norpro 2-inch mesh tea infuser ball.

Good leaf retention for tea ball

Value for money

Chain stays cool to touch

Design not for everyone

Only one infuser

This tea ball has a dreamy nighttime-themed teapot charmed attached to it, making it a great way to wind down, perhaps with a cup of caffeine-free herbal tea . The charm has a functional purpose too, as it lets users remove the tea ball easily and without burning their fingers.

The Norpro Tea Ball Infuser is affordably priced, so it's a low-stress investment to your tea setup. It's worth noting that you can find packs of tea balls at around the same price or even cheaper than this one tea ball. However, this one has the quality that makes it worth buying over tea ball packs. It fared well in our tests, retaining all large leaves and limiting the sediment that appeared in our cups of tea. That's pretty rare for a budget-priced tea ball, as they tend to be less reliable than infuser baskets. The item is also dishwasher safe and rinses easily once your tea is finished.

Material: Stainless steel | Dimensions: Tea ball is 2 inches in diameter | Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Tea Forte Kati Steeping Cup And Infuser

• Durability 4 /5

Beautiful design

Quality materials

Fits in most cupholders

Microwavable

Gets hot to touch

Ceramic is breakable

If you’re in the market for a new favorite teacup that includes an infuser, consider the Tea Forte Kati Steeping Cup. It's a favorite among tea lovers thanks to its beautiful design, quality construction, and great results. Many happy customers say they either received or gave the item as a gift, so keep that in mind for the next holiday or special occasion. After seeing how pretty the item is firsthand, we agree.

The thick, double-walled ceramic keeps tea hot longer than many standard mugs will. Just be careful when grabbing it immediately after steeping; the mug was too hot to touch for a couple of minutes after we steeped rooibos tea in 212-degree water. When steeping sencha green tea around 170 degrees, however, the exterior stayed cool. The 12-ounce mug and matching lid are dishwasher- and microwave-safe, so it's easy to clean and reheat if needed. You can choose from a dozen designs, including the cherry blossom model we tested, to fit your aesthetic or that of a gift recipient.

Capacity: 12 ounces | Material: Ceramic mug and stainless steel infuser | Dimensions: 3.5 x 5.75 inches | Dishwasher safe: Yes (mug and lid only)

Best Teapot

Adagio teas iced ingenuitea.

• Design 4 /5

Easy to use

Multiple sizes available

Makes hot or iced tea

Handle stays cool to the touch

Lid doesn't close automatically

Tea stains plastic

May leak after dispensing

Most tea infusers are designed to make one serving at a time, but is one cup ever really enough? Avid tea drinkers are better off with a product like the Adagio Teas ingenuiTEA Teapot. Available in 16 or 28 ounces, it has the same capacity as many traditional teapots, but it's easier and faster to use.

We tried out the 16-ounce model and were impressed by the seamless bottom-dispensing valve. To use, place the ingenuiTEA on your mug after steeping, gently press it down, and tea will smoothly and automatically begin pouring. The mesh stainless stainless at the bottom keeps any leaves whatsoever from ending up in the cup. Once finished, the item is dishwasher safe. We found that it's easy to clean by hand, too, for those who don't have a dishwasher or just want to move onto the next round of tea right away.

Capacity: 16 or 28 ounces | Material: Plastic | Dimensions: 3.5 x 6 inches (16-ounce model) | Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Best Basket

Vahdam classic tea infuser.

• Design 3 /5
• Overall Value 4 /5

Plenty of space for tea leaves

Thumb grips stay cool

Lid may not properly close

Doesn't fit lids wider than 4 inches

With its extensive collection of teas and teaware, Vahdam is a go-to brand for many tea drinkers. One affordable accessory from the company we recommend is its Classic Tea Infuser. The basket-style infuser is large enough for a single serving of tea or a full teapot's worth, and we confirmed that it's dependable for keeping leaves out of your drink.

Despite the item's durability and quality stainless steel, it has a design flaw that we encountered during the testing process and saw multiple online reviewers mention: the lid, which also functions as a drip tray, doesn't perfectly fit onto the basket. This has no effect on the steeping process—the infuser still brews delicious tea, especially when you follow steps to enhance your tea tasting experience —but it's a curious and frustrating shortcoming. Aside from that, we gave the item a sparkling review. It's easy to use, the two little wings on either side of the basket stay cool to touch, and it's dishwasher safe, so cleaning is simple too.

Material: Stainless steel | Dimensions: 3 x 3.9 inches| Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Best Splurge

Forlife brew-in-mug extra-fine tea infuser with lid.

