Infuser Teapot: Loose-leaf tea with room for another cup

Choose it around the cups they use

A teapot's quoted number of servings is less useful than its capacity and the size of their cups. A small pot can be right for two modest brews; a bigger one suits someone who often has visitors. Buy for their usual tea break rather than the largest pot on offer.

Check how the infuser sits inside. It needs room for the leaves and should be easy to remove when brewing is finished. If they sometimes make a smaller amount, the basket should reach the water without filling the entire pot.

Material is a matter of preference as well as use. Glass shows the tea; ceramic gives a different appearance and feel. Consider how heavy the pot will be when full, whether the handle is comfortable and how straightforward it looks to pour.

Care instructions are part of the choice

• Check cleaning directions for the basket, lid and pot.

• Confirm the exact product's suitability for the hob, microwave or dishwasher.

• Look for easy access to rinse the basket and inside of the pot.

Do not treat heat-resistant glass as permission to put it on any hob. If the recipient wants to heat water in the pot, rather than pour it from a kettle, the maker's instructions must support that use.

A gift for their next pot of tea

At Christmas, an infuser teapot can give someone who enjoys hosting a reason to sit down with their visitors. A tea tasting set can complete the gift if its loose leaves and flavours suit them. Check whether any tea is already supplied before adding more.

For other presents to go alongside it, explore the main Christmas guide and choose around the household's interests.