The best kettles for fast brews and better mornings 2026
Kayleigh Rattle - food, drink and travel writer
They're an essential kitchen gadget, but what are the best kettles to buy? We put them to the test to bring you our top models, including the best matching kettle and toaster sets
As a nation of tea drinkers, we rely on kettles every day, whether that’s for a quick brew, a round for guests or to get dinner going with freshly boiled water. But a good kettle needs to do more than just boil – it should suit your kitchen too, from compact designs to statement finishes that match your other appliances. We’ve tested a wide selection, from budget basics to feature-packed models with temperature settings for green tea, coffee and even warming baby bottles. Our top pick is the Haden Highclere kettle. If you live in a hard-water area, it’s worth choosing one with a filter and keeping on top of descaling a kettle. And, when you upgrade, don’t forget to check how to recycle your appliances properly. The latest additions were tested and reviewed by Gabrielle Sander. Compare kettles Best kettles to buy at a glance 5/5 stars Best retro kettle: Haden Highclere kettle, £55 Most stylish kettle: Swan Nordic jug kettle, £29.99 Best of the rest Best kettle for accessibility: Tefal Subito kettle, £39.99 Best quality kettle: Sage the Soft Top Luxe, £119.95 Best premium kettle: Aarke kettle, £200 Best stainless-steel kettle: Bosch DesignLine kettle, £39.99 Best lightweight kettle: ProCook kettle, £69 Best kettle for a luxe look on a budget: Kenwood Dusk Collection kettle, £54.99 Best kettle for a retro look: Tower Renaissance kettle, £59.99 Best kettle for looks: De'Longhi Eclettica kettle, £69.99 Best kettle in matching set: Salter Pebble kettle, £34.99 Best variable temperature kettles at a glance Best fast-boil kettle: Ninja Perfect Temperature kettle, £99.99 Best kettle for tea lovers: Russell Hobbs Attentiv, £70 Best colourful kettle: KitchenAid Variable Temperature kettle, £179 Best kettle for busy households: Bosch Styline kettle, £69.99 Best multi-function electric kettle: Zwilling Electric Pro kettle, £139 Jump to section: Best kettles to buy in 2026 Best variable temperature kettles How to choose the best kettle for your kitchen How to descale a kettle View Affiliate Playlist on the source website How we tested kettles We tested a representative sample of kettles and scored them on the following criteria: Good looks: Kettles live on worktops, so the one you buy might come down to the one you like the look of, and whether it will fit in with the style of your kitchen. Quality: Well-fitting lids, quality on switches and filters – we were looking for a kettle that feels like it would last. Speed: While speed might not be the deciding factor when choosing a kettle, for most of us, the quicker, the better. We poured a litre of water into each of the kettles – enough for four mugs – and got the stopwatch out. Ease of use: There’s no point having a beautiful kettle if it’s awkward to use. We looked for kettles that were simple to fill and pour, with a good grip and easy-to-read water levels. Value: We awarded extra points for those kettles that were great value for money. Best kettles to buy in 2026 Haden Highclere kettle Available from Amazon (£55) Best retro kettle Pros: Ergonomic handle for easy lifting Stylish retro design All packaging could be recycled Boil-dry protection Cons: Metal on handle gets hot during use Star rating: 5/5 Wattage: 3000W Ideal for kitchens with a vintage aesthetic, this 1.5-litre kettle strikes a nice balance between sturdiness and style. It's available in both blue and cream, and the ergonomic handle across the top is a thoughtful feature that aids with pouring and filling. Be aware, though, that some parts of the handle are metal, which means they get very hot as the kettle boils. The water-level indicator is easy to read and located above the switch, with three markings for 500ml, 1 litre and 1.5 litres, plus the number of cups (from two to six). The switch illuminates in blue when the kettle is turned on, so we could clearly see when it had finished boiling too. While the Highclere isn't the fastest kettle we've tested, it's still relatively speedy and boiled 1.5 litres of water in 3 minutes and 9 seconds. It's also built with boil-dry protection, which means it will switch off if the power is on but no water is detected. You can also buy a matching toaster, which was awarded 4.5/5 stars by our expert reviews team. Cost to boil for 2 minutes: 1.6p undefined Swan Nordic jug kettle Available from Swan (£29.99), Amazon (£39) Most stylish kettle Pros: Attractive design Fast Cons: Limescale filter hard to remove Star rating: 5/5 Wattage: 3000W If you want a kettle that's striking and different, this Scandinavian-style Swan kettle is an elegant and streamlined appliance. The wood-effect handle is made of rubber and easy to grip, but obstructs the water level gauge behind it. However, the upright design of this kettle means that despite its 1.7 litre-capacity, it doesn't take up that much space on the worktop. It's also fairly efficient, taking 2 minutes and 24 seconds to boil a litre of water. Swan also sells a matching toaster and kettle and toaster set. Read our Swan Nordic kettle review. undefined Tefal Subito kettle Available from Currys (£34.99), Amazon (£37.45) Best kettle for accessibility Pros: One cup indicator Good looking budget kettle Removable anti-limescale filter Quick to boil Ergonomic Cons: Measurements aren't 100% accurate Star rating: 4.5/5 Wattage: 2400W The sleek, smooth, charcoal-coloured stainless steel of this Tefal Subito elevates it beyond what is an otherwise basic electric kettle. Sturdy and well made, with a 1700ml maximum capacity, it would suit large households after a good-looking budget option. With a handy, energy-saving indicator that boils up enough for a cuppa in 45 seconds, plus accessible features such as the one-hand opening, easy on switch, 360-degree base placement, a precise pouring spout that works well even at full capacity and a cord tidy underneath to adjust the cable length to suit, it is also an excellent choice for people with accessibility to consider. The removable, easy to clean and replace anti-limescale filter is an additional perk, helping to extend the life of the kettle in hard water areas. Available from: Currys (£34.99) Amazon (£37.45) undefined Sage the Soft Top Luxe Available from Sage (£109.95), Harts of Stur (£118.95) Best kettle for quality Pros: Compact Sturdy, ergonomic handle Cordless base/fits into base nicely Quiet boil (compared to other models) Cons: Wide mouth/pour – might catch some users out Star rating: 4.5/5 Wattage: 2400W A seriously professional-looking (and functioning) kettle from Sage. It has one of the quietest boils of the kettles we tested, and it’s a well-thought-out model with an ergonomic handle and nice wide pour. As well as two glass displays, handily denoting max cup level (seven) on one side and max water level (1.7L) on the other, it also has a clear top, although this does get steamed up when the kettle boils. It’s not the fastest boil we tested, though also not the longest – but everything else about it, from the feel to the look to the materials, is exquisite. We liked how easily the kettle sits and locks into the base, and everything about it feels solid and well made. It’s also BPA-free. undefined Aarke kettle Available from Lakeland (£199.99), Amazon (£200) Best premium kettle Pros: Multiple heat settings Quiet boil function Stylish stainless-steel design Double-walled to keep water hotter for longer Cons: Hefty to lift Leaves visible fingerprint marks Difficult to see measurement markings Expensive Star rating: 4.5/5 Wattage: 1850-2200W A great pick for speciality tea drinkers, this sleek kettle comes with a range of temperature settings (40C, 85C, 95C and 100C) and looks attractive on the counter. It's heavy to lift even without any water in it, but it's otherwise easy to use and has a robust, quality design. One of the things we loved most about the Aarke is how quiet it is, and we could hold a conversation easily while it got to work. In terms of speed, it fared about average versus other models we've tested, boiling the maximum amount (1.2 litres) to 100C in three minutes. Thanks to the double-walled design, it also retains heat well. The minimum