Tea has long been associated with the soothing sound of a kettle whistle. There is a lot more to today’s tea kettles than just whirring. Many are equipped with convenient features like gooseneck spouts, trigger-action lids, and more.
Others are powered and may be set to achieve precise temperatures as desired. There are a wide variety of materials, from steel to stoneware to glass. In the following, we’ll go over all of these topics and more, highlighting our favorite kettles and discussing our thoughts on them.
Top 5 Bestseller Tea Kettle
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We enlisted the expertise of some of the best culinary writers in the business to test the bulk of the kettles on our list. Reviewers put each product through its paces in their own kitchens for weeks before giving it a final rating.
Top 10 Best Tea Kettle Wirecutter Reviews
OXO BREW Classic Tea Kettle
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The Oxo Brew Classic Tea Kettle is the best kettle if you’re wanting to make the ideal cup of tea. Designed to last a lifetime, this kettle is made of high-grade stainless steel that consumers report doesn’t corrode or discolor.
The kettle’s rotating handle, according to our product tester, is what sets it apart. Filling and cleaning are a snap. Moreover, she noted that the handle is “easy to grip and pour, even when the kettle is full.” In addition, the lid has a huge aperture so you can slip your hand inside to clean areas that are often difficult to access.
To protect you from touching the hot metal, the handle has a silicone grip, the lid has a silicone knob and the spout cap has a silicone tab. It doesn’t matter if you set a timer or not since the water will be ready when you flip the lid down.
With its brushed stainless steel finish, this kettle may be used in both traditional and contemporary kitchens. Because of its high-quality materials and elegant design, our reviewer recommends the product despite its “quite high” price.
Pros
- Classic design with modern features
- The rotating handle stays in place
- Large opening for easy filling and cleaning
Cons
- A little pricey
- Stainless steel lid gets hot
Mr Coffee Claredale Whistling Tea Kettle
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The ergonomic Bakelite handle on this traditional stainless steel tea kettle adds a contemporary touch. Additionally, users comment that the handle is both eye-catching and simple to hold.
A 2.2-quart capacity for the Claredale is in the middle of the pack, if not a tad larger than average. It weighs less than one pound despite its reasonable size, and its lightness is lauded by users. Hundreds of people have given it a five-star rating, making it a popular choice.
The spout cover, which can be flipped up with the press of a button, is another important feature. When the water is ready for tea, hot chocolate, or any other beverage, the kettle emits a distinctive squeaking sound. The dishwasher, on the other hand, should be avoided at all costs.
Pros
- Ergonomic handle with spout trigger
- Multiple colorways
- Lightweight
Cons
- Very quiet whistle
- Thin material
Le Creuset Enamel On Steel Whistling Tea Kettle
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Are you on the lookout for long-term investment? When it comes to Le Creuset, you’re in good hands. The well-known cast-iron Dutch oven manufacturer also makes a variety of beautiful tea kettles (among other kitchen goods).
This porcelain-enameled stainless steel tea kettle is a lovely registry present or a great replacement for your current kettle. It comes in a variety of hues, including Oyster, Deep Teal, Cerise, and more, and contains roughly 2 quarts.
The kettle is both attractive and useful. Our reviewer lauded the product’s features and performance after using it. This kettle’s heat-resistant knobs and whistle are among its most appealing features, according to the reviewer.
To open a kettle and pour hot water into our mug, “we dislike having to rush for an oven mitt,” but with this kettle, there’s no need. Many customers have also commented on how well-built the whistler is, as well as how easily it can be flipped back while pouring.
Pros
- Beautiful colors
- Sturdy handle
- Works on all stovetops
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Lid is somewhat hard to get off
- Heavier than most kettles
All-Clad E86199 Stainless Steel Tea Kettle
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For a long time, the brand “All-Clad” has been synonymous with high-end cookware. Despite their modest appearance, the brand’s products are made to last. The All-Clad Stainless Steel Tea Kettle is no different in this regard.
Even though it’s a pricey stovetop kettle, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. When it came to performance, our tester praised its overall aesthetics and durability, as well as how quickly it boiled water and how easy it was to pour (both took only seven minutes).
