A Buyer's Guide to Tea Kettles

A well-equipped kitchen isn't complete without one or more tea kettles. Williams Sonoma has a wide selection of electric tea kettles and stovetop kettles from which to choose, in an array of styles to suit your kitchen decor.

Stovetop and Electric Tea Kettle Features

There are two main types of tea kettle -- stovetop and electric. Each has its advantages, so you may want one of each for your kitchen. Here are some tea kettle features to look for when shopping:

• A stovetop kettle crafted from stainless steel is durable and heat-resistant. These kettles often whistle when the water is boiling, and most are dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning. Look for a kettle with a fill line on the inside to prevent accidental overfilling.
• Stovetop kettles aren't just functional but stylish. Along with highly polished stainless steel, you'll find kettles done in gleaming copper and on-trend rose gold. There are also stovetop kettles in vibrant colors, so it's easy to find something that coordinates with your kitchen.
• Electric kettles take the guesswork out of preparing tea. There are Cuisinart electric kettles, for example, that have preset modes for perfectly steeping different types of tea such as green, herbal and oolong. Some have a keep-warm function that lets you hold the tea at a comfortable drinking temperature for 30 minutes or more.
• If you like coffee as well as tea, check out the electric tea kettles that can do both. Breville makes electric kettles that can prepare both coffee and tea with the press of a button. These kettles have temperature settings for French-press coffee and different varieties of tea.

Accessories for Tea Kettles

When shopping for a new kettle, you might also want to explore the selection of teas and tea accessories. The tea tins and sets at Williams Sonoma make a great gift for yourself or someone special. Some of the varieties from which to choose include:

• Chai
• Darjeeling
• Earl Grey
• Green
• Herbal

You'll also find tea cups and saucers in many different styles for an elegant tea time. There are delicate pieces that resemble fine antique china, as well as more rugged stoneware cups and plates that work well for a rustic kitchen or dining room. Another option are simple, diner-style cups in classic white, which goes with most any color scheme or design style.

Explore the selection of tea kettles, cups and accessories at Williams Sonoma. There's something for every home, whether you brew tea every day or enjoy it occasionally.