and maximum markings are located inside the kettle, which proved difficult to read, especially in low light. Its stainless-steel exterior is impressively shiny but susceptible to fingerprints, so will need wiping occasionally. Cost to boil for 2 minutes: 1.1p undefined Bosch DesignLine kettle Available from Hughes (£39), Currys (£39.99), John Lewis & Partners (£39.99) Best stainless steel kettle Pros: Sleek design Water-level window on both sides 1.7-litre capacity Cons: Lid doesn't open fully Difficult to read water level Star rating: 4.5/5 Wattage: 3000W If simplicity and reliability are what you're looking for in a kettle, this Bosch model is a solid choice that looks great on the counter too. It has a stylish stainless steel and brushed plastic design that slots nicely into a modern kitchen aesthetic. The big, chunky handle also helps with easy lifting and pouring, and there's an extra filter included too. The lid flips up but doesn't open as fully as needed, so we had to manually pull it open further before filling the kettle with water. The water-level indicator also doesn't light up so can be difficult to read, but there are windows on both sides with measurement markings for cups and millilitres. It was relatively noisy during use but we could still hold a conversation. The time it took to boil was about average versus the other models we tested, too, taking 3 minutes and 35 seconds to boil 1.7 litres of water. A matching toaster is also available, which our reviews team awarded 5/5 stars. Cost to boil for 2 minutes: 1.6p undefined ProCook Kettle Available from ProCook (£69) Best lightweight kettle Pros: Very lightweight Compact Blue light on lever when boiling (which is helpful as it's quite quiet to begin with) Cons: Only displays litre level, not cups Star rating: 4/5 Wattage: 2520-3000W One of the more compact and slim kettles we tested, this model still has a 1.5L capacity, although it’s worth noting we found it to be quite noisy compared to other models. Its stainless steel finish is sleek and shiny, and it feels nice and lightweight to pick up. It’s straightforward to operate, and the water measurements are clear, although it would have been helpful to have cup measurements too. Handily, there’s a bright blue light that activates when the on/off lever is pressed, which is a helpful and thoughtful consideration, as the boil is quiet to begin with. Overall, it’s a robust model made with quality materials that feels reliable and is easy to use – we could see this lasting for a long time. Available in a range of other colours, too. undefined Kenwood Dusk Collection Kettle Available from Kenwood (£39.99), Very (£54) Best kettle for a luxe look on a budget Pros: Funky design Compact Attractive colourways Wide spout for easy pouring Clear water level and markings Cons: A little plasticky looking Star rating: 4/5 Wattage: 3000W This compact, colourful kettle (with matching toaster available) would make a fun addition to any kitchen. With an impressive 1.7L capacity – which equates to seven cups – it boils fairly rapidly at maximum capacity in just four minutes, so is suitable for those who like to regularly make a cuppa or host a crowd. It has a wide spout for easy pouring, an easy-to-click lever, and is straightforward to operate without the need to consult the manual. Overall, it’s a functional kettle for its price point, although aesthetically it runs the risk of looking slightly lower in quality than some other models on the market due to its plastic coating and glossy finish. undefined Tower Renaissance Kettle Available from Harts of Stur (£49.95), Tower (£59.99) Best kettle for a retro look Pros: Good price point Sleek Handy temp gauge on the front Fast boil and relatively quiet Cons: Tricky to see the water level Handle can be a little tough to remove Handle can get hot as it's located above lid Star rating: 4/5 Wattage: 3000W With a good price point and the promise of a fast and quiet boil, this kettle is an attractive option with a retro look. It’s also nice and compact, with the handle sitting snugly above the kettle. There’s a handy temperature gauge on the front, it comes in a choice of colours, and there’s the option of buying a matching toaster. Impressively, it can boil its maximum capacity (1.7L) in just four minutes and 10 seconds, and takes just one minute for its minimum level of 0.5L, so it’s ideal for those looking to regularly make a quick cuppa when time is of the essence. That said, we did find the temperature gauge and water levels hard to read, and perhaps the biggest drawback with the handle sitting above the kettle lid is that you can’t immediately remove the lid or open the kettle to refill without burning your hand. We also found the handle a little tough to remove at times, and can anticipate limescale potentially building up on the lid – but that’s conjecture rather than our experience. undefined De’Longhi Eclettica Kettle Available from AO (£49) Best kettle for looks Pros Quirky design and colour Well-constructed Easy-to-clean, removable scale filter Cons Heavier than cheaper kettles Noisier than glass or steel models Star rating: 4/5 Wattage: 3000W We loved the look of this quirky number, with its wavy ‘saucer’ that attaches to the base for standout style in the crowded kettle market. Rather than a flip switch, this model has a traditional pull-off lid, and the handle feels solid and built to last years of sink refilling. Likewise, the silver ‘on’ lever was top quality and went down with a satisfying click. Although we found it fiddly to remove at first, the slide-out scale filter on the spout is a cinch to keep clean, as was the smooth, glossy casing and matt handle. We tested a Playful Pink version which even featured a tasteful light grey power cord and plug, but if Barbie brew-ups are not your bag, take a look at the white, beige and black alternatives in the Eclettica range. undefined Salter Pebble Kettle Available from Salter (£34.99), Amazon (£34.99), Currys (£37.99) Best kettle in matching set Pros Matching toaster and accessories available Boil-dry sensor for safety first Great price Cons Scale filter tricky to remove Some leaking from the lid at full capacity pouring Star rating: 4/5 Wattage: 3000W With open-plan living, it’s nice to have coordinating appliances on show. This cream kettle and toaster set would look stylish on any worktop with its brass-coloured accents. Salter also has a range of storage canisters for tea, coffee and sugar in the Pebble range, so if matching is your thing, this is a great choice. Easy to fill and use, we liked the chunky feel of this kettle, which is a straightforward model without complicated temperature variances or a keep-warm hotplate. We liked the fact its boil-dry sensor would activate if the kettle was accidentally turned on when empty. To keep check on levels, there’s a transparent water gauge. We also appreciated the interior limescale filter, though it was difficult to pull out, with no instructions in the manual. This model also comes in a charcoal colourway and can be bought as part of a matching set with the Salter Pebble toaster. undefined Best variable temperature kettles Ninja Perfect Temperature Kettle Rapid Boil Available from Ninja (£79.99), Very (£99) Best for pre-set temperature settings Pros: Six pre-set temperatures Rapid boil mode for a single cup in under 60 seconds Unique audible alert for end-boil Clear temperature climb Cons: Audible end-boil alert can't be turned off Score: 5/5 Wattage: 3000W Ninja's kettle has a lot to offer for the price-point. The selectable variety of temperatures on offer spans 60-100 degrees C; a feature perfect for getting the most out of speciality teas and coffee and will be popular if your household drinks a variety of hot beverages. It's also an efficient tactic for such a high-wattage appliance, meaning you don't have to reach a full-boil for every mug. The temperature is tracked on the digital display while the water heats and there's an audible tone as a notification of kettle finishing that's the same as other Ninja appliances. This isn't possible to turn off which is tricky if you're making late-night cuppas, but is the loudest part of the kettle, which boils relatively quietly. For the price, you get a lot for your money from this kettle. Ninja also sells a matching toaster. undefined Russell Hobbs Attentiv Available