It’s not just about the quality of the tea you’re making; it’s also about the look and feel of your cup of tea.
Loose-leaf teapots come in a plethora of designs and materials. Tea leaves can be held in infusers integrated into the cups themselves. Some are made to be used with a tea infuser that is not included. I prefer those that have an infuser built-in. Because they’re so easy to remove and clean, they’re also very convenient to use.
There’s a teapot out there for everyone, regardless of budget or tea preferences. To get you started on your quest for the ideal teapot, here are a few suggestions.
19 Best Teapots for Loose Leaf Tea
Bodum Assam Glass Tea Press with Stainless Steel Filter and Lid, 1.5-Liter
What We Like
This teapot is dishwasher-safe and features a push that allows you to halt the steeping process at the perfect time.
What We Don’t Like
You shouldn’t fill the pot to the brim with water if you plan on using the press function, because the stainless steel lid will get quite hot.
Shrestha recommends this teapot as a good entry point because it is “accessible, affordable, and easy to use every day.” The heat-resistant plastic handle, the ability to clean it in the dishwasher, and the see-through glass body make this a breeze to use, and the resulting tea will be a beautiful shade. In other words, “this helps you decide how long you should steep the tea based on how strong or light you want it,” he says.
Once the tea has reached the desired strength, you can employ the teapot’s unique function by pressing the plunger down to transfer the leaves to a sealed area of the infuser and halt the brewing process, much like a French press. The infuser can be left in the cup after the steeping process is complete, and the tea won’t get bitter if the leaves aren’t discarded.
Stainless Steel Tea Pot With Removable teapot Infuser For Loose Leaf & Tea Bags
What We Like
The tea you make in this teapot will stay hot for a long time, and it’s safe to put in the dishwasher.
What We Don’t Like
Very little thought went into the design, and the fact that the lid can get rather hot means that care must be used when handling it.
This teapot has a stainless steel detachable infuser and a stainless steel cover. There are no decorative flourishes, yet the round form and spherical handle give it a certain charm.
The durability of stainless steel cooking tools extends to this tool as well. That it can withstand high temperatures without warping or rusting in the dishwasher. Even better, the stainless steel construction means your tea won’t get cold quickly; nevertheless, you should use a towel or cloth to remove the lid after steeping, since it will be very hot.
Wedgwood Renaissance Gold Teapot
What We Like
This elegant teapot is lightweight but durable enough to pass down through the generations.
What We Don’t Like
You’ll need to use tea bags if you don’t have a strainer, which is not provided.
Hosting a tea party in your own house gives off an air of sophistication; why not play up the atmosphere by using a more elaborate teapot? This teapot, made by a household name in the world of fine china, is decorated with a neoclassical pattern in crimson and gold and should be shown rather than hidden away.
While this teapot appears to be made of porcelain, it is actually more durable than it appears due to the use of quality bone china. As per the maker, it can even be cleaned in the dishwasher. With this teapot in your home, you’ll always have an excuse to reward yourself.
Royal Albert Old Country Roses 3-Piece (Teapot, Sugar & Creamer) Tea Set
What We Like
- Chinese porcelain of the highest quality
- Amazing artistry
- You can also find similar sets elsewhere.
What We Don’t Like
- We advise washing by hand.
- Not a single teaspoon
Teaware from Royal Albert is a safe bet. British firm producing exquisite fine bone china for almost a century. Because it is one of Royal Albert’s most popular patterns, we went with the Old Country Roses design. You can always add to your china collection without worrying about the design clashing with anything else because the company produces hundreds of pieces with the same lush flowery pattern, such as serving trays, napkin rings, and wine glasses.
Three pieces: a 42-ounce teapot, sugar dish, and creamer, all in one convenient set. Despite the lack of accompanying cups and saucers, we’re big fans of how it includes three necessary pieces for only a tad more than the cost of just the teapot on its own. Teacups in the Old Country Roses pattern can be found on a variety of internet retailers, should you need a replacement. Hundreds of satisfied customers have given this set five stars. Many buyers have proclaimed it to be the finest tea service they’ve ever had.
Porcelain Tea Sets British Royal Series, 8 OZ Cups & Saucer Service for 6
What We Like
- Excellent for hosting parties
- Constantly used porcelain
- Elegant pattern, available in a variety of colors
What We Don’t Like
- Sadly, the rack is not included.
