Brewing tea can be done in various ways, depending on the type. Many people choose to use tea bags because they are considered more practical. However, there are also quite a few who still use powdered tea because it is considered more fragrant and can be mixed with other types of tea. In brewing powdered tea, most people usually use a strainer to make it easier.
In this case, plastic tea strainers are often the choice because they are practical and lightweight. In addition, their affordable price is also one of the reasons this tool is still widely used. However, there is one common problem that is often experienced, namely that it is easily dirty and the color changes quickly. Tea residue left after use can accumulate and is difficult to clean , especially in small parts and gaps in the filter.
As a result, plastic tea strainers quickly change color, usually turning brown or even blackish. This discoloration not only reduces the aesthetics of the tea strainer, but can also affect the taste of the brewed tea. The remaining tea residue can give a bitter taste to the next brew, thus ruining the enjoyment of drinking tea.
In addition, if not cleaned properly, tea residue can be a breeding ground for bacteria, which of course is unhygienic and can have a negative impact on health. To keep plastic tea strainers clean and free of residue, regular maintenance is essential. You can clean it using the method used by Instagram user @mamiemanda.
 Instagram/@mamiemanda
Through one of the videos uploaded, she admitted to only using two simple ingredients to clean a dull tea strainer. Reported by BrilioFood from Instagram @mamiemanda on Friday (10/10), the simple ingredients in question are baking soda and citric acid. How to use it, place the tea strainer in a heat-resistant bowl. Then add hot water until the dirty part of the strainer can be completely submerged.
 Instagram/@mamiemanda
Next, add 1 tbsp of baking soda and 1/4 tbsp of citric acid. For maximum results, add enough dish soap. After that, stir all these ingredients until smooth, then soak the filter for 1 hour.
 Instagram/@mamiemanda
After 1 hour, scrub the tea strainer. No need to use a special brush, you can use a dishwashing sponge to clean the strainer. Or you can also use an old toothbrush to remove stains from the gaps in the strainer.
 Instagram/@mamiemanda
Once brushed, rinse immediately until completely clean. That way, the tea strainer becomes shinier and clearer. There are no remaining tea stains or crust left behind, so the strainer is more hygienic to reuse.