Anna Hartz
Tea is part of daily life for millions of people. It starts the morning. It fills short breaks. It often feels comforting and familiar. Because it is so common, most people make it without thinking.
That is where things can go wrong. Small habits can quietly ruin the taste.
Making tea looks simple. You place a tea bag in a mug. You pour boiling water. You wait. Many people then squeeze the tea bag before throwing it away. Experts say this step is one of the biggest mistakes tea drinkers make, according to Digi-Life.
The Method Matters
Research from Saga magazine shows that most people brew tea directly in a mug. Very few use a teapot or loose tea leaves. The mug method is quick and easy. It also encourages squeezing the tea bag at the end. That habit can turn a good cup of tea into a bitter one.
Tea expert Angela Pryce warns against squeezing tea bags. She says this releases a large amount of tannins. Tannins give tea a dry and sharp taste. Too many of them overpower the natural flavor. The result is a harsh drink that feels unpleasant on the tongue.
Tannins are natural compounds. They exist in tea, coffee, wine, and chocolate. They create the dry feeling you get after a strong sip. When tea steeps too long, or when the bag is pressed, more tannins move into the water. The taste becomes stronger but not smoother.
A Balanced Flavor
Specialists suggest letting the tea bag steep for three to five minutes. After that, it should be lifted out gently. It should not be pressed against the mug. This keeps the flavor balanced. The tea stays full but not bitter.
Water quality also matters. Filtered water allows tea flavors to open up properly. Hard water can dull the taste and make the tea feel flat.
Milk timing is important too. If you add milk, do it after the tea has brewed. Adding milk too early lowers the water temperature. This stops proper infusion. Very cold milk can even curdle in hot water.
A good cup of tea depends on patience and care. Small changes make a real difference. Let the tea brew. Remove the bag gently. The flavor will reward you.