This beautiful 22-piece tea set includes everything you need to host a tea party. A sparkling 28-ounce teapot complements the six teacups, six saucers, six teaspoons, sugar dish, cream pitcher, and stainless steel filter. The entire set is made of fine white porcelain and finished with a sophisticated gold band. Customers give the porcelain a near-perfect five-star rating for durability, and the product may be used in the dishwasher without any problems. However, the microwave and cooktop are off limits for these dishes.
The affordability of this Pukka Home set is what sets it apart from similar products on the market. In light of the high quality and generous quantity of components, the asking price is extremely fair. Pukka Home produces the set in Pure White, Milk Purple, and Young Pink if you’d prefer something with a little more color. Please note that the photograph display stand is not included with the set.
Japanese Teapot Kyusu Tokoname Youhen Clay Teapot
What We Like
In order to extract the full potential of the ingredients, the entire pot may be used as a strainer thanks to the integrated spout, and the side handle facilitates a relaxed, stress-free pouring experience.
What We Don’t Like
Since the clay absorbs flavor, you should only use this teapot with one kind of tea, and the side handle is inconvenient for left-handed individuals.
Japanese teapots are known as yokode kyusu, and they are distinguished by a thick handle that protrudes perpendicularly from the side. This teapot, like all others of its kind, was handcrafted with care, and its unique design provides for a more refined pouring experience thanks to the thumb-locking lid.
This teapot has a built-in clay strainer at the end of the spout instead of a lid-mounted infuser, so the tea leaves can move freely within the entire vessel as they steep. The clay construction of the teapot allows it to slowly absorb aromas and flavors, improving future brews.
RSVP Int Stoneware Teapot Collection, Microwave and Dishwasher Safe
What We Like
- Top-notch quality for the price
- modern and offered in a rainbow of hues
- High-quality, ergonomically-designed grip
What We Don’t Like
- There was no infuser.
Like its counterparts earthenware and porcelain, stoneware is a versatile ceramic used to create utensils, dishes, and more. Its longevity and aesthetic versatility have made it a fan favorite. Therefore, stoneware is a fantastic combination of use and beauty, just as the RSVP Stoneware Teapot.
You can purchase this item in two sizes (16 and 42 ounces) and a rainbow of hues. The teapot is microwave and dishwasher safe, however unlike many others, it does not include an infuser. Customers generally agree that the kettle is durable, despite a few reviews mentioning concerns with chipping. Furthermore, it has a solid gripping handle. The stoneware construction is sturdy enough to keep your tea hot for as long as it takes you to drink it.
Hario ‘ChaCha Kyusu Maru’ Teapot Heatproof Glass Teapot 700 mL, Glass
What We Like
This teapot is great for everyday use because of its modern, easy-to-clean design and its big strainer, which allows for maximum flavor extraction.
What We Don’t Like
This teapot is ideal for a single person.
This is Eng’s favorite teapot because it’s the best of the bunch. She explains that it may be worn in a variety of ways and is both lightweight and durable. “Because it’s made of heatproof glass, you may enjoy your tea’s color as well as its flavor,” the description reads. Because it’s constructed of glass, it’s simple to clean before using it for another cup of coffee.
The big strainer, which almost reaches the bottom of the teapot, is another great feature. It allows the tea leaves plenty of room to expand. Eng explains that this is because “you’ll be able to see your tea leaves ‘dance,'” a word for observing the movement of tea leaves while brewing. Although there are three sizes available, our favorite is the largest, which can brew enough tea for two or three servings.
Sweejar Royal Teapot, Ceramic Tea Pot with Removable Stainless Steel Infuser
What We Like
In addition to being a beautiful addition to your tea table, this teapot is also very functional.
What We Don’t Like
It may not brew as much as you’d want when serving others if you’re used to serving tea in smaller tea cups.
You’re looking for a ceramic item, right? The tea ceremony befitting a British tea party calls for this porcelain teapot. It adds a sense of modernism with its well-crafted scalloped form and thin gold rim, and refinement with its jade and watermelon red color options.
It has a removable stainless steel infuser and can brew enough tea for four regular cups, making it ideal for a refined afternoon tea party. After the party is done, the teapot can be cleaned in the dishwasher, but it can also be cleaned by hand with ease due to the material it is made of.
