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The Best Tea Infuser Travel Mug (And Why Real Tea Lovers Need One)

By Mindy Fox

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

I can hear my better half, Steve, now: “Do you really need a dedicated travel tea mug? Can’t you brew a cup of tea and then use any ol’ travel mug to take it on the go?”

Yeah, babe, you could. (And he probably knows what’s coming next.) But I like to have the right tool for the job, and there is good reason to be particular when it comes to a travel tea mug.

Sure, I could place loose tea leaves in a single-use paper steeper or basket steeper and use my favorite travel coffee mug for the job , but travel tea mugs are made with built-in tea steepers (ones that allow you to tightly close the lid while your tea steeps), which means no waste and a hotter finished brew. Plus, coffee mugs tend to take on coffee flavor over time. A dedicated travel tea mug helps keeps a serious tea drinker’s tea tasting pure and clean.

In my quest for the best travel mug to take my cuppa on the road, I sought out a leak-proof model that ranked high in the heat retention department . I also wanted a mug that was easy to grip and to drink from. And because it’s nice to have stylish gear, one that looked good, too. Here are my winning picks and how I tested:

The Very Best Tea Infuser Travel Mug: The Tea Spot Everest Tea Tumbler

The Everest’s double-walled, vacuum-sealed stainless steel insulation kept 22 ounces of tea hot and fresh tasting, and its screw down BPA-free top was terrifically leak-proof. I fell hard for its rugged adventure-meets-urban-chic look, and had a hard time deciding which of its four stylish colors I liked best.

The Everest also won my vote for smart design and functionality with an innovative screw-top and sipping mechanism that stay connected to the mug while you drink (which means when you remove the part of the lid that allows you to drink your tea, it won’t go tumbling down a cliff, through a subway grate, or down between that impossibly narrow space between the seat of your car and your cup-holding console).

The stainless steel steeper basket on this model provided ample room for water and tea leaves to mingle as my tea steeped, and its small holes kept fine leaves from passing into my tea, making a clean and full-tasting brew. The easy to grip exterior is much like that of the popular Hydro Flask water bottle so, if you’re a Hydro Flask fan , you’ll likely love The Tea Spot Everest, too.

The Everest fit well in a tote bag and was also comfortable to carry on the outside of a backpack, using a carabiner clip . And, like all of the travel tea mugs I tested, it can be used for iced tea as well as plain or infused fruit (aka spa) water.

Everest Tea Tumbler

The Next Best (aka Runner Up) Travel Tea Infuser Mug: The Tea Spot Voyager Tea Tumbler

The Voyager, also by The Tea Spot, won my runner-up vote. At 16-ounces, it’s a smaller mug than the Everest but that’s where most of the differences end. This mug kept my tea hot and fresh for 6 hours, and is fitted with the same type of high quality stainless steel steeper basket as the Everest. Its smartly designed leak-proof lid has a comfortable, easy to drink from sip-cup style and doesn’t require removing to use—simply press down on a pop top to drink, then press it again to lock the top into spill-free mode. With its sleek metallic, glossy finish and no loop handle (for carabiner or finger hold), this model is stylistically more ‘urban’ than ‘adventure’, but also, according to highly-rated reviews for both products, a bit more vulnerable to scratches than the Everest. It’s easy to grip and carries well in a tote bag or pocket of a backpack or gym bag.

The Tea Spot Voyager Tumbler

Other Brands I Tried:

Zojirushi travel mug with tea filter shocked me and my editor when this mug didn’t win over my other contenders. Though this darling brand of the product review world took the gold in our best travel coffee mug test and kept my tea even hotter than its competitors at 6 hours, it is designed with a problematic steeping mechanism. To use this mug, you place loose tea leaves inside and add hot water. A filter fitted at the top of the mug blocks the leaves from flowing out while you drink your tea, but, as any true tea drinker knows, for however long you travel with your tea, the tea continues steeping. So, whether we’re talking a few minutes post-ideal steep time or several hours, you’ll be drinking an over-steeped brew (not tasty!). (One reviewer on Amazon noted that tea leaves can be put into the strainer basket, steeped with the mug turned upside down, and then removed. But the basket is so small that, though this works with some tea leaf types, it allows neither ample space for leaves to mingle with water while steeping, nor enough room for large loose tea leaf varieties to steep.) The top, which is made up of multiple and functionally unclear parts (a pain to both wash and keep track of), must be entirely removed to drink the tea, which makes it awkward if not impossible to safely drink from on the go. Used as a canteen-style tea-steeping vessel (to pour tea from as soon as it’s steeped) or to keep tea that’s brewed in a bag or independently from and then transferred to the mug incredibly hot for over 6 hours, this is a great product, but as an on-the-go tea mug, it doesn’t cut the mustard.

The four remaining models I tested, the Uendure Glass Infuser Travel Mug , the Lotus Glass Tea Tumbler , the Pure Zen Tea Tumbler , and the Sacred Lotus Love Sacred Glass Tea Infuser Tumbler were constructed of glass and sell in the $25 to $28 range. None of them (even with easy-to-grip insulating neoprene sleeves complete with nifty loops for carrying) had heat retention capability that came anywhere close to that of my winning contenders, and, though they were sexy looking, they were too fragile for true on-the-go usage. (A note that came with one of the models warned that the glass “may break if you drop it, knock it, or bang it with a metal spoon”.) Their open top lids made for challenging drinking on the go. So, while these might be stylish for drinking at a desk (though you’ll have to watch your keyboard if the mug gets knocked over), they’re too fragile and not practical for real on the go use.

How I Tested

I brewed loose black tea in seven leading travel tea mugs. After brewing the tea, I removed the tea basket and took the temperature of each mug’s tea using a digital thermometer . I closed the lids tightly, then measured the temperature of each tea again after 1 hour, 4 hours, and 6 hours, recording the change in temperature at each interval.

In the breaks between temperature takes, I rolled my tightly closed filled travel tea mugs on the floor; turned them upside down, and gave them all a good shaking around to test for leaks. I took a look at how many parts came with each model and how easy they were to clean. I also considered sipping mechanism design, steeper basket quality (did the basket allow ample room for proper steeping), overall durability, and style.

The Takeaway:

The company Tea Spot makes the best tea infuser travel mugs—models that brew a great cup of tea and are easy to take on the go. Buy the Everest Tumbler for slightly larger capacity and a more rugged, outdoor-adventure-ready design. Buy the Voyager for a smaller travel tea mug that's perfect for urban commuters.

8 Best Tea Infusers, Tested by Kitchen Gear Experts

No more loose leaves in your last sip!

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Our top picks:

Best overall tea infuser

Oxo brew tea infuser basket.

Best value tea infuser

The tea spot tuffy steeper.

Best Tea Infuser Mug

Davidstea nordic mug with infuser.

Best Electric Kettle with Tea Infuser

Breville tea maker.

Best Tea Infuser Teapot

The tea spot 34-oz. satin teapot.

Best Cute Tea Infuser

Genuine fred manatea silicone tea infuser.

Best Tea Infuser Travel Mug

Fire belly stop-infusion travel mug.

Best Tea Steeper

Davidstea 16 oz. tea steeper.

In the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, we've tested over 15 tea infusers in a variety of forms in the last year alone. Our analysts have tried tea infuser mugs and tumblers , tea infuser teapots, electric tea kettles with infusers and standalone tea infusers in a variety of shapes and materials .

When we test tea infusers in our Lab, we brew tea the same way each time using the same ratio of water to tea leaves and steeping it for a controlled amount of time. We test for taste, how well the infuser strains out tea and sediment and how easy it is to fill, empty and clean. We also recruited over 15 consumer testers to put tea infusers to the test in their daily lives with their favorite loose-leaf tea. Our top tea infusers brewed up a balanced and flavorful cup of tea without leaving behind tea leaves and sediment.

Scroll to the bottom of this guide to learn more about the testing process, plus everything you need to know to shop for your perfect tea infuser. Looking for more gifts for the tea lover in your life? Check out our guides to the best iced tea makers , gooseneck kettles and matcha powders and don't forget to check out Good Housekeeping's Coffee and Tea Awards !

OXO Brew Tea Infuser Basket is easy to use and easy to clean, and it performed well in our Lab's testing process. I t produced a very flavorful and balanced cup of English Breakfast te a , but we did notice that there was some sediment lingering in the cup afterward. We love that this basket infuser allows for tea leaves to easily move freely and expand while steeping, instead of being compressed inside of a small infuser. One consumer tester said, "In comparison to a ball, I liked that this gave the leaves more space, especially the flowers. This made for a cup of tea with a slightly more robust taste."

This tea infuser features a dual-function lid. Use it to cap the infuser while it's steeping and then as a resting place for your infuser after it's steeped. Silicone was thoughtfully added to high-touch places so that they remain cool to the touch, and all pieces are dishwasher-safe.

The Tuffy Steeper from The Tea Spot is an affordable, compact and durable silicone tea infuser. It comes in four different colors and its lid doubles as a saucer to rest the infuser after steeping. In our Lab testing, we found this infuser was very easy to fill and clean. It produced a cup of tea that was full of flavor , with some lingering astringency, but we did notice some sediment at the bottom of our cup. "I like that it collapses for compact storage and toting," said a consumer tester. "I liked the clever design: The handle for lifting your steeper out of your tea also served as a way to hold the lid in place during travel. And the lid doubles as a drip tray." Another consumer tester did notice that when the tea infuser is resting in a mug, it can be hard to see how much water the mug contains.

