FAQ
Ordering and shipping
Where do you ship to?
To the Netherlands and every other country in the European Union.
How much is shipping?
Netherlands: €6.95, free from €50. Other EU countries: €8.95, free from €100. You see the exact cost at checkout before you pay.
When will my order arrive?
You get an email with tracking as soon as your order ships. See our shipping policy for details.
How can I pay?
iDEAL | Wero, credit and debit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal and Klarna.
Is there a discount when I buy more yerba?
Yes. Buy any 3 bags of yerba and get 10% off. The discount is applied automatically in your cart.
Returns
Can I return my order?
Yes, within 14 days of receiving it. For hygiene and food safety reasons, opened yerba mate can't be returned; unopened bags can. Read the full refund policy.
My order arrived damaged. What now?
Email info@buenmate.nl with your order number and a photo. We'll replace it or refund you, and we pay the return shipping.
About yerba mate
How do I prepare yerba mate?
Fill a gourd two-thirds with yerba, tilt it, add a splash of cool water, insert the bombilla and pour in hot water of 70 to 80°C. Our step-by-step guide explains it in detail.
Which yerba should I start with?
For a smooth, mild start, try Playadito. If you find traditional mate too bitter, the fruity CBSé blends are an easy way in. For a strong, intense mate, go for Canarias or Pajarito.
What's the difference between "con palo" and "sin palo"?
"Con palo" yerba contains small stems, which make it milder and more balanced. "Sin palo" or "despalada" is almost pure leaf, with a fuller, stronger flavour.
Can I drink mate cold?
Yes. Ice-cold mate is called tereré and is very popular in Paraguay. Use cold water and ice, and try it with mint or citrus.
How long does a bag of yerba last?
Stored closed in a cool, dry place, yerba keeps for a long time; check the best-before date on the bag. Once opened, keep it in a closed container away from light and moisture.
Gourds and bombillas
Which gourd is best for beginners?
A wooden jujube gourd or a stainless steel gourd. They're ready to use straight away and easy to clean.
Does my gourd need curing?
Only gourds made from natural calabash, like the Martin Fierro imperials. Fill it with used, wet yerba and hot water, leave it for a day, then empty and rinse. Repeat once or twice. Wood, glass and steel gourds don't need curing.
How do I clean a bombilla?
Rinse it with hot water after each use. Now and then, clean the inside with a small bombilla brush. Some of our bombilla sets come with one.
Still have a question?
Send us a message or email info@buenmate.nl. We're happy to help.