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12 Best Non Toxic Tea Kettles For a Healthy Brew

Looking for the best non-toxic tea kettle? Caraway, ASCOT, and Cosori top our list of picks for the best tea kettles for your kitchen.

Many of us use a tea kettle on a daily basis – I know I do! They’re great kitchen tools for boiling water for tea of course, but can also be used to boil water to make pasta, rice, oatmeal, and more. I use my tea kettle everyday for at least one of these purposes!

But did you know that many tea kettles can contain materials like plastic that can leach into our water when heated? That’s very undesirable as these harmful chemicals have been linked to negative health effects.

In fact, it’s what inspired me to write this as I recently realized that my tea kettle has a plastic window that was heated every time I heated water. No thank you!

In this blog post, we’re going to cover the best non-toxic tea kettle for your kitchen!

best non toxic tea kettle

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12 Best Non-Toxic Kettles To Buy For Your Kitchen

The right kettle can last you many years. Here are some non-toxic kettles for you to browse through:

1. Caraway’s Tea Kettle

This non-toxic tea kettle is made of lightweight stainless steel. It is free of PFOA, PTFE, other PFAs, Lead, and Cadmium. It’s absolutely gorgeous and a stunning piece to keep on your stovetop whether it’s currently boiling water or not.

The Caraway Tea Kettle comes in 7 colors (cream is pictured below and the one I personally own) and works on all stove tops. You definitely can’t go wrong with this pick. It’s on the the top stainless steel tea kettles on the market today.

2. ASCOT Glass Electric

This pretty glass electric gives you the best of both worlds. It has a retro design and looks like a traditional tea kettle but is run by electricity! It has a round spout and an anti-scalding handle.

The glass part of the kettle is made of borosil and hence no plastic touches the boiling water inside. The ASCOT Glass electric kettle is cord-free, quiet boiling and has automatic shut-off. It also comes with a 1 year limited warranty! 

3. ASCOT Stainless Electric

The ASCOT Stainless Electric is a quiet boiling water heater which is made of polished silver. It is a 100% plastic-free electric kettle for those of us looking for a sustainable product.

Reviews say that the kettle is shiny, classy and the water boils in no time. Be careful not to touch the kettle with hot water though. The boiled water in stainless steel can burn your hands.

This kettle is also easy to fill and has an auto-shut off that never fails. 

4. Cosori Stainless Electric Kettle

The Cosori Stainless electric kettle is a beautiful black kettle that will fit into any minimalists home.

It has a 2 L capacity unlike many other kettles which boils water barely enough for a few cups. This kettle is a double wall stainless steel one along with boil-dry protection.

It is a BPA-free kettle and has an auto-shut off system built in. Cosori is also known to have amazing customer service!

The Cosori Kettle also comes in glass. This is the one I personally own and is my top choice for as the best electric tea kettle on the market! One of my favorite safety features is that it turns off once the water is boiling. This kettle is a top pick overall.

5. Quicken Takei Fuefuki Tea Kettle

The Quicken Takei Fuefuki is an old-school energy saving tea kettle from Japan that whistles! Compared to the conventional kettle, this one boils water way faster.

This kettle made from stainless steel, is the perfect kettle for those looking to get away from plastic and teflon. It is a lightweight kettle making it easy on your arms whilst pouring.

The bottom of the kettle is also large enough to use on a gas burner without burning the sides of the kettle. It’s a good choice if you’re someone who prefers tea pots!

6. Fino Tea Kettle

The Fino tea kettle is the perfect gift option for tea lovers or coffee baristas. The handle of this kettle has been designed ergonomically which gives good control while pouring.

The kettle can pour 6 cups (without dripping!). It is safe to use on gas, induction and electric stovetops and also goes in the dishwasher.

Users say that this kettle has made the process of boiling water in a kettle a much more mindful experience than it was earlier. This is a great stovetop tea kettle option.

7. Alessi Tea Kettle

The Alessi Tea kettle designed in 1985, is a vintage design which stands out because of its super pretty blue handle and the cute little bird that adorns the spout.

