The “buy American” sentiment is growing, but can you still buy tea kettles made in the USA? Sort of, but it’s complicated.
There are many websites with lists of the best tea kettles made in the USA. Unfortunately, many of them provide misinformation because they just want you to buy the products that they are advertising.
When taking a deeper look into these kettles, you will notice that they are almost always made in China.
Companies sometimes avoid revealing where their products are made, knowing that the “made in the USA” label is appealing. Let’s clear up the confusion and take a look at which products are not made in China.
Our recommendations for the Best Tea Kettles made in the USA:
- Whistling Tea Kettle: Café Brew Collection Glass Tea Kettle
- Best Teapot Made in the USA: Fiestaware Teapot
Our recommendations for Best Tea Kettles not made in China:
- Stainless Steel Kettle Made in Japan: Quickone Takei Whistling Kettle
- Premium French Tea Kettle: Staub Cast Iron Kettle
- Authentic Japanese Cast Iron Teapot: Iwachu Tetsubin
Best Alternative Options:
- Best Electric Kettle for Making Tea: Buydeem Electric Tea Kettle
- Best Value Electric Kettle: Mueller Premium Electric Kettle
Why Buy an American Made Tea Kettle?
China makes some fine-quality products, including tea kettles, but buying products made in the US has clear advantages:
Consumer Protection Standards are Stronger: Products made in the United States are generally held to higher environmental and safety standards. Items from China may be manufactured using dangerous chemicals or electrical components that are unsafe or pollute the environment. Products made in the US must meet consumer protection standards.
Higher Quality: Americans are quality-oriented consumers and are often disappointed by inconsistent products made overseas. US-based manufacturers have stricter quality control processes resulting in more dependable products.
Supports Your Community: Manufacturing products in the US creates jobs and the profits earned from these products stay in your community in the form of higher wages, spending, and taxes while trade deficits contribute to unsustainable borrowing. Money spent in the USA stays in the USA.
But Are There Any Tea Kettles Made in the USA?
Only one company manufactures tea kettles in the US — West Virginia-based Fiesta. Their brightly colored ceramic pots have been mainstays in American kitchens since 1930. Used only for serving and not to boil water, however, they’re not “kettles” in the truest sense.
Medelco, a Connecticut firm, assembles kettles here but with globally sourced parts. Strictly speaking, they’re not “made” in America.
Why Aren’t More Tea Kettles Made in the USA?
The high cost of labor and materials in the US drives up prices, so most American companies can’t compete with cheap foreign imports in a limited market.
The United States is ranked 35th among countries in tea consumption — far below nations including China. Our higher cost of living plus the limited popularity of tea here is a double-edged sword.
There are several reasons why almost all tea kettles are manufactured in China:
- Cost-Effective Labor: Labor costs in China are lower than in many Western countries, allowing for more cost-effective production.
- Established Supply Chains: Over the years, China has developed extensive and sophisticated supply chains. This means manufacturers can source materials and components easily, quickly, and often at a lower cost than in other regions.
- Infrastructure: China has heavily invested in its infrastructure, including ports, roads, and factories, which makes the manufacturing process more efficient.
- Economies of Scale: The sheer volume of manufacturing that takes place in China allows for economies of scale, which can lead to cost savings.
- Flexibility and Speed: Many Chinese manufacturers offer a high degree of flexibility in terms of order size, customization, and rapid production turnarounds.
- Government Policies: The Chinese government has historically provided incentives for manufacturing industries, including favorable policies, subsidies, and the establishment of special economic zones.
- Experience: Over time, as more and more products have been manufactured in China, factories and workers have gained expertise and experience, further enhancing the quality and efficiency of production.
Best Tea Kettles Made in the USA Reviewed
As mentioned earlier, there are very few tea kettles made in the USA. Unfortunately, no electric kettles are made in the USA anymore.
Below are the few US-made (or assembled) options available on the market today.
Whistling Tea Kettle: Café Brew Collection Whistling Glass Tea Kettle
Medelco’s whistling tea kettle is a classic. A workhorse in diners across the country, it’s a rare traveler who hasn’t seen one. Made of safe, globally sourced materials, including German-made borosilicate glass, it’s BPA-free and assembled in the USA.
Specifications:
- Volume: 1420ml / 48oz
- Materials: Borosilicate Glass, Stainless Steel, and Plastic (BPA Free)
- Dimensions: 7.8″ x 7.7″ x 6.5″ (L x W x H)
- Dishwasher safe: Yes
The generous 48-ounce capacity is plenty for a family plus guests. Kettles come with a complimentary steel trivet, so they’re compatible with all cooktops. Carafes are marked with minimum and 6-cup fill lines for convenience and pour smoothly. All parts are dishwasher-safe except the lid.