Suyika Japanese Tetsubin Cast Iron Teapot Tea Kettle pot with Stainless Steel
What We Like
This massive teapot has a timeless design and is fireproof, making it ideal for serving a crowd.
What We Don’t Like
You may not feel confident lifting and pouring from this heavy teapot, which weighs little over five pounds.
For its superior conductivity and one-of-a-kind style, cast iron teapots are favored by some. For you, we suggest this lovely teapot with a removable infuser. You can serve anywhere from four to six people at once from this large teapot, making it perfect for entertaining large groups.
If you consider the materials used, this teapot may be the heaviest you own; yet, the hemp rope wrapped ergonomic handle makes it much more manageable. Additionally, the cast iron is safe to use on the stove, so you can boil the water in the pot if you want.
Tealyra – Daze Ceramic Teapot in Blue – 27-ounce (2-3 cups) – Small Stylish
What We Like
- Distinctive outline
- Dispenser with a sizable needle
- Easy-peasy dripping
What We Don’t Like
- Limited holding capacity
- Disappointingly, the lid doesn’t always remain closed.
Many people like ceramic teapots because of its durability, ease of care, and classic design. All of these great features are included in Tealyra’s Daze Ceramic Teapot, and it comes in a choice of seven colors to complement your individual style or the color scheme of your kitchen. The ceramic body can withstand high heat and will last a long time, and it can hold 24 ounces. A flawless cup of tea is guaranteed by the extra-fine stainless-steel strainer that captures even the tiniest of leaves. Customers love that the pot doesn’t spill while pouring, and that it’s perfect for sharing a cup of tea with a buddy on a chilly day.
CUSINIUM Glass Teapot Set – Teapot Set: Gift Box, Cozy Warmer
What We Like
- Safe for use with stoves, microwaves, and dishwashers
- Facilitated use
- Included are a protective sleeve and a coaster.
- Style and grace
What We Don’t Like
- Only 3-4 glasses’ worth.
The Cusinium Glass Teapot Kettle with Infuser is our top pick for a daily use teapot because of its versatility (it can brew both hot and cold tea), modern design, and superior performance. This type is made of borosilicate glass, making it suitable for use directly on a gas burner, and it can hold up to four cups of tea. If your tea cools down, you may remove the stainless steel insert and reheat it in the microwave. It’s dishwasher-safe, so you can clean it up quickly and get back to relaxing after a long day.
The Cusinium’s user-friendliness is particularly noteworthy; it includes clear instructions and a helpful chart detailing the ideal water temperature and brewing time for various teas. We put the teapot through its paces by making earl grey tea from loose leaves. Our taster said the flavor was spot on, and the filter got rid of all the silt.
Burns are inevitable when pouring hot water out of a teapot, but this product’s lid is insulated to save your fingertips from becoming too hot. Spills are prevented by the spout, and the ergonomic handle makes the pot easy to grasp. Although our tester was “thoroughly satisfied with the teapot’s high-quality design and user-friendly operation,” she did note that its capacity may be too modest for some passionate tea drinkers.
Sweese 221.110 Teapot, Porcelain Tea Pot with Stainless Steel Infuser
What We Like
- Reasonably Priced
- You can choose from a variety of colors.
- An especially sizable grip
- Giftable
What We Don’t Like
- Not the best pouring technique
In addition to being lovely, this teapot holds 27 ounces of tea. The item has a timeless design thanks to its round handle and slightly gooseneck spout, and it comes in a variety of bright and glossy colors, from the ever-classic white to the eye-catching turquoise. A stainless steel infuser is included for your usage, and it may be used with either bagged or loose tea.
Although the teapot is on the small side, it should be able to brew enough tea for a few servings if used only for one person. Customers who drink a lot of tea or host parties frequently will be happy to discover that Sweese also offers a 40-ounce teapot that is essentially identical to the smaller one except that it does not come with an infuser.
Besides being a great buy, this teapot is well regarded as a thoughtful present. Remember that porcelain is sturdy but not impervious to wear and tear like chips and scratches.
Primula Half Moon Teapot with Removable Infuser, Glass Tea Maker
What We Like
- Cheap cost
- High storage capacity
- Giftable
- You can choose from a variety of colors.
What We Don’t Like
- Dripping has gotten mixed reviews.
