Quick Overview: A 2.1L traditional stovetop kettle with fixed whistle, enamelled carbon steel construction, and wide induction-compatible base for fast, efficient heating on all hob types.
Le Creuset Traditional Kettle with Fixed Whistle 2.1L
The Le Creuset Traditional Kettle combines classic stovetop design with modern heating efficiency. The fixed whistle alerts you when water reaches boiling point, eliminating the need to watch the kettle or risk over-boiling. With a 2.1-litre capacity - enough for 8-10 cups - this kettle suits family use and entertaining, whilst the vibrant enamelled steel exterior adds Le Creuset's signature colour to your kitchen.
The wide base design maximises contact with your heat source, reducing boiling time compared to narrower kettles. This efficiency matters particularly on induction hobs, where the carbon steel base provides excellent heat transfer. The ergonomic, heat-resistant handle remains comfortable to grip during pouring, positioned to keep your hand clear of steam.
Key features:
- Fixed whistle: Audible alert when water boils - no need to watch the kettle
- 2.1-litre capacity: Makes 8-10 cups, suitable for family use
- Wide induction-compatible base: Heats efficiently on all hob types including induction
- Enamelled carbon steel: Durable construction with vibrant, scratch-resistant finish
- Heat-resistant handle: Ergonomic design for safe, comfortable pouring
- Universal compatibility: Works on gas, electric, ceramic, and induction hobs
- Le Creuset colour range: Available across their signature palette
- Traditional design: Classic kettle aesthetics with modern efficiency
- 5-year guarantee: Le Creuset's confidence in durability
Whether you prefer the ritual of stovetop tea-making or simply want an attractive, efficient kettle that alerts you when water's ready, this traditional design delivers Le Creuset quality with practical everyday functionality.
What Customers Ask About Le Creuset Traditional Kettle
Does the whistle work on all hob types?
Yes, the fixed whistle alerts you when water reaches boiling point on gas, electric, ceramic, and induction hobs. The whistle activates when steam builds pressure, regardless of your heat source. Ensure the lid is closed tightly for the whistle to function properly - a loose lid allows steam to escape without triggering the whistle.
Can I use this on my induction hob?
Yes, the enamelled carbon steel base is fully compatible with induction hobs. The wide base ensures efficient heating on induction surfaces. Avoid using the 'boost' function, which should only be used for rapid heating of large volumes. Lift the kettle rather than sliding it across the induction surface to prevent damage to both the kettle base and your hob.
Is this dishwasher safe?
No, this kettle requires hand washing only. Clean after each use with warm water and neutral detergent, then dry thoroughly. The enamelled steel exterior can be damaged by dishwasher detergents and high temperatures. Hand washing preserves the vibrant enamel finish and extends the kettle's lifespan.
How do I remove limescale or mineral deposits?
Fill the kettle to the maximum mark with a 50/50 mixture of water and white vinegar. Simmer for 20 minutes, then discard the solution and rinse thoroughly. For persistent deposits, use a gentle descaler following the product instructions. Regular descaling maintains heating efficiency and prevents buildup that affects water taste.
What capacity is this kettle?
The kettle holds 2.1 litres when filled to the maximum mark. This capacity typically makes 8-10 cups of tea or coffee, suitable for family use or entertaining. Never fill above the marked line to prevent boiling water from spilling when the kettle whistles. To verify if this capacity suits your needs, consider how many cups you typically make at once.
Why does the handle get warm during use?
The handle is designed to be heat-resistant but may become warm during extended heating, particularly on gas hobs where flames can reach the handle. Ensure the lid is closed tightly to direct steam away from the handle through the whistle spout. If the handle becomes too warm, use an oven glove when pouring. Position the spout away from you to keep steam clear of the handle area.
Can I leave water in the kettle between uses?
