Contents
Choosing the best empty tea bags can be tough. The best overall pick is Lipton Black Tea Bags, which include 100 bags made from orange pekoe and pekoe cut black tea leaves. For those on a budget, Celestial Seasonings Herbal Tea Sampler offers 18 caffeine-free bags but has fewer options to pick from. You have to decide between a larger quantity of a standard flavor or a smaller variety pack with different herbal options. This article helps you compare the best empty tea bags available today.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Teas Reviewed in Detail
This guide reviews the top empty tea bags to help you make a smart choice.
1. Best Overall
Lipton Black Tea Bags, Hot or Iced High Caffeine Tea, 100 Total Bags
- LIPTON BLACK TEA: Indulge in a Lipton black tea with a blend of orange pekoe, pekoe cut black tea leaves picked at the peak of freshness for iced tea or hot tea
- WHAT YOU’LL GET: Lipton Black Tea with caffeine, orange pekoe and pekoe cut black tea leaves for a smooth taste, 100 tea bags per pack
- WAKE UP WITH LIPTON: This Lipton black tea is caffeinated, so you can enjoy the cafe experience in the comfort of your own home first thing in the morning or anytime you need a boost
- EASY TO MAKE: To make this delicious black tea, simply bring water to a boil and let the Lipton tea bag steep for about three to five minutes before sipping for hot tea, or pour it over ice for iced tea
- TRUSTED COMPANY: Lipton is a British-American tea brand. Since Sir Thomas Lipton founded this company in 1890, it has been a trusted company for centuries, offering a smooth taste and good flavor
Lipton Black Tea Bags are a solid choice for tea lovers. These bags feature a blend of orange pekoe and pekoe cut black tea leaves. With 100 bags in each pack, they provide great value for daily use. The smooth taste makes them perfect for hot or iced tea. Compared to the other picks, Lipton stands out due to its widespread availability and classic flavor. Other brands, like Celestial Seasonings, offer herbal options but lack the caffeine needed for an energizing drink. A limitation is that some might find it too basic if they seek unique flavors or blends. However, for those who love black tea, it remains a favorite.
Pros
- Includes 100 tea bags for extended use
- Made from orange pekoe and pekoe cut black tea leaves
- Great for both hot and iced tea
- Smooth, classic flavor
Cons
- Limited flavor options
- Some may find it too basic
- Not suitable for herbal tea lovers
Best for: Daily tea drinkers who enjoy classic flavors. Not ideal for: Those seeking herbal or unique flavor options.
A reliable choice for those who appreciate classic black tea.
2. Best Budget
Celestial Seasonings Herbal Tea Sampler Variety Pack, Caffeine Free, 18 Tea Bags Box
- Herbal: Our herbal tea collection brings together five of our most comforting teas: Chamomile, Lemon Zinger, Peppermint, Honey Vanilla Chamomile, and Sleepytime.
- Thoughtful Sourcing: Most of our herbs, botanicals, teas, and fruits are purchased directly from farmers around the world.
- Quality Ingredients: We blend our teas from the finest ingredients, with no artificial flavors or colors.
- Minimal Packaging: We use tea bags without strings, tags, or staples to divert waste from landfills. Plus, we print on 100% recycled paperboard (35% post-consumer content).
- Your Perfect Cup: Steep the tea bag in hot water for 4-6 minutes and remove the bag.
Celestial Seasonings Herbal Tea Sampler is a budget-friendly pick. This sampler contains 18 tea bags featuring five comforting herbal blends. The flavors include Chamomile, Peppermint, and Sleepytime. Compared to Lipton, which is all about black tea, this variety offers caffeine-free options for relaxing moments. It’s perfect for those who want to explore different tastes without committing to large quantities. However, you do miss out on caffeine, which might disappoint some users who prefer a boost. This sampler is great for evenings or relaxing afternoons.
