teabag

A teabag is a small, porous bag that contains dried tea leaves or a tea blend. It is designed for steeping in hot water to brew tea. Most traditional teabags are made from filter paper, but they may also use silk, cotton, or other food-grade fabrics. Many bags have a string and paper or foil tag to facilitate removal from the cup or pot.

Teabags come in various forms. The classic flat rectangular bag is commonly used for everyday tea, while pyramid or mesh sachet bags provide more space for larger leaf pieces, potentially improving infusion. Some brands use plant-based or compostable materials, and a growing number avoid plastics altogether. In some cases, bags include additives or flavoring; blends may include herbal ingredients.

History: The invention of commercially bagged tea is traditionally attributed to Thomas Sullivan of New Orleans, who around 1908 started sending samples of tea in small silk bags. Customers then steeped the bag directly in hot water, and the concept caught on. By the mid-20th century tea bags became widespread in the United States and the United Kingdom, eventually becoming a standard packaging form for many mainstream teas.

Preparation and etiquette: To brew, the bag is placed in hot water and left to steep for a few minutes, depending on the type of tea. Common guidelines suggest 3–5 minutes for black tea and 2–3 minutes for green tea, with longer times producing stronger flavor but possible bitterness. Remove the bag promptly to avoid over-extraction. Tea bags may be discarded, composted, or disposed of according to local waste guidelines.