How to Use the Shanghai Breakfast x Craig & Karl Mug with Infuser
By T2 Tea: 30 Years of Extraordinary Tea, Teaware & Gifts | T2 ... | Published: 2026-10-26
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to brew loose leaf tea with the Shanghai Breakfast x Craig & Karl Mug with Infuser, including steeping times, cleaning tips, and common mistakes.
Quick Answer
To use the Shanghai Breakfast x Craig & Karl Mug with Infuser, place loose leaf tea in the infuser, pour hot water over it, steep for 3–4 minutes, then remove the infuser and enjoy a milky, peachy brew.
Why the Infuser Design Matters
The Shanghai Breakfast x Craig & Karl Mug with Infuser features a removable infuser basket that sits inside the mug. This lets you brew loose leaf tea directly in your cup without needing a separate teapot or strainer. The infuser keeps the leaves contained while allowing water to circulate, which is key for extracting flavor.
Because the infuser is removable, you can control steeping strength precisely. Leaving the leaves in too long will make the tea bitter, so timing matters. The mug's design, inspired by Shanghai's vibrant streets, adds a visual treat, but the practical benefit is the convenience of brewing a single cup.
Choosing the Right Tea Amount
A common mistake is overfilling the infuser. For a standard 350 ml mug, use about 2–3 grams (roughly one teaspoon) of loose leaf tea. This gives a balanced strength without overcrowding, which can restrict water flow and lead to uneven extraction.
If you prefer a stronger brew, increase steeping time rather than adding more leaves. This avoids bitterness while still delivering a robust cup. The Shanghai Breakfast blend, with its milky and peachy notes, is forgiving, but precision yields the best result.
Step-by-Step Brewing Guide
- Add tea to the infuser: Place one teaspoon of loose leaf tea into the infuser basket. Avoid overfilling; leave room for the leaves to expand as they steep. Overfilling restricts water flow and weakens extraction.
- Pour hot water over the infuser: Fill the mug with water heated to about 95°C (203°F), ensuring the infuser is fully submerged. Use freshly boiled water for best flavor. Water that's too hot can scald the leaves and cause bitterness.
- Steep for 3–4 minutes: Set a timer and let the tea steep. Watch the color; the brew should turn a rich amber. Longer steeping increases strength but risks bitterness. Steeping beyond 5 minutes will make the tea overly astringent.
- Remove the infuser and enjoy: Lift the infuser out and set it aside. Stir the tea if desired, then sip. The infuser will be hot, so use the handle or let it cool briefly. Don't leave the infuser in the mug while drinking, or the tea will continue to steep.
- Clean the infuser and mug: Rinse the infuser under warm water immediately after use to remove tea leaves. Wash the mug with mild soap and a soft sponge; avoid abrasive cleaners that could scratch the artwork. Leaving tea residue can stain the infuser and affect future brews.
Product Spotlight
- Shanghai Breakfast x Craig & Karl Mug with Infuser: The mug and infuser are decorated with designs by artists Craig & Karl, inspired by Shanghai's vibrant visual identity, featuring pagodas, junk boats, and architectural silhouettes. The artistic design doesn't affect brewing, but it makes the mug a conversation piece that brightens your tea ritual.
Shanghai Breakfast x Craig & Karl Mug with Infuser