Forlife Design

Great leaf retention

Available in multiple colors

Dishwasher safe

Not major difference from cheaper baskets

The Forlife Brew-In-Mug Infuser hits all the key marks. The stainless steel basket is safe to throw in the dishwasher, and it's also easy to wash by hand for those who prefer. A few leaves got caught between the basket and the lid after steeping but rinsed away without issue. The lid, which also acts as a drip tray, has a reliable silicone seal that keeps condensation from getting on the handle. And, most importantly, the infuser retains leaves well while simultaneously allowing flavor to spready fully and evenly throughout the cup.

One factor to consider before buying, however, is that this infuser doesn't offer a major upgrade over other basket infusers despite being more expensive. There is an upgrade to be sure—we gave it one of the best reviews of any infuser we tested—but it won't necessarily provide a life-altering boost to your tea.

Material: Stainless steel and silicone | Dimensions: 3.25 x 4.5 inches | Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Best Travel Mug

Firebelly tea stop-infusion travel mug.

Firebelly Tea

Lets tea leaves steep openly

Solid, durable materials

Sleek aesthetic and multiple colorways

Must remove lid before drinking

What makes Firebelly Tea's Stop-Infusion Travel Mug so unique is that it allows users to brew delicious tea without an infuser. Instead, tea leaves steep openly inside the mug, which is much better for diffusion, and a tea press is inserted to stop the infusion process. It works more like a French press than a traditional infuser bottle, and the difference shines through in the flavor, whether you're making hot tea or iced.

We received the Stop-Infusion Travel Mug from the brand for testing purposes and found that each of the teas we brewed with it was strong and evenly diffused. The steel-and-plastic tea press, or plunger, is also extremely effective at tamping down loose tea leaves and ensuring sediment doesn't end up in any sips. The top of the tea press has a 360-degree vent that lets you drink from any side; it's a unique design that might take a moment to get used to, but sipping is smooth and drip-free. The lid needs to be removed before drinking, though, so you'll need two free hands to open it.

Another standout detail is the quality of the materials. We found the stainless steel to be hefty and durable, making the mug a trustworthy travel companion. The lid is leakproof too, so you can toss it in a bag when on the go. There are six color options, ranging from neutral tones to more vibrant options. Note that hand-washing is recommended; the tea press is easy to rinse by hand, but the mug itself requires a bottle brush to reach all nooks and crannies.

Material: Stainless steel and Tritan | Dimensions: 3 x 8.5 inches | Dishwasher Safe: No

Best With Handle

Oxo brew twisting tea ball infuser.

Unique opening mechanism

Slim and stylish

Easy to clean

Medium capacity

May need to stir for best diffusion

No drip tray

Infusers with handles offer a couple advantages over conventional tea balls: they are easier to control when steeping and less likely to make a mess. The Oxo Brew Twisting Tea Ball Infuser is our top pick in the category because it takes these advantages and adds a few unique touches of its own. Most notable is the twisting handle that opens and closes the infuser ball. It's a smooth and simple mechanism that sets the item apart from other handled infusers. Very small traces of tea leaves, more like fannings and tea dust, escaped from the basket during the testing process, but that's quite normal. Overall, the infuser did an excellent job retaining tea leaves. We also appreciated the item's sleek and elegant design, accented by the black handle.

Many tea infusers can be purchased at a cheaper price, but the Oxo model is affordable nonetheless. Plus, it's made from sturdy stainless steel and non-slip plastic. Oxo backs all of its products with a lifetime guarantee.

Material: Stainless steel and plastic | Dimensions: 1.6 x 1.6 x 7 inches | Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Best With Drip Stand

Adhoc tea drop tea infuser.

No mess and easy to clean

Drip stand makes it presentable on countertop

Very small particles may get into tea

Not the best value

If you're looking for an infuser that avoids drips, spills, and messes, the AdHoc Tea Drop Tea Infuser is the place to start. After steeping, you can place the wand-style infuser into a plastic drip stand that collects any residual tea droplets. Both parts are dishwasher safe, and we found them easy to rinse and wash by hand for those who prefer that method. The drip stand is functional and stylish enough that you can leave the infuser on your countertop for quick access.

As far as its performance, the Tea Drop does not have the absolute finest infuser basket. Some small particles ended up in the mug after we tested multiple tea varieties but not to the extent that it marred the flavor or drinking experience. We were impressed by how large the infuser basket is, which is a benefit because it gives tea leaves space to evenly diffuse throughout the mug or teapot.