Aside from the fact that the handle is fixed, our tester experienced no other issues with this product. Customers have complained that the handle is too hot to hold, however our tester had no such problems.
However, he did mention that the outflow cap might get heated. For brewing tea or coffee, this kettle has a 2-quart capacity that is more than adequate. A kettle like this will never go out of style and will be a long-term fixture in your house owing to the quality craftsmanship of All-Clad.
Pros
- Heats quickly
- Large capacity
- Extremely sturdy and well-designed
- Smooth, precise pouring
Cons
- Thumb latch gets hot
- The handle is fixed in place
- Exterior prone to fingerprint smudges
KitchenAid KEK1222ER 1.25-Liter Electric Kettle
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This electric tea kettle contains 1.25 liters of water and warms it in about five minutes. It’s built to last and looks great on the counter or table. The on/off switch incorporates an LED light for easy sight, and the base is easily detachable.
A variety of colors are available for the kettle’s stainless steel body, including black, pistachio, red, and brushed stainless steel. The aluminum handle is comfortable to grasp and makes pouring a breeze.
For those with hard water, a detachable limescale filter is included in the pouring spout. With a large aperture and an easily detachable lid, you can thoroughly clean this container with just a hand.
In spite of the fact that it’s pricey for a gadget that will only be used to heat water, it’s an excellent choice for someone who enjoys tea and the aesthetics of a well-designed product.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Fast boiling
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Small capacity
- Several plastic parts
Zeppoli Electric Kettle – Glass Tea Kettle & Hot Water Boiler
Because an electric tea kettle can’t boil dry, it’s one of the finest reasons to use one. As a result, you will have a lot of clutter in your kitchen if you purchase this appliance. In contrast, an electric kettle makes a lot of sense if you drink a lot of tea or brew drip coffee.
Cordless serving, automatic shutdown after 30 seconds, and a wide aperture for cleaning are just some of the features of this 1.7-liter appliance. In addition, we put the kettle to the test and found that it boils water in five to six minutes when it’s full and just two to three minutes when you fill it to the very bottom.
In comparison to the old-fashioned approach, this is a lot quicker. There is no need for a potholder since the handle is non-slip and heat-resistant; therefore, there is no need for a potholder. Despite the kettle’s flimsiness, our reviewer deems it a decent purchase.
Pros
- Heats up quickly
- Removable filter
- Push button to open
- No heating element necessary
Cons
- Short power cord
- Lid opens forcefully
Fellow Stagg EKG Electric Gooseneck Kettle
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It’s easier to regulate the flow of liquid with gooseneck kettles because of their sloping and narrow spouts. Because of this, they’re a great alternative for people who use manual coffee makers like a French press or Chemex. Far and away, the greatest product in this category is the Fellow Stagg EKG Pour-Over Kettle.
Everything about this product screams high-end, from the elegant design to the plethora of useful functions. You may set the kettle to boil at any temperature between 135 and 212 degrees using just a dial. Brews in less than an hour because to its tiny volume of slightly under 1 liter. Because it’s electric, you won’t have to worry about it taking up space on your stove.
“The accurate pour spout, precise temperature selection capabilities, and unsurpassed design make it worth it for speciality coffee enthusiasts,” said our reviewer after trying the kettle. The price may be exorbitant for those who consume tea or coffee on a regular basis.
Some clients may wish to look elsewhere for their gooseneck kettle needs, as this is one of more expensive options. Fortunately, gooseneck kettles are widely available and reasonably priced. The Stagg EKG, on the other hand, is an excellent choice. A multitude of styles are available, and it’s easy to find on various web retailers.
Pros
- Stylish
- Temperature hold function
- Precise pouring
- Can program by single degrees
Cons
- Expensive
- No indication for reaching desired temperature
- Small capacity
T-fal C76220 Specialty Stainless Steel Dishwasher Safe Whistling Coffee and Tea Kettle
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This kettle has something for everyone, from its huge 3-quart capacity to its easy-to-use spout’s trigger action. By hand and in a dishwasher the object may be thoroughly cleaned. “The typical adult’s hand can absolutely fit inside without trouble,” our tester noted after evaluating the device, and the kettle’s “straight shape helped get every inch of the interior clean.”
