Strainers
A tea strainer rests on the pitcher and catches leaf bits from every pour.
Match the strainer to the leaf
Fine mesh for broken leaf
Fine steel mesh catches the dust from a pried pu'er cake or small-leaf tea.
Gourd or bamboo for bigger bits
Natural strainers are coarser and warm in the hand. They catch bigger pieces and let the fine haze through.
Skip it when you can
Whole rolled oolong pours clean from a gaiwan. A strainer is one more thing to wash, so keep it for teas that need it.
A good cup of tea has no leaves in your teeth.
Fit, mesh and drip
Strainers
Hand-picked pieces are on the way.
Good to know
What is a tea strainer used for?
A tea strainer catches leaf bits as you pour, so they stay out of the pitcher and cups. Hold it over the pitcher or rest it on the rim.
What is the difference between a tea strainer and an infuser?
A strainer only catches leaves during the pour. An infuser holds leaves while they steep in the cup. Gongfu brewing uses a strainer so leaves have room to open.
How do you clean a tea strainer?
Rinse it right after use and tap out the leaves. For brown stains on steel, soak in warm water with baking soda, then brush gently.