No, empty the kettle after each use. Standing water accelerates mineral deposit buildup and can affect the enamel interior over time. Store the kettle empty and dry between uses to maintain optimal condition and reduce descaling frequency. This practice extends the kettle's life and maintains water quality.
What happens if I let the kettle boil dry?
Boiling dry causes overheating damage to the enamel and steel base, potentially voiding your warranty. Always ensure there's sufficient water before heating. On induction hobs, don't rely solely on automatic switch-off functions - monitor the kettle and remove it when the whistle sounds. If you accidentally boil it dry, allow it to cool completely before inspecting for damage.
What We've Learned About Stovetop Kettles Since 1972
Over five decades of selling stovetop kettles, we've observed that customers who transition from electric kettles to traditional whistling kettles often appreciate the ritual and control. The whistle provides certainty - you hear when water boils regardless of where you are in the house, eliminating the guesswork of silent electric kettles. The wide base design on this Le Creuset model matters more than many customers initially realise; it significantly reduces boiling time, particularly on induction hobs where the carbon steel base excels at heat transfer.
The most common care issue we see is limescale buildup in hard water areas. Regular descaling with the vinegar method prevents this becoming problematic and maintains heating efficiency. Customers who empty their kettle after each use and store it dry report significantly less limescale compared to those who leave standing water. The enamelled steel construction proves more durable than typical enamel kettles - we rarely see chips or enamel damage even after years of daily use, provided customers lift rather than slide the kettle across hob surfaces.
Specifications
Capacity: 2.1 litres (approximately 8-10 cups)
Material: Enamelled carbon steel
Whistle Type: Fixed whistle (non-removable)
Base Design: Wide base for efficient heating
Handle: Ergonomic heat-resistant handle
Compatible With: Gas hob, electric hob, ceramic hob, induction hob
Induction Compatible: Yes (carbon steel base)
Dishwasher Safe: No - hand wash only
Cleaning: Hand wash with neutral detergent, dry thoroughly
Descaling: 50/50 water and white vinegar mixture, simmer 20 minutes
Manufactured In: Thailand
Guarantee: 5 Years (register product to activate)
Why Buy From Art of Living?
Founded in Reigate in 1972, we've spent over five decades helping customers select quality cookware and kitchen essentials. We've been twice nominated for the Excellence in Housewares award for customer care.
Our Guarantees to You
- ✓ No Quibble Returns - Even Used Items
- ✓ Half-Price Accidental Damage Replacement (2 Years)
- ✓ Price Match Guarantee
Read our full guarantee policy →
Questions? Visit our contact page or call us on +44 1737 222996
Care & Use Instructions
Before first use: Remove all packaging and labels. Wash in warm, soapy water, rinse, and dry thoroughly. Fill the kettle with clean water (not exceeding the maximum mark), boil it, then discard this first boil. This removes any manufacturing residue. The kettle is now ready for use.
Filling the kettle: Never fill above the maximum mark indicated inside the kettle. Overfilling causes water to spill from the spout when boiling, creating safety hazards and potentially extinguishing gas flames. Check the water level before each use.
Using on the hob: Select the most appropriately sized hob ring - ideally one that matches or is slightly smaller than the kettle base. This prevents wasted energy and avoids overheating the handle area. Lift the kettle on and off the hob rather than sliding it across the surface, which can damage both the kettle base and your hob, particularly ceramic and induction surfaces.
For induction hobs: Avoid using the 'boost' function for routine kettle boiling - boost mode is designed for rapidly heating large volumes and can cause uneven heating or damage with smaller vessels. Use standard heat settings. Don't rely solely on automatic switch-off functions; monitor the kettle and remove it when the whistle sounds. In case of malfunction, all water may evaporate, causing overheating damage.
Lid and whistle operation: Close the lid tightly before heating - a loose lid prevents the whistle from functioning properly and allows steam to escape towards the handle. Ensure the spout and lid indentations point away from you and others to direct steam safely. The whistle activates when steam pressure builds; you'll hear a clear, sharp sound when water reaches boiling point.
