Last updated September 28, 2026 · Report an error
Different teas need very different water temperatures and steep times — brewing a delicate white tea at boiling point, or a robust black tea at a lukewarm temperature, tends to bring out the wrong flavors either way.
This tool gives you the standard steep time and water temperature guideline for six common tea types.
How it works
Select your tea type, and the tool looks up the standard brewing guideline — a steep time range and water temperature — for that type.
- Enter tea type.
- Click Calculate to see your results.
Examples
Green tea
Green tea is typically steeped for 2-3 minutes at 80°C (176°F) — hotter water tends to bring out bitterness.
Who should use it
- Brewing tea consistently at home or in a café setting.
- Learning standard brewing guidelines for tea types you're less familiar with.
Industry applications
- Home and specialty tea brewing
- Food service and hospitality
Advantages
- Quick reference for six common tea types in one place.
- Uses widely-referenced standard brewing guidelines.
Limitations
- Specific teas within a category (like a delicate first-flush black tea) may benefit from adjusting slightly outside these general guidelines.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using boiling water for delicate teas like white or green tea, which can make them taste bitter.
- Steeping all teas for the same amount of time regardless of type.
Best practices
- Use a thermometer (or an electric kettle with temperature settings) to hit the right water temperature consistently, rather than guessing.
Tips
- Herbal and rooibos teas are naturally caffeine-free and tend to tolerate longer steep times without turning bitter, unlike true teas (white, green, oolong, black).
Frequently asked questions
Yes, with no signup and no limit on how many times you use it.
Delicate teas like white and green tea contain compounds that turn bitter at high temperatures, while heartier teas like black and herbal need near-boiling water to fully extract their flavor.
Over-steeping releases more tannins, which typically makes tea taste more bitter or astringent — if that happens, try a shorter steep time next time.