How long should tea steep?

Most black tea steeps for 3 to 5 minutes, green tea for 2 to 3 minutes, white tea for 3 to 4 minutes, oolong for 3 to 5 minutes, and herbal tea for 5 to 7 minutes. Always adjust for the specific tea and your taste.

Can tea steep too long?

Yes. Over-steeping many true teas can make the cup bitter or astringent. Herbal teas are usually more forgiving, but they can still become too strong.

What water temperature is best for green tea?

Green tea is often best around 175°F or 80°C. Boiling water can make delicate green tea taste harsh.

Steep a better cup

Tea Steeping Timer

Choose your tea type, start the countdown, and get a clear reminder when it is time to remove the leaves or tea bag.

Green tea

2:30

Suggested water: 175°F / 80°C. Light, fresh, and less bitter.

Set your steep time

Tea type Minutes Seconds

Taste preference wins: use the preset first, then add or subtract 30 seconds next time if the tea tastes too light or too strong.

Tea steeping guide

Green tea2–3 min175°F / 80°C

Black tea3–5 min200–212°F / 93–100°C

White tea3–4 min175–185°F / 80–85°C

Oolong tea3–5 min185–205°F / 85–96°C

Herbal tea5–7 min212°F / 100°C

How to use this tea timer

Pick the tea that best matches your cup.
Adjust the time if your package suggests a different steep.
Start the timer when the leaves or bag hit the water.
Remove the tea when the countdown ends, then taste and adjust next time.

Tea steeping timer FAQ

How long should I steep green tea?

Most green tea tastes best after 2 to 3 minutes in water around 175°F / 80°C. If it tastes bitter, use cooler water or a shorter steep.

How long should I steep black tea?

Black tea usually steeps for 3 to 5 minutes. A breakfast blend often handles the longer end, while delicate black teas may taste better closer to 3 minutes.

Should I cover tea while it steeps?

Covering the cup helps hold heat, especially for herbal, chai, and larger mugs. It is helpful but not required.

Can I reuse loose leaf tea?

Many loose leaf teas can be steeped again. Add a little extra time to the next infusion and stop when the flavor tastes right.