Tala Measuring Spoons Stainless Steel (Set of 5)
Transform baking from unpredictable experiments into consistent successes with this essential Tala Stainless Steel Measuring Spoon Set—five precisely calibrated spoons that eliminate guessing and guarantee accurate ingredient measurements every single time. Baking is chemistry where exact ratios determine whether cakes rise beautifully or collapse disappointingly, whether biscuits spread perfectly or remain dense lumps, whether flavours balance harmoniously or become overpowering. This comprehensive five-spoon set provides complete measurement capabilities from the smallest quarter-teaspoon of potent vanilla through full tablespoons of flour, covering every standard recipe requirement without approximation or multiple measurements. These aren't luxury additions to well-equipped kitchens—they're fundamental tools that separate successful baking from frustrating failures.
What distinguishes Tala measuring spoons from random cutlery drawer spoons or cheaper alternatives is precision and consistency. Standard teaspoons from cutlery sets vary wildly—anywhere from 3ml to 8ml—creating unpredictable results despite following recipes exactly. Tala spoons are manufactured to consistent standards ensuring the stated capacity is accurate and identical across every set. The stainless steel construction maintains dimensional accuracy indefinitely—unlike plastic spoons that warp or deform over time, affecting capacity subtly but significantly. The clearly engraved measurements remain legible permanently, whilst printed markings on cheaper alternatives fade through washing until you're guessing which spoon is which. The 10-year guarantee demonstrates Tala's confidence in quality—these spoons should outlast your tenure in your current kitchen, becoming equipment you potentially pass along to children when they establish independent households.
The five-spoon set is carefully chosen to cover all standard measurement requirements efficiently. The 1 tablespoon (15ml) measures larger quantities—flour additions, cocoa powder, oils, or bulk ingredients. The 1 teaspoon (5ml) handles standard measurements—baking powder, vanilla extract, salt, or commonly-specified spice quantities. The 7.5ml spoon (equivalent to 1.5 teaspoons) is crucial for recipes requiring this common intermediate measurement—without it, you'd need to measure 1 teaspoon then separately measure half a teaspoon, doubling effort and introducing error opportunities. The 2.5ml spoon (half teaspoon) measures small quantities of potent ingredients—baking soda where excess creates soapy tastes, salt where precision prevents oversalting, or spices where slight excess overpowers delicate flavours. The 1.25ml spoon (quarter teaspoon) measures the smallest quantities—expensive vanilla bean paste, potent spices like cayenne, or leavening agents where even minor variations affect rise and texture significantly.
The dual metric and imperial markings accommodate different recipe formats seamlessly. British recipes predominantly use milliliters, American recipes typically specify teaspoons and tablespoons, whilst modern international recipes sometimes mix systems within single recipes. Having both measurements eliminates conversion confusion—no consulting charts mid-recipe with flour-dusted hands, no wondering whether a recipe's "teaspoon" means exactly 5ml or approximately, no arithmetic converting between systems. The markings are engraved rather than printed—permanent identification that withstands decades of washing without fading or becoming illegible. This attention to practical detail reflects Tala's decades of experience understanding what home bakers actually need.
The stainless steel construction provides durability that justifies describing these as investment purchases despite modest pricing. The material doesn't bend, break, rust, or degrade through normal use and washing. The smooth surfaces release ingredients cleanly without sticky residue adhering to rough textures or porous materials. The dishwasher-safe construction allows convenient cleanup without hand-washing requirements, though given their compact size, hand washing takes mere seconds if preferred. The lightweight design makes handling comfortable whilst the substantial feel provides confidence in quality. The compact nested storage—all five spoons stack inside each other occupying approximately 10x14x3cm—means comprehensive measurement capabilities don't require excessive drawer space.
These spoons suit anyone who bakes regularly and values consistent results, beginners learning baking who need reliable measurements preventing discouragement from failed recipes, students establishing first independent kitchens with essential equipment, experienced bakers replacing worn or inaccurate measuring equipment, gift-givers seeking genuinely useful practical presents for anyone interested in baking, or professional environments requiring reliable standardized measurements. Whether baking is weekly routine or occasional hobby, accurate measurement is fundamental to success—these spoons provide that accuracy at accessible cost with Tala's legendary reliability.
