Use 1–2 teaspoons of loose‑leaf tea per 8 oz of water, steep at the correct temperature and time for the tea type, and store your blend in an airtight, cool, dark place to preserve flavor and aroma.
🌡️ Core Steeping Principles
Loose‑leaf tea performs best when you control three variables:
Leaf quantity: 1–2 teaspoons per 8 oz cup (heavier blends may need slightly more).
Water temperature: Hotter for dark teas, cooler for delicate teas.
Steep time: Shorter for green/white teas, longer for herbal blends.
Adjust any of these to fine‑tune strength without causing bitterness.
🍃 Steeping Instructions by Tea Type
Black Tea
Green Tea
Oolong Tea
White Tea
Herbal / Tisanes
🧪 Adjusting Strength
Too weak: Add ½ teaspoon more tea or steep 30–60 seconds longer.
Too strong/bitter: Reduce steep time or lower water temperature.
Cloudy tea: Usually from hard water or over‑steeping; use filtered water.
🫙 Care & Storage for Your Tea Blend
Proper care keeps your blend fresh for months:
Airtight container: Use tins or dark glass jars to prevent oxidation.
Avoid light & heat: Store in a cool, dark cabinet away from stoves and sunlight.
Keep dry: Moisture ruins tea quickly; never store near sinks or humid areas.
Avoid strong odors: Tea absorbs scents easily—keep away from spices, coffee, or scented candles.
Shelf life:
Black, oolong: ~18–24 months
Green, white: ~12–18 months
Herbal blends: ~12–24 months depending on ingredients
Tea doesn’t “spoil,” but flavor fades over time.
🌼 Caring for Blends with Botanicals
If your blend includes flowers, fruit pieces, or spices:
Shake gently before scooping to redistribute ingredients.
Check for color fading—a sign of aging.
Avoid crushing delicate petals to preserve aroma.
🍯 Optional Enhancements
Sweeteners: Honey, raw sugar, agave.
Citrus: Lemon brightens black and herbal teas.
Milk: Works best with black or strong oolong teas.
Spices: Cinnamon, ginger, cardamom for warmth.
