Is Tea Hydrating? Best Infusers for Herbal Blends

We all know how important it is to stay hydrated. When you’re not getting enough fluids, you can feel sluggish, get headaches, or even get sick. Water is essential to our bodies—but do you have to drink only water to stay hydrated?

What about tea? Can it count toward your daily water intake? And is that “8 glasses a day” rule even accurate?

If you’re tired of plain water or curious how drinks like tea and coffee fit into the hydration picture, you’re in the right place. This guide breaks it all down—what counts as hydrating, how much fluid you really need, and what drinks (and even foods!) can help you stay refreshed and healthy.

Why Is Hydration So Important?

Our bodies are mostly made of water—about 60%! That means we constantly need to replenish what we lose through sweating, breathing, and using the bathroom.

Even just a 1% drop in your body’s water levels can affect your energy, strength, and focus. Dehydration can lead to headaches, fatigue, and trouble concentrating. It can even contribute to health issues like kidney stones, constipation, and dry skin.

So yes, hydration is a big deal. The better you stay hydrated, the better your body works—simple as that.

Does Tea Count As Water?

Yes, it absolutely does! Despite what you might have heard, tea (and even coffee) can hydrate you just like water—when consumed in moderate amounts.

Tea often gets a bad rap because of its caffeine content. Caffeine can have a mild diuretic effect, meaning it might make you pee more—but that doesn’t mean you’re losing hydration. You’d have to drink 6–13 cups of strong tea in one go to feel any real dehydrating effect from caffeine.

In fact, studies show there’s no meaningful difference in hydration levels between people who drink tea and those who drink water. So if you love your morning cup of black tea or an afternoon herbal brew, you’re still giving your body the fluids it needs.

Bottom line? Tea is a great way to stay hydrated—just try to keep it under six cups a day.

Also Read: How to Brew Loose Leaf Tea Without an Infuser

How Much Water Do You Really Need?

You’ve probably heard the “8 glasses a day” rule, right? It turns out, that advice isn’t one-size-fits-all—and it’s not even based on solid science.

How much water you need depends on things like your activity level, body size, and the climate you live in. Some people might need less than 8 glasses, while others need more—especially if they’re active or live in hot areas.

The best way to check your hydration? Look at your pee. If it’s light yellow or clear, you’re probably hydrated. If it’s dark, grab a glass of water (or tea!).

And don’t wait until you feel thirsty. Thirst means you’re already a bit dehydrated. Also, as we age, our sense of thirst gets weaker—so older adults need to be more mindful about drinking regularly.

Which Teas Have Caffeine?

All traditional teas—from white to green to black and oolong—come from the same plant (Camellia sinensis) and contain caffeine. White and green teas have lower amounts, while black and oolong teas contain more.

Even “decaffeinated” tea has a tiny bit of caffeine.

Want a caffeine-free option? Herbal teas are your go-to. These blends are made from herbs, flowers, fruits, and spices, not tea leaves, and they don’t have any caffeine. Peppermint, chamomile, hibiscus, and rooibos are just a few great options.

If you’re sensitive to caffeine, stick with herbal teas—but even caffeinated tea can hydrate you just fine when consumed in moderation.

Also Read: Do Silicone Tea Infusers Really Work? [Hands-On Test]

Simple Rules for Staying Hydrated With Tea

Here are a few tips to get the most hydration out of your tea:

• Go easy on the sugar. Too much sugar can actually dehydrate you, since your body uses water to process it. Enjoy sweet tea as an occasional treat, not a daily habit.
• Be careful with milk. While adding a splash of milk to your tea is fine, don’t rely on milk alone for hydration. Some headlines say milk is “more hydrating than water,” but the science is shaky. Stick with plain tea for best results.
• Enjoy the added health benefits. Tea is full of antioxidants and compounds that can support your heart, digestion, and even your immune system. It’s a win-win: hydration and health in one cup!

Hate Drinking Water? Try These 6 Hydrating Alternatives

Let’s face it—not everyone enjoys drinking water. If you’re one of those people who thinks it’s bland or boring, you’re not alone. The good news? There are plenty of other tasty ways to stay hydrated.

1. Tea

We’ve covered this already, but it’s worth repeating—tea is a great water alternative! Stick with unsweetened varieties for best hydration benefits.

2. Coffee

Believe it or not, plain black coffee counts too! Like tea, coffee is mostly water. Just skip the sugar and heavy cream, and you’re good to go.

3. Infused Water

Jazz up your plain water with slices of fruit, herbs, or cucumber. Let it chill in the fridge for a few hours and enjoy a refreshing twist with zero sugar.

4. Coconut Water

Full of electrolytes and naturally sweet, unsweetened coconut water is great for post-workout hydration or a hot day. Just avoid versions loaded with added sugar.

5. Bone Broth

Yes, really! Bone broth is full of minerals, electrolytes, and even collagen. It’s especially nice in cooler weather and is a surprising way to boost hydration.

6. Hydrating Foods

Many fruits and vegetables are high in water—think watermelon, cucumbers, tomatoes, oranges, and berries. Even protein-rich foods like eggs, fish, and chicken help with hydration. Avoid salty or sugary foods, which can dry you out.

Also Read: Best Teacups for Gifting Tea Lovers

Final Thoughts: Stay Hydrated, Your Way

Whether you’re sipping hot tea in the winter or enjoying a glass of fruit-infused water in the summer, staying hydrated doesn’t have to be boring. Tea, coffee, broth, and water-rich foods all help you hit your daily hydration goals.

Looking for high-quality teas and teaware to boost your hydration game? Check out Teabloom’s beautiful collection of organic teas and elegant glass teapots. They’re designed to give you the cleanest, purest tea-drinking experience—whether you like it hot or iced.

Drink what makes you feel good—and stay hydrated, your way.