Key benefits:
- Complete five-spoon set: 15ml, 7.5ml, 5ml, 2.5ml, 1.25ml covers all standard recipe measurements
- Dual metric and imperial markings: Accommodates British ml and American teaspoon/tablespoon recipes
- Permanently engraved measurements: Won't fade through washing unlike printed alternatives
- Professional accuracy: Manufactured to consistent standards for reliable results
- Durable stainless steel: Doesn't bend, break, rust, or degrade through normal use
- 10-year manufacturer's guarantee: Demonstrates Tala confidence in quality and longevity
- Dishwasher safe: Convenient cleanup without hand-washing requirements
- Smooth surfaces: Release ingredients cleanly without sticky adhesion
- Compact nested storage: All five spoons stack together efficiently
- Minimal storage footprint: Approximately 10x14x3cm when nested
- Lightweight comfortable handling: Easy to use without awkward weight
- Essential for baking success: Accurate measurement is fundamental to consistent results
- Tala heritage: UK's best-loved bakeware brand with generations of experience
- Excellent value: Investment-grade quality at accessible pricing
- Professional standard: Quality suitable for home and commercial kitchens
These spoons represent essential equipment rather than optional extras—the foundation of baking success that prevents ingredient-related failures whilst ensuring recipes work as intended. Whether you're baking your first batch of biscuits or your thousandth loaf, accurate measurement remains fundamental to success.
Why Accurate Measurement Matters
Understanding why precision matters transforms measuring from tedious ritual into appreciated necessity. Baking isn't like general cooking where adjustments, substitutions, and approximations usually work fine. Baking is chemistry—precise ratios of ingredients trigger specific reactions that create desired textures, rises, and flavours. Even small measurement variations cascade into noticeable outcome differences.
The Chemistry of Baking
Consider baking powder—a leavening agent that releases carbon dioxide when moistened and heated, creating the bubbles that make cakes rise. A cake recipe requiring 2.5ml (half teaspoon) of baking powder is carefully formulated for that specific amount. If you estimate and actually add 4ml, the excess creates several problems: the cake rises too quickly and collapses, the crumb becomes coarse and irregular, and most noticeably, a soapy or bitter chemical taste develops that ruins flavour despite perfect technique otherwise. Conversely, adding only 1.5ml means insufficient rise, creating dense heavy texture rather than light tender crumb. The difference between success and failure hinges on approximately 1ml—less volume than a standard raindrop.
Salt demonstrates another measurement-critical scenario. Most cake recipes include small amounts of salt (typically 1.25ml to 2.5ml) not for salty flavour but to enhance sweetness and balance flavours—properly salted cakes taste sweeter than unsalted versions despite containing less salt than sugar. However, doubling the salt by estimating rather than measuring creates noticeable saltiness that conflicts with sweetness. Halving the salt leaves cakes tasting flat and one-dimensional despite adequate sugar content. The narrow window between insufficient and excessive exists because recipe quantities are small—errors of 1-2ml represent 50-100% variation rather than insignificant adjustments.
Spices illustrate precision's importance vividly. A recipe specifying 1.25ml (quarter teaspoon) of cayenne pepper is carefully judged for subtle warmth without overpowering heat. Estimate generously and add 3ml—the dish becomes inedibly hot for many people. The 1.75ml difference seems trivial when measured in milliliters but represents 140% increase that transforms intended subtle warmth into dominant heat. Conversely, expensive spices like saffron or vanilla bean paste demand accuracy to prevent waste—adding double the required amount doesn't improve results proportionally despite doubling cost.
Consistency Across Attempts
Beyond getting recipes right initially, measuring spoons ensure consistent results when you remake successful recipes. If you make excellent chocolate chip biscuits once, you want identical results next time. Without measuring spoons, recreating success requires remembering the approximate amounts you used—was it a heaping teaspoon of vanilla or level? Did you use your large spoon or small spoon from the cutlery drawer? Measuring spoons eliminate this uncertainty. The recipe worked with 5ml vanilla—use exactly 5ml again and you'll get identical results. This consistency matters enormously for family favourites where expectations exist, or when baking commercially where product consistency defines quality.