from Very (£70) Best kettle for tea lovers Pros Great for making tea to your taste Very good quality Variable temperatures Cons Base has a large footprint on counter tops Control’s electronic beeps may annoy Star rating: 5/5 Wattage: 3000W This is a kettle with a difference as it has a removable basket for loose leaves if you’re not a fan of tea bags or love herbal infusions. Once infused, use the handle to remove the insert and it will keep tea at your desired temperature for up to 30 minutes. It’s perfect for refills after that first delicious cup of the day. The ‘Steep Timer’ function can also be programmed to remember a particular setting for your preferred brew. The Attentiv’s touchscreen controls let you choose anything between 40-100C and it has a speedy, quiet boil. Use the chunky dial on the control base to wind the temperature reading up or down, press start and the digital reading will increase as the kettle does its thing. There’s a toaster and coffee maker in the high-tech Attentiv range, too. undefined KitchenAid Digital Variable Temperature Kettle Available from KitchenAid (£179) Best colourful kettle Pros: Attractive design Intuitive controls Range of temperature controls Cons: Expensive Star rating: 4.5/5 Wattage: 2400W This is an elegant, compact kettle that comes in a range of KitchenAid's bright colours to add an eye-catching feature to your kitchen. There's a choice of temperatures between 50C and 100C with an easy-to-move lever and light up display to help indicate your choice. While the price is certainly a premium one the look and feel of the kettle reflects it, with a sleek finish on the body and matte handle. The water boiled fairly quickly, and we like how the safety features prevent you from boiling less than the minimum level. You can also buy a matching toaster with this kettle, which our reviews team rated 4.5/5. undefined Bosch Styline Kettle Available from Amazon (£59.99), Bosch (£59.99) Best kettle for busy households Pros: Four temp settings (70, 80, 90, 100, plus keep-warm) Sturdy handle and base Good quality materials Cons: Cup/water level slightly obscured by handle Star rating: 4.5/5 Wattage: 3000W This sleek and stylish kettle is helpfully intuitive. With four different temperature settings (70℃, 80℃, 90℃ and 100℃) plus a handy ‘keep-warm’ setting, it’s an ideal kettle for those with different beverage needs, from herbal tea drinkers to coffee aficionados. You can tell it’s made from good materials, and the sturdy handle feels ergonomic to hold. From a safety perspective, helpfully there’s an off/on button for added security and the kettle beeps when it has boiled. Boiling is swift – just three minutes for maximum capacity (six cups/1.5 litres) at 100℃ and a mere thirty seconds for one cup. In terms of drawbacks, the cup/litre measurements are slightly obscured by the handle, but the display is nice and wide to see the water level nonetheless. But you just can’t beat the boil speed. undefined Zwilling Electric Pro Kettle Available from Zwilling (£139) Best multi-function electric kettle Pros: Dedicated setting for boiling baby bottles Cons: Unsure if boiling (temp flashes when boiling) Tall kettle – we struggled to fill it to max in our sink Can't see water level from the outside Struggled to use it without manual Star rating: 4.5/5 Wattage: 1850W One of the many benefits of an electric kettle is the faster boiling times and variable settings, and this sophisticated model can heat water to 40℃, 60℃, 70℃, 80℃ and over 90℃ for coffee. It’s a sleek and functional model with a secure lid and an overall modern and impressive look. It has an easy-to-use interface with the different temperatures clearly marked. Given its range of functionalities, it would suit busy households/large families with different tastes in hot drinks, or those with growing families as it has a dedicated setting for boiling babies’ bottles. We did find it hard to notice when the kettle was boiling – besides a small flashing icon – and the measurement levels are on the inside of the kettle, which can make it hard to determine the water level. The kettle is also surprisingly tall and we struggled to fit it under our tap to fill it to the top. Overall, we were impressed with its quiet boil and multitude of functions. While not the quickest it can still boil 10 cups in five minutes, so it would be great for an office or busy workspace, too. Available from: Zwilling (£139) Other kettles tried and tested Gastroback Design Cool Touch Kettle 62436, £79.99 Bosch Styline kettle review, £85 Zwilling Enfinigy review, £89.95 Breville high gloss electric kettle review, £44 Russell Hobbs Structure kettle review, £31.58 Dualit Classic Kettle review, £150 Bosch Silicone kettle review, £79.99 Morphy Richards Verve kettle review, £42.06 Smeg KLF04 kettle review, £170 Morphy Richards Hive kettle review, £34.99 Sage the Compact Kettle review, £69.95 KitchenAid Artisan kettle review, £199 Kenwood elegancy kettle review, £39.99 Russell Hobbs Calm Kettle, £99.99 How to choose the best kettle for your kitchen Unsure what to look for when choosing your kettle? We've summarised the main features you should consider: Classic or multifunctional If you just want a kettle that boils water, you’re spoilt for choice. If you’re a lover of fine teas, some of which brew better at lower temperatures, you might want one that enables you to select the temperature. This option can also suit parents making hot drinks for children. Some kettles also have a 'keep warm' function, which is useful if you don’t all want your tea at the same time. Capacity A smaller kettle may be good for a single person or small household to avoid the temptation of overfilling. Each of the models we tested also came with bases, which can widen the footprint of the appliance on your countertop too. Style Classic, old-fashioned, shaker, trendy, futuristic – there’s a kettle for you whatever type of kitchen you have. While most modern kettles are jug-style, taking up less space on the worktop, there are plenty of pyramid kettles on the market if you prefer one of those. All the kettles we tested sat on a base that plugged into the mains, and all had auto-switch off. Lid Flick up or pull off? If you like to operate your kettle with one hand, you might prefer one where you just press a button to lift the lid. Some people would rather have one where the lid comes off completely. Speed If you want a quick break from work, you might appreciate a kettle that is a minute or so quicker. Noise Some people want their kettle to be as unobtrusive as possible, and certainly not loud enough to drown out the radio or music. But if you like to flick on the kettle, then go off into a different room while it boils, you might like one that’s a bit louder, so you can hear when it clicks off. Price You might be surprised at how cheap – or expensive – a kettle can be. Our samples range from £22.99 to £149. Best kettles for hard water In areas of hard water, there's usually a faster build-up of limescale inside kettles, particularly around the element. To avoid getting limescale in your tea, you want a kettle that has a robust and finely meshed filter inside the spout that's also easy to remove. How to descale a kettle It's the age-old question of kettle maintenance – how do you get rid of a build-up of limescale? We recommend using vinegar, which is a common household ingredient that works as a gentle acid to break down deposits inside your kettle. Add half a cup of neat white vinegar to a kettle filled with water and leave it to sit overnight – this should remove any surface scale. Try to do this regularly to avoid heavy build-up that becomes impossible to remove. Related reviews Best air fryers Best coffee machines Best bean-to-cup coffee machines Best espresso machines Best coffee pod machines Best filter coffee machines Best milk frothers Best toasters Best food processors Best blenders Best soup makers Best slow cookers Best microwaves Best multi-cookers Best herbal teas Best hot water dispensers Kitchen appliance deals Air fryer deals Coffee machine deals Microwave deals Fridge freezer deals Dishwasher deals Stand mixer deals Pizza oven deals Breadmaker deals All costs-to-run calculations were done against the variable tariff at the time of testing, which has since changed – read more on the current energy price guarantee rates.
