Tips for choosing a kettle

It's often easy to neglect a trusty kettle. After all, this most basic of kitchen gadgets is used almost more than any other appliance in British kitchens - whether it's for boiling water for cooking or to make a regular cup of tea. However, a kettle is almost never given the attention it deserves and as a result, many kettles break before their time due to insufficient care or misuse. If you're in the process of buying a new kettle, here's a few tips on how to choose one that will be efficient and effective, look great in your kitchen and last you several years.





Although old fashioned stove-top kettles are still favoured by antiques fans and style gurus, electric kettles are the norm in most households in the UK. You'll first need to choose what size of kettle you require. A standard kettle holds between 1.5L and 1.7L and this is usually sufficient for the average home. However, if you live alone or you don't drink tea or coffee (and therefore don't boil your kettle very often), a small travel kettle that holds up to 1L may be a more appropriate and energy efficient option. At the same time, some manufacturers offer larger kettles that hold up to 2L and this may be more suitable for very big homes.

You'll also need to consider whether you want a corded or cordless kettle. Smaller kettles are usually corded, meaning that the electric cord attaches directly into the kettle. However, standard size and large kettles may also be cordless. This means the cord is attached to a base, from which the kettle can be detached for easier movement around the kitchen. Cordless kettles with a 360-degree base may be particularly convenient for left-handed users as the kettle handle can be swivelled from right to left.





Next, think about how you want your kettle to look. Stainless steel kettles, for instance, are popular as they look sleek and contemporary but are also simple to keep clean. What's more, stainless steel is an efficient material for a kettle because it helps to keep water hotter for longer compared to a plastic kettle. If you don't think a shiny kettle will suit your kitchen, many stainless steel kettles are now available in coated coloured exteriors so you can get both style and great performance from your kettle.





Another type of kettle that is becoming increasingly popular is the glass kettle. These kettles look great (you can see the water boiling through clear glass), are easy to keep clean and eliminate the metallic taste that water can sometimes have after it's been boiled. However, it's still possible to get these effects if you keep your stainless steel or plastic kettle as clean as possible. To make this process simple, look for a kettle with a concealed element for easier cleaning and a removable limescale filter that can be washed and de-scaled.





Paul Buchanan writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.