How to Choose a Tea Ball Infuser?
Tea filters and tea ball infusers are both types of tea infusers. They work in the same way: fill them with your tea leaves and place them in your teapot or cup to steep.
When it comes to tea ball infusers, you have several options: stainless steel, silicone, or a combination of both. They also come in a range of shapes and sizes, so you can choose based on your brewing habits and the flavour you're looking for.
Stainless Steel Tea Ball Infusers
The most popular choice, and for good reason: stainless steel tea ball infusers are sturdy, long-lasting and affordable. They're straightforward to use and easy to clean.
A stainless steel tea ball consists of two perforated half-spheres that clip together, with a small clasp and a chain so you can lift it out of your cup without burning yourself. The two halves open to be filled, then lock shut to keep the leaves safely inside. The size of the holes varies depending on the model.
Some models feature a finer mesh, which prevents leaf residue from settling at the bottom of your cup. That said, a very fine mesh isn't ideal for large-leaf teas or herbal infusions like verbena, as the leaves need room to expand and absorb water fully in order to brew properly.
Stainless Steel and Silicone Tea Ball Infusers
This style combines a perforated stainless steel body to hold the tea leaves with a long silicone handle, making it easy to remove from your cup without any risk of burning your fingers. They're simple to fill and clean, and come in a wide range of colours and playful designs. The infuser sits at the bottom of the cup, allowing the tea to steep evenly.
Fully silicone models are also available, offering added longevity since silicone won't rust. Do bear in mind that capacity can be limited, making them less suited to large-leaf teas. Tea balls, clips and stainless steel baskets are all available in our range of tea infusers.
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. This extra space allows the leaves to fully open and absorb water, resulting in a more flavourful brew. It's ideal for preparing larger quantities of tea and works perfectly in a teapot.
A tea ball infuser can be a classic accessory or something a little more original. Stainless steel and silicone models in particular come in a wide variety of fun and colourful designs.
To get the best from your tea, choose an infuser with enough room for the leaves to expand fully, ensuring maximum infusion. If the ball is too small, the leaves won't be able to open properly and your brew will be weaker as a result.
Pay attention to the hole size too: holes that are too large may allow leaf particles to end up in your cup. A tea ball is easy to carry around and perfect for single servings, though the large version can also be used in a teapot for brewing bigger batches.
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Tempted to try it?
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Tea Ball Infuser
This fine-mesh tea ball makes your daily tea ritual effortless, letting you prepare and measure your tea in no time.
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