Are stainless steel kettles better than plastic for daily tea?
Yes. Plastic kettles shed microplastics and additives every time you boil.
What's actually in it
Electric kettles often have a plastic reservoir or water-level window. Even "BPA-free" plastic kettles release microplastics with repeated heating. The water-level sight glass can be polycarbonate containing BPA or other bisphenols.
Daily tea means daily boiling. Small exposures per cup add up over years.
What the research says
A 2025 study in J Agric Food Chem showed polypropylene containers release many nanoplastic particles in hot water, with the amount climbing as temperature rises. A 2025 study documented microplastics in many water products.
Buy a fully stainless steel kettle with a glass lid (no plastic inside), or a glass electric kettle. Double-check that the water level window isn't plastic.
The research at a glance
| Study | Journal | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Release of Nanoplastics from Polypropylene Food Containers. | J Agric Food Chem | 2025 |
| Microplastics in drinking water bottles and milk packaging. | Environ Monit Assess | 2025 |
What to use instead
Browse our vetted, non-toxic alternatives. Every product is third-party certified.
Shop Non-Toxic Kitchen