A GH Tea Award-winner , this DavidsTea Nordic Mug brewed up a great-tasting cup of tea with its included infuser. The tea was balanced in flavor with barely any sediment at the bottom of the mug . We also appreciated the design of the double-walled glass with an easy-to-grip handle and lid that doubled as a place to rest the tea infuser after steeping. A consumer tester enjoyed that she could watch the dried flowers in her loose-leaf tea bloom by peering through the mug's glass lid. The glass pieces are dishwasher-safe, but the tea infuser requires hand washing. The stainless steel infuser was still easy to clean since tea leaves and sediment didn't linger inside the small holes.

Though it's the most expensive tea infuser on this list, the Tea Maker from Breville has plenty of bells and whistles that make it the ultimate tea-infusing appliance. This electric tea kettle brews your tea at the temperature of your choice, and it features five pre-programmed settings for black, green, herbal, oolong and white tea so your tea steeps at the ideal temperature to bring out the subtleties of the leaves. The built-in timer controls the steep time, plus it allows the user to adjust between mild, medium and strong brews. It features a large removable tea infuser basket that automatically lowers and retracts based on the programmed time to prevent over-steeping .

This teapot from The Tea Spot can hold up to 34 ounces of tea which is about three to four teacups. This stoneware teapot features a satin finish, a stainless steel handle and a large stainless steel basket infuser. In our Lab testing, we appreciated that the stainless steel infuser has very fine holes that strained out tea leaves and sediment well and produced a delicious cup of English breakfast tea that wasn't astringent. There aren't many things we found at fault with this teapot, but one consumer tester stated, "I wish you could heat it on the stove rather than have to boil water separately and pour it in, it adds an extra step."

While you can certainly brighten someone's day with a cup of tea, a Genuine Fred ManaTea infuser can make the gesture even more adorable. This cute silicone tea infuser peers over your mug while it steeps your tea. In our Lab testing, we found that some big tea leaves came out of the infuser, but no sediment escaped. It brewed a very clean-tasting cup of tea. While this infuser is a little harder to clean by hand because of its nooks and crannies, you can simply empty it and place it in the dishwasher.

This GH Tea Award -winning tea-infusing travel mug from Fire Belly is designed to brew loose leaves right in the bottle without an additional infuser attachment — and you simply push down on the plunger insert to stop the infusion. The insert also doubles as an ice holder. In our Lab tests, we liked the markings on the inside of the cup that suggested how far we should fill it for hot and cold tea. It is slim and comfortable to hold and didn’t leak in our tests. It also brewed a smooth and delicious cup of tea.

Our consumer testers enjoyed using this as well. One consumer tester noted, "I did use this item on the go. Once the tea was ready, I was able to put the cap on and take it with me. It kept my tea hot for a very long time." Take note that this mug should be hand-washed and that it has a pretty narrow interior, requiring a bottle brush for thorough cleaning.

While a little different from a traditional tea infuser, a tea steeper is a great alternative for sediment-free tea. Simply fill the steeper with loose-leaf tea and hot water, then let it steep. Once you're done steeping, place it on top of your desired mug and press down to release the tea. In our Lab testing, we found this model from DavidsTea was easy to use and great for making one cup of tea at a time, rather than a whole pot. I t produced a cup of English Breakfast tea that was completely clear or sediment or tea leaves — and it tasted earthy and complex. This steeper is not dishwasher-safe, and it requires extra care when cleaning it because of the nooks and crannies in the bottom of the steeper where tea leaves can get stuck. It's also larger than most infusers and requires more room for storage.

How we test tea infusers

In the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, we've tested more than 15 tea infusers in the last year alone. This includes tea infuser mugs and tumblers, tea infuser teapots, electric tea kettles with infusers and standalone tea infusers in a variety of shapes and materials.

When we test tea infusers in our Lab, we brew the same proportion of loose-leaf English Breakfast tea and filtered water for a controlled amount of time. We taste-test each freshly brewed tea for flavor, astringency and bitterness. Then each brewed tea goes through a fine mesh strainer to see how well each infuser strains out tea leaves and sediment. We also evaluate how easy each tea infuser is to fill, empty and clean.

In our recent side-by-side testing, we also recruited over 15 consumer testers to put tea infusers to the test in their daily life with their favorite loose-leaf teas.

What to look for when buying the best tea infuser

✔️ Type: Tea infusers come in a variety of different types, which are all designed for loose-leaf tea, but some have different benefits.

• Basket infusers like our best overall tea infuser from OXO , make up the majority of this list because they perform well, are easy to fill and clean and allow for tea leaves and dried flowers to open up fully, producing a flavorful tea.
• Floating infusers like the Genuine Fred MANATEA , often provide less space for tea leaves to fully open up and are harder to fill and clean. They usually have a cute design or are in tea ball format and tend to be more compact.
• Steepers like this model from DavidsTea , allow for tea leaves to fully expand and freely move through the water. They can often contain the leaves and sediment better than their tea infuser counterparts. They usually require more storage space though.

✔️ Material: There are a few different materials that tea infusers are constructed with like stainless steel, silicone, plastic and glass.

• Stainless steel tea infusers are the most common and come in a variety of different shapes and sizes. Some have very fine holes for filtering out leaves and sediment, and they retain heat well, which means they can get very hot to the touch after steeping tea for a while.
• Silicone models usually cannot have holes as fine as stainless steel models which may lead to some escaped sediment, but they stay cooler to the touch and are easy to clean.
• Plastic options are less common, except for steeper models which are primarily made out of plastic. They allow you to observe the tea leaves or dried flowers as they open and bloom while steeping.
• Glass infusers are fragile and also less common, but offer the same transparency benefits as plastic models.

✔️ Tea infuser holder: It's convenient when tea infusers come with lids that also double as holders for after your tea is steeped. Lids help ensure heat remains inside your cup and that aromatic compounds of your loose-leaf are captured as well. And as an infuser holder, they ensure you don't have a mess on your hands after you're done infusing.

✔️ Ease of cleaning: Some tea infusers can be a pain to clean. If this is a concern for you, look for an infuser that's dishwasher-safe for the easiest cleanup or one without super-fine holes that can trap leaves.

What does a tea infuser do?

A tea infuser holds tea leaves and dried herbs and flowers and is used to brew up a cup of hot tea. Tea infusers are used to ensure that you don't consume tea leaves while drinking your cup of tea — they strain out tea leaves and sediment for a smooth and delicious cup of tea.

One would choose to use an infuser over a tea bag because it broadens the variety of tea they can enjoy. Fresher tea and bigger, whole tea leaves with better saturation — both leading to a fresher, more flavorful cup.

How do you use a tea infuser?

• Consult your loose-leaf tea packaging. It should tell you the recommended proportion of tea to water, the temperature of the water and the amount of time for steeping.
• Measure out the recommended amount of loose-leaf tea and fill your tea infuser.
• Place the tea infuser in the mug of your choice.
• Pour the recommended temperature of hot water over the tea infuser so the contents are thoroughly saturated.
• Set a timer to the recommended time so that you don't over-steep your tea, which could make it bitter.
• Remove the tea infuser from your cup of tea and enjoy.

Can you use a tea bag in a tea infuser?

While you can use a tea bag in a tea infuser, there isn't a need to do so. Tea bags already strain your tea, and if you were to put a tea bag inside of a tea infuser, you would be double straining it, and it might lose a bit of its flavor by doing so.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Eva Bleyer has professionally tested all kinds of kitchen equipment, from oven ranges to juicers to kitchen scales to blenders . Eva conducted the recent Lab and consumer testing of tea infusers in the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab. Eva has always loved drinking tea, but over the last couple of years has gotten into loose-leaf teas and has valued having a high-quality tea infuser at the ready whenever she is in the mood for a cup.

Eva (she/her) is a reviews analyst in the Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, where she tests kitchen gear, home appliances and culinary innovations. She graduated from NYU with a bachelor of science in food studies, nutrition and public health and is a trained chef through the Natural Gourmet Institute. Eva has more than 10 years of experience in the food industry, working as a food stylist, personal chef and marketing manager.

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Steep perfect hot or iced tea on-the-go with no mess. | 16oz - 470ml

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Stop-Infusion Travel Mug & 3 essential teas for your day

HOW IT WORKS

Add loose leaf tea to the mug.

* It will also work with tea bags, or even (gasp!) coffee. We won't judge.

Add warm water to either the Hot or Iced fill line.

Leave the press up so your tea can steep.

Push the press all the way down when you're ready to stop infusion.

SEE STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Add loose leaf tea to the mug.

2. Add warm water to either the Hot or Iced fill line.

3. Leave the press up so your tea can steep.

4. Push the press all the way down when you're ready to stop infusion.

We went to great lengths to keep your stuff dry. The Stop-Infusion Travel Mug is 100% leakproof, so go ahead and throw it in your bag. As long as you've screwed the lid on tightly, you're good to go.

