Q&A for How to Use a Tea Infuser

To brew approximately 2 quarts (8 cups) of tea with loose tea leaves, measure 1/4 cup tea leaves into your infuser. If would like to make iced tea, pour 4 cups of hot water first and steep (length of time depends on type of tea and taste preference), and then pour the tea over a pitcher with ice.

Most tea ball infusers open in one of two common ways. For twist or ball latch models, hold each half and twist one direction (or squeeze tabs) while pulling; some have a small hinge, while others snap open when you press the latch. For clamp or chain models, press the small metal tab or squeeze the two halves together at the hinge point to release the catch and separate the halves. If yours has a chain with a clip, unhook the clip then pry the two hemispheres apart, always applying gentle, steady pressure.

You have several options to keep your tea infuser chain from slipping into your cup, including using a small clothespin or chip clip clamped to the rim, a binder clip with the chain threaded through, a folded paperclip bent into an L-hook, a rubber band looped over the rim with the chain tucked under, or a heatproof silicone mat scrap clamped by a small clip for grip.

Yes, you should place loose tea leaves or herbs inside the infuser. To allow the leaves to expand, avoid overpacking; fill it approximately 1/3 to 3/4 full, depending on the leaf size. Then, close it securely and steep according to your recipe.