A tea strainer is a small kitchen tool used to separate loose tea leaves from brewed tea. When making tea with loose leaves, the strainer helps ensure that only the liquid is poured into your cup, leaving the leaves behind. This way, you can enjoy a smooth and flavorful cup of tea without any bits floating around. Typically made of metal or fine mesh, a tea strainer can come in various shapes and sizes. Some people use a simple handheld strainer, while others prefer a more decorative option, like a teapot with a built-in strainer. Using a tea strainer is an essential step for tea lovers who appreciate the rich taste of freshly brewed tea.