"My PCOS took over four years to diagnose. Here's what I've learned…"
This condition isn’t rare, yet achieving a diagnosis sometimes feels like an impossibility
Those four letters can elicit fear, sympathy and dread. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects up to one in eight women of reproductive age, yet many of us are waiting almost half a decade for a diagnosis – and what often feels like an eternity for any support. More than a third of women with PCOS have to wait longer than four years for a diagnosis, while 38 per cent of women surveyed did not receive any follow-up resources once they received a diagnosis, according to a recent report. I had this experience, too. A couple of weeks ago I received a formal diagnosis of PCOS. It has taken four years, for something I now realise has been a lifelong problem. Early suspicions PCOS is identified by having at least two of the following three symptoms: irregular periods, excess androgens (male hormones) and a scan showing polycystic ovaries (fluid-filled sacs on enlarged ovaries). Other common symptoms also include difficulty getting pregnant (PCOS is one of the most common causes of female infertility), excessive hair growth (due to excessive androgen), insulin resistance, weight gain, oily skin and acne. Having PCOS can also increase the chance of developing type 2 diabetes, depression, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and sleep apnoea. Sugar crashes, unruly hormones, crippling periods and secondary infertility are just some of a long list of symptoms I’ve experienced over the years, but have been attributed by professionals to being part of my monthly cycle. But I’ve always suspected something wasn’t quite right. Even my friends and family have learned to carry snacks with them between meals in case I ‘dip’ or ‘crash’. Like a Tamagotchi, I need feeding regularly. This extreme reaction to sugar (or lack of), led me to suspect diabetes, but blood tests have always come back as normal. Worsening symptoms After having my son six years ago, my symptoms reached the point where I could no longer believe them to be ‘normal’. There have been sugar crashes that have found me shaking, tearful and close to fainting in public. My periods restarted with brutal force just four months after giving birth, ironically on Mother’s Day 2020, so painful and heavy, with moods so erratic they’ve felt like a full-time job in themselves to look after. Essentially, during days 14-28 of my cycle, I’m hijacked by my hormones. But the GP told me that’s just how my periods were – everyone is different, they said. I would marvel at friends for whom periods and hormones were a minor inconvenience that could be treated with chocolate and a hot water bottle, as opposed to being as demanding and raging and attention-seeking as my screaming newborn. I was offered a choice of medication for either excessively painful periods or excessively heavy periods; I requested both. There was also the option of going on the contraceptive pill, mainly to stop my periods, but at this point I wanted to remain open to the option of trying for another child. If only it were that simple. We spent months trying to no avail with no real understanding as to why it wasn’t happening. Then a positive result led to a debilitating missed miscarriage, and then another after more months of trying. It was clear something was up. Investigations with internal probes, scans and general anaesthetic couldn’t find anything. Finally I was given a diagnosis: PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder, a severe form of pre-menstrual syndrome). It could be the reason for my painful, heavy periods and mood swings, but still didn’t explain the secondary infertility, the erratic blood sugar levels, the weight gain or the chin spots developing across my otherwise clear skin. Alongside painkillers, I attempted to manage my PMDD and raging hormones through exercise and cycle-syncing. I endeavoured to plan my social and work calendars around the difficult days of my cycle, but given that this was in fact half of the month, it was easier said than done. I decided to halt trying for a second baby. I wanted to get a handle on my hormones and PMDD naturally, if possible, and without the gruelling cycle of trying and waiting, and alternating between hope and disappointment. Unexpected diagnosis We don’t need to dwell on the last two years – save to say that it was in fact a GP appointment to discuss, again, one of my persisting symptoms that inadvertently led to a PCOS diagnosis. Frustrated with seemingly always treating the symptom and not the cause and still strongly suspecting a hormonal imbalance outside of my PMDD, I pushed the GP to consider all my symptoms in the round. Within minutes of discussing my cocktail of chin acne, unruly hormones, secondary infertility and sugar crashes, I was booked in for an ultrasound scan to check for PCOS. I had to confess, I didn’t have much of an understanding of the condition, but it gave me a lead, something to research, and was a potential explanation. Abnormal ovaries When the sonographer confirmed my left ovary looked normal, I also felt a deep wave of frustration. Surely it was PCOS? It made so much sense. But then came the words: “Your right ovary is really big and looks very PCOS-y.” And there it was. A diagnosis. Almost. I just had to speak with my GP and receive a formal diagnosis. But it wasn’t as straightforward as the scan had led me to believe. Remember the need for two key symptoms to receive a diagnosis? First I had to have blood tests to test my androgen hormone levels, and when these came back as normal I had to wait for more blood tests, and when these also came back as normal, I felt like I was back at square one. I wasn’t offered a follow-up appointment because my blood tests were normal, and the GP that had originally suspected PCOS had left the surgery. But again I pushed for an appointment to discuss the findings from the scan, and a diagnosis of PCOS was given due to the scan results and my chin acne and signs of excess androgens. Late diagnosis complications As they say, it’s been a journey. A four-year struggle to cope with everything my body was throwing at me and to get medics to understand the levels of pain and hormonal turmoil, just to be told that everyone’s periods are different. I can’t help but feel somewhat frustrated and let down that it has taken so long to arrive at a diagnosis, and stories about women’s pain not being taken seriously resound deeply. I also can’t help but consider that if my PCOS had been identified sooner, I would have at least been aware that infertility and secondary infertility are commonly associated. I could have perhaps been spared a lot of pain when trying for a baby, or at least been better informed. I would also have time on my side – as my 40th birthday approaches, I can’t help but grieve for the time that has been lost in the process. I of course do count myself incredibly lucky to have a child, and for that pregnancy to have thankfully been straightforward. Treatment options PCOS isn’t curable, but the symptoms can be managed. The contraceptive pill is one option, but obviously not something for those looking to conceive. Metformin, which helps to lower insulin and glucose levels and is commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes, is another. Other than that, it’s the usual suspects – not smoking, regular exercise and limiting UPFs. Increasing protein intake and strength training are also believed to help. I’ve opted to try metformin, alongside lifestyle tweaks such as incorporating strength training into my routine, and I’m now four days into taking it. I’m relieved to have something to try after years of not knowing what was going on with my hormones and glucose levels, and to have an increased awareness of what’s going on inside my body. I don’t as yet feel any different physically or hormonally, but I do feel more mindful, informed and at peace with my body – which has got to count for something. For anyone in a similar position, with doubts regarding a diagnosis or instincts that there’s something more at play, I would recommend persistence. A UK government survey showed that 84 per cent of women said they weren’t listened to by a healthcare professional and 50 per cent felt their pain was disregarded or overlooked. Knowledge is power, so familiarise yourself with key diagnostic criteria, and don’t accept that it’s “just your hormones” or “just your period”. Medical journal The Lancet appealed to the medical community for greater equity in healthcare, claiming “women are enduring delays in diagnosis, inadequate pain management and disparities in access to appropriate care for many conditions, in particular those related to gynaecological conditions. These factors exacerbate their suffering and diminish their quality of life.” Two years ago Endometriosis UK surveyed patients and demonstrated an increase in diagnosis times, at an average of nine years. Most respondents needed more than five GP appointments before receiving a diagnosis, and half ended up in A&E seeking an answer. Verity, the PCOS charity, points out that, “even when PCOS is suspected, the pathway to diagnosis and care can be labyrinthine. Patients are often bounced between dermatology, endocrinology, gynaecology and fertility services, without a clear or coordinated plan, or left to coordinate (or fight for) their own care across multiple services.” They also report an over-reliance on blood tests – with medics treating these as a definitive diagnostic tool when they are just part of the picture. If something feels off, it may well be so. Push for answers, blood tests and scans. Remember that you’re entitled to a second opinion. There’s still a very long way to go when it comes to raising awareness for PCOS and reducing diagnosis times, but hopefully by sharing my long and winding pathway to diagnosis it will encourage people to advocate receiving a diagnosis for theirs. Liked this? Now read… Best diet for PCOS Food and hormones – what to eat during your period Five nutrients every woman needs What is a balanced diet for women? What is menopause? All health content on goodfood.com is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. If you have any concerns about your general health, you should contact your local health care provider. See our website terms and conditions for more information.
