Tea & Health

Brewing the Perfect Cup of Tea

How do I brew loose tea leaves?

There are 3 main ways to brew your premium loose tea leaves.

1. Put your loose tea in an infuser, such as a brew basket, to hold the leaves in place in the pot. We sell a tea pot with a built in brew basket in our tea store.
2. Put your loose tea in a pot, brew, then pour the tea through a strainer to serve.
3. If you’re in a hurry, place your tea leaves in disposable or reusable tea filters to make your own tea bag.

Tea balls are not the best option as they don’t always allow the tea leaves to fully uncurl.

How much loose tea do I need?

4 ounces of tea will typically make 40, 8-ounce cups. When brewing, use about ½ to 1 teaspoon per cup of tea as a base, but you can add a little more or less depending on your taste.

How long do I steep the loose tea?

The time to steep varies based upon the tea but the general guidelines are:

• Black Tea, 3-5 minutes
• Green Tea, 1-3 minutes
• White Tea, 3-5 minutes
• Oolong Tea, 4-7 minutes
• Herbal Infusions, 5-7 minutes

Steep a little longer for a stronger flavor.

Does the temperature of the water matter?

Yes, the larger and more delicate the tea leaf the lower the temperature should be.

• Green tea is best if the water is around 175 degrees Fahrenheit
• White tea is also best with a lower water temperature around 175-185 degrees Fahrenheit
• Black tea requires hotter water around 195 degrees Fahrenheit
• Rooibos and herbal infusions require the hottest water 208 degrees Fahrenheit

Can I make iced tea with loose tea?

Absolutely! Putting the loose tea in a filter bag (available in our store) makes this simple. Bring one quart of cold water to a rolling boil. Remove from heat and add 8-10 teabags per quart of brewed tea. Steep according to the type of tea, and pour over ice cubes. To serve, pour into tall glasses filled with ice and sweeten as desired.

Do I have to start with cold water or can I use warm or hot water from my tap?

The Tea Association of the USA recommends using fresh, cold tap water to a full boil for better flavor. If your water is heavily chlorinated or contains objectionable odors, you should filter it before boiling for the best tea.

Order & Shipping FAQ

How is my tea packaged? Can I store it in that package?

Too maintain the optimal level of freshness, our teas are packaged in heavy duty, foil, re-sealable zipper bags. There is no need to transfer teas to another container; you can store your teas in these bags. Teas should always be stored in a dark, dry location.

How much do you charge for shipping & handling?

We use UPS for shipping inside the U.S. Shipping charges are as follows, but always refer to the summary in your shopping cart before ordering for exact shipping.

Free ground shipping for orders over $25.00 inside the U.S.
$4.50 flat fee for ground shipping inside the U.S.
2nd day charges are based on weight and current UPS rates, generally starting around $12.

International shipping is via USPS Priority Mail International®. Shipping will be calculated in your shopping cart based on weight.

Canada/Mexico Other countries
Up to 4 lbs. $13.95 $15.95
Up to 20 lbs. $28.95 $44.95

Please note, if you order 64 oz (4 lbs) of tea, you will be charged the rate for up to 20 lbs because packaging and the box add to the weight.

Can you ship to a P.O. Box?

No, we are unable to ship your tea to a P.O. Box at this time.

What if I don’t receive my order?

Make sure you received a shipping confirmation e-mail after placing your order. If your order doesn’t arrive in 5 business days from the date of that e-mail, you may contact us via e-mail or phone 215-285-7898, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Eastern Standard Time. Closed all major holidays.

How soon after I place my order will it ship?

Most orders mail within 24 hours. If your selection is backordered or out of stock we will contact you to let you know the order is delayed.

Do you sell my e-mail address?

No. We will never sell your e-mail address or any personal information. Privacy is important to us, and your information will only be used to process orders and to provide a more personalized shopping experience. Please read our privacy policy for more information.

If I unsubscribe from your eNews, will I still receive order confirmation e-mails?

Yes. Our e-mail newsletter is separate from our order process. If you no longer wish to receive e-mails with tea tips and special promotions, but still wish to order tea, simply click the unsubscribe link at the bottom of any e-mail.