- Less time spent in the heat
Primula’s one-of-a-kind teapot is one of the least expensive options out there. It’s hardly a bare-bones bargain basement choice, though. The Primula Half Moon Teapot can hold up to 40 ounces of water, and it comes with a stainless steel infuser to simplify the steeping process. Being round and having a glass and plastic exterior makes it easily stand out from other, more traditional teapots. Even if the design is popular and comes in a variety of hues, not everyone will find it appealing. This is especially true for those who enjoy the timeless elegance of traditional porcelain pieces. The dishwasher can be used to clean the object. If you’re using glass, please use caution.
Le Creuset Stoneware Traditional Teapot 1.4 qt. Cerise
When making tea for a large company, the Le Creuset teapot is an excellent choice. Guests will appreciate its 1.4-quart capacity. The vibrant hues are eye-catching and will look wonderful on any table or counter in your home. If you’re searching for a more neutral teapot, you can also choose a white one.
Classic Teapot, 1.3 Litres, Serves 3-4 Cups, Cherry Enamelled Stoneware by Le Creuset
For easy cleaning, the tea infuser is made of stainless steel. If you want to use teabags in addition to loose leaf tea, this is a fantastic option. You don’t need the infuser to utilize it.
It’s a wonderful addition to any cup of tea, whether it’s in the afternoon or in the morning. Because it comes with a five-year warranty, you can be sure it’s an investment that will stand the test of time.
HIWARE 1000ml Glass Teapot with Removable Infuser
What We Like
- Aesthetically Pleasing Format
- Comfortable to work with
- Compatible with microwaves and dishwashers
- A spout that won’t leak
What We Don’t Like
- The ability to be used on a stove is dubious.
The Hiware Glass Teapot is competitive with our top pick but is more affordable. The broad handle and slightly goosenecked spout give it an elegant appearance, and the clear body lets you see the tea’s vibrant hues develop as it steeps. If you don’t want to use the supplied stainless steel infuser filter and instead steep your tea directly in the pot, the material is also great for displaying blossoming teas.
Despite our reviewer having tried a somewhat larger type, this one still contains about 34 ounces, which is plenty for multiple servings of tea. BoroSilicate glass can be used on both gas and electric stoves without any damage. Our taster was hesitant to boil water straight in the teapot because it wasn’t made explicit in the directions.
Our performance evaluation was positive. The mesh strainer allowed for the brewing of sediment-free, delicious black tea. The teapot’s stainless steel innards can be removed for use in the microwave, and the whole thing can be washed in the dishwasher when the day is done. The price is very reasonable and comparable to that of ceramic teapots, so the glass design does not come at a premium.
Old Dutch Cast Iron Sapporo Teapot, 20-Ounce, Black
What We Like
- Distinctive style
- Highest possible durability
- Consists of infuser
What We Don’t Like
- Weight could be an issue for some.
- Limited holding capacity
If you’re making loose-leaf tea for just yourself or a visitor, this cast-iron teapot with a Japanese aesthetic is perfect. In order to keep your tea hot for as long as possible as it steeps, you should use an iron teapot, which is heavier than other materials. This piece is a great example of form meeting function because it weighs in at only 2.8 pounds, making it very lightweight compared to similar iron counterparts. It has an enamel coating to prevent rusting. This iron teapot is sturdy enough for daily use and beautiful enough to display in any home.
Teavana Perfectea Maker, Pink, 16 Ounces
Check out the Perfectea Tea infuser from Teavana if you’re looking for a single-serving teapot. This vibrant, attractive teapot allows you to boil just one cup of loose leaf tea at a time, saving you money. The ingenious stacking construction makes it simple to store while maintaining a stylish appearance.
Primula Japanese Tetsubin Stainless Steel Infuser for Loose Leaf Tea
This blue floral cast iron teapot has a classic aesthetic, but it is made of durable materials that will last for years.
Cast iron is an excellent choice for a teapot, particularly when using loose tea leaves because it allows the leaves to brew strongly and evenly throughout the vessel. It also retains the heat of the tea for a longer period of time than many other teapots.