6 common medical emergencies and what to do
One minute everything’s fine and the next you’re facing an unexpected crisis. Here’s how to navigate everyday family emergencies calmly, and to promptly get the right help for you and your family
Whether it’s a burn, sprain, broken bone or choking incident, family life is often riddled with unexpected perils that will have you trying to stay calm while simultaneously finding the right kind of support. To help alleviate panic, here’s the lowdown on what to do if you’re faced with a common family health emergency. What is a medical emergency? Medical emergencies are illnesses or events which require professional medical care as soon as possible. You should call the local emergency services if you or someone you’re with experience a medical emergency. Without prompt medical care, there’s a risk of worsening health, which could lead to permanent or long-term damage to your body, or even death. The emergency: burns The scenario: Whether inquisitive little hands have accidentally reached for the hob, or someone has spilled boiling water from the kettle, a burn requires immediate attention, no matter the age of the person it’s happened to. How to tell if it’s serious: “The seriousness of burns should not be underestimated,” advises Rebecca Guy, senior policy manager at the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents. “They can be extremely painful and can even cause lifelong scarring. Any burn that is large, blistered, deep or affects sensitive areas like the face, hands or joints should be treated as serious.” What you should do: “The first step is always to cool the burn under cool running water for at least 20 minutes, then cover it with cling film,” explains Rebecca. You’ll also want to take a trip to A&E if the burn is serious. “Because children's skin is thinner and more vulnerable, even smaller burns can have lasting consequences. Parents should always seek medical attention immediately if their baby or a child is affected,” she adds. The emergency: choking The scenario: As much as we love and need food, errant bones or food not chopped or chewed properly before swallowing (especially with children and older people) can pose serious risks and result in choking incidents. How to tell if it’s serious: “Choking is a medical emergency,” says Rebecca. “If a person's airway is only partly blocked, they may still be able to cough or speak. If this is the case, encourage them to keep coughing. But if the person cannot breathe, cry or make any sound, act immediately.” What you should do: “Give back blows followed by abdominal thrusts if necessary for adults and older children,” Rebecca advises. “For babies, never use abdominal thrusts. Instead, you should give alternate back blows with chest thrusts. If the blockage isn't cleared, call 999 straight away and continue the thrusts until help arrives.” The emergency: broken bones The scenario: Slippery floors, uneven pavements and hundreds more everyday trip hazards mean we’re all at risk of a tumble. Elderly bones are at particular risk of breakage. How to tell if it’s serious: “A broken bone often causes clear symptoms, but some fractures can be surprisingly subtle,” says Dr Sara Kayat (@drsarakayat), a London-based GP and private health consultant. “The classic signs are sudden pain, swelling, bruising and not being able to move the limb properly. Sometimes you get that tell-tale deformity in larger or displaced fractures, where the arm or leg just doesn’t look the way it normally should. It’s worth remembering that small fractures can be much more subtle and you might only notice pain when putting weight on the limb.” What you should do: “If you think a bone might be broken, keep the limb still and supported,” says Dr Kayat, who also recommends using ice to reduce swelling, and pain relief such as paracetamol and ibuprofen. “They’ll also need to be seen in urgent care or A&E for an X-ray. If the limb is at an odd angle, the bone is poking through the skin or there is severe pain, go straight to A&E. For babies and toddlers, I always advise erring on the side of caution. They can fracture bones from surprisingly small falls, so get them checked if anything feels off.” The emergency: sprains The scenario: If you’re running after rambunctious children, a simple twist and sprain of the ankle is easy to come by, whether it’s you or them. How to tell if it’s serious: “A sprain is an injury to a ligament, so the pain tends to be around a joint,” explains Dr Kayat. “You’ll typically see swelling, bruising and stiffness. The ankle is the most common sprain in the UK and many of us have done it just by stepping off a kerb. You can often still move the joint, but it might feel sore and unstable. Mild sprains can be managed at home, but if you can’t put any weight at all on the joint or the swelling is really obvious within a few minutes, then you might actually be looking at a fracture. What you should do: “Most sprains respond well to the ‘RICE’ approach,” says Dr Sarah. “That’s rest, ice for short periods, compression if comfortable and elevating the limb when you can. Keeping joints completely still for too long can cause stiffness and slow recovery, so try some gentle movement after a couple of days. For children and babies, the same principles apply, but I always recommend getting them seen if there is a noticeable limp, they stop using a limb or they are more unsettled.” The emergency: stroke The scenario: More than 100,000 people suffer from strokes each year in the UK, and survivors can be left unable to eat, speak, or swallow. With no two strokes being alike, symptoms can vary widely, so it’s important to know what you’re looking for. How to tell if it’s serious: “It can be difficult to diagnose a stroke because the signs and symptoms can vary depending on which part of the brain is affected,” explains Juliet Bouverie OBE, CEO of the Stroke Association. “The most common signs of stroke are facial drooping, arm weakness and speech problems – meaning it’s time to call 999.” Other symptoms can include sudden weakness or numbness down one side of the body, difficulty finding words or speaking in sentences, blurred or disrupted vision, sudden memory loss or confusion, sudden dizziness or unsteadiness, or a sudden and severe headache. What you should do: “Anyone with any concerns as to whether someone is having a stroke should call 999 immediately. Paramedics are trained to recognise stroke so they can take the patient to the best hospital for specialist treatment,” recommends Juliet. The emergency: heart attack The scenario: A heart attack occurs when the flow of blood and oxygen to the heart is blocked. In the UK, there are around 100,000 hospital admissions due to heart attacks each year, so it’s important to recognise the warning signs. How to tell if it’s serious: “A heart attack is a medical emergency, and acting quickly can save a life,” explains Regina Giblin, senior cardiac nurse at British Heart Foundation. “The most common signs include sudden chest pain or discomfort that doesn’t go away, and which may feel like pressure, heaviness or squeezing. This pain can spread to the arms, neck, jaw, back or stomach. Other symptoms can include feeling sick, sweaty, light-headed or short of breath, and some people may experience an overwhelming sense of anxiety.” What you should do: “If you think someone is having a heart attack, call 999 immediately,” advises Regina. “Help them to sit down and stay calm, and if they have access to aspirin and are not allergic, they should chew a 300mg tablet while waiting for the ambulance. Do not try to drive them to hospital – emergency care needs to start as soon as possible.” Now read... Are your stomach problems caused by stress? What is ‘leaky gut’, and expert tips to avoid it What are the symptoms of stress? Am I getting enough vitamin D? 10 health benefits of walking How much protein do I need? All health content on goodfood.com is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other healthcare professional. If you have any concerns about your general health, you should contact your local healthcare provider. See our website terms and conditions for more information.
