Information for Tea Ball Strainer Size 1.75 Inches

Style Strainer: Ball, Close by Clasp

Material: Stainless Steel

Size: 1 3/4 (One and Three Quarters) Inch    diameter

A stainless steel mesh tea ball. The size is 1 3/4 inch.   For great tea flavor, fill the infuser just half full to allow the leaves to expand. Remove promptly when the tea has steeped to the desired strength.

• Made from grade stainless steel: high-quality material makes these tea balls safe to use, durable and resistant to rust.
• Features chain with hook and a strong locking clasp
• Perfect for loose leaves or shredded roots
• Reduces tea debris in your mug
  
• Easy to use and clean - dishwasher safe but hand washing recommended

Size matters - yes!

The tea ball strainer should be large enough to allow the tea leaves to expand inside the tea strainer.  The hot water can easily intermingle with the leaves and infuse the tea properly.  By "blooming" the tea in this fashion, the herb (tea) which is being used will be able to infuse in the hot water, creating a great cup of tea.

• The mug, or teapot should be glass or ceramic, as these two materials will retain the heat the best.  
• Bring the water to a boil, do not microwave.
• This size 1 3/4 inch is perfect size for making one cup of tea. 

Herbal teas and infusions are a great way to get your daily dose of herbs in. Check out our Herbal Teas and Infusions page to learn more about the benefits of tea!

How to Brew a Flawless Cup of Tea

Have you been brewing tea for years but can't seem to find just the right way to brew? Or maybe you are new to teas and infusions and want some guidance. Either way, you've come to the right place! Try our easy, fool-proof method on how to brew a flawless cup of tea!

Step 1: Get your tea and cold water prepared.
Your tea might already come in teabags. If you have bulk herbs or loose leaf tea (like in the second picture), you will need a tea ball strainer or reusable tea bag to put the leaves into for straining. The amount of water should reflect how much tea you want to drink, plus a little extra. If you make too much, you can always store the rest in the fridge for some iced tea later.

Step 2: Preheat your teapot.
Boil enough water to fill your teapot one and one half times. Pour the hot water into the teapot and swish it around in order to heat the teapot up. Once the teapot is pre-heated, pour out the used water. Many people do not do this, but without doing this step, your tea becomes lukewarm quickly. This will keep your tea hotter for much longer.

Step 3: Measure out your tea.
Measure one teaspoon (1 tsp.) of loose tea for every cup you plan to pour, plus one for the pot. Trust me on this... it will make a difference! To brew a stronger tea, add a few extra teaspoons. 

Step 4: Boil the water.
For black teas, bring the water to a full boil. Remove the tea kettle from the heat as soon as the water begins to boil. Boiling all the oxygen out of the water will flatten the tea's flavor. For more delicate green teas, remove the tea kettle from the heat before the water begins boiling, at 165-170 degrees F (74-77 degrees C). You can also add one part cold water to four parts boiling water to cool it to the ideal temperature range.

Step 5: Pour a small amount of hot water on the tea leaves.
Before steeping, pour a small amount of the hot water over the tea leaves to allow them to bloom (open up) and release some of their bitter tannins. Drain immediately.

Step 6: Fill the teapot with boiling water.
With your tea already in your teapot, fill the teapot with the boiling water. Keep the spout of the kettle close to the teapot while you pour so the water does not cool as you pour it in. Cover the teapot and leave the tea to brew. See our tea brewing times chart below for the best times for your type of tea.

Step 7: Pour yourself a cup of tea.
When the tea is done steeping, pour yourself a cup. Avoid keeping the leaves in contact with the hot water as over-brewed tea will become bitter and unpleasant.