Zero leaks (Seriously)

Ever been sipping in a car when the driver hit the brakes? No worrying about getting soaked here, thanks to the unique flow control valves we designed into the top of the press. Just a perfect sip, every time.

no-splash flow control

Safe for you to use day after day. The mug is made of medical-grade stainless steel. The press is made of Eastman Tritan, a rigorously tested food-safe material that is BPA-free and Bisphenol-free, and is durable and safe even in boiling water.

TOXIN-FREE MATERIALS

MORE TO LOVE

make hot or iced

It's easy to make it how you like it. We designed the press with an innovative chamber for ice and added 2 fill lines – top for hot, bottom for iced – on the interior of the mug. We recommend doubling the amount of tea you use when going iced. Then simply add ice to the chamber before inserting the press, and be on your way.

easy to clean

The press fully disassembles for easy cleaning. Use warm, soapy water to clean the mug and press. Make sure the press components, mug, and lid are completely dry before storing.

stylish & comfortable to use

Our travel mugs are powder-coated in 6 stylish colors for a high-end look and feel. We also tapered the lip for comfort, and added a non-slip base.

YES, IT'S REALLY THAT GREAT.

“Best Tea Tumbler”

Saw the ad for Firebelly and took a chance and I’m glad I switched to this tea tumbler over the metal basket versions. Great design, great product, and I’m drinking more tea.

“Had My Doubts But...”

I am really enjoying my travel tea maker. I’ve made tea and transferred to a thermos or various drink containers and always burn or spill my tea. The container lip and splash guard actually works.. Plunger works beautifully... I love the feel and it hasn’t leaked. Try it – I love it!

CHRISTOPHER

“Outstanding”

Absolutely outstanding in every way. Holds heat for 12 hours, easy to open and easy to clean. Wholly recommend.

“Great Tea Travel Mug”

I have tried many travel mugs, most of which have been disappointing for tea even if they work for coffee. I was skeptical of this mug but decided to give it a try – and I’m so glad I did. It is well built, feels great in the hand and to drink from, and seals perfectly. I have been enjoying using it every day.

My #1 problem as a tea drinker was that I couldn't make loose leaf tea on-the-go.

I absolutely love tea. And I drink the good stuff – high-quality loose leaf tea. Most travel mugs are designed with coffee in mind. We put tea first. After decades of designing tea accessories, this is by far the one I'm most proud of. - David, co-founder & tea lover

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I absolutely love tea. And I drink the good stuff – high-quality loose leaf tea. Most travel mugs are designed with coffee in mind. We put tea first. 

After decades of designing tea accessories, this is by far the one I'm most proud of. - David, co-founder & tea lover

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ASK US ANYTHING

WHAT MATERIALS IS THE TRAVEL MUG MADE WITH?

It's critical that we use the very best materials, and that's what we did. The mug itself is made of medical-grade stainless steel, and the colors are powder coated to feel great in the hand, look fantastic, and last a long time. The press is made of a material called Eastman Tritan. This material is rigorously tested for safety and durability, even in contact with boiling water. It does not contain BPA.

HOW DOES THE TRAVEL MUG STOP TEA INFUSION?

The press inside our mug works very similarly to a French press, with some innovative upgrades.

When you push the press firmly all the way down, the leaves are trapped at the bottom of the mug. The tiny perforations on the bottom of the press prevent particles from escaping, and the flexible seal further prevents continued infusion.

HOW DOES THE SPLASH-PROOF FLOW CONTROL WORK?

This is a special feature, and just one of the ways we went above and beyond to make your experience better.

When designing the press, we included valves along the top. These valves are carefully sized and placed to limit the flow of liquid when the mug is tilted. That means that even drinking from the mug while in motion or tilting it for those last few sips, you get a smooth, controled flow. No water on your nose, no splashes down your shirt.

IS THIS TRAVEL MUG ACTUALLY LEAKPROOF?

Short answer: YES. Now only did we test this rigorously during development, but our customers have, too. We can confidently say that as long as you screw the lid on fully, your travel mug Will. Not. Leak. Throw it in your tote bag. Toss it in your backpack. Your laptop, passport, or anything else you're carrying will be safe and dry.

HOW LONG WILL TEA STAY HOT OR COLD?

You can expect your tea to stay hot or cold for over 12 hours. We constructed the Firebelly travel mug with double-wall vacuum insulation to make sure of it, and a quick scroll through the reviews will tell you it worked. We've even tested it against a leading competitor known for temperature maintenance, and the Firebelly travel mug maintained a higher temperature for longer every time.

HOW DO I MAKE LOOSE LEAF TEA?

First, add your tea leaves to the mug. We normally recommend about 1 tbsp. Next, add your warm water to the appropriate fill line – that's the top line for hot tea or the bottom line for iced tea. When the press is in an "up" position, the leaves can freely open and infuse in the warm water. When you push the press firmly all the way down, the leaves are trapped at the bottom of the mug, and infusion stops. There's no need to remove the leaves before you enjoy your tea, so no reason to make a mess while you're out. You can even put the lid on without fully pressing down the press so that you can steep on the go, and stop the infusion wherever, whenever.

HOW DO I MAKE ICED TEA?

It's a snap (that's a cold pun – we couldn't resist). First, add your tea leaves to the mug. We recommend using around double the normal amount of leaves you would use for hot tea. Use about 2 tbsp, or to your taste. Next, add your warm water to the bottom fill line inside the mug. Now, unscrew the lid on the press and add ice to the chamber. Put the lid back on. When you're ready to stop steeping, push the press firmly all the way down, trapping the leaves at the bottom of the mug and stopping infusion.

WHAT'S YOUR RETURN POLICY?

You'll enjoy a 30-day free returns period, so you can place your order with confidence. Just get in touch with our support team via email to start a return.

Our travel mug has been rigorously tested, and we stand behind the quality. If you believe you've received a damaged or defective mug, please reach out to us right away.

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The Best Tea Infuser Travel Mug (And Why Real Tea Lovers Need One) - Epicurious

by Mindy Fox for   Epicurious  

Photo by: Joseph De Leo

I can hear my better half, Steve, now: “Do you really need a dedicated travel tea mug? Can’t you brew a cup of tea and then use any ol’ travel mug to take it on the go?”

Yeah, babe, you could. (And he probably knows what’s coming next.) But I like to have the right tool for the job, and there is good reason to be particular when it comes to a travel tea mug.

Sure, I could place loose tea leaves in a single-use paper steeper or basket steeper and use my   favorite travel coffee mug for the job, but travel tea mugs are made with built-in tea steepers (ones that allow you to tightly close the lid while your tea steeps), which means no waste and a hotter finished brew. Plus, coffee mugs tend to take on coffee flavor over time. A dedicated travel tea mug helps keeps a   serious tea drinker’s tea   tasting pure and clean.

In my quest for the best travel mug to take my cuppa on the road, I sought out a leak-proof model that ranked high in the   heat retention department. I also wanted a mug that was easy to grip and to drink from. And because it’s nice to have stylish gear, one that looked good, too. Here are my winning picks and how I tested: 

The Very Best Tea Infuser Travel Mug: The Tea Spot Everest Tea Tumbler

The Everest’s double-walled, vacuum-sealed stainless steel insulation kept 22 ounces of tea hot and fresh tasting, and its screw down BPA-free top was terrifically leak-proof. I fell hard for its rugged adventure-meets-urban-chic look, and had a hard time deciding which of its four stylish colors I liked best.

The Everest also won my vote for smart design and functionality with an innovative screw-top and sipping mechanism that stay connected to the mug while you drink (which means when you remove the part of the lid that allows you to drink your tea, it won’t go tumbling down a cliff, through a subway grate, or down between that impossibly narrow space between the seat of your car and your cup-holding console).

The stainless steel steeper basket on this model provided ample room for water and tea leaves to mingle as my tea steeped, and its small holes kept fine leaves from passing into my tea, making a clean and full-tasting brew. The easy to grip exterior is much like that of the popular   Hydro Flask   water bottle so, if you’re a   Hydro Flask fan, you’ll likely love The Tea Spot Everest, too.

The Everest fit well in a tote bag and was also comfortable to carry on the outside of a backpack, using a   carabiner clip. And, like all of the travel tea mugs I tested, it can be used for iced tea as well as plain or infused fruit (aka spa) water. 

The Next Best (aka Runner Up) Travel Tea Infuser Mug: The Tea Spot Voyager Tea Tumbler

The Voyager, also by The Tea Spot, won my runner-up vote. At 16-ounces, it’s a smaller mug than the Everest but that’s where most of the differences end. This mug kept my tea hot and fresh for 6 hours, and is fitted with the same type of high quality stainless steel steeper basket as the Everest. Its smartly designed leak-proof lid has a comfortable, easy to drink from sip-cup style and doesn’t require removing to use—simply press down on a pop top to drink, then press it again to lock the top into spill-free mode. With its sleek metallic, glossy finish and no loop handle (for carabiner or finger hold), this model is stylistically more ‘urban’ than ‘adventure’, but also, according to highly-rated reviews for both products, a bit more vulnerable to scratches than the Everest. It’s easy to grip and carries well in a tote bag or pocket of a backpack or gym bag. 

How I Tested

I brewed loose black tea in seven leading travel tea mugs. After brewing the tea, I removed the tea basket and took the temperature of each mug’s tea using a   digital thermometer. I closed the lids tightly, then measured the temperature of each tea again after 1 hour, 4 hours, and 6 hours, recording the change in temperature at each interval.

