There are many types of tea filters. The cup strainer is a convenient single-serve infuser, sitting somewhere between a tea ball and a kitchen colander. It looks like a small sieve. Cup strainers are typically made from stainless steel and come in various diameters. Some models include a small drip tray to rest the strainer on after brewing.
What is a cup strainer?
A cup strainer is a type of tea filter. Its name comes from its resemblance to a kitchen colander or sieve. It can be used with a cup, a glass, or a small teapot, and is most commonly made from stainless steel.
The principle is simple. The stainless steel tea filter rests directly on the rim of your cup, with the base of the strainer sitting just in the water. From there, your loose-leaf tea begins to steep.
How to use a tea strainer
A stainless steel tea strainer is one of the easiest infusers to use. Here are eight simple steps:
- Choose your loose-leaf tea;
- Heat the right amount of water to the correct temperature;
- Place the strainer over your cup, mug, glass, or teapot;
- Add the desired amount of loose-leaf tea to the strainer;
- Pour the heated water over the stainless steel strainer;
- Let the tea steep in the cup, glass, or teapot;
- Remove the strainer and enjoy your cup of tea.
You can also use a cup strainer like a tea ball. In this case, fill your cup or glass with hot water first, then lower the stainless steel infuser filled with loose-leaf tea into the mug. Either way, always adjust the water temperature to suit the tea you are brewing.
Pouring water straight from the kettle over your tea leaves risks scalding them, leaving you with a cup almost as bitter as a robusta coffee.
What are the benefits of a cup strainer?
The cup strainer is a practical kitchen accessory. Conical models fit virtually any cup, glass, or tea mug. Like a kitchen sieve, a cup strainer catches all the loose-leaf tea and keeps it out of your drink.
In general, the size of a stainless steel filter allows even the largest tea leaves to unfurl and infuse properly. The result is a very decent brew. You can also use a cup strainer with a small teapot. No teapot to hand, or brewing just for yourself? The cup strainer is a fine choice.
How to choose a cup strainer
Start by choosing the material. A stainless steel infuser is an excellent option. You will also find tea filters in porcelain or plastic, though we would steer clear of plastic models despite their lower price point. Next, consider the diameter and depth of the tea filter that suits your needs.
A cup strainer can be spoon-shaped or upright, in which case it is simply called a stainless steel tea filter. A long stainless steel handle makes it easier to handle. Finally, a stainless steel tea strainer with a drip tray saves your table or desk from any unwanted drips.
Explore our guides to other types of tea filters: