I’ve had my eye on these for a while now and have refrained from getting them because they seemed a little like a luxury. But, I make tea everyday, and anything which improves and/or streamlines that process is a win-win for me. I have wonderful silicone mug covers which I’ve been using to squeeze out my tea bags, but since they also have an acrylic knob in the middle for lifting, I’ve always been in fear that squeezing the silicone right there at the knob will someday break it. Plus, I squeeze most of my teabags right in the kitchen where it’s most convenient, but sometimes I just want to bring the tea out to where I’m sitting, and be able to deal with the teabag right there, instead of having to worry about getting up again right away to deal with and get the tea in the kitchen. Some teas are better with a quick brew –which can be a hassle, so having the tea right next to me, where I can take the teabag out on time is best with these teabag squeezers, instead of any other method. Now, I can enjoy my peppermint tea, for example, without worrying that I’ve left it steeping for too long, which makes it taste more “green,” instead of minty. I have a bunch of small (2″ diameter) porcelain dipping dishes which work wonderfully as the teabag rests, so that’s important too, to have the teabag rests when you need them.Anyway, I’ve tried every which way of squeezing the tea bags, and these tongs are the best. Durable, nothing could break or wear out, your fingers never have to touch the hot tea, you don’t have to drink the tea down a bit to make room at the top of the mug to squeeze the teabag with a spoon. All of this is the reason why these tongs are a necessity and not a luxury. They will, of course work to squeeze lemon wedges, too, which is ever so perfect for tea lovers and people who love a splash of lemon in water and/or sparkling mineral water. Plus, I’m going to use them for toaster tongs! I only have one right now but will be watching the price to hopefully get to having around four in total. I highly recommend these lovely workhorses!!!