8 diets nutritionists say you should NEVER follow
From cabbage diets to celery juice cleanses, discover what two top nutritionists have to say about some of the most popular fad diets
Whether you’re looking to consume more protein, gain more energy, live longer or lose some weight, there’s a diet that claims to help you reach your goal. We’re all after a quick fix or magic bullet superfood that can help shortcut the calorie-counting and meal planning that are generally required for improving our eating habits. There are also plenty of celebrities and influencers who laud certain diets as being the secret to impressive bodily transformations. But, the effects – or their ability to stick to these regimes – don’t always turn out to be long-lasting. To help you sort fact from fiction and avoid potentially dangerous ‘secret ingredients’ or eating plans, two top nutritionists share their thoughts on some of the most popular fad diets. They also advise on ways to approach weight loss mindfully without having to down endless vats of celery juice or cabbage soup. Phew! Alkaline diet In a nutshell, the alkaline diet promotes the intake of ‘alkaline’ foods, such as fruit, vegetables, legumes and nuts, and the reduction of ‘acidic’ foods, such as meat, eggs and alcohol, with the aim being to change the body’s PH levels. “It encourages fruit and vegetable consumption and limits processed foods, but the body regulates pH independently, so the diet's premise is flawed,” says Eli Brecher, a registered associate nutritionist (ANutr) specialising in gut health and host of The Gut 360 podcast. “And, it may lead to unnecessary food restrictions and nutritional imbalances.” “The fundamental premise that food can significantly change your blood pH is not scientifically supported. Your body naturally maintains pH balance regardless of diet,” agrees qualified nutritional therapist and author Rosie Millen (@missnutritionist). Cabbage soup diet Not a diet that promotes much variety, the cabbage soup diet consists of eating cabbage soup for a week alongside select additions, such as fruit and milk. Supporters claim to be able to lose up to 10 pounds in just seven days while following it, but these claims are unsubstantiated. “Cabbage is certainly nutritious – it's packed with vitamin C, fibre and antioxidants that support the immune system and digestive health,” explains Rosie. “The diet can lead to fast initial weight loss, but it’s primarily water weight being lost, rather than sustainable fat loss.” Nor is the weight loss sustained, says Rosie: “It’s far too restrictive to be sustainable or healthy. It deprives your body of the essential nutrients, proteins and healthy fats needed to function properly, and this extreme calorie restriction can lead to muscle loss, metabolism slow down and nutritional deficiencies. Plus, once you return to normal eating, the weight typically returns quickly, creating that frustrating yo-yo effect.” HCG diet Also known as human chorionic gonadotropin, HCG is a protein-based hormone produced by the body during pregnancy. It also happens to be the hormone that determines a positive or negative pregnancy test. But, rather than needing to fall pregnant to experience its full benefits, the HCG diet recommends taking hormone injections alongside a reduced calorie intake of approximately 500 calories a day in order to experience its purported weight loss benefits (which can apparently be up to two pounds a day.) “I struggle to find legitimate pros to the HCG diet,” warns Rosie. “While people do lose weight following it, this is due to the extreme calorie restriction (often 500-800 calories daily), rather than any special effect of the HCG hormone. The severe calorie restriction is simply unsafe and unsustainable. It can lead to muscle loss, nutritional deficiencies, gallstones and metabolic damage. The HCG hormone injections or supplements have not been proven effective for weight loss and aren't approved by regulatory authorities for this purpose, either.” Master Cleanse Given Beyoncé is said to have followed a variation of the so-called "Master Cleanse" – which involves drinking a concoction of lemon juice, maple syrup, cayenne pepper and water – it’s hardly surprising that many eager to shed some pounds have looked to follow in her footsteps. “While it may lead to rapid short-term weight loss due to extreme calorie restriction,” says Eli, “it deprives the body of essential nutrients. It can also cause muscle loss, fatigue and dizziness, and may slow metabolism, making long-term weight management harder.” Zero-sugar diet If you regularly find yourself reaching for the sweet stuff come the post-afternoon slump, you may be tempted to cut out sugar altogether – especially if there are added slimming benefits, too. “Reducing added sugar has legitimate health benefits,” explains Rosie. “It can help stabilise blood sugar levels, reduce inflammation, improve dental health and decrease the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and type-2 diabetes.” However, problems can arise when "zero sugar" is taken to the extreme, such as eliminating naturally occurring sugars in fruits, vegetables and dairy. “These foods contain essential nutrients, fibre and antioxidants that are crucial for overall health. Some very strict no-sugar approaches can lead to nutrient deficiencies and an unsustainable, restrictive relationship with food. The key is balance, not complete elimination.” Carnivore diet This eating plan has become popular in part due to the idea that it’s a ‘natural’ way of eating. Also known as the Caveman Diet, it recommends excluding fruit, vegetables, grains, nuts, seeds and legumes in favour of meat, eggs, seafood and select dairy products. While there are undoubtedly benefits to the diet – such as high protein and fat consumption, which can promote satiety, and a reduced intake of processed foods – the diet lacks the fibre, vitamins and antioxidants found in plant foods, and may increase the risk of digestive issues, heart disease and nutrient deficiencies, says Eli. Celery juice diet It’s easy to see why a celery juice diet may appeal – after all, who doesn’t feel pious after downing a vibrant energy-boosting juice in the morning? But, while juices are a fantastic way of boosting your fruit and veg consumption, drinking 475ml every morning – as recommended by supporters of the diet – is more extreme. “Celery does have some nutritional benefits,” says Rosie. “It's hydrating and low in calories, and contains vitamins K and C, plus potassium and antioxidants. However, despite claims made on social media, celery juice is not the miracle cure it's often portrayed to be – there's limited scientific evidence to support many of the claimed benefits. Plus, relying primarily on celery juice means you’re missing out on essential nutrients, proteins and healthy fats. Juicing also removes any beneficial fibre from the celery.” Whole30 The aim of the Whole30 – where foods such as grains, dairy and sugar are eliminated for 30 days before being introduced again – is to identify allergens and sensitivities, but many also follow it in the hopes of shedding some pounds. But, what do nutritionists have to say about it, and is it as 'whole' as it purports to be? “Whole30 does have some noteworthy benefits,” says Rosie. “It encourages eating whole, unprocessed foods and eliminates common inflammatory foods such as sugar, dairy, grains and alcohol. Many people report improved energy levels, better sleep, clearer skin and reduced bloating.” However, while not necessarily labelling it as "bad", the Whole30 diet can be restrictive and socially isolating, says Rosie. “The all-or-nothing approach doesn't teach sustainable moderation skills, and the rigid rules can foster an unhealthy relationship with food. Nutritionally, the diet also restricts healthy food groups such as legumes and whole grains, which provide essential nutrients and fibre.” So, how should I eat healthily? If fad diets aren’t the magic key to weight loss, what do nutritionists recommend as a long-term and sustainable solution? It all comes down to having a balanced diet that's “rich in whole foods, lean proteins, healthy fats and fibre,” combined with sustainable lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and mindful eating, recommends Eli. Rosie also cites hydration, quality sleep, stress management and consistency as being key. “The truth is, none of these fad diets teach us sustainable habits,” she says. “I've always found my clients achieve the best long-term results when they focus on building a balanced, nutrient-dense diet that works with their lifestyle, rather than against it.” Read more: All you need to know about diets Celebrity diets explained by experts What is the Blue Zones diet? What is the 80/20 rule diet? All health content on goodfood.com is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. If you have any concerns about your general health, you should contact your local health care provider. See our website terms and conditions for more information.
Lakeland tabletop blender with grinder review
Fast, effective, and with a range of blending speeds to choose from, this Lakeland blender has plenty to offer – and at a great price, too.