Following Recipes Reliably
Recipe developers test recipes using standard measurements—when they specify 2.5ml baking soda, they used exactly that amount during development and testing. Following recipes reliably requires using the same standards. Estimating transforms tested recipes into untested experiments where success becomes uncertain. This matters particularly when attempting new techniques, expensive ingredients, or special occasion baking where failures create disappointment and waste. Measuring spoons allow you to follow recipes as intended, building skills through successful repetition before attempting variations or adjustments.
Small Investments, Large Returns
The cost of measuring spoons versus the cost of failed recipes makes accuracy remarkably economical. A single failed cake wastes ingredients costing several pounds whilst creating disappointment for whoever anticipated eating it. A batch of inedibly over-salted biscuits wastes butter, flour, sugar, and time. Measuring spoons costing less than a bag of quality flour prevent these wastes through accuracy. For anyone baking even occasionally, measuring spoons pay for themselves through prevented failures within months of purchase.
What Customers Ask About Tala Measuring Spoons
Regular spoons vary significantly in capacity—a typical teaspoon from your cutlery drawer might hold anywhere from 3ml to 8ml, creating inconsistent results. Baking is chemistry where precise ratios matter enormously. Too much baking powder creates soapy-tasting cakes with excessive rise that collapses. Too little produces flat, dense results. Too much salt ruins sweetness balance, too little leaves flavours flat. Standardized measuring spoons ensure consistent results every time you make a recipe. Professional bakers never estimate—they measure precisely because accuracy determines success. The small investment in measuring spoons prevents waste from failed recipes and guarantees consistent results.
The spoons include both metric (ml) and imperial (teaspoon/tablespoon) measurements to accommodate different recipe formats. British recipes often use ml, American recipes typically use teaspoons/tablespoons, whilst modern recipes sometimes mix systems. Having both measurements eliminates conversion confusion. The standard conversions are: 1 tablespoon = 15ml, 1 teaspoon = 5ml, 1/2 teaspoon = 2.5ml, 1/4 teaspoon = 1.25ml. The 7.5ml spoon bridges the gap for recipes requiring 1.5 teaspoons without measuring twice. This dual marking means you never need to consult conversion charts mid-recipe with flour-dusted hands.
Yes, Tala measuring spoons are dishwasher safe. The stainless steel construction withstands dishwasher detergents and high temperatures without degrading. The measurements are clearly engraved rather than printed, so they won't fade through repeated washing. However, hand washing takes literally 10-15 seconds given their small size and smooth surfaces, and many people find this quicker than loading into dishwashers. Either method works perfectly—choose based on your preference and workflow.
The five-spoon set provides comprehensive measurement capabilities without requiring multiple measurements for common quantities. The 1 tablespoon (15ml) and 1 teaspoon (5ml) are essential basics. The 7.5ml spoon (1.5 teaspoons) is crucial for recipes requiring this common intermediate measurement—without it, you'd need to measure 1 teaspoon plus half a teaspoon separately. The 2.5ml spoon (1/2 teaspoon) measures small quantities of potent ingredients like baking soda, salt, or spices where precision prevents overpowering results. The 1.25ml spoon (1/4 teaspoon) measures the smallest quantities—expensive vanilla bean paste, potent spices, or leavening agents where even slight excess dramatically affects outcomes. Having all five sizes means you can measure any standard recipe requirement with a single action rather than combining multiple measurements.
The smaller spoons (1.25ml, 2.5ml, 5ml) typically fit inside standard spice jar openings for direct measuring. The larger spoons (7.5ml, 15ml) may be too wide for narrow spice jars, requiring you to pour spices out for measuring. The spoon bowl depth is designed for optimal capacity whilst remaining practical for actual use—deeper bowls hold more but become awkward for stirring into mixtures or reaching into containers. For ingredients in narrow containers, pour out a small quantity for measuring rather than forcing spoons into openings where they might become stuck or scratch containers.
Specifications
- 1 tablespoon (15ml)
- 1.5 teaspoons (7.5ml)
- 1 teaspoon (5ml)
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml)
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml)
Care & Use Instructions
Before first use: Remove all packaging. Wash all five spoons thoroughly in warm, soapy water using a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse completely and dry. The spoons are ready to use immediately—no seasoning or special preparation required.