Pros
- Includes five different herbal teas
- Caffeine-free options for relaxation
- Thoughtfully sourced ingredients
- Great for trying new flavors
Cons
- Only 18 bags per pack
- Less effective for morning energy boosts
- May not suit those who prefer black tea
Best for: Tea drinkers who enjoy variety and herbal flavors. Not ideal for: Those wanting caffeinated selections.
A fun mix of herbal options for budget-conscious tea lovers.
3. Runner-Up
Ito En Tea Oi Ocha Green Tea, Unsweetened, 16.9 Ounce (Pack of 12)
- WHOLE LEAF TEA: Oi Ocha Green Tea is brewed from first flush whole green tea leaves grown in Japan not from tea powder or concentrate; using the whole leaf means our teas don’t lose any of the health benefits that are naturally present in green tea leaves
- CLEAN AND REFRESHING: Oi Ocha Unsweetened Green Tea has is natural clean tasting and refreshing; putting our iced green tea in a convenient ready to drink bottle means you can have your hydration on the go; it makes a great alternative to traditional sodas
- LOW CALORIE: ITO EN’s Oi Ocha Green Tea has no sugars or artificial sweeteners, making it a delicious, substitute for your usual sugary soda or flavored coffee at only 5 calories; try our naturally vitamin and antioxidant rich tea, and you may never look back
- ANTIOXIDANT RICH: brewed from premium Japanese loose tea leaves, Oi Ocha provides natural catechin tea antioxidants and other healthy goodies; a key to good health, happiness, and wisdom, green tea is the perfect refreshment for your health and well-being
- NO ADDITIVES: ITO EN teas are brewed with no artificial colors or flavors so you can be confident that the only things in our bottles are delicious, healthy green tea and natural flavors; it’s a refreshing beverage you can always feel good about drinking
Ito En Tea Oi Ocha Green Tea offers a premium option. This tea is made from whole green tea leaves, preserving all the natural health benefits. Each bottle contains 16.9 ounces and comes in a pack of 12, making it convenient for on-the-go use. Unlike Lipton, which is more traditional, Ito En focuses on quality and freshness. This makes it a great choice for health-conscious individuals. However, it’s not suitable for those who want to brew their own tea with empty bags. If you prefer ready-to-drink green tea, this is a fantastic alternative.
Pros
- Made from whole green tea leaves
- Retains natural health benefits
- Convenient pack size for easy use
- Great flavor profile
Cons
- Not available as empty tea bags
- Less economical for daily brewing
- Limited flavor options compared to other brands
Best for: Health-conscious drinkers preferring ready-to-drink options. Not ideal for: Those wanting to brew loose leaf tea at home.
A great choice for those who want fresh, whole green tea on the go.
4. Best Compact
Amazon Saver Sweet Tea is a good compact option. This sweet tea comes in a one-gallon container, making it easy to store in the fridge. It is ideal for casual tea drinkers who prefer a ready-made beverage. Compared to other empty tea bags, this option saves time and effort. There is no need to brew or steep, just serve cold. However, it may not satisfy those who want to experiment with different tea blends. If you prefer convenience over variety, this is a solid pick.
Pros
- One-gallon container for easy sharing
- Ready-to-drink for instant enjoyment
- No brewing required
- Affordable option for sweet tea lovers
Cons
- No option to brew your own tea
- Limited flavor variety
- May not suit those who enjoy the brewing process
Best for: Those looking for a quick and easy tea option. Not ideal for: People wanting to brew their own tea.
An easy choice for sweet tea lovers who want convenience.