It’s an excellent choice for families and frequent users because of its enormous capacity and simplicity of cleaning. Stainless steel may not be the most fashionable material, but it is incredibly long-lasting and can sustain years of intensive usage without deterioration.
However, there are certain downsides. First and foremost, the product is incompatible with induction cooktops. Another potential drawback is its size. As a result, our reviewer found it difficult to pour from the kettle. Because of its size, she added, the kettle “will automatically draw your attention if it is placed on a table or countertop”. Fortunately, the item’s handle is low enough to fit into most cupboards if you need to store it away.
Pros
- Large three-quart capacity
- Attractive, contemporary design
- Easy to clean
- Durable stainless steel
Cons
- The heavy bottom makes pouring more difficult
- Hard to press the trigger when holding the kettle
- Not compatible with induction cooktops
Circulon Morning Bird Whistling Kettle
Take a look at Circulon’s 2-quart tea kettle if you don’t require an enormous kettle. Capri turquoise, kiwi green, and stainless steel are all options for this kettle’s color options.
You can easily pour your tea over loose or bagged leaves thanks to the kettle’s one-touch lever that opens the spout. The lid is made of stainless steel, which keeps the steam from escaping and causing burns.
Designed with aesthetics in mind, this kettle has a circular body. When the water comes about to boil, a whistle will sound, letting you know that the temperature is just right for brewing.
Although the enameled outside makes it a little heavier than normal, it isn’t too cumbersome to lift even when full. As a Circulon customer, you can rest easy knowing that if something goes wrong, you’ll be covered.
Pros
- Squeeze-and-pour lever
- Works on induction cooktops
- Clear whistle
Cons
- Hard to pour all the water out
- Handle occasionally gets hot
CAFÉ BREW COLLECTION Borosilicate Glass Stove Top Whistling Tea Kettle
To acquire a cheap kettle that doesn’t appear as you snatched it from the cafe, this is your best bet. Your kitchen will have a retro vibe with this glass kettle. As long as you don’t mind a little cheesiness, we say go for it!
With its borosilicate glass construction, this 12-cup kettle may be used on gas and electric stoves. And just in case you’re worried that it won’t have all the bells and whistles you’ve come to expect from a tea kettle, it does.
There is no need to open the spout to pour from this kettle, which holds 12 cups. Furthermore, you can see how much water the kettle holds thanks to its glass construction. You’ll never longer have to worry about running out of tea or not having enough for your cup. If you’re on a tight budget and can’t afford the more expensive options, this is a good option.
Pros
- Budget price
- Top-rack dishwasher safe
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not compatible with induction cooktops
- Must remove the lid to pour
Buying Guide: What to Consider When Choosing Tea Kettle Wirecutter
Size
The size of several tea kettles is the same. Stovetop kettles contain around 2 liters of water on average, whereas electric kettles carry about 1.7 liters of water on average. Fortunately, finding tiny or big outliers, depending on your desire, is a breeze. There is no need to have a huge kettle in your kitchen or pantry if all you do is brew one cup of tea or fill a French press.
However, if you frequently have big gatherings, it’s convenient to be able to serve everyone at once without having to wait for another pot of water to get to a rolling boil. Our selection of kettles includes a variety of sizes, so all you have to do is pick one.
Material
Glass, stainless steel, and coated metal are some of the materials used to make tea kettles. There are a variety of approaches you may take in order to select the best alternative for yourself. Durability-conscious customers should steer clear of glass in favor of stainless steel or enamel.
If the look of the kitchen is most essential to you, choose the material that best suits your aesthetic preferences. One factor that impacts a kettle’s weight is the material.
For example, a glass or stainless steel kettle will be easier to lift. When using an induction cooktop instead of a gas or electric stove, your options are restricted, so be sure the kettle you select is compatible with your cooktop’s induction grid.
