How to Use a Tea Infuser Ball and Strainer for Loose Leaf Tea
By Herzlich Willkommen bei Westmark | Published: 2026-10-20
Category: How-to Guides
Learn the simple steps to brew loose leaf tea using a tea infuser ball or a fine mesh strainer. Avoid common mistakes like overfilling or using the wrong water temperature.
Quick answer
Use a tea infuser ball for single cups of loose leaf tea, and a tea strainer when brewing tea in a teapot or mug without a built-in filter. Both methods are simple and effective.
Tea infuser ball vs. tea strainer: when to use which
A tea infuser ball is ideal for brewing a single serving directly in your mug. Its compact, oval shape holds enough leaves for one cup, and the attached base gives you a spot to rest it after steeping. Because the leaves are contained, you can remove the ball easily once the tea is ready.
A tea strainer works best when you brew tea in a teapot or pour hot water over leaves in a mug. After steeping, you pour the tea through the strainer into another cup to catch the leaves. This method gives the leaves more room to expand, which can result in a fuller flavor.
Both tools from Westmark are made from durable stainless steel mesh that resists rust and cleans quickly. The choice depends on your brewing style and how much tea you want to make at once.
How to brew loose leaf tea with an infuser ball or strainer
- Measure your tea leaves: Use about 1 teaspoon of loose leaf tea per 8 ounces of water. Overfilling the infuser ball will prevent the leaves from expanding and can result in weak flavor. Fill the infuser ball no more than half full to allow room for the leaves to unfurl.
- Heat water to the right temperature: Different teas require different water temperatures. Black tea needs near-boiling (200-212°F), while green tea is best at 170-180°F. Using boiling water on green tea can make it bitter. Check the tea package for recommended temperature, or let boiling water cool for 1-2 minutes for green tea.
- Steep for the correct time: Place the filled infuser ball in your mug and pour hot water over it, or if using a strainer, pour the brewed tea from the pot through the strainer into your cup. Steep black tea for 3-5 minutes, green tea for 2-3 minutes. Over-steeping leads to astringency. Set a timer to avoid guessing, and remove the infuser ball or strainer as soon as steeping is done.
- Clean your tools immediately: After use, rinse the infuser ball or strainer under warm water and scrub gently with a soft brush to remove any tea residue. Let them dry completely before storing to prevent staining or odors. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers that can damage the fine mesh.
Product facts
- Tea infuser ball oval with base: The Westmark tea infuser ball has an oval shape and includes a base for convenient placement. The base prevents drips on your countertop, and the oval shape holds enough loose tea for a standard mug without overcrowding.
Tea infuser ball oval with base - Strainer »Teatime«, ø 7,5 cm: The Westmark Teatime strainer has a 7.5 cm diameter, ideal for small portions and fine ingredients. Its compact size fits over most mugs and catches even fine tea particles, giving you a clean cup without sediment.
Strainer »Teatime«, ø 7,5 cm
