Copper Tea Kettles
Copper kettles are often a focal point in many kitchens.
Whether one is looking for a traditional Old Dutch hammered copper tea
kettle, or a kettle that has been modernized by blending steel with copper,
both can be a beautiful addition to any kitchen. Copper kettles do provide
the décor addition to a kitchen that many aspire to. However, there
are several facets of a copper tea kettle that one should review before
purchasing a copper kettle. For instance, copper kettles often come with
a protective lacquer that must be removed before use. They also must be
hand washed.
One of the main decisions that one should determine before purchasing
a copper kettle is whether the copper kettle is to be copper, or a copper
and steel blend. All Copper (with tin lining) kettles, although they carry
a beautiful ambience to them, also require special care and maintenance.
Copper is a metal that must be polished in order to keep its wonderful
sheen and remove small scratches. In addition, some all copper kettles
have handles that are hot to the touch and typically a provided mitt must
be used to avoid burns. Copper kettles generally boil slightly faster
than standard stove top kettles and thus saves time. Copper is often a
highly desired look in a kitchen that certainly provides an elegant décor.
Many purchase solid copper tea kettles for décor purposes only
in order to avoid the necessary upkeep all copper kettles require. Keep
in mind though, copper is expensive. Be prepared to spend over $100 on
an all copper kettle.
If one is looking for a copper kettle with less fuss, one might consider
a copper blended with steel kettle. These kettle pots offer the desired
look of copper, but tend to be more economical in nature. Many copper
and steel blended kettles may be found for $20-80. Copper blended kettles
also require less care. These kettles, because they have been blended
with stainless steel, do not have to be polished nearly as often as all
copper kettles. Nor do these kettles scratch as easily. Copper and steel
blended kettles are also used over stove tops and also provide a slightly
faster boil than other stove top kettles, as copper conducts heat more
efficiently. Most are made with wooden handles to avoid burns and many
come in the Old Dutch copper kettle design. They provide many of the same
décor considerations as the all copper kettles, but are an easier
kettle to care for and more economical.
|