This kettle isn’t the most advanced, but what it lacks in aesthetics it more than makes up for in price. And spending a bit of money to support American manufacturing is always a pleasure.
Pros
- Great value for money
- Simple and convenient design
- Durable
- Dishwasher safe
Cons
- Tea infuser is not included
Best Teapot Made in the USA: Fiestaware 44-Ounce Teapot
Fiestaware’s art deco-inspired teapot is timeless. Crafted entirely in the USA by the Homer Laughlin China Company of West Virginia, its colorful and curvy lines are a bold addition to any home. There are many nice colors to choose from.
Specifications:
- Volume: 1300ml / 44oz
- Materials: Vitrified china
- Dimensions: 10″ x 12″ x 12″ (L x W x H)
- Dishwasher safe: Yes
This quality pot holds six to eight generous cups — the perfect size for an afternoon tea. Guaranteed to be lead-free, it’s so safe you can invite the kids. Made of vitreous china, the shiny glass-like finish gleams, yet the pot is not particularly fragile and both dishwasher- and microwave-safe. It’s the ideal blend of charm and convenience.
Few people know that Fiestaware once went out of production in the early 1970s but returned by popular demand a decade later. New pieces match vintage lines, so with this one affordable purchase, you can start or complete your collection of this quintessential American product.
Pros
- Stylish design
- Dishwasher and microwave safe
- Made entirely in the USA
Cons
- Can not be heated on the stovetop
Tea Kettles Not Made in China — Top Picks from Other Countries
If you want to buy a tea kettle not made in China, there are a few great options available. Here are our favorite products that represent top-line products from Europe and Japan.
Stainless Steel Tea Kettle Made in Japan: Quickone Takei Whistling Kettle
If you can’t buy an American kettle, the next best thing is to purchase one manufactured to similar standards, like the Quickone Fuefuki. Made of top of top-of-the-line 18/8 stainless steel, it has a large 2.5-liter capacity and is compatible with all cooktops, including induction ranges.
Specifications:
- Volume: 2500ml / 85oz
- Materials: 18/8 Stainless steel
- Dimensions: 8.98″ x 8.9″ x 6.46″ (L x W x H)
- Dishwasher safe: Yes
Features of this kettle include a sloped design with a broad base to encourage quick heating and save energy. Why wait a minute longer or pay more than you have to for that first delicious cup? An audible whistle tells you when the water is ready.
The spout has a lever for convenient, one-handed operation, and the lid stays up once opened for splash-free pours. The exterior is mirror-polished for easy care, and surprise — it’s dishwasher-safe. The handle, spout, and lid have plastic parts, but they’re durable, and none touch your water.
We would expect a high-quality, well-appointed kettle like this to cost far more than it does, but we won’t look a gift horse in the mouth. If you want a deluxe kettle on a budget, you won’t be disappointed.
Pros
- High quality — low price
- Good for all cooktops
- User-friendly design
- Made with durable stainless steel
- Dishwasher safe
Cons
- Does not include a tea infuser
Premium French Tea Kettle: Staub Cast Iron Kettle
Staub cookware is in a league of its own with the finest brands, including All-Clad and Le Creuset. Made in France, their premium cast-iron tea kettles are crafted from investment-grade materials and feature a distinctly European design.
Specifications:
- Volume: 946ml / 32oz
- Materials: Cast-iron
- Dimensions: 6.54″ x 4.72″ x 7.09″ (L x W x H)
- Dishwasher safe: Yes
Enameled inside and out for durability, the precision finish is rust-, scratch- and chip-resistant. Ideal for all cooktops, including gas, electric, and induction, and it’s oven-safe to 500 °F. The dual steel handles get hot, but the trade-off is that there are no plastic parts to warp, melt, or shatter. Rare among cast-iron kettles – it’s also dishwasher-safe.
Given its superior construction, the price is jaw-dropping but not surprising. But if you’re value-oriented and able to spend a few dollars more for safe cookware, the petite Staub is a forever-quality kettle that could make tea for generations.
Pros
- Beautiful and elegant design
- Works with all cooktops
- Oven-safe up to 500°F
- Dishwasher safe
- No plastic parts
- Comes with a tea infuser
Cons
- Quite expensive
- The handle might get hot to the touch
Authentic Japanese Cast Iron Teapot: Iwachu Tetsubin
This traditional Japanese cast iron teapot is manufactured by Iwachu, a well-respected company known for their premium cast iron cookware. The teapot looks beautiful and has a sturdy build — the high quality is obvious.
