Definition of the word tea cloth

The term "tea cloth" originated in the 19th century as a practical solution to the mess created during the tea preparation process. Initially, tea was sold loose and the leaves were steeped with hot water in a pot or a large bowl, called a "gongfu teapot" in Chinese culture. As the tea brewed, small particles and dried leaves would float and settle at the bottom of the pot, making it necessary to strain out the solid matter before serving. The first "tea cloths" were made by turning old fabric into a filtering device. Sometimes, used handkerchiefs or napkins were repurposed, while others created makeshift filters by folding a piece of cloth or a handkerchief and securing it with a ribbon or string. This simple method allowed for the tea to properly infuse while preventing the tea leaves and other solids from entering the teapot, cups, or bowl. As tea drinking became more popular, specialized cloths specifically designed for straining tea were introduced. By the 1880s, tea strainers were mass-produced in a variety of materials, including silk, muslin, and linen. Called tea strainers or tea gauzes in English, these breathable fabrics were designed to fit easily inside teapots or teacups, allowing the tea to be poured and consumed with ease. Today, tea cloths have evolved to feature fancier patterns and materials, and their name has also changed, often referred to as "tea filters" or "tea strainers." Regardless of the terminology, the function of these cloths remains the same; they serve as a practical and aesthetically pleasing tool for separating the tea leaves and solids from the hot beverage, creating a more enjoyable and refined tea drinking experience.