5. Best for Beginners
Celestial Seasonings Fruit Tea Sampler Herbal Tea Variety Pack, Caffeine Free, 18 Tea Bags Per Box
- FRUIT FLAVOR VARIETY: Savor a lively herbal tea variety pack featuring fruit tea bags such as Raspberry Zinger, Country Peach Passion, Wild Berry Zinger, True Blueberry, and Black Cherry Berry
- THOUGHTFUL SOURCING: Most of our herbs, botanicals, teas, and fruits are purchased directly from farmers around the world
- FINEST INGREDIENTS: Experience fruity flavors with our assorted teas. These herbal tea bags are crafted with quality ingredients
- MINIMAL PACKAGING: We use tea bags without strings, tags, or staples to divert waste from landfills. Plus, we print on 100% recycled paperboard (35% post-consumer content)
- CAFFEINE FREE: Enjoy caffeine-free comfort with herbal tea bags from these variety tea bags
Celestial Seasonings Fruit Tea Sampler offers a fun runner-up choice. This pack includes 18 caffeine-free fruit tea bags. Flavors like Raspberry Zinger and Wild Berry Zinger provide a vibrant taste. Compared to Lipton, which focuses on black tea, this sampler appeals to those looking for fruity herbal options. The blend of flavors makes it exciting and refreshing. However, it may not satisfy those who prefer traditional tea like black or green. It’s better suited for people who enjoy fruity, caffeine-free beverages.
Pros
- Includes a variety of fruit flavors
- Caffeine-free for relaxing moments
- Thoughtful sourcing of ingredients
- Fun mix for a refreshing taste
Cons
- Only 18 bags in the pack
- Limited to fruit flavors
- May not suit traditional tea lovers
Best for: Fruit tea lovers seeking caffeine-free options. Not ideal for: Those who prefer traditional tea flavors.
A delightful variety pack for fruity tea enthusiasts.
6. Best Value
Milo's Tea Sweet Tea, 128 FZ
- 100% Natural: You won’t find any preservatives in our Milo’s Famous Sweet Tea – only real ingredients for a really delicious 100% natural beverage.
- High-Quality Ingredients: We use simple, high-quality ingredients to make Milo’s Famous Sweet Tea – giving you a delicious difference you can taste.
- Brewed Fresh Daily: Milo’s Famous Sweet Tea is brewed fresh daily giving you the most refreshing beverage every time you take a sip.
Milo’s Tea Sweet Tea is known for its fresh taste. This brand offers a one-gallon container of sweet tea made from simple, natural ingredients. Unlike other empty tea bags, it provides an easy-to-enjoy option for sweet tea lovers. The focus on quality makes it a popular choice among casual tea drinkers. However, it lacks the variety of flavors found in other options. If you enjoy sweet tea without brewing, this one is for you.
Pros
- 100% natural ingredients
- One-gallon container for sharing
- No preservatives added
- Freshly brewed daily
Cons
- Only available as sweet tea
- Limited flavor options
- Not suitable for those who want a brewing experience
Best for: Those looking for a natural sweet tea. Not ideal for: People seeking diverse flavor options.
A fresh choice for sweet tea fans looking for convenience.
7. Best Heavy-Duty
Yogi Tea Lemon Ginger Tea Bags, 16 ct
- FLAVOR: Yogi Lemon Ginger tea combines lively Ginger, tart Lemon Peel, and Peppermint Leaf for a perfectly spiced and citrus-y blend.
- BENEFITS: This warming herbal blend combines Ginger and Peppermint to soothe your stomach and support healthy digestion.
- ORGANIC: USDA Certified Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified.
- CONTENTS: Caffeine-free, Vegan, Kosher, Gluten-free, No Artificial Flavors or Sweeteners, and individually packaged in compostable tea bags.
- DOING GOOD: Certified B Corp, member of Ethical Tea Partnership, with the first LEED-Certified tea production facility in the world. Organic farming practices and commitments to regenerative agriculture ensure that our teas are top quality while giving back to farmers and nature.
- Features ginger, lemon, and peppermint
- Certified organic and caffeine-free; helps aid digestion
- Boxes wrapped with cellophane; teabags packed in heat-sealed envelopes for freshness
- Ingredients carefully handled in organically certified facility in Eugene, Oregon
Yogi Tea Lemon Ginger Tea Bags are a standout choice for health enthusiasts. This tea combines ginger, lemon, and peppermint, offering a refreshing flavor with health benefits. The organic and non-GMO certification ensures quality. Compared to other empty tea bags, this blend stands out for its focus on digestion support. However, the flavor may not suit everyone. If you enjoy herbal infusions that aid digestion, this is a good pick.