Measuring dry ingredients correctly: This is the most common measuring task and proper technique ensures accuracy. Dip the appropriate spoon into the ingredient (flour, sugar, baking powder, spices, etc.) and overfill it generously—don't try to level whilst scooping as this compacts ingredients affecting measurements. Lift the overfilled spoon and use a straight edge (knife back, spatula edge, or your finger) to level off the excess, scraping across the spoon rim to remove everything above the level. The spoon should now be exactly full to the rim without heaping. Never tap or shake spoons whilst leveling as this compacts dry ingredients, particularly flour, increasing the actual amount beyond the intended measurement. Some ingredients like brown sugar are exceptions—recipes typically specify "packed" brown sugar, meaning you should press firmly whilst filling to eliminate air pockets.
Measuring liquid ingredients correctly: Pour the liquid carefully into the spoon, filling to the brim. Check at eye level to verify the liquid reaches the rim—looking from above can create optical illusions about fill level. Liquids naturally form a slight dome above the rim due to surface tension—this is correct and accounted for in standard measurements, so don't try to eliminate the dome. For viscous liquids like honey, golden syrup, or molasses, measurements become easier by spraying spoons lightly with flavourless oil before measuring—the sticky ingredient slides out cleanly without residue clinging to the spoon, reducing waste and improving accuracy. This technique also helps when measuring peanut butter, tahini, or similar thick ingredients.
Measuring sticky or thick ingredients: Beyond the oil-spray technique mentioned above, another approach involves heating spoons briefly under hot water before measuring sticky ingredients—the warmth helps ingredients flow more freely. For extremely thick ingredients that resist leveling (like very cold peanut butter), gently pack into spoons using a knife or spatula, then level the top. The goal is eliminating air pockets whilst achieving level measurement.
Using spoons for mixing small quantities: Beyond measuring, these spoons can stir small amounts of wet ingredients together (eggs beaten in small bowls, dressings mixed in cups, etc.). The stainless steel withstands vigorous stirring without bending. However, avoid using as pry tools, can openers, or any purpose involving leverage—this stresses the spoon handles potentially causing bending or separation from bowls despite durable construction.
Routine cleaning: After each use, rinse spoons under warm water to remove ingredient residue. For thorough cleaning, wash with warm, soapy water using a soft cloth or sponge. The smooth stainless steel surfaces release most ingredients easily without requiring scrubbing. Dry thoroughly with a clean tea towel—whilst stainless steel resists rust, eliminating water prevents any potential water spots or mineral deposit buildup. All spoons are dishwasher safe—load in cutlery baskets where they won't fall through gaps, then remove promptly when cycles complete. Many people find hand washing quicker given the spoons' small size and easy cleaning, but either method works perfectly.
Removing stubborn residue: For sticky ingredients that dried onto spoons (honey, syrup, etc.), soak in warm, soapy water for 10-15 minutes before washing. For particularly stubborn spots, use a paste of baking soda and water—apply, let sit briefly, scrub gently with a soft brush, rinse thoroughly. Avoid abrasive scourers that might scratch stainless steel unnecessarily, though the material is quite durable.
Storage: Ensure spoons are completely clean and dry before storing. The nested design allows compact storage—stack by size with the largest spoon containing progressively smaller spoons inside it. Store in drawers, hang on hooks (if spoons include hanging holes), or keep in containers for easy access. Many bakers keep measuring spoons in flour or sugar canisters for immediate access during baking. The key is keeping spoons readily accessible—if you need to hunt for them, you're more likely to estimate instead, defeating their purpose. The nested set occupies only approximately 10x14x3cm—minimal space despite comprehensive capabilities.
Maintaining engraved markings: The measurements are permanently engraved into the stainless steel, not printed or painted, so they cannot fade or wear off through normal use and washing. If markings become difficult to read due to residue buildup in engraved grooves, use a small brush (old toothbrushes work well) with baking soda paste to clean the grooves specifically, then rinse thoroughly. The markings should remain clearly legible throughout the 10-year guarantee period and beyond.
What to avoid: NEVER use measuring spoons in microwaves—stainless steel reflects microwaves causing dangerous sparks and potential microwave damage. For heating ingredients, use microwave-safe containers. NEVER use as pry tools, can openers, or for any purpose involving leverage or force—this can bend spoons or separate bowls from handles despite durable construction. NEVER use abrasive scourers like steel wool unnecessarily—whilst stainless steel is durable, maintaining smooth surfaces benefits from gentle cleaning. NEVER store whilst wet—dry thoroughly before storage to prevent any potential water spots or mineral deposits.
