The new whistling SMEG tea kettle is an "exercise in retro-inspired decor" say designers and captures 2024's biggest kitchen trend

 Two SMEG tea kettles, one in pastel blue, the other in pastel green, on a light purple background.
Two SMEG tea kettles, one in pastel blue, the other in pastel green, on a light purple background.

If you fancy a cup of tea with friends, the striking new SMEG tea kettle is the perfect  conversation starter.

A playful throwback to the '50s, the new SMEG Stainless-Steel Whistling Tea Kettle not only makes a statement with its colorful, retro design, but offers quality for your boiling needs, says our experts.

For a fun pop of color and style on your stovetop, and a nod to this year's favorite small kitchen trend, SMEG is the way to go.

Spilling the tea: why the SMEG tea kettle is designer-approved

In late 2023, Pinterest Predicts envisioned kitschy kitchens, "kitschens" in the platform's terms, as the hot look of the 2024 season: bright pastels, retro silhouettes, and quirky-but-cute accents. The SMEG tea kettle fits right in with the aesthetic.

Designer Nina Lichtenstein considers the appliance to be "a delightful exercise in retro-inspired decor" that transcends popular styles, and even time. "The kettle adds a touch of vintage charm that effortlessly complements modern and traditional kitchen settings alike," she says.

Moreover, what's sure to become one of the best tea kettles on shelves doesn't solely rely on looks to get people talking.

"Beyond its eye-catching appearance, SMEG appliances are renowned for their quality craftsmanship, durability, and innovative features," Nina says.

What can you expect from this release? Aside from six gorgeous shades, the SMEG tea kettle comes with a ergonomic, cool-touch, anti-slip silicone handle and accessibility on all cooktops.

White SMEG tea kettle on a stovetop
White SMEG tea kettle on a stovetop

SMEG Stainless-Steel Whistling Tea Kettle

Price: $149.95
Capacity (qt.): 2 1/2

The latest vintage-inspired appliance from Italian-based SMEG, this whistling tea kettle provides a mid-century flair and comes in adorable shades — hello there, pastel blue! — while providing the quality of a stainless-steel product. The cool-touch, anti-slip handle is the perfect touch, quite literally. Manufacturer's instructions recommend using filtered water to avoid build-up, but even if you don't have a water filter, you can clean inside a kettle and remove scum with a water and vinegar solution.

Should you be interested in small kitchen upgrades, swapping out appliances could be a good place to start. With SMEG kitchen appliances, you'll be able to easily transform the look of your space.

"To showcase this iconic piece, pair it with other SMEG appliances or vintage-inspired kitchen accessories," Nina recommends. "Display it on a sleek countertop alongside colorful ceramic mugs or retro-inspired tea sets to create a charming focal point that evokes nostalgia and elegance."

Have a color palette in mind — perhaps one of the more creative colorful small kitchen ideas — and work from there.

You might also like

As much as we appreciate SMEG's looks and reliable features, it can often be considered a splurge. We found similar tea kettles that mimic the  style and provide quality without the hefty price tag.

Pinky Up Presley Kettle in mint green
Pinky Up Presley Kettle in mint green

Pinky Up Presley Kettle

Price: Was $89.99, now $52.99
Capacity (oz.): 70

This whistling kettle has a stainless-steel body, a heat-resistant handle, and six cute color options, including beautiful pastels that will add a playful tone to your stovetop.

Chantal Vintage Tea Kettle in yellow
Chantal Vintage Tea Kettle in yellow

Chantal Vintage Tea Kettle

Price: $64.95
Dimensions (in.): 9.5 x 9.5 x 7.5

Boiling up to 6.8 cups, the Chantal Vintage Tea Kettle is compatible on electric coil, electric smooth top, gas, and induction stovetops.

Mint green electric tea kettle in retro shape
Mint green electric tea kettle in retro shape

Nostalgia CLWK17AQ Classic Retro Electric Water Kettle

Price: $40.61
Dimensions (in.): 8.26 x 7.09 x 11.72

The brand name says it all when it comes to this tea kettle's style. The electric appliance is a 1500-watt kettle can quickly boil 1.7 liters of water in just minutes and comes with a 360° rotational base.


Not in the market for a tea kettle? The Real Homes SMEG blender review, SMEG espresso machine review, and SMEG SMF03 stand mixer review will provide insight on the brand's other beloved, retro appliances.