Electric Kettles, Tea Kettles and Tea Makers

Where it heats, and how much it holds

An electric kettle boils on its own base, most switch off by themselves once boiling, and it works anywhere with an outlet. A stovetop whistling kettle needs a burner it suits: induction cooktops only heat a magnetic base, so look for that in the description. Size follows the household: about 0.8 liters is one or two mugs, 1.5 to 1.8 liters serves a family, and a 350 ml travel kettle is for a single cup on the road.

Tea temperatures, glass or steel, and keeping scale down

Green and white teas taste better with water that has cooled to roughly 70 to 80 degrees Celsius than at a full boil, which is why some electric models offer temperature settings and why tea makers with a lift-out infuser basket exist. Stainless steel is robust, glass lets you see the water level and any scale, and plastic is light. Whichever you pick, descale on a regular schedule where the water is hard, using the method the manual recommends.

Questions about Electric Kettles, Tea Kettles and Tea Makers

Why does a new kettle smell, and how do I fix it?

A new kettle can smell of manufacturing residue. Boil a full kettle of fresh water and discard it, repeating once or twice. If you are sensitive to taste, choose a model whose water path is stainless steel or glass rather than plastic.

Does a stovetop kettle work on an induction cooktop?

Only if its base is magnetic. Magnetic-grade stainless steel usually works; aluminum, copper and glass kettles do not unless the listing says induction-ready. A magnet that grips the base is a quick test.

How full should I fill an electric kettle?

Stay between the minimum and maximum marks. Below the minimum, the element may not be covered and the kettle can shut off early; above the maximum, boiling water can spit from the spout. Fill only as much as you need, since heating less water is quicker.