Start with three useful numbers: green tea at about 80°C for 1–3 minutes; black tea at 100°C for 3–5 minutes; and herbal or fruit tea at 100°C for 3–6 minutes. These are practical starting points. Adjust them for leaf size, tea quantity and your preferred strength.
Tea temperature and steeping time chart
- Green tea: 80°C, 1–3 minutes
- Black tea: 100°C, 3–5 minutes
- Herbal or fruit tea: 100°C, 3–6 minutes
- White tea: 80°C, 2–5 minutes
- Oolong tea: 80°C, 2–3 minutes
These ranges follow guidance from the Tea and Herbal Association of Canada. Always check the instructions on the product package as blends and leaf sizes vary.
How much loose-leaf tea should you use?
Begin with one teaspoon of loose tea for every 180 mL of water. A teaspoon of large, airy leaves will look fuller than a teaspoon of small leaves. Fruit pieces and large herbs may also need a larger volume. Make one cup at this starting ratio, taste it, then adjust the amount next time. This is usually easier to control than extending the steep by several minutes.
Why does tea taste bitter or astringent?
The usual causes are water that is too hot, a steep that is too long, or too much tea. Green tea is especially sensitive to high temperatures. Freshly boiled water can extract bitter compounds before its more delicate aroma becomes clear. Lower the temperature to about 80°C and shorten the steep before reaching for sugar.
Four steps for a consistent cup
- Boil fresh cold water rather than repeatedly reboiling the same kettle.
- Let the water cool to the temperature that suits the tea type.
- Start the timer as soon as the tea meets the water.
- Remove the leaves when time is up instead of leaving them in the cup.
Frequently asked questions
How can I estimate 80°C without a thermometer?
After the water boils, open the kettle and let it stand for about 3–5 minutes before pouring it over green tea. Kettle material and room temperature change how quickly water cools, so treat this as a household approximation.
If the tea is weak, should I steep it longer?
Add a little more tea first. A much longer steep can increase bitterness and astringency along with strength.
Can I steep the same leaves again?
Yes. Extend the second steep slightly and expect the aroma and body to change. Whole leaves generally resteep more consistently than finely cut tea or fruit infusions.
To compare these methods with specific blends, try Jasmine Flow green tea, Blue Fog black tea and Moon Calm herbal tea.