Make sure you don't fill your mug to the brim, though, as the infuser will cause the water level to rise when you dunk it in for steeping. In fact, the best way to brew is by placing the infuser in an empty mug and pouring hot water directly over it . The long, flexible handle then lets you stir the infuser until the tea reaches your desired strength.

Material: Stainless steel and plastic | Dimensions: 8.46 x 2.2 inches without stand; 8.89 x 2.75 with stand | Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Best Ease of Cleaning

Oxo brew tea infuser basket.

Lid doubles as drip tray

Stays cool to touch

Leaves can rise to top of infuser

This basket infuser from Oxo is dishwasher safe, but you may never even need to toss it in the dishwasher because it's quick and easy to clean by hand too. A solid rinse removed the leftover leaves from all three types of tea we steeped with it.

The item can also be counted on to make tasty tea without a mess. It passed our tests by keeping tea leaves out of the cup; only trace amounts of dust slipped through, which is normal for most infusers. Once the tea is done steeping and you remove the infuser, its lid functions as a drip tray, so you can place the infuser on it and avoid liquid spilling onto your countertop . The two handles have what Oxo calls "stay-cool touchpoints," and this was largely true in our experience. The handles got a little warm but remained safe to touch.

Perhaps our only criticism is one that affects most basket infusers: depending on the type of tea and amount of water you use, the tea leaves can float toward the top of the infuser and may not fully submerge. This is one difference between a basket infuser and tea ball infuser; although, the former has the benefit of providing more space for tea leaves diffuse throughout the cup.

Material: Stainless steel and silicone | Dimensions: 3.25 x 5.5 inches | Dishwasher Safe: Yes

With its affordable price and unbeatable performance, the Finum Brewing Basket is the first place to look for a quality tea infuser, as basket-shaped infusers are widely preferred by tea experts and this is one of the best out there. We also love the convenient and adorable House Again Extra Fine Mesh Tea Infusers , especially if you're looking for a set instead of a single infuser.

We started by researching the top tea infusers based on customer reviews, third-party articles, and insight from our testing team. From there, we purchased and tested a total of 10 tea infusers. Seven of those infusers were deemed good enough to recommend based on their performance and value for money. We later received another tea infuser for testing purposes and felt it was worthy of a recommendation, too. That's how we put together the list of tea infusers above.

We Observed

• If any tea leaves slipped through the infuser: One of the most important parts of our testing process was seeing how well each infuser contained tea leaves. Infusers that allowed an excess of leaves or particles to fall through were not recommended in this article. Many other infusers that we tested successfully kept in leaves, leading to tasty, grit-free cups of tea. We used at least two types of tea—one with smaller leaves and one with larger leaves—in our testing trials.
• If the infuser became hot to touch: Tea leaves need to steep in hot water, of course, but that can become a problem if your infuser gets unbearably hot to touch. We made sure that wouldn't be an issue for any of the infusers we recommended. Each infuser was placed in 212-degree water for several minutes and then removed from the mug by hand (or immediately let go of) to see if it was safe to handle.
• How well the tea leaves diffused: Tea infuser size is correlated with flavor, as larger infusers tend to allow tea leaves to diffuse more thoroughly. As a result, we measured every tea infuser that we tested. We also used the same types of tea when testing the diffusers so that we could fairly gauge differences in flavor.
• Design: We rated the overall design of these tea infusers on a one to five scale, with five being the best. Some aspects we considered were: the size of the infuser; how easily it opened and closed; how easily it could be placed in and taken out of a mug; the fineness of the mesh; and its aesthetic. Ease of use and reliability were prioritized over the way the infuser looked, but all of these details affected its design score.
• Durability: We tested every infuser for at least 21 days, which allowed us to see how they held up over multiple uses. Before rating durability, we assessed the strength of all parts and materials, including any mesh, handles, clasps, or chains. We also tested four mugs with built-in infusers and graded them on how portable they were.
• Value: Infusers are generally a low-cost tea accessory, but they still come in a range of prices. After using each one, we compared its performance to the retail price and rated its value for money. This section also helped us clarify whether we would purchase the infuser ourselves or recommend it to a friend.

About Our Testers

• Our Lab team has spent collective decades working in professional kitchens, developing recipes, and testing kitchen gear.
• Derek Rose has been the coffee and tea expert for The Spruce Eats since 2019. He tested all of the tea infusers on this list in his home over three weeks. This allowed him to compare each infuser's performance side by side, as well as get a better sense of what it would be like to use each one as an everyday tea accessory.

