Us Brits love a good cup of tea on any day of the week. Whether it’s the first thing we do every morning, or have it as a little post-lunch pick-me up, there’s no wrong time of the day to make a brew.
Now did you know you’ve been drinking tea all wrong? According to an etiquette expert, there’s one mistake you’re making every single time based on the way you hold your mug.
William Hanson, who boasts 3.1million followers on TikTok, is a twice Sunday Times bestselling author and host of podcasts, Help I Sexted My Boss and The Luxury Podcast.
In a recent post with his fans, he explained how the way you hold your tea mug could well be incorrect, so are you guilty of this mistake?
His caption read: « This is how Hyacinth would want us to do it! »
In the video, he revealed: « Now remember when you hold a teacup, we pinch with our thumb and index finger between the handle, don’t stick your finger in.
« We don’t want to do that pinch instead and the little finger does not extend, it used to mean all sorts of things. Just remember to keep it tucked in. »
It’s as simple as that…
The video garnered 26,800 likes since it was shared with many people flocking to the comments section.
One said: « When in doubt, pinkie out. » Another added: « My pinky always goes rogue while sipping tea. It means I’m a lady. »
A third gushed: « I love this guy. »
What is the proper way to drink tea?
There is proper tea etiquette which includes holding the cup by the handle, keeping the saucer on the table and taking quiet, small sips.
When stirring, use a gentle back-and-forth motion and place the spoon on the saucer after. It is also crucial to keep your phone away, use a napkin and never clink your spoon against the cup or sip from it.
Make sure you never blow on the tea, if it’s hot, allow it to cool on its own. If you’re adding milk, make sure it’s done after the tea to avoid affecting the flavour.
Proper afternoon tea etiquette dictates that if you are seated then your saucer remains at the table and you must only lift your teacup to drink.
But if you’re standing, then you should hold your teacup in your right hand and saucer in your left, lifting the saucer to hold it beneath the teacup as you enjoy.