The handle is made from PA resin which you can choose in either blue or ivory. The wider base of this kettle lets water boils fast. It takes around 2 mins 30 sec to boil 500 ml of water which is actually a comparable time to an electric kettle. 

8. Staub Tea Kettle

The Staub Tea kettle is a cast iron kettle which is made in France and is available in a variety of enameled cast iron colors like Grenadine, Basil, Graphite, Cherry, Black matte, and dark blue.

This 42.5 oz kettle is perfect for beverages as the cast iron allows for heat retention and redistribution. What’s more, it is also oven safe till 500 degrees Fahrenheit. 

The material is perfect because it is non-toxic and non-leaching. The perfect enameling also makes this kettle chip resistant. 

9. Willow and Everett

Willow and Everett strive to provide you the ultimate experience in coffee and tea. They have a few varieties of kettles ranging from the good old whistling tea kettle to the ultra-modern electric tea kettle with temperature control.

Another product that has rave reviews is the electric gooseneck kettle. The stainless steel whistling kettle which is a large capacity of 3L, has a layered capsule bottom. It also includes a premium stainless steel eta infuser (or coffee!).

The electric tea pot with temperature control has accurate variable temperature and also has a BPA-free plastic handle. 

10. Miroco

Miroco is an ultra-modern brand that offers three kettles.

One is the electric kettle temperature control in stainless steel (1.7 L), the cordless glass electric kettle (1.7L) and the double wall BPA-free cool touch electric kettle (1.5).

These kettles have really cool features like 1500 W for quick boiling, keeping water warm for 30 minutes and 6 adjustable temperature selections for different types of tea. The 1.5 L kettle brings water to boil in 6 minutes!

11. OXO Brew Stainless

This 8 cup coffee maker is everything a coffee lover is looking for. The OXO Brew stainless kettle’s most special feature is the rainmaker shower head which distributes water evenly over grounds.

The kettle is double walled insulated to keep coffee hot (for an hour or so!) and is perfectly sized to fit under cabinets. OXO has also partnered with 1% for the planet to support environmental non-profits. 

12. Cafe Brew Glass Stovetop

The Cafe Brew Glass kettle is a transparent stovetop kettle made of borosilicate glass sourced from Germany. This retro style kettle is completely BPA free and is dishwasher safe.

It has a 12 cup capacity with a robust handle. It is a traditional whistling kettle with a handle that is very robust. The best things about this kettle is that you can see how much water is left in the kettle. Users rave about the kettle boiling water quickly on glass stove. 

This is a great option if you don’t want to use electric tea kettles. As fas as glass tea kettles go, it’s a great option at an affordable price point.

It does have a plastic lid but you can open it and avoid letting the water touch it.

Why should you use a non-toxic tea kettle?

Using a non-toxic tea kettle is important for several reasons:

  1. Health Considerations:
    • Avoiding Harmful Substances: Non-toxic materials ensure that no harmful chemicals or metals leach into your water during the boiling process. This is especially important because boiling water is a common step in preparing beverages and foods.
    • Preventing Health Risks: Toxic substances like lead, cadmium, and certain plastics can be harmful when ingested. Prolonged exposure to these substances can lead to various health issues, including organ damage, developmental problems, and certain types of cancer.
  2. Preserving Taste and Aroma:
    • Maintaining Purity of Flavor: Non-toxic materials ensure that the natural taste and aroma of your tea are not altered or tainted by chemical residues from the kettle. This allows you to fully enjoy the nuanced flavors and aromas of different teas.
  3. Environmental Impact:
    • Reducing Environmental Footprint: Non-toxic materials are often more environmentally friendly. They may be made from sustainable resources, and they tend to have a lower impact on the environment during production and disposal.
  4. Longevity and Durability:
    • Longer Lifespan: Non-toxic materials are less likely to degrade or corrode over time. This means your kettle is likely to last longer, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
  5. Peace of Mind:
    • Assurance of Safety: Using a non-toxic tea kettle provides peace of mind, knowing that you are taking steps to safeguard your health and the health of your loved ones.
  6. Compliance with Regulations:
    • Meeting Safety Standards: Many countries have regulations and standards in place to ensure consumer products, including kitchenware, meet specific safety requirements. Using a non-toxic tea kettle helps ensure compliance with these standards.