Pros
- Organic and non-GMO certified
- Supports healthy digestion
- Refreshing lemon-ginger flavor
- Contains peppermint for extra zing
Cons
- Flavor may not appeal to all
- Limited to one type of tea
- Not as versatile as other brands
Best for: Health-conscious drinkers looking for digestive support. Not ideal for: Those seeking variety in flavors.
A refreshing herbal option for those focused on digestion.
8. Best Splurge
Twinings Tea Bag Sampler Assortment, Variety Pack (44 Count), 44 Unique Flavours for Tea Lovers: Women, Men, Couples, Family, Friends, Coworkers
- 44 ASSORTED FLAVOURS: The Twinings Tea Bags Sampler Assortment Variety Pack includes 44 tea bags, offering a diverse selection of Twinings teas.
- GREAT CHOICE FOR ANY OCCASION: Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or special celebrations. This assortment box is a fantastic selection for tea lovers, family, friends, coworkers, or couples to enjoy together.
- IDEAL FOR TEA LOVERS: Whether you’re a long-time tea lover or just starting to explore, this sampler pack is the perfect way to discover new flavors. It’s a great choice for yourself or any tea enthusiast in your life.
- PREMIUM QUALITY: Individually wrapped tea bags ensure freshness and convenience, perfect for home, office, or on-the-go.
- EASY TO PREPARE: Add freshly boiled water. Steep about 3 minutes or to desired strength. Enjoy it hot or cold over ice.
Twinings Tea Bag Sampler Assortment offers an exciting variety. This pack includes 44 unique flavors, perfect for tea lovers who enjoy trying new things. The large assortment stands out compared to others, allowing for a range of experiences. Compared to Lipton, which is more traditional, Twinings brings creativity to your tea time. A downside is that the pack may be overwhelming for casual drinkers. If you want to explore diverse flavors, this sampler is a top choice.
Pros
- Includes 44 unique flavors
- Perfect for tea lovers and gift-giving
- High-quality ingredients for a great taste
- Wide variety to try
Cons
- May overwhelm casual drinkers
- Less suitable for those who prefer classic teas
- Not all flavors may appeal to everyone
Best for: Adventurous tea drinkers who love variety. Not ideal for: Casual drinkers wanting simple selections.
An exciting choice for those who want to explore many flavors.
Teas Compared Side by Side
Check out this comparison table to see the key features of each pick. The first column shows the brand and model, while the others highlight important specifics. This information helps you find the best empty tea bags that fit your needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lipton Black Tea Bags | Best Overall | Lipton Tea & Infusions Company | $4.97 | Check |
| 2 | Celestial Seasonings Herbal Tea Sampler Variety Pack | Best Budget | Hain Celestial | $3.13 | Check |
| 3 | Ito En Tea Oi Ocha Green Tea | Runner-Up | Ito En | $18.78 | Check |
| 4 | Amazon Saver | Best Compact | Amazon.com Services LLC | $3.27 | Check |
| 5 | Celestial Seasonings Fruit Tea Sampler Herbal Tea Variety… | Best for Beginners | Hain Celestial Group | $3.13 | Check |
| 6 | Milo's Tea Sweet Tea | Best Value | Milo's Tea | $3.98 | Check |
| 7 | Yogi Tea Lemon Ginger Tea Bags | Best Heavy-Duty | Everready First Aid | $4.68 | Check |
| 8 | Twinings Tea Bag Sampler Assortment | Best Splurge | Twinings | $14.99 | Check |
| 9 | Ginseng Five Treasures Kidney Tea | — | BeleePlanner | $8.49 | Check |
| 10 | Traditional Medicinals Organic Chamomile with Lavender… | — | Traditional Medicinals | $5.88 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How to Choose Teas
Size of the Tea Bags
The size of empty tea bags is important. Most bags come in standard sizes like 2×3 inches. If you prefer to brew loose tea, choose larger bags to hold more tea leaves. Smaller bags are best for herbs or spices. Always check the bag size to make sure it fits your brewing method.
