Loose-Leaf Tea UK, proper full-leaf, every variety we ship.

Generally yes, but with caveats. Loose leaf is usually larger leaf grade, which produces a fuller-bodied cup. Premium pyramid bags (Teapigs, Whittard pyramids) close most of the gap. Standard supermarket bags (small round bags) use dust-grade fannings and the gap is real and noticeable.

Use 2-3g of leaf per 250ml mug or per cup-equivalent in a pot. Pour just-boiled water (or 80°C for green, 90°C for oolong, boiling for black/herbal). Steep 3-5 minutes for black, 1-3 for green, 4-6 for herbal. Use an infuser, teapot strainer, or French press to remove the leaf before drinking.

Yes, especially with green, oolong, and white. Most leaves give 2-3 good infusions if you use enough leaf to start with, green can do 3-4 infusions in succession. Black tea reuses less well; the second infusion is usually thin.

2g (roughly a heaped teaspoon) per 200-250ml cup of water. For a 1-litre teapot, 8-10g. Most retailers including us sell loose leaf in 100g and 250g bags so a 250g bag gives roughly 100-125 cups.

Properly stored (airtight, cool, dark, away from strong smells) most loose leaf stays good for 12-18 months from packaging. Green and white teas degrade fastest (oxygen-sensitive); black, oolong, and pu-erh keep longer. Pu-erh actually improves with age over years.