Quick answer

If you want a playful, easy-to-lift infuser that works with most mugs, gnomeo-71869">Gnomeo is the more practical choice. If you prefer a compact, whimsical submarine that adds a dose of serenity, Tea Sub offers a charming alternative—just check your mug’s depth before committing.

Design and character: Gnomeo’s charm vs. Tea Sub’s calm

Gnomeo brings a garden-inspired personality to your tea cup, with a design that’s both fun and functional. Tea Sub, on the other hand, transports you to an underwater world, offering a serene aesthetic that stands out on any kitchen counter. Both infusers are part of OTOTO DESIGN’s playful collection, but they appeal to different moods: Gnomeo for a lively brew, Tea Sub for a tranquil escape.

Ease of use and cleaning

Gnomeo is designed to be lifted easily by its tail, making removal from your cup simple and mess-free. Tea Sub’s compact dimensions of 5.5 x 3 x 5.5 cm fit neatly in most mugs, but its submarine shape may require a bit more care when fishing out. Both are made from silicone and metal, so cleaning is straightforward—just rinse or pop them in the dishwasher if your model allows.

Brewing capacity and fit

When it comes to capacity, Gnomeo’s cat-shaped body offers a generous chamber for loose tea leaves, perfect for a full-flavored cup. Tea Sub’s compact size is ideal for a single serving, but the shallow depth of some mugs might leave the submarine partially submerged. Measure your favorite mug’s depth and diameter to ensure a proper fit before you buy.

The tradeoff: whimsy vs. practicality

  • Gnomeo’s tail handle: Lifting by the tail is intuitive and keeps your fingers away from hot water, but the cat shape may not suit every mug’s opening. If easy removal is your priority, Gnomeo wins.
  • Tea Sub’s compact size: Its small dimensions fit most mugs, but the submarine’s shape can be trickier to grip when wet. Great for travel, but be prepared for a little more fiddling.
  • Visual appeal: Both add whimsy, but Gnomeo’s playful cat face may appeal to cat lovers, while Tea Sub’s serene submarine suits a calming tea ritual. Choose the one that matches your kitchen’s vibe.

Product facts at a glance

  • Tea Sub: Tea Sub is a submarine-shaped tea infuser made from silicone and metal, with compact dimensions of 5.5 x 3 x 5.5 cm that fit neatly in most mugs. Its small footprint makes it a great travel companion, but you’ll want to verify your mug’s depth to avoid a half-submerged brew.
  • Louie: Louie is a cat-shaped tea infuser that steeps leaves and lifts easily by his tail, designed by OTOTO for a playful tea ritual. The tail handle offers a secure grip, making it easy to remove without burning your fingers—a practical plus for daily use.

Which infuser fits you?

Best for

  • Cat lovers who want a playful, easy-to-lift infuser for daily use
  • Tea drinkers with standard mugs who prioritize convenience

Not for

  • Those who prefer a compact, travel-friendly infuser with a serene aesthetic—consider Tea Sub instead