Best Kettles & Toasters UK (2026)
Kettles and toasters for everyday UK kitchens.
34 products reviewed in this subcategory
Popular in this category
#1 Pick
Russell Hobbs Honeycomb Kettle and 4 Slice Toaster Set, Rapid Boil, Black- Black
- 1.7L Kettle / 4 Slice Toaster
£62.97
Pros
- Matching cordless kettle and 4-slice toaster in one set
- Rapid boil 3kW kettle element
- Independent extra-wide slots with 6 browning levels
Cons
- Honeycomb texture shows fingerprints more than a plain finish
#2 Pick
Smeg KLF03EGMUK Retro 50s Style Kettle, 1.7 Litre, 300W, Emerald Green- Emerald Green
- 1.7L
£168.75
Pros
- Iconic 50s retro styling in a standout colour
- Superfast 3000W boil with balanced pour spout
- Removable limescale filter and auto shut-off
Cons
- Premium price for a kettle
- Large body takes up more worktop space than a slim jug kettle
#3 Pick
Dualit 2 Slice Lite Toaster, 1.1kW, Polished with High Gloss White Trim, Bagel & Defrost Settings (26203)- White
- 2 Slice
£94.99
Pros
- Toasts up to 60 slices an hour
- Wide 36mm slots handle thick and artisan bread
- Bagel and defrost settings included
Cons
- No digital display, dial timer only
#4 Pick
Breville Bold 2 Slice Toaster with High-Lift & Wide Slots, Black & Silver Chrome (VTR001)- Black
- 2 Slice
£22.99
Pros
- High-lift lever makes it easy to remove small slices
- Wide slots fit thick-cut and crumpets
- Affordable price for a well-known brand
Cons
- Plastic body feels less premium than metal-bodied rivals
#5 Pick
Morphy Richards Venture 4 Slice Toaster, Brushed Stainless Steel, Defrost and Reheat, High Lift Function, White (240134)- White
- 4 Slice
Currently unavailable
Pros
- 4 slots toast a full family breakfast at once
- High lift function makes small slices easy to remove
- Removable crumb tray for quick cleaning
Cons
- No digital display, dial browning control only
#6 Pick
Breville Impressions Electric Kettle, 1.7 Litre, 3kW Fast Boil, Red (VKT006)- Red
- 1.7L
Currently unavailable
Pros
- 3kW element gives a fast boil
- Ridged textured design with a bold colour finish
- Removable, washable limescale filter
Cons
- Plastic body feels less premium than a metal kettle
About kettles & toasters
A reliable kettle and toaster are absolute staples of any well-functioning British kitchen, forming the bedrock of a proper breakfast or afternoon tea. Here you’ll find a curated selection of kettles – from classic stovetop models perfect for a traditional aesthetic to sleek electric options boasting rapid boil times – alongside toasters ranging from retro two-slice designs to modern multi-function appliances capable of browning bagels and pastries with equal ease. When considering your next kettle or toaster, it’s worth thinking beyond just the initial price tag. Size is crucial; a small apartment might benefit from a compact electric kettle, while a family home will naturally need a larger capacity for filling frequently. Material also plays a role – stainless steel kettles are known for their durability and resistance to limescale build-up, while brushed aluminium toasters offer a more premium look and feel. Finally, establishing a realistic budget is key; prices can vary dramatically depending on features and brand reputation, but investing in quality will often pay dividends in terms of longevity and performance.
Before you commit to a purchase, it’s wise to consider your usage patterns. Do you regularly brew multiple cups of tea or coffee? If so, a large-capacity electric kettle with temperature control might be a worthwhile investment. Similarly, if you toast frequently, look for a toaster with variable browning settings and a wide slot to accommodate different bread types – particularly important given the UK’s love affair with sourdough! It's also worth noting that autumn and winter often see increased demand for kettles as people crave warming beverages, so browsing earlier in the season can help you secure the best deals. Don't forget to factor in storage space too; a bulky toaster might not be ideal if your countertop is already crowded.
Unfortunately, many shoppers make common mistakes when choosing kitchen appliances – often prioritizing aesthetics over functionality or failing to research features thoroughly. Overlooking the wattage of an electric kettle can lead to slow boiling times and higher energy bills. Similarly, choosing a toaster with overly complicated controls can add unnecessary frustration to your morning routine. Furthermore, neglecting to clean your appliances regularly (particularly limescale build-up in kettles) can significantly shorten their lifespan. Within the broader context of UK home & garden, these essential kitchen items contribute to creating a comfortable and inviting space for relaxation and socialising – a warm cup of tea or toast shared with friends is a quintessential British experience.
Where to go next
FAQ
What size kettle is best for my needs?
Generally, a 1.7 - 2 litre kettle is ideal for a small to medium household. Larger families might prefer 3 litres or more to minimise refills. Consider your usual hot drink consumption when choosing.
What materials are kettles made from and which is best?
Stainless steel is the most common, offering durability and resistance to limescale. Ceramic-coated kettles can reduce limescale build-up but may scratch more easily. Ensure your chosen material is BPA-free for safety.
How much should I expect to pay for a good quality electric kettle?
You'll typically find basic electric kettles from around £15 - £30, while premium models with features like temperature control can cost between £40 and £80. Budget carefully based on your desired features.
How do I clean a kettle to prevent limescale?
Regularly rinsing the kettle with cold water helps, but for tougher build-up, fill it with one part vinegar and two parts water. Boil, then rinse thoroughly – don't use abrasive cleaners.
Are there any safety regulations I should be aware of when using a kettle?
Always ensure the power cord is in good condition and not frayed. Never leave a hot kettle unattended, especially around children or pets. Always unplug before cleaning.
What’s the best time of year to buy a new kettle?
You'll often find discounts during seasonal sales like Black Friday and Boxing Day, as well as at the start of spring when retailers are clearing stock for new models.
My kettle is constantly dripping - what could be causing this?
This usually indicates limescale build-up. Descale regularly using a descaling solution or vinegar and water, as detailed above. A faulty thermostat could also be the cause.
Can I use a kettle with different types of tea/coffee?
Yes, most electric kettles are suitable for all types of hot beverages. However, avoid using overly hard water or adding excessive amounts of milk, which can contribute to limescale.
What’s the difference between a glass and an electric kettle?
Glass kettles offer a clear view of the water level, while electric kettles are designed for heating water quickly. Electric kettles also provide features like automatic shut-off.
Are there any kettles with temperature control available?
Yes, some premium kettles offer precise temperature settings, allowing you to brew different types of tea perfectly. These typically have digital displays and variable heat adjustment options – check the manufacturer's specifications.