Step 1: Gather your supplies. Ensure your glass container is clean and has a lid.
Step 2: Place the tea bags into the clean glass container, ensuring they are separated enough to steep properly.
Step 3: Carefully fill the container with cold, filtered water, fully submerging all tea bags.
Step 4: If desired, add any optional fruits or herbs (like lemon slices or mint) into the water with the tea bags.
Step 5: Secure the lid tightly on the container to prevent any contaminants from entering.
Step 6: Place the sealed container in a spot where it will receive direct sunlight for several hours (e.g., a porch, patio, or sunny windowsill).
Step 7: Allow the sun tea to steep for 2 to 4 hours, or until it reaches your desired strength and color. Monitor the color carefully.
Step 8: Once brewed, bring the container indoors. Carefully remove and discard the tea bags (and any infused fruit/herbs).
Step 9: Taste the sun tea and add sweetener if desired, stirring until fully dissolved.
Step 10: Transfer the sun tea to a pitcher or other serving vessel, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until thoroughly chilled. Serve over ice.