Whether it's a hot day and you need a way to cool off or you have a wrap-around front porch and are legally obligated to have a glass of iced tea clinking around as you read in your rocking chair, an iced tea maker is a must-have for the summer. Instead of boiling water, steeping the tea in the hot water, and putting it into the fridge for hours to cool down, you can turn on your iced tea maker and have a refreshing glass in your hand in just a few minutes.
We scoured the internet to find all the best options. Need something that will make a quick glass? We have that. Hosting a massive party and need to make a gallon of iced tea? That's on the list. In search of a maker that works for cold brew too? There are a few of those options below. On the lookout for something affordable and versatile? Don't worry, we have a budget option for you.
Before we set you free to browse through our recommendations, take a look at our go-to iced tea recipe for tips and tricks to help you brew a strong drink, because whether you like it plain or super sweet, no one like a glass of weak tea. And while you're at it, check out this recipe for peach iced tea, or if you want a drink with a kick, try these boozy iced tea recipes that you'll want to sip all year long.
Takeya's iced tea maker is made out of shatterproof Tritan and has a large tea infuser suitable for loose leaf or bagged tea. Use it for cold brew tea or to brew hot tea and quickly chill it by shaking with ice for 30 seconds. It also has an airtight seal and is slim enough to fit in most refrigerator doors.
This iced tea maker is so pretty and retro-looking. If you are also a coffee drinker, this may be your ideal option, as it can make both. You just pour water into the reservoir, add your tea bags to the basket, add ice and in a few minutes, you'll have iced tea. It can make up to 64 ounces at a time, perfect for when the whole crew is over.
3
Best For Cold Brew And Iced Tea
Ovalware Airtight Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker and Tea Infuser with Spout
3
Best For Cold Brew And Iced Tea
Ovalware Airtight Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker and Tea Infuser with Spout
If cold caffeine is your go-to, try this sleek cold brew and iced tea maker combo. It's similar to the Takeya iced tea maker, but is made out of borosilicate glass with a silicone base. The strainer is super fine, so you can make loose leaf tea without getting any bits in your glass, plus you can throw in some extra fruit for added flavor.
This iced tea maker is perfect for so many things. Do you want to make plain ol' iced tea? It can do that. Want to make sangria or flavored water? This maker can also handle that. It has three interchangeable basket cores to fit whatever recipe you are making. Plus, the whole thing is air tight (AKA leak proof!) and is dishwasher safe.
5
Best Budget
Altura The TUBE+: Cold Brew Coffee Maker and Tea Infuser Kit
5
Best Budget
Altura The TUBE+: Cold Brew Coffee Maker and Tea Infuser Kit
If you already have a large mason jar at home and aren't looking for a giant machine to take up valuable counter space, this mesh filter will get the job done when you're in the mood for iced tea or cold brew coffee. Plus, at $16, it's super budget-friendly. This one works with a 64-ounce wide mouth mason jar, but there's also a version for 32-ounce jars.
Hosting a party and need to quench the thirst of many? This one-gallon iced tea maker with a spout makes that so much easier. You can brew the tea directly in the container, and set it out for people to serve themselves. Plus, you can use it for cold brew or any other beverage, say sangria or punch.
If money is no object, go for this Breville tea maker. It allows you to set the brew strength, time, and temperature of your cup, meaning it works for both hot and iced drinks. If tea drinking is a serious matter for you, we recommend splurging on this option. You will, however, have to chill your tea for true iced tea.
Felicia LaLomia is the Food & Culture Editor for Delish. When she isn’t covering food news or writing features about delicious trends in the culinary world, she’s searching for her next perfect bite.