When choosing a tea kettle, look for materials like stainless steel, glass, ceramic, or enamel-coated options. These materials are generally considered safe for boiling water.

It’s also a good idea to check for certifications or labels indicating that the kettle is free from harmful substances.

Stovetop vs Electric Kettle

Once you decide to purchase a kettle, the big decision is to choose between an electric or a stovetop kettle.

The electric kettle is, in no doubt more common these days because of its versatility and utility. However, for those of you looking to use less or no plastic in their kettles, a stovetop kettle can also make a good option. Your decision between stovetop and electric should actually depend on what the use for the kettle is and what your specific needs are. 

Although most of the features of both stovetop and electric kettles are the same, the main difference is in the way they heat water.

A stovetop kettle requires an external source of heat to work. Electric kettles require an electric connection to heat water and does not require external heat.

Another difference is in the way the two types of kettles produce boiling water. Stovetop kettles produce rolling boiling water. They are also capable of heating water way above boiling point.

Electric kettles have more options available. For instance, you can heat water using a wide range of heat settings with an electric kettle!

But wait, what’s the difference between a tea pot and a tea kettle?

A tea kettle and a tea pot serve distinct purposes in the tea-making process:

  1. Tea Kettle:
    • Purpose: A tea kettle is primarily designed for heating water. It is used to bring water to a boil, which is then poured over tea leaves or tea bags in a separate vessel, like a teapot or a cup.
    • Construction: Tea kettles are typically made of materials like stainless steel, glass, cast iron, or copper. They are designed to withstand high heat and often have a whistle or other indicator to alert when the water reaches boiling point.
    • Features: They usually have a spout for easy pouring and a handle for safe handling. Some modern kettles come with electric heating elements for convenience.
    • Variants: Stovetop kettles are placed on a stovetop burner to heat water, while electric kettles have a built-in heating element and plug into an electrical outlet.
    • Usage: The water boiled in a tea kettle is versatile and can be used for various purposes beyond making tea, such as for cooking, coffee, and other hot beverages.
  2. Tea Pot:
    • Purpose: A tea pot is designed for steeping tea leaves in hot water to create brewed tea. It is used to infuse the flavors and aromas of the tea leaves, herbs, or tea bags.
    • Construction: Tea pots are typically made from materials like ceramic, porcelain, glass, or clay. They are crafted to hold hot water and allow the tea leaves to infuse properly.
    • Features: Tea pots have a lid, a spout for pouring, and a handle. They often come with built-in infusers or strainers to separate the tea leaves from the liquid.
    • Variants: Some tea pots are designed with specific tea varieties in mind, like a traditional Chinese Yixing clay pot for certain types of Chinese teas.
    • Usage: Tea pots are specifically tailored for making tea, and they come in various sizes, shapes, and designs to accommodate different types of teas and brewing preferences.

A tea kettle is primarily for heating water, while a tea pot is for steeping tea. They work in tandem, with the kettle providing hot water that is then poured over the tea leaves or tea bags in the teapot for brewing.

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The Best Materials to Look For and Avoid In a Tea Kettle

Whilst looking for a tea kettle, there are a few materials to avoid and a few to consider. Here are some general pros and cons of the various materials on the market.

The best material for a tea kettle largely depends on personal preferences and specific needs. Here are some common materials used for tea kettles, along with their advantages and considerations:

