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If you are a tea enthusiast, you will agree that it is not always easy. Every morning, you have to battle it out between loose-leaf tea or a teabag. And, of course, as the quicker and more straightforward option, tea bags win every time.
Contents
Before You Buy a Tea Infuser Mug
Now that you know what the best tea infuser mugs available on the market are, the next step is to make sense of all the different features they offer. My little guide will help you find the mug that will meet your needs!
Type of Strainer
The strainer of your infuser mug is its most essential part. It is the strainer that is going to decide the strength and flavor of your tea. It will also determine whether you have a clear drink or one with tiny stray tea leaves floating about. Strainers consist of different materials like stainless steel, glass, plastic, ceramics, and more.
You should be looking for a removable tea infuser that is big enough and has fine holes to strain even the smallest loose leaves. If the infuser has large holes, the leaves might clog the strain and get in your tea, ruining the taste.
Choose an infuser according to the kind of tea you brew. For some varieties, like black tea with big leaves, it is preferable to go for an infuser with big holes because they strain the leaves more quickly.
Another factor to check before buying a tea mug with an infuser is whether you can easily remove the strainer of your mug without spilling. Check that the infuser is not fully submerged in your mug. As safety should be your top priority, make sure you go for one that is safe to handle.
Durability
While you might find a perfect mug to add to your collection, the thing to always remember is that it will not last forever. The best tea infuser mug is the one that is durable and can be put into use for a longer time. Ceramic mugs might be your top choice, but they can easily break. So, if you are going for that, you might want to get two just in case! It is best to opt for stainless steel or glass, as they last longer and do not rust.
Shape and Size
The standard tea infuser mugs can hold up to 15 ounces of tea. However, some can hold around 2 ounces as well. Always go for a mug that can hold as much tea as you desire to drink in one sitting.
The shape of the mug and handle are also key features to keep in mind. Sometimes the handle is so thin and uncomfortable to grip that it ruins your drinking experience. Pick a full-loop handle mug for maximum comfort. I also recommend going for a narrow shape because they retain the scent of your tea longer than wide-mouth mugs.
Conservation of Heat
Lids are an important part of mugs in general. Most tea drinkers do not want to sip on lukewarm water. That is why lids can be convenient when you want your hot to actually stay hot.
Whether you are having a leisurely afternoon tea or sipping away while you work, a good removable lid can also serve as a coaster on which you can place your mug.
Stainless steel or double-wall glass tea mugs with an infuser can also prevent the heat from escaping. So, if you are looking to relish your tea hot until the last drop, go for a mug that is made of either of those materials.
FAQ
1. How do I use a tea infuser mug?
Tea infuser mugs are incredibly simple to use. All you have to do is insert the infuser into the mug. Add in the desired amount of loose leaves and pour in boiling water. Make sure that the tea leaves are entirely covered, and let them steep as long as necessary. Finally, gently remove the infuser and put it on the side or top of the upside-down lid. And voila! Your freshly brewed tea is good to go!
2. How to wash a tea infuser mug?
While most tea infuser mugs are dishwasher friendly, some may require you to wash them with your hands. If the exterior of your tea infuser mug is not stain-free, there are many chances of it getting tea stained. The best way to remove the stains is by gently scrubbing them with a sponge and dishwashing soap.
If the stains are resistant to that, soak the mug in a solution of baking soda and water for a few hours. Remember to rinse it thoroughly afterward.
3. How much tea do I need for one cup?
This is the most asked question, especially from people who have just switched from tea bags to loose leaves. The answer to this question varies depending on the type of tea leaves, but the general guideline is to use one teaspoon for 6-10 ounces depending on how strong you want your tea to be. The serving of tea leaves and the steeping time will determine the strength of your tea.
Final Thoughts
Needless to say, tea infuser mugs have made life so easier when it comes to brewing flavorful tea. Not only are they environmentally friendly, but they also elevate your tea drinking experience to a whole new level.
Your choice of a personalized mug should be based on several factors, such as the amount of tea you drink on a daily basis, the type of tea you consume, and the material of both the mug and the infuser.
With tea infuser mugs, you will no longer need to have larger and heavier kitchenware such as teapots and kettles. Instead, you could effortlessly brew single servings with just one fabulous mug!
