What loose leaf changes
Loose leaf lets you adjust the amount of tea, see the leaves and separate them when the steep tastes right. It does not mean every loose tea is better than every tea bag. Leaf quality, storage and your preference still matter.
Keep the equipment short
A heat-safe mug, basket strainer and kettle are enough for a first attempt. A kitchen scale helps you repeat the amount of leaf, but a tea tray and clay pot are optional. Give whole or rolled leaves space to open.
Try a small amount first
Choose a sample with ingredients and instructions. Follow those first, then adjust for your mug. Our profile cards include starting recipes for a 250 ml mug. They are editorial suggestions, not lab-tested settings for every product.
Remove the leaves
Do not leave a strainer in the cup indefinitely unless you deliberately enjoy that style. Taste the cup, remove the leaves and note what to change. Another infusion may need different timing after the leaves have opened.
Watch a real tea lesson
Gong Fu Tea|chA — What Is Gong Fu Cha
By Tea House Ghost
Ready for a starting point that fits your taste?
Find my tea