4 Tea Drinking Habits You Should Stop Immediately

Let’s be real. How many times have you sat down for a cup of tea, only to find yourself disappointed by the taste or, even worse, feeling uncomfortable after drinking it? We’ve all been there. Maybe you’ve burned your mouth on scalding hot tea, or ended up with a cup so bitter you couldn’t drink it.

Here's the thing: drinking tea should be an enjoyable experience. Yet, a lot of us have picked up some bad habits along the way that ruin the tea's flavour and even our health.

So, in this article, I’m going to share four common tea drinking habits you need to stop doing. Trust me, once you ditch these, tea time will feel way more satisfying and healthy.

4 Common Tea Mistakes You Need to Stop Right Now

1. Stop Drinking Scalding Hot Tea

It’s tempting to take a sip right after brewing your tea when it's steaming hot. But here’s the problem: that first sip could be burning your mouth and wrecking the whole experience.

When tea is too hot (often over 85°C), it’s not only painful but it also numbs your taste buds. You’ll miss out on the full flavour and aroma. Plus, sipping boiling hot tea could harm your mouth and digestive system in the long run.

What to do instead?
Let your tea cool down for a minute or two before drinking. The ideal drinking temperature is around 50°C-60°C. It’s not just about comfort, either – you’ll taste your tea the way it was meant to be.

And speaking of tea brewing, if you’re using a Yixing Zisha teapot, the unique clay helps maintain the perfect temperature and enhances the flavours. It’s a great tool for truly appreciating the nuances of your tea.

2. Don’t Drink Overly Strong Tea

Okay, I get it. You like your tea strong. But going overboard with the tea leaves can lead to a cup that’s way too bitter and not enjoyable at all.

Overly strong tea can be caused by two main issues: too many tea leaves or brewing it for too long. If you’re dumping leaves in like it’s nothing, the result will be an overpowering brew. The tea will release way too much caffeine and tannins, making it unpleasant to drink.

And let’s be real – drinking super strong tea won’t give you that clean, refreshing feeling. It’ll just leave you feeling jittery and dissatisfied.

What to do instead?
Stick to the right tea-to-water ratio. Don’t overfill your teapot or leave the tea to steep too long. A balanced cup of tea will let the natural flavours shine without any bitterness.

3. Don’t Drink Moldy Tea

This one’s a no-brainer, but sometimes it needs to be said. Moldy tea is a serious issue. If you’ve ever left tea leaves sitting around for too long, you know how they can go bad. And no, washing them won’t make them safe to drink.

If you spot mold or any unpleasant smell from your tea leaves, it’s time to throw them away. Moldy tea can carry harmful bacteria and toxins that will ruin your health. You wouldn’t eat a moldy fruit, so don’t drink moldy tea.

What to do instead?
Make sure to store your tea properly in an airtight container and avoid keeping it too long. When in doubt, toss it out. Your health isn’t worth the risk.

4. Clean Your Tea Gear

You know that feeling when you’ve got your favourite tea mug or teapot ready, and you just can’t wait to brew? But then, you don’t clean your teapot properly from the last use? That’s a bad habit.

Leftover tea can stick to your teapot, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. If you leave it to sit, all those leftover oils and tea stains will turn your teapot into a health hazard. Not to mention, you’re setting yourself up for a dull cup of tea because your equipment isn’t clean.

What to do instead?
Clean your teapot and cups immediately after each use. Don’t let old tea sit around. A quick rinse or wash will help prevent stains and keep your tea tasting fresh. If you’re using a Yixing Zisha teapot, make sure to rinse it properly after every use, as the clay can absorb the tea’s flavours, which makes cleaning essential for preserving the taste.

Conclusion

Tea drinking should be a simple, relaxing part of your day. But if you’re doing it wrong, it can lead to frustration, bitterness, and even health problems. The good news is, by simply avoiding scalding hot tea, overly strong brews, moldy tea, and unclean tea gear, you can vastly improve your tea experience.

So, here’s your call to action: Stop these four bad habits today and start enjoying your tea the way it was meant to be enjoyed.

FAQ

What temperature should tea be when drinking?

The best temperature for drinking tea is 50°C-60°C. It’s warm enough to release the flavour without burning your mouth.

Can I drink tea that’s been left out overnight?

It’s not safe. If tea has been left out overnight, it could grow bacteria, and the flavour will be off. Always drink freshly brewed tea.

How can I tell if my tea is too strong?

If the tea tastes bitter or overly astringent, it’s probably too strong. Try using fewer tea leaves or reducing the steeping time.

By following these simple guidelines, you’ll make sure that each cup of tea you enjoy is the best one yet. So grab your teapot (maybe a Yixing Zisha teapot for that extra touch) and start making better choices for a healthier and tastier tea time! Happy brewing!