As someone who loves refreshing iced tea, I’ve experimented a lot with different types of tea for both sweet tea and sun tea. Traditional Southern sweet tea is typically made with black tea because of its robust flavor, which stands up well to the sweetness and ice. Popular choices include classic brands like Lipton or Luzianne, which release a strong, full-bodied flavor that complements the sugar. For sun tea, where you brew the tea by steeping tea bags in a jar of water left out in the sun, many people also prefer black tea because its flavor develops beautifully with the gentle heat of sunlight. However, green tea or herbal teas can also be used for sun tea if you want to experiment with lighter, more delicate flavors — just keep in mind the brewing time and the risk of bacteria growth if left out too long. One tip from my personal experience: when making sweet tea, use brewed tea that is strong and hot to dissolve the sugar well. For sun tea, start with clean water and good quality tea bags, and steep for about 3-5 hours for best flavor without bitterness. After brewing, always refrigerate the tea to keep it fresh. If you’re new to making sweet or sun tea, don’t hesitate to ask Southern women in your community for their secret tips — many have perfected their recipes over generations. Adding a slice of lemon or sprigs of fresh mint can also elevate the refreshing experience. Whether you prefer the classic sweetened black tea or like to experiment with green or herbal varieties, knowing which tea to use greatly impacts the flavor and enjoyment of your homemade beverage.