In the breaks between temperature takes, I rolled my tightly closed filled travel tea mugs on the floor; turned them upside down, and gave them all a good shaking around to test for leaks. I took a look at how many parts came with each model and how easy they were to clean. I also considered sipping mechanism design, steeper basket quality (did the basket allow ample room for proper steeping), overall durability, and style.

The Takeaway:

The company Tea Spot makes the best tea infuser travel mugs—models that brew a great cup of tea and are easy to take on the go. Buy the  Everest Tumbler  for slightly larger capacity and a more rugged, outdoor-adventure-ready design. Buy the Voyager for a smaller travel tea mug that's perfect for urban commuters.

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• Coffee & Tea

The 10 Best Tea Infusers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Just the right tools to make perfect cups

The Spruce Eats / Derek Rose

Every cup of tea starts with a simple decision between tea bags and loose leaf . Many people instinctively choose tea bags because they are quick, convenient, and easy to find in the grocery store, but the right tea infuser makes preparing a cup of loose leaf just as easy as bagged tea—and even more delicious. Infusers are typically made of mesh stainless steel, but there are many unique options, including ones on this list, that can add a personal touch to each and every sip.

How We Tested

Other options we tested.

• What to Look for

Why Trust The Spruce Eats?

Best overall, finum stainless steel mesh brewing basket.

• Durability 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Ease of Cleaning 5 /5
• Overall Value 5 /5

Extra-fine mesh keeps leaves in

Reasonably priced

Strong flavor

Large capacity

Plastic could be thicker

Tea leaves love space to roam around; the more room, the better the flavor. That's why basket-shaped infusers are so popular and effective, perhaps none more so than the Finum Brewing Basket. It's large enough for tea leaves to diffuse flavor into every nook and cranny of your mug, and the micro-fine mesh traps in the smallest tea particles. The mesh is even fine enough to brew coffee.

After testing it ourselves, the infuser surpassed all expectations. It was one of the easiest to use and the best at retaining tea leaves. All we had to do was scoop tea into the basket, place the basket into a mug, pour hot water, and wait. The Brewing Basket is also dishwasher safe for simple post-tea cleaning. The item is available in multiple sizes and colors, and the lid functions as a drip tray for added convenience. While it leans toward the more expensive end for an infuser, we think it's reasonably priced and an excellent value for money considering the quality.

Material: Plastic and stainless steel mesh | Dimensions: 2.05 x 2.4 x 2.95 inches | Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Best Budget

Norpro 2-inch mesh tea infuser ball.

Good leaf retention for tea ball

Value for money

Chain stays cool to touch

Design not for everyone

Only one infuser

This tea ball has a dreamy nighttime-themed teapot charmed attached to it, making it a great way to wind down, perhaps with a cup of caffeine-free herbal tea . The charm has a functional purpose too, as it lets users remove the tea ball easily and without burning their fingers.

The Norpro Tea Ball Infuser is affordably priced, so it's a low-stress investment to your tea setup. It's worth noting that you can find packs of tea balls at around the same price or even cheaper than this one tea ball. However, this one has the quality that makes it worth buying over tea ball packs. It fared well in our tests, retaining all large leaves and limiting the sediment that appeared in our cups of tea. That's pretty rare for a budget-priced tea ball, as they tend to be less reliable than infuser baskets. The item is also dishwasher safe and rinses easily once your tea is finished.

Material: Stainless steel | Dimensions: Tea ball is 2 inches in diameter | Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Tea Forte Kati Steeping Cup And Infuser

• Durability 4 /5

Beautiful design

Quality materials

Fits in most cupholders

Microwavable

Gets hot to touch

Ceramic is breakable

If you’re in the market for a new favorite teacup that includes an infuser, consider the Tea Forte Kati Steeping Cup. It's a favorite among tea lovers thanks to its beautiful design, quality construction, and great results. Many happy customers say they either received or gave the item as a gift, so keep that in mind for the next holiday or special occasion. After seeing how pretty the item is firsthand, we agree.

The thick, double-walled ceramic keeps tea hot longer than many standard mugs will. Just be careful when grabbing it immediately after steeping; the mug was too hot to touch for a couple of minutes after we steeped rooibos tea in 212-degree water. When steeping sencha green tea around 170 degrees, however, the exterior stayed cool. The 12-ounce mug and matching lid are dishwasher- and microwave-safe, so it's easy to clean and reheat if needed. You can choose from a dozen designs, including the cherry blossom model we tested, to fit your aesthetic or that of a gift recipient.

Capacity: 12 ounces | Material: Ceramic mug and stainless steel infuser | Dimensions: 3.5 x 5.75 inches | Dishwasher safe: Yes (mug and lid only)

Best Teapot

Adagio teas iced ingenuitea.

• Design 4 /5

Easy to use

Multiple sizes available

Makes hot or iced tea

Handle stays cool to the touch

Lid doesn't close automatically

Tea stains plastic

May leak after dispensing

Most tea infusers are designed to make one serving at a time, but is one cup ever really enough? Avid tea drinkers are better off with a product like the Adagio Teas ingenuiTEA Teapot. Available in 16 or 28 ounces, it has the same capacity as many traditional teapots, but it's easier and faster to use.

We tried out the 16-ounce model and were impressed by the seamless bottom-dispensing valve. To use, place the ingenuiTEA on your mug after steeping, gently press it down, and tea will smoothly and automatically begin pouring. The mesh stainless stainless at the bottom keeps any leaves whatsoever from ending up in the cup. Once finished, the item is dishwasher safe. We found that it's easy to clean by hand, too, for those who don't have a dishwasher or just want to move onto the next round of tea right away.

Capacity: 16 or 28 ounces | Material: Plastic | Dimensions: 3.5 x 6 inches (16-ounce model) | Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Best Basket

Vahdam classic tea infuser.

• Design 3 /5
• Overall Value 4 /5

Plenty of space for tea leaves

Thumb grips stay cool

Lid may not properly close

Doesn't fit lids wider than 4 inches

With its extensive collection of teas and teaware, Vahdam is a go-to brand for many tea drinkers. One affordable accessory from the company we recommend is its Classic Tea Infuser. The basket-style infuser is large enough for a single serving of tea or a full teapot's worth, and we confirmed that it's dependable for keeping leaves out of your drink.

Despite the item's durability and quality stainless steel, it has a design flaw that we encountered during the testing process and saw multiple online reviewers mention: the lid, which also functions as a drip tray, doesn't perfectly fit onto the basket. This has no effect on the steeping process—the infuser still brews delicious tea, especially when you follow steps to enhance your tea tasting experience —but it's a curious and frustrating shortcoming. Aside from that, we gave the item a sparkling review. It's easy to use, the two little wings on either side of the basket stay cool to touch, and it's dishwasher safe, so cleaning is simple too.

Material: Stainless steel | Dimensions: 3 x 3.9 inches| Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Best Splurge

Forlife brew-in-mug extra-fine tea infuser with lid.

Forlife Design

Great leaf retention

Available in multiple colors

Dishwasher safe

Not major difference from cheaper baskets

The Forlife Brew-In-Mug Infuser hits all the key marks. The stainless steel basket is safe to throw in the dishwasher, and it's also easy to wash by hand for those who prefer. A few leaves got caught between the basket and the lid after steeping but rinsed away without issue. The lid, which also acts as a drip tray, has a reliable silicone seal that keeps condensation from getting on the handle. And, most importantly, the infuser retains leaves well while simultaneously allowing flavor to spready fully and evenly throughout the cup.

One factor to consider before buying, however, is that this infuser doesn't offer a major upgrade over other basket infusers despite being more expensive. There is an upgrade to be sure—we gave it one of the best reviews of any infuser we tested—but it won't necessarily provide a life-altering boost to your tea.

Material: Stainless steel and silicone | Dimensions: 3.25 x 4.5 inches | Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Best Travel Mug

Firebelly tea stop-infusion travel mug.

Firebelly Tea

Lets tea leaves steep openly

Solid, durable materials

Sleek aesthetic and multiple colorways

Must remove lid before drinking

What makes Firebelly Tea's Stop-Infusion Travel Mug so unique is that it allows users to brew delicious tea without an infuser. Instead, tea leaves steep openly inside the mug, which is much better for diffusion, and a tea press is inserted to stop the infusion process. It works more like a French press than a traditional infuser bottle, and the difference shines through in the flavor, whether you're making hot tea or iced.

We received the Stop-Infusion Travel Mug from the brand for testing purposes and found that each of the teas we brewed with it was strong and evenly diffused. The steel-and-plastic tea press, or plunger, is also extremely effective at tamping down loose tea leaves and ensuring sediment doesn't end up in any sips. The top of the tea press has a 360-degree vent that lets you drink from any side; it's a unique design that might take a moment to get used to, but sipping is smooth and drip-free. The lid needs to be removed before drinking, though, so you'll need two free hands to open it.

Another standout detail is the quality of the materials. We found the stainless steel to be hefty and durable, making the mug a trustworthy travel companion. The lid is leakproof too, so you can toss it in a bag when on the go. There are six color options, ranging from neutral tones to more vibrant options. Note that hand-washing is recommended; the tea press is easy to rinse by hand, but the mug itself requires a bottle brush to reach all nooks and crannies.