The gorgeous blue floral pattern adds a modern touch to a classic floral patterned teapot. The teapot is dishwasher and microwave safe. The hue is versatile and will complement practically any kitchen design. In addition to the tea infuser, which is made of stainless steel, it is designed to brew either loose leaf or bagged tea. The Primula Blue Floral Japanese Tetsubin Cast Iron Teapot with Stainless Steel Infuser for Loose Leaf Tea has a durable construction and an enameled interior. It holds 34 ounces of loose leaf tea.
This teapot is the most cost-effective option on this list; but, it does come with a few care instructions that are typical of a cast-iron piece of kitchenware. It is not dishwasher safe, and if water is kept inside for an extended period of time, it may rust. However, with careful maintenance, this lovely teapot may serve you well for many years to come.
How to Pick The Best Teapot For Loose Leaf Tea
With so many different designs and options, it can be hard to choose a teapot. The process can be made easier by focusing on a few important things.
Here, we’ll show you what to look for in a teapot, and we’ll show you how your brewing style can benefit from different types of teapots. You can buy stainless steel kettles, ceramic teapots, and even teapots with built-in infusers.
Teapots Vs. Tea Kettles
Many companies mix up the terms teapot and tea kettle. When buying a tea brewing pot, it’s crucial to know the difference between the two. Teapots commonly hold hot water for serving tea. They should not be used to boil water. Most teapots are composed of materials that can’t survive high temperatures, like ceramic, porcelain, and glass.
But you may still purchase a stovetop kettle composed of these materials. Ceramic teapots with a stainless steel base can go on the stove. That’s why some tea kettles have a mix of materials.
Tea kettles boil water for brewing tea. Electric tea kettles heat water by either utilizing batteries or plugging into an outlet. There are also stainless steel and copper tea kettles that can handle high heat.
The best teapot or tea kettle depends on your demands. A stovetop or electric kettle can be used to heat water. Choose a delicate porcelain, ceramic, or glass teapot for a visual delight. Often, tea kettle and teapot are used interchangeably. If you want to use a vessel on the stove, you must ensure that it can be heated.
Types of Teapots
Stainless
Stainless steel teapots and kettles are among the most durable. They retain heat well and heat quickly, making them ideal for those who want many infusions or want to brew swiftly.
Stainless steel teapots are dishwasher safe and easy to clean. You can mistreat these teapots and kettles and yet get delicious tea for years. Choose a lead-free metal teapot kettle to avoid affecting tea flavor and health impacts.
Glass
Glass tea kettles are ideal for adding a visual dimension to the art of tea preparation. The translucent glass allows the drinker to see the leaves unfold and flavor and color the hot water. Hiware Good Glass teapot and Hario Cha Cha Kyusu are both excellent choices for blossoming teas. Colorful flower petals and tea leaves can gently unfold.
Glass teapots are more fragile than other possibilities. Look for borosilicate glass teapots, which are intended to endure everyday clinks and bangs. If you plan to use it on the burner, be sure it has a stainless steel bottom. Glass teapots are dishwasher safe.
Iron (Tetsubin)
Japanese tetsubins are cast iron kettles. They are slim with a large brewing compartment. Some enameled cast iron kettles can brew different types of tea. Some are built exclusively of cast iron and are best utilized for one sort of tea only.
Usually bamboo handles are found on high-quality cast iron tea kettles. Quick and easy pouring with a cast iron pot that retains heat well for repeated infusions. Many have a stainless steel infuser for quick and easy loose leaf tea brewing. Check out the Primula cast iron teapot.
Ceramic
Ceramic teapots have long been valued in China and Europe. Ceramic teapots are a form of high-fired clay teapot. Their glazed finish lends a splash of brightness to the table. The teapots originated in China over a thousand years ago and became popular in Britain and France.
The best ceramic teapots are still handcrafted by tea artists. The high heat procedure makes the clay exceptionally solid, making these teapots heat and chip resistant.
Some ceramic teapots, like the ForLife Curve teapot, have a glazed inside that allows them to brew several types of tea. If you use an unglazed ceramic teapot, use only one type of tea. The clay will take on some of the tea’s color and flavor. This adds depth and nuance to each brew but restricts pot usage. Most ceramic teapots are not cooktop safe, yet they keep tea warm for a long time.
What to Look for in a Teapot
Size
One might not want a large teapot taking up valuable real estate on the cooktop or in the cupboard if they only sometimes brew tea for one. On the other hand, if you frequently host large gatherings, it’s convenient to be able to serve everyone without having to wait for more water to boil. There is a wide range of sizes available among the teapots on our recommended list.
