Tea Strainer: Loose-leaf tea, in the mug they already love

A small gift for a familiar cup

A loose-leaf tea drinker may already have the perfect mug. A separate basket or strainer gives them a way to use it, without adding another cup to the cupboard. Pairing the filter with a tea tasting set can make a thoughtful first brew, provided the tea suits their tastes.

An infuser and a pouring strainer do different jobs. A basket or ball holds leaves in the water while they steep; a small sieve catches leaves when tea is poured from a pot. Look at how the recipient makes tea before choosing between them.

Give the leaves room

A roomy basket is useful for leaves that expand. Compare its depth and rim span with the mug: the body needs to sit inside, while its handles or lip need a secure place to rest. A tiny ball can be convenient to store, but may crowd a generous serving of large leaves.

Fine mesh helps retain small particles, though no broad product name guarantees that every fine tea will stay out of the cup. Read the opening and closure details too. A chain, hinged ball and open basket ask for different handling and cleaning.

• Measure the mug opening and usable depth.

• Find out whether a lid doubles as a drip dish.

• Look for seams, hinges and mesh that can be reached for washing.

A filter rather than a new brewing set

Some baskets become hot in use. The maker's handling instructions and a stable place to put the wet filter are more useful than an elaborate decorative shape. Empty and clean it as directed, and allow it to dry before storing.

If the recipient wants a cup designed around its own basket, a tea infuser mug is the more complete purchase. An infuser teapot suits brewing several servings instead. Neither needs to replace a mug or pot they already enjoy.

For tea to try or another piece of brewing equipment, explore gifts for tea lovers.