Material: Stainless steel and Tritan | Dimensions: 3 x 8.5 inches | Dishwasher Safe: No

Best With Handle

Oxo brew twisting tea ball infuser.

Unique opening mechanism

Slim and stylish

Easy to clean

Medium capacity

May need to stir for best diffusion

No drip tray

Infusers with handles offer a couple advantages over conventional tea balls: they are easier to control when steeping and less likely to make a mess. The Oxo Brew Twisting Tea Ball Infuser is our top pick in the category because it takes these advantages and adds a few unique touches of its own. Most notable is the twisting handle that opens and closes the infuser ball. It's a smooth and simple mechanism that sets the item apart from other handled infusers. Very small traces of tea leaves, more like fannings and tea dust, escaped from the basket during the testing process, but that's quite normal. Overall, the infuser did an excellent job retaining tea leaves. We also appreciated the item's sleek and elegant design, accented by the black handle.

Many tea infusers can be purchased at a cheaper price, but the Oxo model is affordable nonetheless. Plus, it's made from sturdy stainless steel and non-slip plastic. Oxo backs all of its products with a lifetime guarantee.

Material: Stainless steel and plastic | Dimensions: 1.6 x 1.6 x 7 inches | Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Best With Drip Stand

Adhoc tea drop tea infuser.

No mess and easy to clean

Drip stand makes it presentable on countertop

Very small particles may get into tea

Not the best value

If you're looking for an infuser that avoids drips, spills, and messes, the AdHoc Tea Drop Tea Infuser is the place to start. After steeping, you can place the wand-style infuser into a plastic drip stand that collects any residual tea droplets. Both parts are dishwasher safe, and we found them easy to rinse and wash by hand for those who prefer that method. The drip stand is functional and stylish enough that you can leave the infuser on your countertop for quick access.

As far as its performance, the Tea Drop does not have the absolute finest infuser basket. Some small particles ended up in the mug after we tested multiple tea varieties but not to the extent that it marred the flavor or drinking experience. We were impressed by how large the infuser basket is, which is a benefit because it gives tea leaves space to evenly diffuse throughout the mug or teapot.

Make sure you don't fill your mug to the brim, though, as the infuser will cause the water level to rise when you dunk it in for steeping. In fact, the best way to brew is by placing the infuser in an empty mug and pouring hot water directly over it . The long, flexible handle then lets you stir the infuser until the tea reaches your desired strength.

Material: Stainless steel and plastic | Dimensions: 8.46 x 2.2 inches without stand; 8.89 x 2.75 with stand | Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Best Ease of Cleaning

Oxo brew tea infuser basket.

Lid doubles as drip tray

Stays cool to touch

Leaves can rise to top of infuser

This basket infuser from Oxo is dishwasher safe, but you may never even need to toss it in the dishwasher because it's quick and easy to clean by hand too. A solid rinse removed the leftover leaves from all three types of tea we steeped with it.

The item can also be counted on to make tasty tea without a mess. It passed our tests by keeping tea leaves out of the cup; only trace amounts of dust slipped through, which is normal for most infusers. Once the tea is done steeping and you remove the infuser, its lid functions as a drip tray, so you can place the infuser on it and avoid liquid spilling onto your countertop . The two handles have what Oxo calls "stay-cool touchpoints," and this was largely true in our experience. The handles got a little warm but remained safe to touch.

Perhaps our only criticism is one that affects most basket infusers: depending on the type of tea and amount of water you use, the tea leaves can float toward the top of the infuser and may not fully submerge. This is one difference between a basket infuser and tea ball infuser; although, the former has the benefit of providing more space for tea leaves diffuse throughout the cup.

Material: Stainless steel and silicone | Dimensions: 3.25 x 5.5 inches | Dishwasher Safe: Yes

With its affordable price and unbeatable performance, the Finum Brewing Basket is the first place to look for a quality tea infuser, as basket-shaped infusers are widely preferred by tea experts and this is one of the best out there. We also love the convenient and adorable House Again Extra Fine Mesh Tea Infusers , especially if you're looking for a set instead of a single infuser.

We started by researching the top tea infusers based on customer reviews, third-party articles, and insight from our testing team. From there, we purchased and tested a total of 10 tea infusers. Seven of those infusers were deemed good enough to recommend based on their performance and value for money. We later received another tea infuser for testing purposes and felt it was worthy of a recommendation, too. That's how we put together the list of tea infusers above.

We Observed

• If any tea leaves slipped through the infuser: One of the most important parts of our testing process was seeing how well each infuser contained tea leaves. Infusers that allowed an excess of leaves or particles to fall through were not recommended in this article. Many other infusers that we tested successfully kept in leaves, leading to tasty, grit-free cups of tea. We used at least two types of tea—one with smaller leaves and one with larger leaves—in our testing trials.
• If the infuser became hot to touch: Tea leaves need to steep in hot water, of course, but that can become a problem if your infuser gets unbearably hot to touch. We made sure that wouldn't be an issue for any of the infusers we recommended. Each infuser was placed in 212-degree water for several minutes and then removed from the mug by hand (or immediately let go of) to see if it was safe to handle.
• How well the tea leaves diffused: Tea infuser size is correlated with flavor, as larger infusers tend to allow tea leaves to diffuse more thoroughly. As a result, we measured every tea infuser that we tested. We also used the same types of tea when testing the diffusers so that we could fairly gauge differences in flavor.
• Design: We rated the overall design of these tea infusers on a one to five scale, with five being the best. Some aspects we considered were: the size of the infuser; how easily it opened and closed; how easily it could be placed in and taken out of a mug; the fineness of the mesh; and its aesthetic. Ease of use and reliability were prioritized over the way the infuser looked, but all of these details affected its design score.
• Durability: We tested every infuser for at least 21 days, which allowed us to see how they held up over multiple uses. Before rating durability, we assessed the strength of all parts and materials, including any mesh, handles, clasps, or chains. We also tested four mugs with built-in infusers and graded them on how portable they were.
• Value: Infusers are generally a low-cost tea accessory, but they still come in a range of prices. After using each one, we compared its performance to the retail price and rated its value for money. This section also helped us clarify whether we would purchase the infuser ourselves or recommend it to a friend.

About Our Testers

• Our Lab team has spent collective decades working in professional kitchens, developing recipes, and testing kitchen gear.
• Derek Rose has been the coffee and tea expert for The Spruce Eats since 2019. He tested all of the tea infusers on this list in his home over three weeks. This allowed him to compare each infuser's performance side by side, as well as get a better sense of what it would be like to use each one as an everyday tea accessory.

According to Shunan Teng , the founder and CEO of Tea Drunk, one tip for making better tea at home is to use hotter water for high-quality tea and lower-temperature water for subpar tea. "Hotter temperatures bring out the flavors in better tea," she says, "and lower temperatures dilute the flaws in lower-quality tea. With bad tea, the bitterness and astringency would come out with higher temperatures."

Fu Store Stainless Steel Tea Balls : A former version of this roundup named these infusers as the best budget pick. While they may be suitable for tea with large leaves, they couldn't contain either type of tea that we tested them with. Most of the leaves ended up in our mug before steeping was finished. On top of that, the stainless steel clasp was difficult to close; it felt strained, almost rusty right out of the box. A final criticism is that the stainless steel chain fell into the mug almost immediately upon our first use, and it was difficult to take the infuser out given the temperature of the tea. Overall, these only seem worthwhile if you know the tea you'll be drinking has large enough leaves to stay inside.

Genuine Fred Manatea Tea Infuser : The Genuine Fred Manatea Infuser fell just short of being included on our list, mainly because its performance was inconsistent depending on the type of tea used. A green tea that we brewed had a lot of leaves slip through the filter and into the mug. The tea was drinkable and overall enjoyable, but the last few sips had too much sediment for our liking. Another minor shortcoming of the Manatea infuser is that its two silicone pieces are somewhat inconvenient to attach. While we can't fully recommend this infuser, some customers may enjoy its novelty aspect and could consider it as a gift idea. It just can't be counted on with every type of loose leaf tea.

Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug with Tea Leaf Filter : This Zojirushi mug with a built-in infuser was previously included on our list as the best travel option. After testing it, however, we found it harder to use and clean than expected. For instance, the lid needs to be completely removed to take a sip, which makes the mug inconvenient while driving or walking. And the lid opening is too small to fit a hand inside of, so a bottle brush is needed to properly clean the mug, as it isn't dishwasher safe. We felt it was easier to brew tea separately and pour it into a different travel mug than use the Zojirushi mug for a morning commute.

"Mistakes with brewing tea usually involve time, temperature, or water-to-tea ratio. This means brewing for too long or too short, using an incorrect temperature, or using too much or too little tea. Being mindful of all three factors will help people develop their tea-brewing techniques."  — Shunan Teng , Founder and CEO of Tea Drunk

What to Look for When Buying a Tea Infuser

The more space that tea leaves have to roam around inside the cup or pot while steeping, the better. This means large infusers are superior to small ones, as they disperse the flavors more evenly throughout the water. If possible, look for an infuser with a basket shape that fills up your entire mug. Does this mean tea balls are too small be effective? Nope! Even small tea balls produce a better result than most tea bags , since bagged tea is all too often filled with low-quality dust, fannings, and broken leaves. Those looking for a teapot with a built-in infuser can follow the same rule of thumb: a larger infuser likely means more flavor. Of course, the best way to brew tea would be for the leaves to swirl around freely and then be strained after steeping, but that is a messier and more time-consuming process than using an infuser.

