Quick Overview: A 1.6L contemporary stovetop kettle with fixed whistle and foldable handle, featuring enamelled carbon steel construction and wide induction-compatible base for efficient heating.
Le Creuset Kone Kettle with Fixed Whistle 1.6L
The Le Creuset Kone Kettle brings contemporary design to stovetop tea and coffee preparation. The fixed whistle alerts you when water reaches boiling point, whilst the foldable handle offers practical advantages: it bends down for easier filling under low taps and folds for more compact storage in smaller kitchens. With a 1.6-litre capacity - enough for 6-7 cups - this kettle suits couples, small households, or anyone who prefers boiling smaller quantities more frequently.
The wide base design maximises contact with your heat source, reducing boiling time compared to narrower kettles. This efficiency proves particularly valuable on induction hobs, where the carbon steel base provides excellent heat transfer. The vibrant enamelled steel exterior adds Le Creuset's signature colour to your kitchen whilst resisting scratches and staining through daily use.
Key features:
- Fixed whistle: Audible alert when water boils - no need to watch the kettle
- Foldable handle: Bends for easier filling under taps and more compact storage
- 1.6-litre capacity: Makes 6-7 cups, ideal for couples or small households
- Wide induction-compatible base: Heats efficiently on all hob types including induction
- Enamelled carbon steel: Durable construction with vibrant, scratch-resistant finish
- Contemporary Kone design: Modern aesthetic with practical functionality
- Universal compatibility: Works on gas, electric, ceramic, and induction hobs
- Compact profile: Smaller capacity means faster boiling and easier storage
- Le Creuset colour range: Available across their signature palette
- 5-year guarantee: Le Creuset's confidence in durability
Whether you're furnishing a compact kitchen, prefer the flexibility of a foldable handle, or simply want a smaller kettle that boils faster, the Kone Kettle delivers Le Creuset quality with thoughtful design features for modern living.
What Customers Ask About Le Creuset Kone Kettle
How does the foldable handle work?
The foldable handle bends down for easier filling under the tap and more compact storage. Crucially, ensure the handle is firmly in the upright position before placing the kettle on the heat source - a folded or partially folded handle can overheat when the kettle is on the hob. The handle clicks into place when fully upright, and you'll feel it lock securely.
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.
What capacity is this kettle?
The Kone Kettle holds 1.6 litres when filled to the maximum mark. This capacity typically makes 6-7 cups of tea or coffee, suitable for couples or small households. The more compact size compared to the 2.1L Traditional Kettle also means faster boiling times and easier storage. To verify if this capacity suits your needs, consider how many cups you typically make at once.
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.
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's the advantage of the foldable handle for storage?
The foldable handle reduces the kettle's profile when stored in cupboards or on shelves, making it easier to fit in compact kitchens. It also simplifies filling under low taps where a fixed handle might obstruct positioning under the spout. The mechanism is robust - customers report it maintains smooth operation even after years of daily folding and unfolding.
What happens if I forget to put the handle upright before heating?
If the handle isn't firmly upright, it can overheat from proximity to the heat source or from steam exposure. This can damage the handle mechanism and create a burn hazard. Always check the handle is fully upright and clicks into position before placing the kettle on the hob. This is particularly important on gas hobs where flames can reach folded handles.
What We've Learned About Compact Kettles Since 1972
Over five decades of selling kettles, we've observed that customers increasingly favour smaller capacities like this 1.6L Kone Kettle, particularly for city flats and modern compact kitchens. The smaller volume boils noticeably faster than 2-litre kettles - typically saving 1-2 minutes per boil, which adds up over daily use. Customers report the foldable handle proves genuinely useful in two scenarios: filling under low kitchen taps without awkward tilting, and storing in shallow cupboards where fixed-handle kettles don't fit.
The critical point about the foldable handle that customers sometimes overlook: always ensure it's fully upright and locked before heating. We've seen a handful of cases where customers damaged the handle mechanism by heating with it partially folded. The handle clicks distinctly when fully upright - if you don't hear or feel that click, check it's properly positioned. The wide base on this Kone model matters more than you might expect; it significantly reduces boiling time on induction hobs where efficient heat transfer is crucial.
Specifications
Capacity: 1.6 litres (approximately 6-7 cups)
Material: Enamelled carbon steel
Whistle Type: Fixed whistle (non-removable)
Handle Type: Foldable handle for easy filling and compact storage
Base Design: Wide base for efficient heating
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.
Using the foldable handle: The handle folds down for easier filling under taps and more compact storage. To fill, fold the handle down if needed, position the kettle under the tap, and fill to your desired level without exceeding the maximum mark. After filling, ensure the handle is firmly in the upright position - you should hear and feel a distinct click when it locks. This is critical: never place the kettle on a heat source with the handle folded or partially folded, as it can overheat and become damaged.
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. The foldable handle makes positioning under low taps easier - simply fold it down, fill, then return it to the upright locked position before heating.
Using on the hob: Select the most appropriately sized hob ring - ideally one that matches or is slightly smaller than the kettle base. 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. Before placing on the heat source, verify the handle is fully upright and locked in position.
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. The foldable handle remains comfortable to grip during pouring when properly locked upright.
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. The smaller 1.6L capacity means this kettle cools slightly faster than larger kettles.
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. Store in a dry place. The foldable handle makes storage more practical in shallow cupboards or on shelves where space is limited - simply fold the handle down for a more compact profile. Ensure the kettle is completely dry before storing to 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.
Handle mechanism maintenance: The foldable handle mechanism requires no special maintenance but benefits from keeping it clean and dry. If the handle becomes stiff or difficult to fold, wipe the hinge area with a slightly damp cloth to remove any buildup, then dry thoroughly. Don't force the handle if it feels stuck - check for any obstruction or buildup first.
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. Never heat with the handle folded or partially folded - always ensure it's fully upright and locked before placing on heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What colours is this kettle available in?
Le Creuset offers the Kone Kettle across their signature colour palette. Check the colour selector on this product page to see currently available options that will coordinate with your kitchen or existing Le Creuset pieces.
How does the 1.6L Kone compare to the 2.1L Traditional Kettle?
The Kone Kettle holds 1.6L (6-7 cups) versus the Traditional's 2.1L (8-10 cups). The Kone features a foldable handle for easier filling and compact storage, whilst the Traditional has a fixed handle. Both share the same wide base efficiency, induction compatibility, and 5-year guarantee. Choose the Kone for smaller households, compact kitchens, or if you value the foldable handle functionality.
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.
