Glass Kettles

Glass kettles have an appeal that cannot be matched by electric kettles produced with other materials like plastic or even stainless steel. While the average tea drinker may not put much thought into their kettle, it is impossible to ignore the benefits of a glass kettle after learning them.

Advantage of Glass Kettles

Glass kettles are far easier to clean than those made with metal. They will not rust, they cannot become discolored, and the smooth surface is a breeze to wash.

They are also more attractive than their counterparts. A clear or translucent colored glass kettle will be more than a mechanism to make the tea; it becomes a display piece when company comes to visit. Visual appreciation is especially important when make teas with whole herbs and flowers.

Last but not least, glass kettles do not affect the taste of the tea being brewed. Other kettles have a tendency to leave a metallic taste within the tea that can only be avoided by brewing an extremely strong cup. Glass kettles will not affect the taste of even the most delicate flavors.

Disadvantages of Glass Kettles

However, even with all these unbeatable advantages, glass kettles do have a few downfalls. First, they can shatter if they are heated too quickly. To avoid this, do not put the glass kettle directly on the heat source. Place a piece of metal underneath the glass to diffuse the heat and use a lower setting to heat the kettle more gradually. Also, like any glass object, they are breakable. They must be stored in a safe place and washed with more caution than other kettles.

What to Look for in Glass Kettles

The best glass kettles have a few prominent features that the buyer should look for. Since glass is a fragile material, it is important that the glass is thick enough. It does not have to be so thick that it looks unsightly, but a thin spout or thin walls will significantly shorten its lifespan. Also, if the glass is thicker, it is less likely to shatter if it becomes too hot.

Other features do not affect the performance of the glass kettle, but they do affect its usage. For example, it is much easier to use if the handle is heat resistant. Also, some glass kettles do not become equipped with a whistle. While this is a personal preference, it is more important with glass kettles because leaving it heated too long could cause it to shatter.

Top Rated Glass Kettle

The Alasdair Glass Kettle by Teavana is one of the best selling, and for good reason. It has a heat resistant handle, is manufactured out of the strongest glass, and has silicone gasket on the top to keep the heat in longer. It even has a classy but comfortable look that allows it to be displayed without clashing with the decor of the kitchen.