According to Shunan Teng , the founder and CEO of Tea Drunk, one tip for making better tea at home is to use hotter water for high-quality tea and lower-temperature water for subpar tea. "Hotter temperatures bring out the flavors in better tea," she says, "and lower temperatures dilute the flaws in lower-quality tea. With bad tea, the bitterness and astringency would come out with higher temperatures."

Fu Store Stainless Steel Tea Balls : A former version of this roundup named these infusers as the best budget pick. While they may be suitable for tea with large leaves, they couldn't contain either type of tea that we tested them with. Most of the leaves ended up in our mug before steeping was finished. On top of that, the stainless steel clasp was difficult to close; it felt strained, almost rusty right out of the box. A final criticism is that the stainless steel chain fell into the mug almost immediately upon our first use, and it was difficult to take the infuser out given the temperature of the tea. Overall, these only seem worthwhile if you know the tea you'll be drinking has large enough leaves to stay inside.

Genuine Fred Manatea Tea Infuser : The Genuine Fred Manatea Infuser fell just short of being included on our list, mainly because its performance was inconsistent depending on the type of tea used. A green tea that we brewed had a lot of leaves slip through the filter and into the mug. The tea was drinkable and overall enjoyable, but the last few sips had too much sediment for our liking. Another minor shortcoming of the Manatea infuser is that its two silicone pieces are somewhat inconvenient to attach. While we can't fully recommend this infuser, some customers may enjoy its novelty aspect and could consider it as a gift idea. It just can't be counted on with every type of loose leaf tea.

Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug with Tea Leaf Filter : This Zojirushi mug with a built-in infuser was previously included on our list as the best travel option. After testing it, however, we found it harder to use and clean than expected. For instance, the lid needs to be completely removed to take a sip, which makes the mug inconvenient while driving or walking. And the lid opening is too small to fit a hand inside of, so a bottle brush is needed to properly clean the mug, as it isn't dishwasher safe. We felt it was easier to brew tea separately and pour it into a different travel mug than use the Zojirushi mug for a morning commute.

"Mistakes with brewing tea usually involve time, temperature, or water-to-tea ratio. This means brewing for too long or too short, using an incorrect temperature, or using too much or too little tea. Being mindful of all three factors will help people develop their tea-brewing techniques."  — Shunan Teng , Founder and CEO of Tea Drunk

What to Look for When Buying a Tea Infuser

The more space that tea leaves have to roam around inside the cup or pot while steeping, the better. This means large infusers are superior to small ones, as they disperse the flavors more evenly throughout the water. If possible, look for an infuser with a basket shape that fills up your entire mug. Does this mean tea balls are too small be effective? Nope! Even small tea balls produce a better result than most tea bags , since bagged tea is all too often filled with low-quality dust, fannings, and broken leaves. Those looking for a teapot with a built-in infuser can follow the same rule of thumb: a larger infuser likely means more flavor. Of course, the best way to brew tea would be for the leaves to swirl around freely and then be strained after steeping, but that is a messier and more time-consuming process than using an infuser.

When searching for tea infusers you will quickly see that they come in a number of different styles. Each one has its own pros and cons. This topic is covered in greater detail below, but here is a quick breakdown. Tea balls are the most common style. They are usually crafted from mesh stainless steel and attached to either a chain or handle for easier usage. Another popular style is the filter basket, a larger option that can be made for either a single cup or a full teapot. Other styles include: tea sticks, portable infusers, novelty infusers, and more.

Ease of Use

One reason tea drinkers may hesitate to switch to infusers is that tea bags are so convenient. No one wants to spend extra time brewing and cleaning up afterward, especially if they drink several cups a day. However, there are actually many tea infusers that are extremely easy to use and dishwasher safe. To get a sense of an item’s ease of use, see how it opens, closes, and seals shut. As a quick tip, infusers with silicone parts are often more rigorous to put together than simple tea balls and filter baskets.

Leaf Retenion

Along with the actual size of a tea infuser, it’s also worth paying attention to the size of an infuser’s holes. Some loose leaf teas are fine enough to slip through larger holes, clogging up each sip and rendering the infuser entirely useless. For those who prefer a specific kind of tea, think about whether the pieces are on the larger side or finer side and it will be easier to select the right infuser for you. Oolong, black, and green teas tend to contain larger leaves, while red and herbal teas often have smaller bits. As far as infusers go, tea balls generally have smaller mesh holes, while infuser eggs and silicone infusers have larger ones.

Types of Tea Infusers

Tea balls are the most common type of infuser, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they brew the most flavorful tea. Many are very small and may not diffuse as thoroughly as a basket infuser, for instance, so keep that in mind when searching. Tea balls are usually made from mesh stainless steel and open in half via a clasp. They are often attached to chains or handles (the latter are sometimes called “tea pincers”) to make them easier to use. Infuser eggs, an ovular and slightly larger alternative, can also be sorted into this category.