When searching for tea infusers you will quickly see that they come in a number of different styles. Each one has its own pros and cons. This topic is covered in greater detail below, but here is a quick breakdown. Tea balls are the most common style. They are usually crafted from mesh stainless steel and attached to either a chain or handle for easier usage. Another popular style is the filter basket, a larger option that can be made for either a single cup or a full teapot. Other styles include: tea sticks, portable infusers, novelty infusers, and more.

Ease of Use

One reason tea drinkers may hesitate to switch to infusers is that tea bags are so convenient. No one wants to spend extra time brewing and cleaning up afterward, especially if they drink several cups a day. However, there are actually many tea infusers that are extremely easy to use and dishwasher safe. To get a sense of an item’s ease of use, see how it opens, closes, and seals shut. As a quick tip, infusers with silicone parts are often more rigorous to put together than simple tea balls and filter baskets.

Leaf Retenion

Along with the actual size of a tea infuser, it’s also worth paying attention to the size of an infuser’s holes. Some loose leaf teas are fine enough to slip through larger holes, clogging up each sip and rendering the infuser entirely useless. For those who prefer a specific kind of tea, think about whether the pieces are on the larger side or finer side and it will be easier to select the right infuser for you. Oolong, black, and green teas tend to contain larger leaves, while red and herbal teas often have smaller bits. As far as infusers go, tea balls generally have smaller mesh holes, while infuser eggs and silicone infusers have larger ones.

Types of Tea Infusers

Tea balls are the most common type of infuser, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they brew the most flavorful tea. Many are very small and may not diffuse as thoroughly as a basket infuser, for instance, so keep that in mind when searching. Tea balls are usually made from mesh stainless steel and open in half via a clasp. They are often attached to chains or handles (the latter are sometimes called “tea pincers”) to make them easier to use. Infuser eggs, an ovular and slightly larger alternative, can also be sorted into this category.

Infuser Basket

Whether they are meant for a single cup or a full teapot, infuser baskets are a simple and efficient brewing method. Look for ones that take up as much space as possible, as this will allow the tea to diffuse evenly throughout the water. Most have handles or arms that help them rest on top of your mug, while others fully submerge into the water. Another small difference to pay attention to is if it has a lid that also functions as a drip tray, as this is an especially handy feature. Expect infuser baskets to be more expensive than tea balls but still extremely affordable.

Portable Infuser

Many travel mugs today come with infusers for delicious tea on the go. The infusers themselves are typically basket style, but they are specially designed for the mug’s dimensions. The brewing process, which can be done for both hot and iced tea, is no different than standard models: simply fill the infuser, pour the water, and steep for the tea’s ideal length of time.

Compact and elegant, tea sticks are an excellent option for those interested in a sleeker aesthetic. They are not always the easiest to fill, since they are so slim, but are just as affordable as other types of infusers. The slim design can also make them less powerful than large infusers, so be sure to stir the stick around in your mug for a more thorough diffusion.

Brands/Manufacturers

Fred is a Rhode Island-based brand that manufactures everything from games to gadgets, all with a quirky spin. The company is perhaps best known for its array of themed silicone tea infusers. The largely animal-focused items are a fun way to add personality to your cup. You can find the infusers at an affordable price and shaped like sloths, koalas, whales, and more.

Home to a wide variety of kitchen gadgets, Oxo makes a couple tea infusers worth checking out. One is a nifty tea ball that can be opened and closed via a twistable plastic handle; the other is an infuser basket well-suited for your favorite mug. Both are affordably priced, as are many other Oxo products. The American company also manufactures several highly reviewed tea kettles in both stovetop and electric varieties. 

Maintenance

Perhaps the best part about buying an infuser, aside from getting tasty tea, is how easy they are to use and clean. Now, the exact instructions depend on the type of infuser, but the basic steps are this: first, fill the infuser with 1 teaspoon of tea for every 6 to 8 ounces of water; second, put the infuser into your cup or teapot (some require the water to be poured before the infuser is in place, some after); finally, let the tea steep for the recommended time and then remove the infuser before drinking. That’s it. Quick, easy, delicious. The recommended water temperature and steep time are based on the type of tea you use, not the infuser. Lighter varieties, like green tea and white tea, are best brewed with lower temperatures and less time, while black, herbal, and rooibos require hotter water and more steeping time.

Once finished with your tea, dump the leftover leaves into the trash or compost (unless you plan on reusing them) and rinse the infuser with water. If smaller tea bits cling to the infuser, remove them with an appropriate brush and some dish soap. Many tea infusers are dishwasher safe, which makes the process even easier, so check for this before purchasing. Don't worry if your infuser stains over time. This is completely normal. However, there are several ways to remove stains and slow down the staining process for those who are interested, from cleaning with vinegar, alcohol, or baking soda and even holding stainless steel infusers over gas flames to burn off residue. 

Are infusers different from strainers?

Yes, tea infusers and tea strainers are different tools with different purposes. Tea infusers are a brewing device that is used from start to finish while making a cup of tea. Strainers, on the other hand, come into play after tea is finished brewing. Their sole purpose is to separate tea leaves from the tea, typically accomplished by pouring a teapot over the strainer and into either a mug or another teapot. Many brands and websites use the terms interchangeably even though infusers and strainers are different.

How much tea do I use when brewing?

This question pops up often with tea infusers, especially when people switch over from tea bags. While specific measurements vary depending on the type of tea used, the general rule of thumb is 1 teaspoon of loose tea for every 6 to 8 ounces of water. Adding more tea will lead to a stronger flavor, as will steeping for a longer amount of time. Too much of an extreme for either will lead to an overly bitter cup of tea, however, so keep that in mind when brewing.

Can an infuser be used for other drinks?

For the most part, no. A tea infuser isn't much help for making a drink besides tea or iced tea. In a pinch, some infusers can be used as a cocktail strainer , but it would probably be messier and more difficult than convenient. Tea infusers don't work very well for brewing coffee either. Though basket-shaped infusers may look like pour-over coffee makers , the mesh is often too large to retain coffee grounds and the rate at which water would flow through the infuser would lead to some bad-tasting joe. If you purchase an infuser, it will likely just be used to make tea.

How many times can a tea infuser be reused?

Tea infusers can be used an unlimited number of times, which makes loose leaf tea more sustainable than paper tea bags. General wear and tear can shorten the lifespan of a tea infuser, especially if it's on the cheaper side, but there's no set number of steeps you can get out of it. An infuser should work anytime unless damaged.

This piece was written by  Derek Rose , the coffee and tea expert for The Spruce Eats. He researches a variety of products, from measuring scoops to commercial espresso machines, and interviews field experts for their insight. For this piece, he tested every tea infuser on the list firsthand and wrote reviews about what he liked and disliked about each one. He also researched the differences between tea varietals and methods for brewing loose-leaf tea. Derek received an MFA in Creative Writing from Columbia University and a BA in Communications from Marist College.

Shunan Teng is the founder and CEO of Tea Drunk and an avid tea educator. Tea Drunk was founded in 2013 and has a brick-and-mortar tea house in New York City. Its teaware and Chinese teas can be purchased online.

Camryn Rabideau is a freelance writer and product reviewer. She's an expert on all things home, including kitchen appliances, grills, and other cooking gadgets.

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The Best Tea Infusers That Come Recommended by a Tea Expert

From mesh baskets to travel-friendly tumblers, our favorites will help you brew the perfect cup.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Our Favorite Tea Infuser

Factors to consider, our expertise.

Food & Wine / Kevin Liang

An excellent cup of tea begins with impeccable brewing. Whether you’re using an electric kettle or a traditional teapot , preparing tea requires using specific methods to turn it into the best possible version, which is why tea enthusiasts can tell the difference between a well-brewed cup and one done hastily. 

In order for tea to be at its best, containing the most lovely flavors and aromas, it should be infused into hot water using a vessel that gives the tea leaves space to expand. "An infuser is a great way to make loose-leaf teas," says Lisa Boalt Richardson , director of the World Tea Academy and author of Modern Tea: A Fresh Look at an Ancient Beverage . But with multiple types of infusers available, it can be hard to know which one to choose. So, with help from a tea expert, we’ve highlighted our favorite mesh, ball, and glass infusers. That way, you don't have to keep guessing.

Best Overall

Finum stainless steel mesh brewing basket.

The fine mesh keeps particles from entering your cup, and its lid helps retain heat while doubling as a drip tray.

Its design may not appeal to everyone.

Those intimidated by the heat of metal tea balls will breathe a sigh of relief using this mesh alternative, which is easier to handle while hot due to the BPA-free plastic frame that doesn’t conduct heat. It’s ideal for larger tea leaves because they’ll have plenty of space to infuse the water, but it also works well for smaller leaves thanks to the fine stainless steel mesh that prevents even the smallest particles from entering your beverage.

Suitable for both mugs and kettles, you can use it for brewing a single cup or an entire pot of your favorite loose-leaf tea. And once it's done brewing, the lid will act like a saucer for the basket to prevent any last drops from trickling onto your surface. The look of its practical design may not appeal to everyone. But when it makes tea this good, who really cares? You may even find it quickly becoming one of your tea-making essentials .