Spout
The spout of a kettle may make or break its ability to provide a smooth pour. The shape of the spout isn’t always a good indicator of how well a kettle will work, although it’s encouraging when the spout is long or tapered or ends at a point.
As a result, gooseneck kettles provide the most exact and metered pouring possible. Some basic kettles, such as the ones described above, feature excellent spouts that prevent dripping, spilled, and messy beverages.
Cleaning
In spite of the fact that you’re simply using your kettle to heat water, you’ll want to clean out any accumulated scale residue on occasion. Larger kettles may allow you to put your entire hand inside the pot for cleaning, whereas smaller kettles may necessitate the use of a brush.
Glass kettles are easier to inspect for cleanliness than metal kettles. To make sure you can wash it by hand or in the dishwasher, be sure to research a potential kettle before you buy.
Stovetop vs. Electric
When shopping for a tea kettle, one of the first choices to be made is whether to go with an electric or a non-electric one. It is more convenient to use an electric kettle since it heats up quickly, and some even have preset settings to suit different varieties of teas.
The downside is that they’re more expensive on average and need more counter space as a result. Stovetop kettles, on the other hand, are less expensive, easier to locate and come in a wider variety of designs. In that case, which one do you like the most? How much time do you want to wait for a cup of hot tea, or do you want a more traditional look and don’t mind waiting a little longer?
Tea Kettle FAQs
How do you clean a tea kettle?
The most common way to clean a tea kettle is: In a large pot, combine equal parts water and white vinegar. Bring to a boil, pour off the vinegar mixture, then clean the interior of the pot with a non-abrasive cloth or brush. Finally, rinse or boil the kettle until all vinegar is gone. This method works for both electric and stovetop kettles.
If you don’t clean your kettle every three months, limescale will start affecting the taste of your tea or coffee and may cause electric kettles to malfunction. Baking soda and lemon juice are other efficient descaling agents, and several manufacturers provide descaling solutions in liquid or powder form.
The same water and vinegar mixture may be used to clean a tea kettle, especially difficult stains, however water and dish soap also works. Simply moisten a microfiber cloth with either solution, scrub gently, and dry completely.
This avoids scale accumulation, rust stains, and keeps your kettle looking excellent in the kitchen. Avoid getting too much solution on the base of your electric kettle, and definitely avoid submerging it in water, which might harm the electric components and leave it useless.
Depending on the severity of the burns, owners of stovetop kettles may need to use a combination of cleaning methods. After soaking for 30 minutes to 2 hours in hot water and dish soap (once again, do not soak an electric kettle).
Second, dust the kettle with baking soda. Third, scrub the outside with water and dish soap until clean. Lastly, rinse and dry it. Before cleaning any tea kettle, check the handbook to see what materials and procedures the manufacturer suggests.
What water temperature is best for brewing tea?
The appropriate water temperature varies based on the tea. Smooth teas prefer lower temperatures, whereas robust teas prefer higher temps. White tea, for example, requires water that is 160°F. Green tea is 150-180 degrees.
Oolong is finest at 190°. Black tea has a temperature range of 180-212 degrees. Finally, herbal teas are approximately 212°F. Many electric kettles may be pre-programmed to a preset temperature, and some even include specialized tea buttons.
Can you heat milk in a tea kettle?
Never heat milk in an electric kettle (no matter how strong the hot chocolate craving may be). Milk can harm an electric kettle’s heating components and prevent the automatic shut-off mechanism from working. Stovetop kettles may be used to heat milk, but users should warm it carefully and clean well afterwards. Rather than using a kettle, heat milk in a saucepan or microwave.
Can you brew tea inside a kettle?
Unless otherwise stated, do not make tea in a kettle. Tea kettles just heat water. Using tea bags or loose leaf tea in a kettle can create stains, odors, and harm the kettle. Plus, it would probably make for a bad cup of tea. A teapot produces a richer taste.
Conclusion
Elegant and practical, the OXO Stainless Steel Kettle is a solid choice for any consumer looking for a high-quality product. It includes a spinning handle, a precise spout, and is made to endure a long time… Mr. Coffee Claredale is our top selection for those who are seeking a more economical option.