Infuser Basket

Whether they are meant for a single cup or a full teapot, infuser baskets are a simple and efficient brewing method. Look for ones that take up as much space as possible, as this will allow the tea to diffuse evenly throughout the water. Most have handles or arms that help them rest on top of your mug, while others fully submerge into the water. Another small difference to pay attention to is if it has a lid that also functions as a drip tray, as this is an especially handy feature. Expect infuser baskets to be more expensive than tea balls but still extremely affordable.

Portable Infuser

Many travel mugs today come with infusers for delicious tea on the go. The infusers themselves are typically basket style, but they are specially designed for the mug’s dimensions. The brewing process, which can be done for both hot and iced tea, is no different than standard models: simply fill the infuser, pour the water, and steep for the tea’s ideal length of time.

Compact and elegant, tea sticks are an excellent option for those interested in a sleeker aesthetic. They are not always the easiest to fill, since they are so slim, but are just as affordable as other types of infusers. The slim design can also make them less powerful than large infusers, so be sure to stir the stick around in your mug for a more thorough diffusion.

Brands/Manufacturers

Fred is a Rhode Island-based brand that manufactures everything from games to gadgets, all with a quirky spin. The company is perhaps best known for its array of themed silicone tea infusers. The largely animal-focused items are a fun way to add personality to your cup. You can find the infusers at an affordable price and shaped like sloths, koalas, whales, and more.

Home to a wide variety of kitchen gadgets, Oxo makes a couple tea infusers worth checking out. One is a nifty tea ball that can be opened and closed via a twistable plastic handle; the other is an infuser basket well-suited for your favorite mug. Both are affordably priced, as are many other Oxo products. The American company also manufactures several highly reviewed tea kettles in both stovetop and electric varieties. 

Maintenance

Perhaps the best part about buying an infuser, aside from getting tasty tea, is how easy they are to use and clean. Now, the exact instructions depend on the type of infuser, but the basic steps are this: first, fill the infuser with 1 teaspoon of tea for every 6 to 8 ounces of water; second, put the infuser into your cup or teapot (some require the water to be poured before the infuser is in place, some after); finally, let the tea steep for the recommended time and then remove the infuser before drinking. That’s it. Quick, easy, delicious. The recommended water temperature and steep time are based on the type of tea you use, not the infuser. Lighter varieties, like green tea and white tea, are best brewed with lower temperatures and less time, while black, herbal, and rooibos require hotter water and more steeping time.

Once finished with your tea, dump the leftover leaves into the trash or compost (unless you plan on reusing them) and rinse the infuser with water. If smaller tea bits cling to the infuser, remove them with an appropriate brush and some dish soap. Many tea infusers are dishwasher safe, which makes the process even easier, so check for this before purchasing. Don't worry if your infuser stains over time. This is completely normal. However, there are several ways to remove stains and slow down the staining process for those who are interested, from cleaning with vinegar, alcohol, or baking soda and even holding stainless steel infusers over gas flames to burn off residue. 

Are infusers different from strainers?

Yes, tea infusers and tea strainers are different tools with different purposes. Tea infusers are a brewing device that is used from start to finish while making a cup of tea. Strainers, on the other hand, come into play after tea is finished brewing. Their sole purpose is to separate tea leaves from the tea, typically accomplished by pouring a teapot over the strainer and into either a mug or another teapot. Many brands and websites use the terms interchangeably even though infusers and strainers are different.

How much tea do I use when brewing?

This question pops up often with tea infusers, especially when people switch over from tea bags. While specific measurements vary depending on the type of tea used, the general rule of thumb is 1 teaspoon of loose tea for every 6 to 8 ounces of water. Adding more tea will lead to a stronger flavor, as will steeping for a longer amount of time. Too much of an extreme for either will lead to an overly bitter cup of tea, however, so keep that in mind when brewing.

Can an infuser be used for other drinks?

For the most part, no. A tea infuser isn't much help for making a drink besides tea or iced tea. In a pinch, some infusers can be used as a cocktail strainer , but it would probably be messier and more difficult than convenient. Tea infusers don't work very well for brewing coffee either. Though basket-shaped infusers may look like pour-over coffee makers , the mesh is often too large to retain coffee grounds and the rate at which water would flow through the infuser would lead to some bad-tasting joe. If you purchase an infuser, it will likely just be used to make tea.