  1. Stainless Steel:
    • Advantages: Stainless steel is durable, corrosion-resistant, and doesn’t impart any metallic taste to the water. It heats up relatively quickly and retains heat well. It’s also easy to clean and maintain.
    • Considerations: Some stainless steel kettles can get hot to the touch, so handles and spouts may need insulation.
  2. Glass:
    • Advantages: Glass kettles allow you to see the water boiling, making it easy to monitor the progress. They are also non-reactive, so they won’t affect the taste of the water. Glass is a good choice for herbal teas where the color of the water matters.
    • Considerations: Glass can be fragile and may crack or break if handled roughly. It may also take longer to heat up compared to some metals.
  3. Ceramic:
    • Advantages: Ceramic kettles are aesthetically pleasing and come in a variety of colors and designs. They can also retain heat well, keeping your water hot for longer.
    • Considerations: Like glass, ceramic can be fragile. It’s also typically heavier than other materials. Some ceramics may also contain lead.
  4. Cast Iron:
    • Advantages: Cast iron kettles are known for their excellent heat retention. They also have a traditional, rustic aesthetic that appeals to some users.
    • Considerations: Cast iron kettles can be quite heavy, and they require a bit more care to prevent rusting. They can also take a while to heat up.
  5. Copper:
    • Advantages: Copper kettles heat up quickly and distribute heat evenly. They have a classic, elegant look that appeals to many. They are also known for their durability.
    • Considerations: Copper kettles tend to be more expensive. They also require regular polishing to maintain their appearance.

Ultimately, the best material for a tea kettle depends on your personal preferences, including factors like aesthetics, budget, and how you plan to use it. It’s also important to consider any specific requirements you may have, such as the type of stove you’ll be using or any special features you desire.

best non toxic tea kettle

The safest materials for a tea kettle are either glass or stainless steel.

Stainless steel kettles are sturdy, durable and cleans easily. A stainless steel tea kettle also leaves no lingering flavors or smells inside and are also fire and heat resistant.

Glass on the other hand, offers full visibility, looks cleaner, is easy to clean and leaves no smells.

If you plan on purchasing a glass kettle, you don’t have to worry about VOC’s (Volatile Organic Compounds) no matter the temperature to which the glass is exposed to. The elegance of glass kettles is also an added bonus!

It is best to avoid plastic in a tea kettle.

Plastic kettles are difficult to clean and can leave odors and smells. Plastic which is in contact with the high temperatures of boiling water will gradually disintegrate over time and release toxins into the water. 

Although a porcelain or ceramic teapot has a classic and traditional look and feel, these kettles have a few disadvantages. They could be heavy and fragile. You also can’t see the water level on many models and they may contain lead or cadmium.

What material is best for a tea kettle?

Using copper kettles can cause the copper to get dissolved in the liquid and cause copper poisoning (digestive issues).

Aluminium on the other hand, looks safe but it can leach into your tea or water. PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) and PFOS (perfluorooctanoate sulfonate) are also some toxic chemicals used in some kettles which are carcinogenic and must be avoided.

Another tip from us would be to read the label of the kettle carefully to avoid nickel and chromium heating elements. You don’t want your heating element or plastic parts exposed directly to the water either.

Additionally, stainless steel kettles could contain nickel and chromium. These heavy metals are toxic to our bodies in large doses. So make sure your kettle does not have these added to them!

Tea Bags vs. Loose Leaf Tea

If you’re using your tea kettle to make tea, consider buying organic looseleaf tea. Tea bags release microplastics into the water which are also damaging for your health. 

If you want to use a tea bag, buy from an organic tea brand like Numi or Rishi that uses plant-based bags as well.

When buying tea, make sure you are buying certified organic tea to eliminate pesticide exposure. Brands like Teabloom (save 10% off with code TEA10) are fair-trade certified, use plant-based sachets, and make business choices with the planet in mind.

Final Thoughts on The Best Non-Toxic Tea Kettle for Your Kitchen

There are many options available for non-toxic tea kettles! The main thing is to look at the functionality and appearance of each one and pick the best tea kettle for you. 

All of these options are high quality and should last a long time. Switch to a non-toxic tea kettle, it’s better for your health!

And now, the question remains, what kind of tea will you have today? Green tea, white tea, oolong tea, herbal tea? The choice is yours!

About the Author

Nicole Booz

Nicole Booz is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of GenTwenty, GenThirty, and The Capsule Collab. She has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and is the author of The Kidult Handbook (Simon & Schuster May 2018). She currently lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and two sons. When she’s not reading or writing, she’s probably hiking, eating brunch, or planning her next great adventure.

Website: genthirty.com