Tea filters and tea ball infusers are two types of tea infuser. Both allow you to steep your tea in the same way: fill them with your loose-leaf tea and place them in your teapot or cup.
When it comes to tea ball infusers, you have plenty of options: stainless steel, silicone, or a combination of both. They also come in various shapes and sizes, so you can choose the one that best suits your habits and the flavour you're looking for.
Stainless Steel Tea Ball Infusers
The most popular and widely used option, the stainless steel tea ball is sturdy, long-lasting and affordable. It's a practical, easy-to-use accessory that's also very simple to clean.
A stainless steel tea ball consists of two half-spheres with small holes, held together by a clasp and a small chain. The chain lets you lift the ball out of your cup once the tea has steeped, without burning your fingers. The two halves lock together to keep the tea leaves safely inside. Depending on the model, the holes may be finer or larger.
Some models feature a finer mesh, which prevents loose particles from settling at the bottom of your cup. That said, this style is less suited to large-leaf teas or delicate herbal infusions such as verbena, as the leaves may not have enough room to fully open and steep properly.
Stainless Steel and Silicone Tea Ball Infusers
This style combines a stainless steel mesh section to hold the tea leaves with a long silicone handle, making it easy to lift out of your cup without any risk of burning yourself. It's simple to fill and clean, and comes in a range of fun, colourful designs. It stays neatly at the bottom of the cup, allowing the tea to steep evenly.
Fully silicone models are also available, with the added benefit that silicone won't rust over time. Do bear in mind that the capacity may be more limited, making these less practical for large-leaf teas.
Large Stainless Steel Tea Ball Infusers
Used in exactly the same way as a standard stainless steel ball, the large version offers a greater capacity, with a diameter of at least 7.5 cm. Its generous size allows all the leaves to fully expand and steep properly, resulting in a richer, more flavourful brew. Ideal for preparing larger quantities of tea, it's perfectly suited for use in a teapot.
A tea ball can be a classic accessory or something a little more playful. In the stainless steel and silicone range especially, you'll find a wide variety of styles and designs.
To get the best from your tea, choose a ball with a diameter large enough to allow the leaves to fully expand and release their flavour. If the ball is too small, the leaves won't have enough room to open properly and the infusion will fall flat.
Pay attention to the size of the holes as well: if they're too large, loose particles may end up in your cup. A tea ball infuser is easy to carry and perfect for single servings, though the larger version can also be used in a teapot for brewing more at once.