Material: Stainless steel, plastic | Includes: Brewing basket and lid | Dishwasher-Safe: Yes

Best Overall, Runner Up

Oxo brew tea infuser basket.

It has a modern design with extra small holes so no loose leaves slip into the mug.

The arms are not adjustable, so it might take up too much space or clog your kitchen drawers.

The OXO Brew Tea Infuser is a thoughtfully designed basket and lid combo, with a durable stainless steel basket that will last for years to come. Its extra-small holes prevent loose leaves from drifting into the mug, and its spacious basket can fit a suitable amount of leaves. The winged arms are wide enough to easily stay put on a variety of mug sizes, so you'll reach for it no matter which of your mugs are clean that day.

Similar to the Finum, its lid helps retain heat, and the extended handles stay cool to the touch while the interior basket heats up (and stays warm). In addition, the bottom of the handles have silicone touches, reducing the potential of scratching your favorite mug. Due to its size, we wouldn't recommend using a particularly small cup.

Material: Stainless steel, silicone | Includes: Brewing basket and lid | Dishwasher-Safe: Yes

Best Ball Infuser

Oxt 3pcs tea infuser upgraded tea strainer.

You can brew multiple cups of tea at once with this rustproof set. 

The mesh has larger holes than some other models.

Featuring a chain that hooks the ball to a mug or kettle, this set of three tea balls makes tea infusing quick and simple. They’re functional for any type of tea and close tightly to prevent any bits from landing in your cup. Once your tea is brewed and you’re ready to remove the infuser, you’ll unlatch the mesh ball and dispose of the contents.

To make a fully-flavored cup, you’ll only want to fill the ball halfway, giving the leaves space to expand as they soak in the water. Because the mesh has larger holes than some other options, these balls are best suited for tea with larger leaves, as they can allow some fine particles to sift through.

Material: Stainless steel | Includes: 3 (2.2-inch) tea balls | Dishwasher-Safe: No

Best for Travel

Pure zen tea glass bottle with infuser.

You can use it for hot and cold-brew teas, and its double-walled glass will keep it from sweating, leaking, or holding on to odors or flavors.

It won't keep your tea insulated as long as some stainless steel models.

For those of us who love to take our tea on the go, you can't go wrong with Pure Zen's tea infuser tumbler. Unlike most travel containers on the market, this one is made of double-walled borosilicate glass, which makes it ideal for enjoying the purest flavor of all your favorite teas and helps maintain an ideal temperature for longer.

Its innovative design, with removable lids on both sides, allows you to use the infuser either at the top or bottom of the bottle. This makes it useful for both short brews (with the infuser at the top) and longer, cold brews (with the infuser at the bottom) — or you can remove it altogether for a bottle of fruit-infused water. And its glass walls take the guesswork out of how much water you can add, preventing any unintentional spills. Although it won't keep your tea warm (or cold) as long as some stainless steel models, its versatility and functionality more than make up for it.

Material: Borosilicate glass, stainless steel | Includes: Gift box, glass bottle, 2 lids, removable tea basket, and neoprene travel sleeve | Dishwasher-Safe: Yes

Best Handle

Oxo brew twisting tea ball infuser.

The extra-long handle makes it great for any size mug, and its twisting feature allows you to scoop and empty it with ease.

It doesn't include a stand to catch the drips when you're done brewing.

This OXO infuser is another take on the tea ball, but this time with a few extra features. Rather than a chain that hooks to the mug, this one has a long neck with a plastic handle that allows you to rest it against the side of your cup or even stir your tea while it brews. And, instead of having to open your tea ball manually to fill it, this one only takes a twist and a scoop, and then you're ready to steep all your favorite loose-leaf teas.

Its twisting feature also makes it pretty easy to empty and clean without anything getting stuck in the holes while making it less likely that any stray leaves escape as you brew. Its one drawback is that it doesn't come with anything to rest it on for catching drips after you're done.

Material: Stainless steel, plastic | Includes: Twisting ball infuser | Dishwasher-Safe: Yes

Teabloom Glass Tea Infuser

It’s suitable for most teapots and mugs and is safe for microwaves and dishwashers. 

Small leaves may get into the water through the slits in the glass. 

Suitable for various vessels, from a large kettle to a single mug , this versatile infuser is an excellent choice for individuals and households with multiple tea drinkers. It’s made from a durable type of glass that can withstand and retain heat well (so you can use it on the stove, in the microwave, and even throw it in the dishwasher), plus the lid doubles as a drip tray to keep your countertop clean after you remove the infuser.

Unlike some metals, glass won’t add any unwanted flavors to your tea, making this model one of the best options for lighter teas with more delicate flavor notes. And Its slits are laser-cut, so they're extra-fine; however, they may still let a few more small leaves or particles through than some metal infusers.

Material: Borosilicate glass | Includes: Infuser and lid | Dishwasher-Safe: Yes

Best Kettle

Breville smart tea infuser compact tea maker.

Numerous presets take the guesswork out of brewing, and it doubles as a basic water kettle.

The instructions aren’t very thorough, meaning it might take some trial and error. 

It's never been easier to customize your perfect cup, thanks to the presets of this Breville tea maker. Simply add water to the kettle and tea leaves to the infuser, and then tell the machine how hot you want the water to get and how long you want it to steep. Your tea will come out as mild or strong as you prefer, and the temperature presets denote which type of tea they’re ideal for, taking the guesswork out of brewing. That way, you can have the perfect flavor profile to enhance any new tea-based drinks you might want to try out.

The kettle can make up to four cups of tea at once, and, with its compact size and attractive design, you can easily store it in a cabinet or on your countertop. Figuring out how all its flashing lights and buttons work may be a bit difficult at first, but with a little bit of trial and error, you'll be brewing a flawless cup in no time.

Material: Glass, brushed stainless steel | Includes: Electric kettle and base, removable tea basket | Dishwasher-Safe: Yes (the infuser)

The Finum Reusable Stainless Steel Brewing Basket is our top pick because it’s great for all types of tea and is easy to use and store. The plastic will keep you from burning your hands, and the lid doubles as a drip tray to prevent spillage. For similar reasons, we also like the OXO Brew Tea Infuser Basket .

Infuser Type

Tea infusers come in an assortment of types, with the major ones in basket and ball form. Basket infusers sit on top of a mug filled with loose-leaf teas and often come with a lid to trap heat. The baskets' size and shape allow the leaves to unfurl and release their potent potential fully — and some lids double as a coaster or drip tray. Infusers are available as balls that open in half and lock. They're much smaller in size and can easily go with you while traveling, though they typically don't allow as many leaves to fully unfurl inside as baskets do. Other infusers sit directly inside a kettle or travel container.

In addition, an infuser can come in a range of materials, with the most common being steel. Stainless steel models are durable and can normally be cleaned easily in the dishwasher. There are also glass models, which some people prefer to preserve the delicate flavors of their tea. Depending on what type of mug or brewing vessel you use, some options may work better than others.

Ease of Use and Care

You’ll want to choose a tea infuser compatible with your needs and lifestyle. If you have a hard time working around hot metals, choose one with plastic or other heat-resistant materials around its edges so you don’t have to worry about hurting yourself. Some models also have additional features that make them easier to use, such as a long handle or a design that makes it easier to remove or pour. Most of our recommended infusers are dishwasher-safe, so cleanup typically requires minimal effort. However, you may have to put in some extra work to extract any stuck tea leaves.

Serving Size and Design

Depending on how much tea you like to drink in one sitting, you may want to pay attention to the size of your infuser. Some infusers — like tea balls — are better for infusing a single cup of tea, while larger infusers can serve up to four cups ( tea party , anyone?). Another thing to consider when it comes to size is how big the openings are on your infuser. Infusers with very small openings, like those made of metal mesh, are less likely to allow any tea leaves or fine particles to escape into your finished cup. However, those with larger holes may let a few pieces slip past and are better suited for bigger tea leaves. 

Frequently Asked Questions

A tea infuser is a tool designed to steep loose-leaf tea while preventing small particles from getting into your drink. Many tea infusers are made from mesh stainless steel to do just that.

“Loose-leaf teas are whole tea leaves or broken whole tea leaves," says Richardson. "They can offer a greater depth of flavor, but since they are not in a teabag or sachet, there isn’t anything to allow the tea leaves to be removed from the teapot or teacup.” That's where a tea infuser comes in handy.

Using a tea infuser involves combining tea leaves and hot (or cold) water. “The tea leaves are placed in the infuser and then set in a cup or teapot,” Richardson says. “Hot water (sometimes boiling but not always — green teas need lower water temperature) is poured over the tea leaves, and then the tea leaves are steeped in the water for anywhere from two to five minutes depending on the tea.” You can also steep some teas over a longer period in cold water to make a cold brew or iced tea.

On average, a teaspoon of tea leaves per cup of water is a good starting point, according to Richardson, but she says you can always adjust depending on how strong you want your tea to be. 

“As a rule of thumb, adjust the amount of tea in the infusion instead of adding more time to steep the tea,” Richardson says. “If tea leaves are left in the water for too long, your tea will become too bitter.”