Lakeland tabletop blender with grinder at a glance The combination of a stainless-steel base and grinder, coupled with the thick glass jug makes this one sturdy blender. And what it may be lacking in looks, it makes up for in function, working as a multipurpose blender and grinder, all for a great price. Read our full guide to the best blenders. How easy is the Lakeland tabletop blender with grinder to use? It takes a minute to figure out how to lock the jug or grinder onto the base and position the lids correctly, but after that, it’s all very intuitive. The buttons are illuminated with blue lights, but these don’t switch off unless you switch it off at the wall, which could be annoying if you plan on leaving it permanently plugged in. Like all glass blender jugs, it’s heavy to lift, but on the plus side it can be placed on the base with the handle to either side to make for easier lifting no matter which is your dominant hand. Suction cups on the feet hold it to the counter, but there’s no safety feature to stop you switching it on without the lid in place. Results The 60-second ice crush programme is slow, but it gets the job done and we like that the texture of the ice isn’t too fine and powdery, making it ideal for frozen margaritas. At max speed it’s powerful enough to puree a tomato sauce in under 30 seconds. But the 60-second smoothie programme is noisy, and our results were hit and miss. It was effective at pulverising raw beetroot, carrot, and kale, but we had to stop it four times to stir a yoghurt and frozen berry smoothie as it was only blending the stuff at the bottom of the jug. For grinding spices, we favoured the pulse button so we could check the grind size regularly, but it only takes a few pulses to grind anything from cinnamon sticks to peppercorns. Smells don’t linger in the stainless steel grinder, so you can switch from coffee to spices with just a thorough wash in between, plus it has a great capacity. We managed to grind 200g coffee beans in one go, in just 30 seconds on low speed, but we did notice the grinds were a tad warm at the end, which isn’t ideal. How sustainable is the Lakeland tabletop blender with grinder? We were disappointed to find big chunks of polystyrene in the box. But in terms of sustainability, this is an appliance that’s built to last, and just in case it doesn’t there’s a three-year guarantee. Lakeland tabletop blender with grinder summary None of the parts are dishwasher-safe, but thankfully the main jug disassembles so you can clean it thoroughly. We think this robust blender and grinder represents great value for money. Lakeland tabletop blender with grinder specifications Warranty: 3 years Blade material: Stainless steel Speed settings: 16 speeds, pulse, smoothie, ice-crushing Jug capacity: 1.5 litre Wattage: 1200W Product weight: 5.5kg Additional attachments: Grinder Recipes and tips Homemade tomato sauce recipe Super berry smoothie More gadget reviews Best espresso machines Best coffee machines Best cafetières Best coffee grinders Best coffee gadgets Best toasters Best bullet blenders Best bread makers Best food processors Visit our reviews section This review was last updated in August 2022.
Lightweight and easy to use, this simple Kenwood blender is ideal for casual use and makes delicious frozen berry smoothies.
Kenwood Blend-X Fresh blender at a glance If you’re looking for a no-frills blender that’s lightweight and easy to move in and out of the cupboard, the Kenwood Blend-X is worth considering. The plastic jug isn’t as hardwearing as some we’ve reviewed, but for simple blending tasks, that doesn’t matter. It’s available in black or white and there are no additional accessories included, so your cupboards won’t be cluttered with parts that you don’t use. Read our full guide to the best blenders. How easy is the Kenwood Blend-X Fresh blender to use? The jug can’t go in the dishwasher, but the blade assembly unscrews from the bottom so it’s easy to give it a thorough clean. And the 1.5-litre working capacity is plenty for most people blending needs. If you’re looking to blend big pans of soup though, you’ll have to do it in batches. You’ll also have to wait for it to cool as the instruction booklet says not to blend anything that’s above room temperature. With just three speeds and a pulse setting, all selected via the main dial, it’s very intuitive to use. There’s an additional ice crush button that should be operated in short bursts, like a pulse button. It took a whole minute of pressing and releasing it to crush six ice cubes, which is the maximum amount of ice allowed, the crushed texture was good though. Results We used the maximum speed setting for a root vegetable and kale smoothie, and it was completely blitzed in just 30 seconds. A thick yoghurt and frozen berry smoothie posed more of a challenge though, and we had to stop it to stir the mixture three times during the 60 second blend. It made short work of tomato sauce though, blitzing it to a smooth consistency in just 15 seconds. Suction cups on the feet keep it stuck to the counter during use, but young cooks will need supervision as it lacks any safety features to stop it being switched on without the lid in place. The lid twists easily into position and has a removable cap for adding ingredients, but it doesn’t have a tight seal, so you’ll need to make sure you don’t over fill it. How sustainable is the Kenwood Blend-X Fresh blender? It came with minimal plastic in the box, and most of the packaging was recyclable cardboard. And there’s a 12-month warranty should anything go wrong, although the manual also gives contact details for servicing, spare parts and repairs in or out of the warranty period. Kenwood Blend-X Fresh blender summary This basic blender is ideal for occasional or light use, it won’t blow the budget and it copes well with most tasks. Warranty: 1 year Blade material: stainless steel Speed settings: Three speeds, pulse, ice crushing Jug capacity / working capacity: 1.5 litre Wattage: 650W Product weight: 1.96kg Additional attachments: None Recipes and tips Homemade tomato sauce recipe Super berry smoothie More gadget reviews Best espresso machines Best coffee machines Best cafetières Best coffee grinders Best coffee gadgets Best toasters Best bullet blenders Best bread makers Best food processors Visit our reviews section This review was last updated in August 2022.
A great quality blender at a decent price, this Nutribullet model has three powerful blend settings and is wonderfully easy to use.
Nutribullet blender at a glance On first impressions, the Nutribullet blender has quite a compact base, but a large jug that’s roomy enough for most batches of sauce or soup. Available from Amazon (£80.99), Nutribullet (£99.99) Setting it up and getting to grips with using it required very little help from the manual; it’s all very straightforward. There are three buttons, low speed, high speed, and pulse as well as an on/off switch. There are some thoughtful design features considering it’s a relatively budget model, including the four-suction cup feet to keep it in place. Additionally, the jug can be put on the base with the handle on either side, so it’s perfect for households with both right and left-handed cooks. Read our full guide to the best blenders. How easy is the Nutribullet blender to use? There isn't a recipe book included and the manual only offers limited advice on which speed is best for different foods. But with so few settings, it’s easy to work out. The lid pushes securely onto the top of the jug and has a large ring to make removing it easy. It features a removable lid cap to allow you to insert the tamper when things need a stir, or to pour in extra ingredients while it blends. Unfortunately, the blender will run without the lid in place so if safety features are high on your priority list, you might be better off choosing a different blender. But at least the dishwasher safe jug means you can avoid putting your hands close to the blades when it comes to cleaning. Results Impressively, this blender was able to crush a whole tray of ice cubes to a super fine powder that was almost snow-like in consistency, in just 25 seconds. Our frozen berry smoothie took one minute and we had to give it a stir halfway through, but the results were great, with just a slight grittiness remaining from the seeds. Hard fibrous carrot and beetroot posed no challenge for it – the ingredients were almost fully pulverised in one minute, though it did wobble slightly during blending. Tomato sauce was smooth and lump free in just 30 seconds. How sustainable is the Nutribullet blender? Looking at sustainability, thankfully most of the packaging was recyclable cardboard, with just a few plastic bags included. But should it break, you can’t buy a replacement jug online and the warranty is a worryingly short 30 days. Nutribullet blender summary Overall, while it might not have the look or feel of an expensive blender, it’s good value with a decent size jug and can blitz through anything you throw at it. Nutribullet blender specifications Warranty: 30 days Blade material: Stainless steel Speed settings: Low, high, and pulse Jug capacity: 1.6 litre Wattage: 1000W Product weight: 4.6kg Additional attachments: Tamper Recipes and tips Homemade tomato sauce recipe Super berry smoothie More gadget reviews Best espresso machines Best coffee machines Best cafetières Best coffee grinders Best coffee gadgets Best toasters Best bullet blenders Best bread makers Best food processors Visit our reviews section This review was last updated in August 2022.