This teapot has the traditional hobnail design but Iwatchu teapots come also in various stunning colors and designs. Click here to see their full selection available on Amazon.
Specifications:
- Volume: 650ml / 22oz
- Materials: Cast-iron
- Dimensions: 5.5″ x 5.5″ x 4.13″ (L x W x H)
- Dishwasher safe: No
This Iwachu teapot has a 22-ounce capacity and it brews 4 small cups. It’s well-balanced, pours nicely, and comes with a removable stainless steel mesh infuser basket. The interior is enameled for easy cleaning — just rinse it and dry well after each use.
The finish is durable but not scratch-proof and the handle isn’t wrapped, so use it with care to not burn your fingers.
Whether you are looking for an authentic Japanese tea experience or just want a high-quality cast-iron teapot, Iwatchu is a great choice!
Pros
- Beautiful and authentic design
- Made in Japan
- Premium quality cast-iron
- Durable and easy to clean
- Crafted by Iwachu with over 100 years of experience
Cons
- Small capacity
Best Alternative Options Reviewed
When you want to buy an electric tea kettle, you have to settle for a China-made product. This doesn’t mean that you have to choose a low-quality option, though.
Here are our recommendations for the best electric kettles that can match the standards of US-made products.
Best Electric Kettle for Making Tea: Buydeem One Touch Electric Kettle
Take your brew to the next level with Buydeem’s cutting-edge electric kettle. Packed with 5-star features, it puts safety and convenience at your fingertips.
Specifications:
- Power: 1,200 watts
- Volume: 1.2 L / 40 oz
- Materials: German Schott Duran Glass and Food Grade 316 Stainless Steel (BPA-free)
- Dimensions: 8.23″ x 8.5″ x 10.15″ (L x W x H)
- Infuser Included: Yes
These kettles are made of chemical-free glass and will never absorb unwanted tastes or odors — plastic parts are BPA-free. The full-length infuser resists rust and is dishwasher-safe — it’s higher quality than the 304-grade stainless steel seen in comparable models.
One of the nicest features of this kettle are the 5 temperature preset buttons that begin the brewing process with one touch.
When you’re done brewing, the kettle keeps your tea warm for one hour. The boil-dry feature protects your investment.
The Buydeem isn’t the cheapest kettle on the market — it’s three times the price of the Mueller kettle (in the review below). But its top-quality materials, full range of features, and industry-leading warranty make it an exceptional value. It’s more than your money’s worth.
Pros
- Excellent overall quality
- 5 one-touch temperature presets
- Boils water fast
- Made with high-quality materials
- Keep warm and automatic shut-off functions
- Includes a removable tea infuser
- Has a 1-year warranty
Cons
- Made in China
Best Value Electric Kettle: Mueller Premium 1.8L Electric Kettle
Mueller’s premium electric kettle isn’t just for tea. Boil 1.8 liters of water in record time for coffee, baby formula, oatmeal, and more. It’s manufactured in China but from the safest possible materials.
Specifications:
- Power: 1,500 watts
- Volume: 1.8 L / 61oz
- Materials: Borosilicate Glass and Food Grade 304 Stainless Steel (BPA-free)
- Infuser Included: No
The practical design features a removable glass carafe on a powerful 1500-watt base — carry it conveniently from the countertop to the tabletop. Made of shatter-resistant borosilicate and BPA-free plastics, it’s both durable and safe. The ergonomic, slip-resistant handle stays completely cool.
Other features include blue LED lights that signal when the unit is on and a boil-dry switch that powers down the kettle 30 seconds after it reaches boiling temperature. It’s not only a safety feature but one that protects your kettle from damage.
Compared to similar models, the budget-friendly Mueller is short on bells and whistles, but it’s engineered for easy handling and top performance. It’s the one all-purpose appliance every kitchen needs.
Pros
- Great basic electric kettle
- Boils water very fast
- Affordable
- Made with safe and durable materials
- Best-selling product highly rated by users
Cons
- No tea infuser is included
- No temperature control function
- Made in China
What to Consider When Buying a Tea Kettle
In addition to where a kettle is manufactured, consider these essential features as you shop.
1. Stovetop or Electric
Conventional kettles heat water on gas, electric, or induction cooktops — not all materials are compatible with every type of burner. Electric kettles have a built-in heat source — just plug them in, and water boils in minutes.
Stovetop kettles are low-tech, simple to use, and as decorative as they are practical. Nothing offers a more traditional tea experience. But heating can take 30-50% longer and controlling the water temperature is challenging — short of boiling, it’s anyone’s guess. Better electric kettles let you choose the perfect steeping temperature within a few degrees.