Longevity: With basic care, Tala measuring spoons provide decades of reliable service. The stainless steel doesn't degrade, rust (when properly dried), or lose dimensional accuracy over time. The engraved markings remain legible permanently. These aren't disposable items requiring periodic replacement—they're investment tools that should outlast your current kitchen, potentially becoming equipment you pass along when children establish independent households. The 10-year guarantee demonstrates Tala's confidence in longevity, but properly cared-for spoons typically last far longer. Many professional baking environments use the same measuring spoons for 15-20+ years of daily service without replacement needs.
Why Buy From Art of Living?
Founded in Reigate in 1972, we've spent over five decades helping customers select baking equipment that transforms uncertainty into confidence. We've been twice nominated for the Excellence in Housewares award for customer care. We stock Tala measuring spoons because they represent exactly what serious bakers need—accurate, durable, practical equipment that eliminates variables and ensures consistent results. These aren't glamorous products, but they're fundamental tools that separate baking success from disappointing failures. Tala has been the UK's best-loved bakeware brand for generations precisely because they understand what home bakers actually require.
Tala Heritage & Quality
Tala has earned their reputation as the UK's best-loved bakeware brand through generations of consistent quality and thoughtful design. Their measuring spoons exemplify this heritage—simple, accurate, durable equipment without unnecessary complexity or gimmicks. The 10-year guarantee reflects confidence born from decades of manufacturing experience and customer feedback. Technical consultants and food technologists consistently choose Tala because reliability matters more than novelty. For home bakers, this heritage means purchasing equipment that simply works as intended, year after year, recipe after recipe.
Our Guarantees to You
- ✓ No Quibble Returns - Even Used Items
- ✓ Half-Price Accidental Damage Replacement (2 Years)
- ✓ Price Match Guarantee
- ✓ Tala 10-Year Manufacturer's Guarantee
Read our full guarantee policy →
Questions? Visit our contact page or speak with our knowledgeable staff at our Cobham or Reigate shops.
Frequently Asked Questions
Return them anyway. Our no quibble guarantee covers used items—if the spoons don't improve your baking accuracy as promised, we'll refund you. This applies even after you've used them for multiple recipes. We've offered this guarantee since 1972 because quality equipment should make cooking easier, not create buyer's remorse. Your satisfaction matters more than whether you've used the items. Tala quality typically exceeds expectations through reliable accuracy and durability, but if the spoons don't work for you specifically, we want you to be happy with your purchase.
Valid for 2 years from purchase date. If you accidentally damage your measuring spoons—bend them, break them, or otherwise compromise their functionality through normal use accidents—we'll replace them at half the current retail price with proof of purchase and evidence of damage. Photos are acceptable. This provides protection for everyday use where accidents happen. While stainless steel measuring spoons are remarkably durable, the guarantee offers peace of mind that accidental damage won't require full-price replacement.
Tala's 10-year manufacturer's guarantee covers defects in materials or workmanship. If the spoons bend, break, or develop defects through normal use within 10 years of purchase, Tala will replace them. The guarantee doesn't cover damage from misuse (like using as a pry tool) or normal wear. However, stainless steel measuring spoons properly cared for rarely require warranty claims—they typically last decades without issues. The 10-year guarantee demonstrates Tala's confidence in quality whilst providing peace of mind that your investment is protected.
No, you can use the same measuring spoons for both dry and wet ingredients—simply wash between different ingredient types. The stainless steel doesn't absorb flavours or odours, so measuring vanilla extract then washing and measuring baking powder won't cause any flavour transfer. Some professional bakers prefer having duplicate sets to avoid washing between steps during complex recipes, but this is convenience rather than necessity. One five-spoon set serves all measurement needs for typical home baking.
Standard delivery to mainland UK addresses can take up to 7 working days, but is usually 3-4, and is free for orders over £49. Next day delivery may be available for £9.95 on orders placed before 1pm Monday to Thursday, depending on your location and our stock levels. You can also collect from our shops in Cobham or Reigate, or our warehouse in Redhill. We pack items carefully to prevent damage during transit. Measuring spoons are lightweight and compact, making them easy to ship reliably.