A tea kettle is a vessel used to boil water, most often for making tea, but also for coffee, instant noodles, or other hot beverages.

Stovetop Kettles

• Heated on a stove (gas, electric, induction).
• Typically made of metal (stainless steel, copper, aluminum).
• Often includes a whistling spout to signal boiling.

Pros:

• No electricity needed.
• Durable.
• Simple mechanics.

Cons:

• Slower than electric.
• Requires attention (may boil dry).

Electric Kettles

• Plug into a wall outlet.
  
• Boil water using an internal heating element.
  

Features May Include:

• Auto shut-off
  
• Temperature control
  
• Keep warm functions
  
• Water level indicators
  

Pros:

• Faster and more efficient.
  
• Precision temperature settings (great for specialty teas).
  
• More convenient.
  

Cons:

• Needs electricity.
  
• Often bulkier.
  

🧱 Materials1. Stainless Steel

• Durable, rust-resistant.
  
• Retains heat well.
  
• Often used for stovetop kettles.
  

2. Glass

• Aesthetic and see-through.
  
• Can be used in electric kettles.
  
• Requires gentle handling.
  

3. Ceramic

• Retains heat for a long time.
  
• Heavy, prone to chipping/cracking.
  
• Often decorative.
  

4. Copper

• Excellent heat conductivity.
  
• Often lined with stainless steel or tin.
  
• Requires polishing to prevent tarnish.
  

5. Aluminum

• Lightweight and affordable.
  
• May dent easily.
  

🔧 Common Features (Especially Electric)

• Boil-dry protection: Shuts off if there's no water.
  
• Auto shut-off: Turns off when water boils.
  
• Cordless base: Detaches for pouring.
  
• 360° swivel base: Easy handling for left- and right-handed users.
  
• Removable filters: Prevent limescale buildup.
  

🧼 Cleaning and MaintenanceStovetop Kettle:

• Wash with warm soapy water.
  
• Descale with vinegar/water solution monthly (if you have hard water).
  
• Avoid letting it boil dry.
  

Electric Kettle:

• Unplug before cleaning.
  
• Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth.
  
• Descale regularly using vinegar or citric acid.
  

⚠️ Safety Tips

• Never leave it unattended while boiling.
  
• Keep the spout directed away from you.
  
• Use on appropriate heat sources (e.g., induction-compatible kettles for induction stoves).
  
• Watch for steam burns.
  
• Avoid overfilling.
  

🧠 Other Considerations

• Capacity: Ranges from 0.5 to 2 liters. Choose based on your typical use.
  
• Speed: Electric kettles boil water faster than stovetop ones.
  
• Noise: Whistling kettles alert you; electric ones may beep or click.
  
• Energy efficiency: Electric kettles are more efficient than stovetop kettles on electric ranges.
  
• Aesthetics: Kettles often double as countertop decor—choose a style that matches your kitchen.
  

♻️ Eco Tips

• Only boil what you need to save energy.
  
• Descale regularly to maintain efficiency.
  
• Use filtered water to reduce scale buildup.