Electric kettles do take up space on the counter and require an outlet, but they free up burners — a plus when cooking big meals. Also, power consumption is lower because heating elements are the same size as the pot, so no heat energy is wasted. If you use your kettle often, the savings add up.
Other features that make electric kettles popular include windows that show how much water is in the pot — heat just what you need without measuring it first — and an automatic shut-off switch that keeps the kettle from boiling dry.
If you’ve ever had an expensive metal kettle warp beyond repair after being heated without water in it, you know how valuable a boil-dry feature is.
2. Quality and Safety
Two essential features of a kettle are quality and safety. Why invest your hard-earned money in a product with limited durability or worse, unsafe materials that could make you sick?
Of course, value matters, so unless your budget is unlimited, you’ll need to balance features and price. We suggest you consider kettles made of sturdy materials without plastic and free of toxic chemicals.
Good choices include stainless steel and borosilicate glass, but glass kettles with plastic parts should be labeled BPA-free. Glazed porcelain pots from China may contain lead, so purchase them only with a safety guarantee. American-made Fiestaware is an affordable, risk-free alternative.
The best cast iron teapots are made in Japan and are durable and safe to use.
However, nowadays most of them are manufactured in China where lower quality control standards resulting in less refined products. But the good news is there are no documented cases of lead or other toxic chemicals in cast iron kettles from overseas, so consumers can feel safe.
3. Capacity
Tea kettles should hold enough to serve everyone gathered for a meal. Figuring out what size you need is straightforward — multiply the capacity of your favorite cups in ounces or milliliters by the maximum number of people served.
4. User Friendliness
Small appliances that are too complicated to use or impossible to keep clean are destined to be doorstops. You want a kettle that’s a great fit for your lifestyle, so consider the care-specific materials and designs require.
If the most you want to do with a dirty kettle is to put it in the dishwasher, opt for models made of dishwasher-safe borosilicate glass. But if you don’t mind spoiling your kettle with a little TLC, cast iron and stainless steel are top choices.
Beyond materials, examine how kettles are constructed. Not all parts on a “dishwasher-safe” kettle, for example, really are. If you have to remove the handle, gaskets or other parts before putting them on the rack, the time it takes to disassemble and reassemble the pieces outweighs the advantages of a dishwasher-safe carafe.
Hand wash-only kettles should be accessible:
- Can you fit your hand and a sponge inside?
- Are there seams in the metal or small parts that will attract limescale?
- Does the exterior require polishing or special cleaners?
Things to consider with electric kettles include how long the cord is:
- Does it reach the most convenient outlet?
- Are digital control panels back-lit so you see can see them in the dark?
Our best advice is to read product descriptions carefully and imagine yourself using the kettle, step-by-step so you can consider how each feature will impact its function and your life.
FAQs
Are there any tea kettles made in USA?
Yes, the Café Brew Collection stovetop tea kettles are made in the USA. However, not all parts and materials used in these kettles are sourced from the USA.
Unfortunately, there are no American-made electric kettles on the market due to the high manufacturing costs.
Why are so many tea kettles made in China?
Most tea kettles are made in China mainly because of the cost-effective labor and well-established supply chains. Lower labor costs allow more cost-effective production and higher profit margins. In addition, China has developed extensive and sophisticated supply chains enabling manufacturers to source materials and components easily, quickly, and often at a lower cost than in other regions.
Are there any electric kettles that are not made in China?
Currently, the majority of electric kettles are manufactured in China. It’s very difficult to find an electric kettle not made in China, and even if you do, it’s probably manufactured in Taiwan, Thailand, or the Philippines.
Are tea kettles made in China safe?
Tea kettles made in China, like those made anywhere else, can be safe when manufactured under appropriate standards and regulations.
Safety concerns usually arise from a few key issues:
- Materials Used: Concerns are often raised about the quality and safety of materials, such as plastics or metals, that come into contact with boiling water. When considering safety, it’s crucial to look for kettles made from food-grade, BPA-free plastics or high-quality stainless steel.
- Quality Control: Quality control can vary among manufacturers. Established brands usually have stringent quality control measures to ensure their products are safe and reliable.
- Regulations and Standards: China has its own set of standards and regulations governing the manufacture of consumer products, including electric kettles. Well-known brands selling internationally often also adhere to international standards, such as those set by the European Union or the United States.
- Counterfeit Products: Like many other popular products, there are counterfeit or sub-standard electric kettles on the market. These might not meet safety standards and can pose risks.
