This is the perfect time to rethink everything you thought you knew about tea. Spoiler: brewing a great cup isn’t just for tea sommeliers or your tita who swears by her chamomile. From first-time sippers to lifelong leaf lovers, everyone deserves a smooth, flavorful, no-regrets brew.

Whether you’re calming a kiddo’s nerves, fueling your 9-to-5 grind, or winding down with something warm in your golden years—how you brew your tea really matters.

Don’t Blast It with Boiling Water

Green and white teas are not here for your piping hot kettle. Scorching them brings out bitterness, not bliss.
The fix?

• Green/White Tea: 160–180°F

• Oolong: 180–200°F

• Black/Herbal: Boiling is fine

No thermometer? Just let the water sit for a minute or two after boiling.

Don’t Let It Steep Forever

Oversteeping doesn’t make tea stronger—it just makes it bitter and a little moody.
Try this timing sweet spot:

• Green: 1–3 mins

• Oolong: 3–5 mins

• Black: 3–5 mins

• Herbal: 5–7 mins

Pro move: set a timer or use your favorite song as a steeping soundtrack.

Don’t Guesstimate Your Leaves

You don’t need to be a scientist, but a little measuring goes a long way.
Basic brew rule:

• 1 teaspoon per 8 oz cup

• 1.5 tsp for herbal or chunkier blends

Too much = overpowering. Too little = watery. We’re aiming for just right.

Don’t Ignore the Water

If your water tastes weird, your tea will too. Chlorine-heavy or hard tap water can mess with flavor. Level up your brew with filtered or spring water—it makes a big difference.

Don’t Ice It the Wrong Way

Want iced tea that actually tastes like tea? Don’t just pour hot tea over ice. That’s how you get sad, diluted sips.
Instead:

• Cold brew overnight for smooth vibes

• Or brew it double-strength before icing

Now that’s how you chill.

Don’t Force a Second Steep (Unless It’s That Kind of Tea)

Some teas—like oolong or high-end green—are down for multiple rounds. Others? Not so much. If the flavor’s gone, it’s gone. Let those leaves rest.

Don’t Rush the Ritual

Brewing tea isn’t just a step—it’s a vibe. Slow down. Savor it. Let the aroma hit. Watch the color bloom. This moment’s for you.

From toddlers sipping bedtime chamomile to grandparents relaxing with rooibos, tea’s for every age—and every stage. But no matter who’s holding the cup, skipping these brewing basics can turn a great tea into a meh moment.

So now you know what not to do—ready to brew better?

Drop us a comment, tag our Instagram in your next tea post @scentedleaf, or share your own tea “oops” moments. We’re here for all the sips, slips, and steeps.