How to Choose a Safe Electric Kettle
Color, transparency, illumination, and shape are important parameters when choosing an electric kettle. However, most of us forget that boiling water is a process that activates chemical reactions. Some reactions are more, and some are less harmful to our health, depending on the material.
Types of Electric Kettles
Modern electric kettles are made of plastic, ceramics, glass, or metal – which will not cause harm to your health during regular use. Different materials will also impact the durability of your kettle.
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Plastic Electric Kettles
Plastic kettles are the most popular among buyers. There are several reasons for this:
- cheapness;
- lightness;
- a huge palette of colors.
In the production of electric kettles, manufacturers use heat-resistant plastic. However, even heat-resistant plastic, when heated, releases toxic substances into the water. It simply means that when water is heated to 100 degrees, the body will not melt.
The safety of any electric kettle with a plastic body must be confirmed by a safety certificate. Inquire about one when buying.
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Ceramic Electric Kettles
Ceramic kettles are more expensive than plastic ones, but they are just as bright and diverse in shape. They are heavier, take longer to heat up, and retain heat better. They are considered a very safe option since ceramics are an environmentally friendly, natural material.
However, there is room for consideration here too, since manufacturers may not use the most environmentally friendly clay. Moreover, additives that are responsible for plasticity, strength, and adhesion to the decorative coating, are often introduced into the ceramic construction. When boiled, these additives can dissolve in water, and make it toxic.
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Glass Electric Kettles
Like ceramic kettles, glass kettles are made from natural materials, whose safety is determined by the type and quality of these materials. Manufacturers usually claim that their glass products are environmentally friendly, but without safety certificates, you shouldn’t take these claims for granted.
Although, as practice shows, glass kettles normally do not change the composition or quality of water, it's one of the safest options of all.
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Metal Electric Kettles
The most durable and safe devices for boiling water are made from metal. However, be careful, as metal can get very hot with boiling water, and your skin can get burned.
Metal has the lowest toxicity of all the materials mentioned here. Nevertheless, some highly sensitive people may notice a specific metallic taste in water heated in a metal electric kettle. If you are one of those people, opt for a glass model.
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Final Thoughts
Electric kettles come made from various materials, including plastic, ceramics, glass, and metal, as well as combinations of those. While there is no 100% safe and environmentally friendly material, some are noticeably safer than others.
For example, an electric kettle made of glass or metal will be less toxic for our bodies than one made of plastic or composite ceramics. Ultimately, the choice of material is always up to your taste and kitchen interior, but you should always inquire with a seller about the safety certificates of their products.
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