A tea infuser is basically a receptacle that contains tea leaves. It’s usually globular in shape and has an attached handle or chain. It’s made from various foodgrade materials like stainless steel, copper, porcelain or glass. To set a tea infuser into a teacup, simply lower it into the cup and pour fresh boiling water over it. Allow it to steep for a few minutes, depending on one’s preference for how strong a cup of tea is desired. Tea infusers are also used to make many herbal teas. Tea infusers have long been part of households of tea drinkers who insist upon drinking tea the proper way: A lovely china teapot and teacup, a tea cozy to keep the boiling water in the teapot hot, a tea infuser containing one’s favorite tea and the experience of that first sip of this delicious brew that comforts, soothes and restores the soul.

Teapots

Teapots are a tradition. Some people even collect them. Most people make best use of them for brewing their favorite drink: tea. Depending on where in the world tea is the beverage of choice, makes the difference in the teapot that’s used. In the Orient, tea is brewed directly in boiling hot water in small pots with a tiny strainer that prevent the leaves from entering the cup. In most places, the best tea is brewed the traditional way: in a teapot with a short, squatty body and long, slender spout and a lid. Contrary to what some people believe, the traditional method of brewing tea in a teapot is to place only the boiling water in the pot and use a tea infuser in the cup. This prevents the teapot from becoming stained with tannic acid, an ingredient that comprises most teas, but stain teapots with an unattractive hue.

A Beautifully Crafted Silver Tea Infuser

Tea, A Tradition and An Art
As most tea drinkers will attest, tea is both a tradition and an art. There is a wide range of teas to enjoy like Earl Grey, Irish Breakfast teas, oolong and green teas. Making a ritual of brewing tea is part of its appeal.