Contributor Ariane Resnick is a special diet chef, certified nutritionist, and bestselling author who typically finds herself craving tea when the weather turns cold. She was excited to speak with Lisa Boalt Richardson , director of the World Tea Academy and author of Modern Tea: A Fresh Look at an Ancient Beverage , to learn everything possible about tea infusing and help her determine the best tea infusers on the market.

Related Articles

Moscow Muled

Why do moscow mules come in copper mugs.

Oct 18, 2019

Have you ever wondered why the Moscow Mule cocktail is served in a copper mug? In this post, we answer that question in detail. As it turns out, the answer is partly based on historical events and partly based on the extra "kick" that copper brings to this classic cocktail. Let's dive in!

Introduction

A remarkable cocktail is something you notice from across the room, easily identified by the signature drinking vessel it's served in. Few are more distinct than the burnished copper mug of a Moscow Mule. 

Great cocktails aren't just alcohol and mixers––they should be something more, a full sensory experience from beginning to end. It starts as you observe the precise convergence of ingredients in a golden ratio that blossoms into flavors and aromas of citrus and spicy ginger. It is then delivered into an ice-filled copper mug and garnished with fresh mint and a slice of lime.  Finally, it is presented before you, shiny and cold, compelling you to taste.

The copper mule mug not only tells the story of the drink it contains, but also is essentially functional to the full experience. You might already know that the cone-shaped bowl of a long-stemmed Martini glass was designed so that olives would stand perfectly upright, and the elegantly curvaceous welled Margarita glass was designed to add ample salt, sugar and garnishes.

But why are Moscow Mules served in copper mugs?

Inquiring minds want to know, so this article will sum up the science and history of why traditional Moscow Mules come in copper mugs, and other legit benefits of serving cocktails in pure copper mugs. This includes:

A Brief History of the Moscow Mule

The science of using copper mugs.

• How Copper Mugs Amplify the Taste & Aroma of your Moscow Mule
• The Enhanced Experience of Drinking from a Pure Copper Mug

The origin of this timeless cocktail is the tale of the American Dream. One fateful day in 1941 , three struggling entrepreneurs had a serendipitous meeting at the Cock 'N Bull bar on the Sunset Strip in Hollywood: A bar owner passionate about his unpopular home-brewed ginger beer, a businessman who took a big chance and purchased Smirnoff vodka, and a Russian immigrant with a cache of copper mugs she couldn't seem to sell. That day, the unlikely trio wisely decided to join forces in a bold venture that would not only save their individual businesses, but also create an iconic American cocktail.

Essentially, the Moscow Mule is the most successful marketing campaign in cocktail history. At a time when most Americans had never even heard of vodka, this cocktail introduced them to the traditional Russian alcohol, and established Smirnoff as a necessity in both bars and homes alike.

Thanks to celebrity endorsement, the Moscow Mule soon took the Hollywood cocktail scene by storm, and quickly became the most beloved mixed drink of the 1950's.

It's popularity understandably waned during the Cold War, and it was briefly re-branded as the Smirnoff Mule to distance itself from communism. However, the recent cocktail renaissance of the 21st century has seen the Moscow Mule come kicking back, as evidenced by lists like Esquire's Top 10 Cocktails of 2019 , and Business Insider's 8th Best-selling Cocktail in the World, 2018 .

But the answer to why Moscow Mules are served in copper mugs goes much further than a conveniently clever alliance between co-founders desperate for a big break. The story of the Moscow Mule is both the struggle of the immigrant searching for success, and the flashy lifestyle of the rich and famous.

It boasts a simple recipe , yet a complex flavor profile, encapsulated in a shiny copper mug. And as delicious and refreshing as the Moscow Mule may be, it's the copper mug that makes the cocktail so extraordinary.  Like the drink itself, the pure copper mule mug is a balance of form and functionality.

The most scientific benefit of the copper mug is its ability to regulate temperature. When a drink is served in a copper mug, it gets cold fast––and stays that way.

Copper is a renowned thermal conductor that will keep your beverage frosty in any weather, and is one of the reasons the traditional Moscow Mule has become synonymous with summer. Add a little ice, and the copper chills drinks instantly, and sustains a refreshingly icy rim with every sip.

Because copper is such an excellent conductor, it can keep your cold beverages colder for longer. The downfall of many ill-fated cocktails on a hot summer day is melting ice. Copper mugs stay brisk, and don't disrupt the recipe's ratio, so the simple yet distinct flavors of the Moscow Mule remain strong till the last drop.

Another important feature of the solid copper Moscow Mule mug is the handle. Much like the stem of a wine glass, the copper mug handle keeps the nearly 100 degree body temperature of your hand from impacting the status of your deliciously frosty cocktail.

How Copper Mugs Amplify the Taste and Aroma of Your Moscow Mule

If you want to know what a Moscow Mule tastes like, purists would insist the only way to experience it is in a 100% copper mug. Aside from being a great American tradition, copper mugs offer some unique enhancements to both the flavor and aroma of the Moscow Mule (or almost any finely-crafted cocktail).

Although subjective, most discerning drinkers would agree that copper mugs imbue cocktails with a superior taste. Experts explain that the copper oxidizes the vodka upon contact, thus enhancing the flavor profile and potency of the aromatics.

The intense cold of the copper also creates more stability in the bubbles of the ginger beer carbonation, and balances the tangy citrus of the lime with the earthy spice of the ginger.

For the skeptics out there, the theory of superior taste is easily verifiable. Simply make or order two Moscow Mules––one served in a plastic cup, and one served in a copper mug. Take a moment to inhale deeply, enjoy a big sip, and let your senses be the judge.

The epiphany should take a matter of moments, and you soon realize why a Moscow Mule is best served in a copper mug, and why any other cup or glass is vastly inferior. The difference can be so vivid, you might even consider drinking all your favorite beverages from copper mugs, even hot tea and coffee!

The Enhanced Experience of Drinking From a Pure Copper Mug

Throwing back shots with reckless disregard is a great way to get hammered, but a terrible way to enjoy something delicious. People order cocktails for the full package––observing its creation, revelling in its presentation, and slowly savoring its captivating story and unique taste.

Not only is a cocktail a well-balanced combination of spirits and mixers, it's also about the aesthetic and function of the vessel it's served in. A cocktail should be an object of inspired beauty, presented thoughtfully in a suitable glass or mug and garnished appropriately. It should take time, because it's made by hand.

Although the copper mug has become the symbol of Moscow Mules, it can also pair exquisitely with many other cocktails. Many people seem drawn to the shine and nostalgia of the metal, and Mixologists seem impressed by the scientific properties of the copper mug. Other drinks prominently featured in copper mugs include Dark 'n Stormy, Mescal, Gin & Tonic, and Cuba Libre.

No matter how frosted a beer glass gets, nothing can keep a mixed drink colder than a copper mug. The sensation when one's lips touch the ice-cold rim with every sip is part of the unique experience.

The flavors are heightened, the aromas amplified, and the balance of vodka, lime juice and ginger beer is never watered-down by melting ice. Provided your Moscow Mule is served in a pure copper mug, the last sip should be just as robust and enjoyable as the first.

The benefits of drinking from copper mugs aren't a newfound discovery. In fact, copper has been the preferred metal for drinking vessels for thousands of years.

Gurus in India have been using copper mugs for hundreds of years, and copper goblets called Escra have been found in ancient Irish ruins. Even American settles in 1645 drank exclusively from a massive tankard made of pure copper, known today as the Virginia Tankard .

The Moscow Mule is a classic drink served in a magnificent copper mug because it tells a compelling story, and enhances your consumption experience. It is an unforgettable drink because it's served in a mug that is both more beautiful than and functionally superior to glass.

Three Reasons Moscow Mules Come in Copper Mugs

The reason your Moscow Mule is served in a copper mug is not a fluke. It is not because it's the latest trendy hipster craze. It's not just a marketing ploy (although it definitely started out as one), nor is it a conspiracy by the lobbyists for Big Copper.

Moscow Mules come in copper mugs for three reasons: taste, temperature, and presentation.

The unique experience of drinking a Moscow Mule is a balanced combination of these three elements. It's also the reason this drink is not only the most recognizable, but also consistently one of the most popular drinks in global cocktail culture history.

Taste: The natural properties of the copper oxidize the alcohol, resulting in powerful aromatics and superior flavors. The bubbles of the ginger beer stay fizzy, and perfectly counter the acidity of the fresh lime juice. It's spicy yet refreshing. Simply put, it's delicious!

Temperature: Copper is an ideal thermal conductor, instantly chilling your beverage upon creation, and maintaining a consistently arctic temperature. This prevents the ice from quickly melting and dulling the cocktail ratio, while keeping the rim refreshingly frosty with every sip. The handle also keeps your hot little fingers from fluctuating the temperature with every touch.

Presentation: A glinting copper mug looks authentic and catches the eye. It is vintage, yet modern, and tells a story of creativity, charm and resilience. It is instantly recognizable, and makes for a fine looking beverage. Yes please!

The Bottom Line

The copper mug is iconic, a great American tradition of nearly 80 years, and is the only proper way to drink a Moscow Mule. Cheers!

Did You Enjoy This Article?

Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this article, you might also like the following articles:  How to Clean and Care for Copper Mugs: The Definitive Guide and  Why You Should Only Use Moscow Mule Copper Mugs With Stainless Steel Lining

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Moscow Mule Copper Mug

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