Why is Loose Leaf Better than Tea Bags?
“Why is loose leaf better than tea bags?” This was a question I asked myself a lot when I first started exploring tea. After diving in, the answer became pretty clear, and it makes a lot of sense.
Most tea bags are filled with crushed-up “dust” or “fannings.” Basically, leftover bits from higher-quality teas. It sounds harsh, but that’s the reality. Tea bags are convenient, yes, but they’re often made from the tea industry’s not-so-glamorous scraps.
Loose leaf, on the other hand, uses full leaves that can fully unfurl in hot water. This makes a huge difference: the leaves release more natural oils, aroma, and depth of flavor. Plus, high-quality loose leaf teas can often be steeped multiple times, giving you more value and a more dynamic tasting experience.
Beyond flavor, loose leaf also makes the process more fun. There are endless ways to steep your tea, experiment with blends, and play with temperatures and timing. It turns tea drinking into a little ritual rather than just a quick beverage grab.
So yes, tea bags get the job done. But loose leaf? It transforms the experience: visually, taste-wise, and in every other way. My advice: ditch the dust, and drink the real stuff!
