How to Make Sun Tea Safely

Why sun tea has a bad reputation

Traditional sun tea sits in a jar of room-temperature water for several hours while the sun gently warms it. The trouble is that lukewarm water for a long stretch is exactly the temperature range where bacteria multiply fastest.

The tea itself isn't the danger — it's untreated water sitting in that range for hours, especially in a jar that isn't fully clean or sealed.

A safer way to make it

Start with cold filtered water rather than tap water straight from a hose or an old jug, and use a very clean, tightly lidded glass jar.

• Fill a clean glass jar with cold, filtered water.
• Add about 1 tablespoon of loose leaf per quart of water.
• Set the jar in direct sun for no more than 2 to 3 hours.
• Strain out the leaves and refrigerate immediately.
• Drink within 2 to 3 days.

The 'fridge tea' alternative

If you'd rather skip any risk entirely, cold brew instead: add the same ratio of leaf to cold water and refrigerate for 6 to 12 hours rather than leaving it outside. You get the same smooth, low-tannin result without the temperature concerns.

Signs your batch has gone wrong

Cloudiness from tannins is normal and harmless, but a slimy texture, an off smell, or a batch that's been sitting out for more than a few hours should be poured out rather than risked.