How to Choose a Kettle

General buying advice. Always check current specifications, prices and reviews with the retailer before you buy.

A kettle is a simple appliance, but small differences affect speed, noise, and how long it lasts, especially in hard-water areas.

Capacity

Typical kettles hold between 1.5 and 1.7 litres. A smaller kettle boils faster for one or two cups, which saves energy. Look for clear minimum and maximum fill marks that you can read easily.

Speed and power

Many UK kettles are rated at around 3,000 watts, which is the practical maximum for a standard socket. Look at real boil-time reviews rather than only the wattage.

Materials

Stainless steel is durable and does not retain tastes, but the outside can get hot. Glass lets you see the water, but is heavier and can crack. Plastic is light and cheap. Check that the inside has no exposed plastic touching the water if that matters to you.

Limescale

In hard-water areas, limescale builds up quickly. A removable, washable filter and a wide opening make cleaning easier. Descale regularly with a kettle-safe descaling product or citric acid.

Features

Variable temperature settings are useful if you make tea or coffee at different temperatures. Features worth having are automatic switch-off, boil-dry protection, and a lid that is easy to open and stays closed.