Material of the Tea Bags
Empty tea bags can be made from different materials, like paper, nylon, or mesh. Paper bags are usually biodegradable and easy to use. Nylon and mesh bags are more durable. Use nylon for hot liquids and mesh for cold infusions. Choose based on your brewing preference and environmental concerns.
Sealing Options
Look for empty tea bags with self-sealing features. Some bags have adhesive seals, while others are designed to be tied or folded. Self-sealing bags are more convenient and help keep your tea fresh. If you want easy storage, go for bags with secure seals.
Quantity per Pack
Consider how many tea bags come in a pack. Some brands offer 50, while others provide 100 or more. If you drink tea daily, a larger pack saves you time and money. For casual drinkers, smaller packs are just fine.
Caffeine Content
If you prefer flavored tea, check the caffeine content. Some empty tea bags can hold caffeinated tea leaves or herbal blends. If you want to reduce caffeine, focus on herbal options. Always check the ingredients to ensure the right caffeine level.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered data from popular tea brands, customer reviews, and product specifications. The information comes from trusted sources like Amazon and official brand websites.
How we built this shortlist
This shortlist includes eight empty tea bags. We considered factors like size, material, and user ratings. We focused on products with at least a 4-star rating.
What we ruled out and why
We ruled out products with poor reviews, low ratings, or limited information. This ensures only reliable and popular options made it to the final list.
What we did not do
We did not test any products by hand or take lab measurements. All evaluations are based on available data and user feedback.
How often this page is updated
This page is updated regularly to reflect any changes in product availability or new releases. We aim to keep the information current and helpful.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best empty tea bags?
The best empty tea bags include options like Lipton Black Tea Bags for quality and Celestial Seasonings Herbal Tea Sampler for budget-friendly choices.
How many tea bags should I buy?
It depends on your tea drinking habits. If you drink tea daily, consider buying larger packs with 100 or more bags.
Are empty tea bags biodegradable?
Many empty tea bags are made from biodegradable paper. Check the product details to confirm if they’re eco-friendly.
Can I use empty tea bags for loose leaf tea?
Yes, empty tea bags are great for brewing loose leaf tea. Just choose the right size for the amount of tea you want.
What material is best for empty tea bags?
Paper bags are easy to use and biodegradable. Nylon options are more durable and better for hot tea. Choose based on your preference.
What to look for
Quality of Ingredients
The quality of ingredients inside the tea bags matters. Look for brands that source their herbs and tea leaves from trusted farmers. This leads to fresher and more flavorful tea. Brands like Celestial Seasonings focus on quality sourcing to ensure the best flavor in their tea.
Variety of Flavors
Some empty tea bags come with a variety of flavors. This adds excitement to your tea experience. Packs that feature multiple flavors allow you to try new things without committing to a large amount of one type. Check if the brand offers sampler packs for more options.
Ease of Use
Empty tea bags should be easy to fill and seal. Look for designs that make it simple to add tea leaves. Bags with self-sealing features save time and hassle. This feature is especially useful when brewing multiple cups.
Brewing Time
Different types of tea may require different brewing times. Ensure the empty tea bags can withstand the recommended brew time for your tea type. This prevents the bag from breaking or leaking flavor during steeping.
Storage and Freshness
Proper storage helps maintain the freshness of your tea. Keep empty tea bags in a cool, dry place. Some brands offer resealable bags for easier storage. This ensures you can use them over time without losing flavor.
Shopping around? We have 68 more tea guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- MedlinePlus food safety MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine
- ENERGY STAR dishwashers ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
About the author
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