Looking for the functionality of a food processor in a smaller appliance? This Tefal mini chopper might be the product for you.
Tefal Five Second chopper summary Power usage aside, there are many benefits to opting for a manual device over an electric one, not least that you can use it wherever you fancy in the kitchen, and wash the model thoroughly without worrying about the cable. Of course, a manual product does require a little more ‘work’ on the user’s behalf, but this lightweight model from Tefal is easy to operate thanks to its efficient pull cord, and blitzes ingredients to a good standard considering no electricity is required. It’s also impressively robust. On top of herbs and softer veg, it is able to take on foods such as boneless meats and nuts, although for thorough, precise and uniformly consistent results, you may want a more advanced model, or one powered by electricity. Read our round-up of the best mini choppers How is the Tefal Five Second chopper to use? Considering this is a manual machine, it’s remarkably straightforward to use, and will definitely save you time in the kitchen, particularly as no elaborate set-up is needed. It’s able to splice and dice ingredients – lifting and pulling the handle triggers two independent stainless-steel rotor blades and a plastic blade – it certainly impresses. If you want a large dice, or for food such as breadcrumbs to be broken up into medium-sized pieces, just a couple of tugs of the handle are required. A finer dice requires additional pulls – which is what we did to chop onion and parsley, and to make a salsa. Handily, you can see how finely your ingredients are being chopped through the glass bowl. Overall, we noticed it fared slightly better when finely dicing ingredients – such as onions – while medium-sized ingredients such as breadcrumbs were slightly less uniform. The ergonomic handle is comfortable to hold, and we were impressed to see that the chopper didn’t slip across the worktop while in operation. The fact that it can be cleaned easily is also a plus, with both the bowl and blades being dishwasher-safe. Verdict It may not be the most advanced model on the market, but what it lacks in power it makes up for in portability, compactness, ease of use and price. It’s a great model if you’re looking to experiment with a chopper for the first time. Depending on the size of your household and your requirements, the Tefal Five Second chopper comes in both 500ml and 900ml versions – we found the 900ml model an ideal size for a family. Overall, this is a thorough chopper, but if you’re looking for a device which will take on additional tasks, you may wish to consider a cord chopper, or mini food processor. Tefal Five Second chopper specifications Components: 900ml bowl, blade, lid and handle Dimensions: 13.7 x 13.7 x 14.4cm Speed settings: one speed Motor: n/a Colours: green Related reviews The best food processors The best blenders The best pestle and mortars The best knife sets This review was last updated in December 2020.
KitchenAid cordless electric mini chopper review
A mini chopper is great for smaller kitchens and budgets. Read our review of this model from KitchenAid.
KitchenAid cordless electric mini chopper summary One of the only cordless models we tested, the Kitchenaid chopper needs to be charged for up to two hours before it can be used cordless. It claims to be able to chop up to 40 onions in that time. It’s relatively lightweight, compact, and small enough to keep out on the countertop, or to stow away without taking up too much space. It’s also straightforward to use, offering one-touch operation via the power button on the top, and the speed controller dial on its side. It also has the benefit of having a choice of two speed settings, and it can pulse, which means it can really get to work when making breadcrumbs, blitzing parsley stalks or taking on tougher ingredients such as meat and nuts. Available from KitchenAid (£119) Read our round-up of the best mini choppers How is the KitchenAid mini chopper to use? Considering how compact and relatively lightweight this mini chopper is, it’s powerful and efficient. We found it to be a great mid-size model – large enough to make family-sized portions, but not too big that it takes up precious countertop real estate or cupboard space. It was just as adept at chopping onions as it was blitzing parsley, breadcrumbs, and puréeing a salsa, and we appreciated the inclusion of an additional whisking tool which can help with making mayonnaise, sauces etc. The size of the drizzle cap on the top of the lid lets it down a little. While this is handy for adding liquids, such as slowly pouring in olive oil for mayonnaise, it's wide opening means it's easy to accidentally add too much liquid at one go. The lid can also be slightly fiddly to fit and remove, but once mastered, wasn't a problem. The fact it’s cordless definitely has benefits, the stow away capabilities of the cord means that it takes up less space, and the food chopper can be moved around the kitchen as per your demands. Plus, the bowl, lid, whisking accessory, drive adaptor and blade are all dishwasher-friendly (top rack only). Verdict Overall, it’s a top-notch model that can take on a variety of tasks in the kitchen, while being small and portable enough to leave out on the countertop. Available from KitchenAid (£119) KitchenAid cordless mini chopper specifications Components: 830ml BPA free plastic bowl, power unit, instruction manual Dimensions: 22.2cm x17.8cm x 14.3cm Speed settings: 2 variable speeds, plus pulse function Motor: 240W Colours: red or matte black Related reviews The best food processors The best blenders The best pestle and mortars The best knife sets This review was last updated in December 2020.
This mini chopper from Cuisinart has lots of the functions of a larger food processor. Read our expert review to see how it stood up to our tests.
Cuisinart Mini Prep Pro summary The Cuisinart Mini Prep Pro’s 900ml bowl capacity is bigger than most models we tested, making it a great contender for a large household, or for batch cooking or prepping in advance. Given all of its capabilities, the Cuisinart Mini Prep Pro really is a powerhouse and indispensable kitchen gadget if you’re a keen cook. Latest Deals Read our round-up of the best mini choppers Cuisinart Mini Prep Pro first impressions It comes with a dual blade – one blade is curved and sharp for chopping and mixing, the other is flatter and more blunt for tasks such as grinding. To operate, just hold down one of the two control switches for the desired length of time. The ‘chop’ setting can be used for chopping, puréeing and mixing, while the ‘grind’ setting is useful for chopping harder foods. When using the ‘chop’ setting, it’s best to pulse the ingredients. A couple of pulses is usually enough, while a continuous hold action (but no longer than 20 seconds at a time) is advised for the ‘grind’ setting – with little pulses in between for consistent results. How is the Cuisinart Mini Prep Pro to use? It produced very consistently diced onion, achieved through a series of pulses, and it took on parsley and salsa equally well. Breadcrumbs less so. Overall though, it chops and dices beautifully, and didn’t slip on the surface when we operated it. Getting it set up and locked into place can take time. The bowl must be securely locked into position to operate, a handy safety mechanism that can be a tad fiddly to get the hang of. The handle must also be situated above the control panel and locked into place before it will operate. The accompanying booklet comes with handy instructions for how to process all manner of ingredients, from anchovies and bacon to coffee beans and nuts. The device also comes with a spatula, which is useful for scraping ingredients off the side of the bowl between pulses, or for scooping ingredients out from the bowl. Verdict With its ability to process harder ingredients such as nuts, coffee beans and cinnamon sticks, this model certainly feels more like a mini food processor than just a chopper. Its advanced capabilities are certainly impressive, but may be lost on those looking for a straightforward model. Given its capabilities, it is surprisingly compact. Aesthetics-wise, it’s nice enough to want to keep out on the counter, but equally can be stowed away without taking up too much space. Latest Deals Cuisinart Mini Prep Pro specifications Components: 900ml capacity bowl and lid, dual blade, power base, spatula, booklet Dimensions: 23 x 13.5 x 18.2 cm Speed settings: ‘chop’ and ‘grind’ settings Motor: 250W Colours: silver, frosted pearl, vintage rose Related reviews The best food processors The best blenders The best pestle and mortars The best knife sets This review was last updated in December 2020.