Top 10 Questions Customers Have About Loose Leaf Tea (Answered)
Written by The Tea House on Los Rios — San Juan Capistrano, CA
If you’ve ever wondered how to make loose leaf tea, why it tastes different than bagged tea, or where to start — this friendly guide is for you. We’ve answered the top questions we hear every day at our cottage on Los Rios Street.
1) What is loose leaf tea?
Loose leaf tea uses whole or partially broken tea leaves — not the tiny “dust and fannings” found in many tea bags. Bigger leaves have space to unfurl in hot water, which means richer aroma, fuller flavor, and a smoother cup.
2) What is the history of loose leaf tea?
For thousands of years, tea was brewed loose in pots, cups, and strainers. Tea bags are a modern convenience (early 1900s). Enjoying loose leaf connects you to a long, beautiful tradition — something we celebrate daily at The Tea House on Los Rios.
3) What are the benefits over bagged tea?
- Better taste: More natural oils and aromatics for layered, clean flavor.
- Consistent quality: You can see the leaves and choose the grade you like.
- Less waste: Use a reusable infuser or compostable filters.
- Great value per cup: A tin makes many servings (see below).
| Loose Leaf | Typical Bagged Tea |
|---|---|
| Whole leaves, fuller flavor | Small particles, can taste flat or bitter |
| Reusable tools (infuser/filters) | Single-use bags |
| Often lower cost per cup | Higher cost per cup for premium brands |
4) Where can I buy loose teas?
Explore our full collection online or visit us in San Juan Capistrano: Shop Loose Leaf Tea. Not sure where to start? Try our Tea Sampler Sets — six mini tins in each bundle.
5) How do I make or brew loose tea?
It’s simple:
- Add 1 level teaspoon of tea per 8 oz cup to an infuser or teapot.
- Pour in hot water (see temperature guide below).
- Steep for the recommended time.
- Remove leaves, then sip and enjoy.
A good tool makes it easy. Our Luxury Tea Infuser fits most cups and mugs. Prefer “bag” style? Use our disposable tea filter bags.
6) Isn’t loose leaf tea really expensive?
Not usually. A 100 g tin often makes 55 cups, which comes out to just a few cents per serving. Many teas can be re-steeped (see Q9), which stretches the value even more.
7) Do loose leaves come in bags?
You can brew loose tea in a bag using compostable filter bags, or use a reusable infuser. You get the fresh taste of loose leaf with the convenience you love.
8) How long should I brew loose leaf teas?
Here’s a quick steeping guide. When in doubt, start shorter; you can always add 30–60 seconds more.
| Tea Type | Water Temp | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Black | 200–212°F (93–100°C) | 3–5 minutes |
| Green | 170–180°F (77–82°C) | 2–3 minutes |
| Oolong | 185–200°F (85–93°C) | 2–4 minutes |
| Herbal/Rooibos | 212°F (100°C) | 5–7 minutes |
| White | 175–185°F (80–85°C) | 2–4 minutes |
9) Can loose leaf tea be re-steeped?
Yes. Many high-quality teas can be brewed 2–3 times. Add 30–60 seconds to each additional steep. Greens and oolongs especially shine on steep two.
10) What’s the difference in taste between loose leaf and bagged tea?
Loose leaf is typically smoother, more aromatic, and more balanced. Bagged tea can taste harsh because the tiny particles release tannins quickly. Once you try loose leaf, it’s hard to switch back.
Loose Leaf Quick Start
- 1 tsp tea per 8 oz water
- Use the temperature guide above
- Start with the minimum steep time
- Taste, then add time if you want it stronger
Tools that help: Luxury Tea Infuser • Tea Filter Bags • Sampler Sets
Ready to find your favorite?
Shop Loose Leaf Teas | Try a Sampler | Get the Luxury Tea Infuser