Material
Glass, porcelain, stainless steel, and coated metal are just few of the materials used to create teapots. It may also determine whether or not the item may be used on a stovetop, which impacts both the item’s appearance and functionality. You should look at heat-resistant materials if you want a teapot that can be used on a burner.
Cleaning
One convenient feature for people who use their teapots regularly is that many of them can be cleaned in the dishwasher. Check the teapot’s aperture to see if it requires hand washing. When cleaning, a larger one allows you to reach in with your whole hand, while a smaller one may necessitate a brush. Keep in mind that it’s much simpler to judge how clean a teapot is if it’s made of glass, as opposed to metal or porcelain.
FAQs
How do you use a teapot?
We have you covered whether you’re a total tea novice or a seasoned drinker looking for a few pointers. The teapot is easy to use. Quite a few people actually report feeling calmer afterward.
You should start by bringing some water to a boil in a separate pot. For the fullest, most authentic tea flavor, make sure to brew it with the recommended water temperature (details on this are provided further down). The second step is to preheat the teapot by rinsing the interior with hot water. This minor but crucial action helps the teapot keep the water at the perfect temperature for steeping, and also protects porcelain and ceramic teapots from the rapid heat of boiling water. While waiting for the kettle to boil, you can use hot water from the faucet, or use water from the kettle before it reaches full boil. Tea, whether loose-leaf or bagged, should be added to the teapot or infuser basket in the third step. A standard ratio is one teaspoon of tea for each cup of water, plus an additional scoop. Step four: cover the teapot and let the tea steep in boiling water. After the suggested time has gone, the tea can be served. If the tea leaves were allowed to float freely in the pot, strain the liquid onto a tiny sieve before pouring it into a cup.
These five procedures are the fundamentals, but everyone from seasoned tea brewers to novices has their own favorite techniques. Feel free to try different methods until you find one that produces a drink you’ll enjoy.
Can you put a teapot on the stove?
Most teapots can’t be used over direct heat, including on the stove. Depending on the material, a teapot could break from the heat. Some teapots are designed to be used on a cooktop, however most tea experts advise against it and suggest using a tea kettle instead.
How do you clean a teapot?
Cleaning a teapot may be done in a variety of ways, and luckily, most of them are quick and simple. After each infusion, give your teapot a good rinsing with hot water to get rid of any lingering tea leaves and ensure a flavorful next cup. Preventing limescale buildup requires a more thorough cleaning about twice a month. Depending on the material of your teapot, you can accomplish this task with a variety of commonplace materials. These include dish soap, vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, and so on. To clean the teapot, all you need to do is add your favourite cleaning agent to nearly boiling water. Thirty minutes after adding the ingredients together, empty the teapot and scrub the interior with a towel or brush.
When it comes to dishwashing, cast-iron teapots are an oddity. Interiors are often enameled, therefore owners should avoid using detergents and rough brushes on them. When cleaning a cast-iron teapot, it’s best to stick to hot water and a gentle cloth.
What water temperature is best for brewing tea?
Tea connoisseurs have a wide range of options when it comes to water temperature. Teas with a milder flavor benefit from brewing at lower temperatures, whereas stronger teas need to be brewed at higher degrees. For instance, water at 160 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for brewing white tea. The optimal brewing temperature for green tea is between 150 and 180 degrees Fahrenheit. Around 190 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for brewing oolong. The temperature range for black tea, the next step up in strength, is 180 to 212 degrees Fahrenheit. Finally, herbal teas are often served at temperatures about 212 degrees Fahrenheit. Some electric kettles have temperature presets, while some have buttons labeled for certain types of tea.
What are the key takeaways?
A wide variety of teapots are available, in a variety of shapes, colors, and price ranges to suit any taste or budget. It’s easy to become overwhelmed. However, with a little bit of study, you’re likely to come across a teapot that you’ll enjoy using and that also happens to look fantastic.
Regardless of what you’re searching for, finding the ideal loose leaf teapot can significantly improve the taste and quality of your brewed tea. Every time you sit down to enjoy a nice cup of tea, you’ll be enhancing your whole experience. Investing the time to choose the perfect teapot can make all the difference in the world.