Boiling and pouring: When the whistle sounds, turn off the heat source immediately. Wait 10-15 seconds for the whistle to quieten before removing the kettle from the heat source, then pour. This brief pause allows pressure to normalise and reduces violent steam release when pouring. Never tip the kettle upside down - pour steadily with the lid knob pressed firmly down to prevent the lid from opening during pouring.
Preventing boiling dry: Never allow the kettle to boil dry. Boiling dry causes rapid overheating that damages the enamel and steel, potentially voiding your warranty. If you need to step away from the kitchen, set a timer or use the whistle as your alert - don't leave the kettle unattended on high heat for extended periods.
Cooling between uses: Allow your kettle to cool thoroughly before refilling with cold water. Adding cold water to a hot kettle creates thermal shock that can damage the enamel over time. Wait at least 5-10 minutes after boiling before refilling for the next use.
Daily cleaning: Clean the kettle after each use before mineral deposits harden. Hand wash with warm water and neutral detergent - never use abrasive scrubbers, steel wool, or harsh detergents that can scratch the enamel finish. Rinse thoroughly to remove all detergent residue. Dry the kettle completely, inside and out, to prevent mineral deposits from forming and to maintain the exterior finish.
Storage: Empty the kettle completely after each use - don't leave standing water, which accelerates limescale buildup and can affect the enamel. Store in a dry place with the lid slightly open to allow air circulation and prevent moisture accumulation.
Descaling: In hard water areas, descale monthly. In soft water areas, descale every 2-3 months or when you notice slower heating times or visible deposits. Fill the kettle to the maximum mark with equal parts water and white vinegar. Place on the hob and simmer (don't boil rapidly) for 20 minutes. Discard the solution, rinse thoroughly multiple times to remove all vinegar smell, then boil clean water once and discard before normal use. For persistent deposits, repeat the process or use a gentle kettle descaler following the manufacturer's instructions. Never use caustic descalers designed for commercial equipment.
Handling hot kettles: Always use oven gloves or heat-resistant mitts when handling the kettle, even if the handle feels cool initially - it may warm during use, particularly on gas hobs. Place hot kettles on heat-resistant surfaces - never directly on worktops, tables, or surfaces that can be damaged by heat. Le Creuset trivets work well for this purpose.
What to avoid: Never place in dishwashers. Don't use metal utensils inside the kettle that could scratch the enamel. Avoid sliding the kettle across hob surfaces. Don't use harsh or abrasive cleaners. Never immerse the hot kettle in cold water for rapid cooling. Don't use the kettle for anything other than boiling water - avoid adding tea, coffee, or other ingredients directly to the kettle.
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I prepare the kettle before first use?
Remove all packaging and labels. Wash in warm, soapy water, rinse, and dry thoroughly. Fill the kettle with clean water (not exceeding the maximum mark), boil it, then discard this first boil. The kettle is then ready for use. This process removes any manufacturing residue.
What if I've used it and don't like it?
Return it anyway. Our no quibble guarantee covers used items - if it doesn't do what you wanted, we'll refund you. This applies even after you've used it.
How does the Half-Price Replacement guarantee work?
Valid for 2 years from purchase date. If you accidentally break this item, we'll replace it at half price with proof of purchase and evidence of breakage. Photos of the damage are acceptable.
How long does delivery take?
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.
Can I collect this item instead of having it delivered?
Yes, you can collect from our Reigate shop (72 High Street, RH2 9AP), Cobham shop (16 Anyards Road, KT11 2JZ), or our warehouse in Redhill (40 Ormside Way, RH1 2LW). Select click and collect at checkout.
How should I register my Le Creuset product for warranty?
Visit Le Creuset's official website and complete their product registration form. You'll need your proof of purchase and product details. Registration activates your 5-year guarantee and ensures you receive any product updates or recalls.