To ensure you’re purchasing a safe electric kettle:
- Buy from Reputable Brands: Established brands have a reputation to uphold and are more likely to have stringent quality control measures in place.
- Check for Certifications: Look for safety certifications relevant to your region. For example, in the U.S., you might look for a UL certification, while in Europe, you’d look for a CE mark.
- Read Reviews: Online reviews and feedback from other consumers can give insights into the quality and safety of a product.
- Avoid Suspiciously Cheap Products: Extremely low prices might indicate that corners were cut in production or that the product is counterfeit.
- Inspect the Product: Once purchased, inspect the kettle for any visible defects or issues.
Very helpful! Thank you I have just gotten into drinking tea
Hi Eric,
Great to hear that you found my article useful. I put a lot of effort into research and providing as accurate information as possible.
-Joonas
Excellent article thanks. I’m an Indian but love products ‘made in the USA’ and literally hate Chinese products. Your article is very useful and quite informative. This one topic, ‘Made in’ or country of origin is perhaps a tell-tale about every pdk. and most unscrupulous seller hide this info. by twisting the descriptions.
Hi Saurav,
Great to hear that you found my article useful.
Yes, sometimes sellers don’t want to disclose where their product is made and some research is needed to verify it.
Best Regards,
Joonas
i am looking for a gooseneck electric kettle for pour over coffee…made in the USA or not in China!! help please!!
Hi Jodie,
I think they don’t make any electric kettles in the USA anymore. They are all made in China (or maybe some are made in Thailand or Taiwan).
My recommendation is this Cosori gooseneck kettle. It’s a great product but unfortunately not made in the USA.
-Joonas
I don’t believe one exists. I’ve looked everywhere because I want one also for my pour over coffee. Until one comes in the market, my stop gap solution is that I’ve purchased a 100% borosilicate glass model (with a wooden handle) but it’s stovetop. I pour my boiling water from it over my coffee this way. It’s very pretty and it works great. The Con is that I use too much electricity on my stove every time so want boiling water. But my hot H2O consumption is not big enough to justify a Zojirushi or Tiger water boiler made in Japan. If I find a gooseneck NOT made in China, I’ll come back and post it here for you. Please do the same if you find one. Thank you.
Do you know if Planetico pour over tea kettles are made in China?
Thank you very much
Hi Robyn,
I couldn’t find any information on this. So I’m quite sure that their tea kettles are made in China (or Thailand or Taiwan).
Usually, brands that make their products in the USA will let their customers know it and use it in their marketing. For example, if you check out the Fiestaware website (https://fiestafactorydirect.com/) you can see that the first thing on the upper left corner says “PROUDLY MADE IN AMERICA”.
-Joonas
Buydeem is MADE IN CHINA as an Amazon review photo showed. So much for “accurate” and “truthful” information.
Hi Stephanie,
Did you even read the article?
Like this part: “When you want to buy an electric tea kettle, you have to settle for a China-made product.” And in the article, the only Buydeem kettle con is literally “Made in China”.
I am clearly stating that all electric kettles are nowadays made in China (or Thailand etc.) That’s why the Buydeem is listed under “Best Alternative Options”.
The point is, if you want to buy an electric kettle, you have to settle for a China-made product, so I am just giving the best options. If you are looking for a stovetop kettle, I am only giving options that are not made in China.
-Joonas
Good grief, I hope that your time isn’t wasted by very many of these people. I just found your site and find it very helpful. I am torn about what to do. I really want an electric kettle to monitor temperature but don’t trust that the china made ones are actually made with the materials they “say” they are made with. How would a normal person know for sure? Are you aware of anyone that has done tests on the materials after receiving a Buydeem from China? Truly the glass and stainless steel they say it is?
Thank you!
Hi Sherry,
Great to hear that you found my site helpful.
In general, I have always found Buydeem kettles very durable and made with high quality materials and there are also hundreds of reviews online to confirm this.
Unfortunately, I have not found any independent testing or certification reports which confirm that the Buydeem kettles are made with the materials that they claim (e.g. German Schott Duran Glass, food-grade Stainless Steel, including SUS304 Stainless Steel). To verify the materials used in Buydeem products, you might consider reaching out directly to the manufacturer for detailed information on their material sourcing and testing.
Best Regards,
Joonas
Thanks for the honesty. It’s tough to find an honest internet marketer these days. I’ve double checked a few of your items and you are accurate about which ones are Made In USA and which ones are Manufactured In USA.
Hi Russell,
Thanks for your comment!
My purpose is to write articles that are useful for the readers and that means being honest. Good to hear that there are people who appreciate it!
-Joonas