How to Brew Loose-Leaf Tea

Why Loose-Leaf Tea?

Loose-leaf tea offers a richer, fresher flavor than most bagged teas. Because the leaves have more room to expand, they release their full range of aromas and taste. Once you try it, it's hard to go back!

What You'll Need

  • Loose-leaf tea of your choice
  • A tea infuser, strainer, or teapot with a built-in filter
  • Fresh, cold water
  • A kettle (electric or stovetop)
  • Your favorite mug

Step 1: Measure Your Tea

A general starting point is one teaspoon of loose-leaf tea per 8 oz (240 ml) of water. For a stronger cup, add a little more tea rather than steeping longer — over-steeping can make tea taste bitter.

Step 2: Heat Your Water

Different teas thrive at different water temperatures. Using water that's too hot can scorch delicate leaves and create a bitter taste.

  • White & green tea: 160–180°F (70–80°C)
  • Oolong tea: 180–200°F (82–93°C)
  • Black & pu-erh tea: 200–212°F (93–100°C)
  • Herbal & rooibos: 208–212°F (98–100°C)

If you don't have a thermometer, simply bring water to a boil and let it cool for a minute or two for green and white teas.

Step 3: Steep Your Tea

Place your infuser or strainer in your mug, add the tea leaves, and pour the hot water over them. Then steep for the recommended time:

  • White tea: 2–4 minutes
  • Green tea: 1–3 minutes
  • Oolong tea: 2–4 minutes
  • Black tea: 3–5 minutes
  • Herbal tea: 5–7 minutes

Step 4: Remove and Enjoy

Remove the infuser promptly when steeping time is up. Leaving leaves in too long is the most common cause of bitterness. Take a moment to enjoy the aroma before your first sip.

Tips for a Better Brew

  • Always start with fresh, cold water — it contains more oxygen and produces a cleaner flavor.
  • Warm your mug first by rinsing it with hot water. This helps maintain the brewing temperature.
  • Many loose-leaf teas, especially oolongs and greens, can be steeped multiple times. Each infusion reveals new flavors.

Brewing loose-leaf tea is a simple pleasure that gets better with practice. Explore our full collection at Solstice Tea Traders and find your next favorite cup.