Small appliances, such as kettles and toasters, always seem like quick no-need-to-want purchases, but why is that when they sit on our worktops year-round?
It pays to spend some time researching The best kettle And The best toaster It comes down to choosing the right color for the kettle and toaster that will make those little daily habits run smoothly.
But which color should you go for? From classic stainless steel options to retro-inspired pastel hues, these are the shades that people are always running for their small appliances, including the latest Kitchen trends into consideration
(Image credit: Future plc/B Homes)
Over the past few years, we’ve seen more and more colors appearing in kitchen appliances. It signals a major shift in our homes as we embrace more playful color expression, and enjoy the wellness benefits that a colorful home provides.
While our cabinets and walls got the memo a while back, the appliances naturally took a little longer to catch up. Large appliances, such as our ovens, fridges and microwaves are usually in stainless steel, so smaller appliances follow suit.
‘Stainless steel is a consistent, timeless seller in kettles and toasters because it’s the most relevant in so many kitchens,’ explains Saul Davies, buying director. Psalter. However, as the devices themselves became more ambitious (from slushie machines Air fryers), so did their colors.
(Image credit: Smeg)
When it comes to kettle and toaster colors, pastel shades reign supreme as an alternative to stainless steel.
‘Cream or warm neutrals still work well because they soften the kitchen and aren’t harsh against fixtures like brass, silver or gold. We are seeing demand for pastels or brighter, bolder colors that are primarily bought by style-conscious consumers. Our Retro is the range and we have seen huge success with pink being one of our best selling colours,’ adds Shaul.
Shades of cream, pale blue, pink and green are classic choices for kettles and toasters and are particularly suited to heritage Shaker kitchens where you want to avoid too much stainless steel.
However, in 2026, neutral hues that offer something different than white and cream are growing in popularity.
(Image credit: Future plc/ Simon Bevan)
Soft neutrals, such as beige and earthy green hues, offer a fresh perspective on kettle and toaster shades. If cream seems too stark for your kitchen, a more muted shade might be best.
‘Sage and olive green are our fastest growing colors and have been very popular over the last 12 months. It is seen as a new neutral additive for the consumer that adds color without being too risky,’ explains Saul.
(Image credit: Smeg)
This is also reflected Smeg’s new Matt Moonlight collection – A matte, beige version of their famous retro kettle style with a more contemporary look.
‘Inspired by the growing popularity of soft, nature-led palettes, the shade brings warmth and calm to the kitchen while complementing the brand’s iconic design’, says Niamh Griffiths, Senior Marketing Executive (SDA). Smaug.
‘The muted neutral tones reflect a broader interior shift towards calm, wellness-inspired spaces and understated luxury, making it an ideal choice for clients looking to create a kitchen that feels both timeless and contemporary,’ she adds.
In 2026, sleek stainless steel kettles remain a popular and timeless choice, but as we look to color to shape our interiors, it’s just as important to reflect these careful choices in our small appliances.
Buy a kettle and a toaster
Psalter
Salter Ripple Rapid Boil Kettle
If you prefer a traditional style, this sage green salter kettle will add color without the kitsch.
Psalter
Salter Toronto 1.7 L Kettle
The combination of the earthy green shade and the wooden handles make this kettle more of a work of art than a tool.
the sage
Sage Soft Top Kettle, 1.7l, Damson Blue
If you like your appliances sleek and modern, this Sage Kettle has a contemporary look without being too harsh.
Smaug
Smeg Klf03 Electric Kettle, 1.7l, Slate Grey
Smeg’s retro kettle is instantly recognizable – this new color gives it a new lease of life.
John Lewis
Smeg Tsf01 2-Slice Toaster, White
It’s worth matching your toaster and kettle – it’s a combo made in heaven.
Smaug
Smeg Dcf02 Drip Filter Coffee Machine, Cream
Why not extend this color scheme to your coffee machine as well? It will create a cohesive look on your kitchen worktop.
In 2026, sleek stainless steel kettles remain a popular and timeless choice, but as we look to color to shape our interiors, it’s just as important to reflect these careful choices in our small appliances.
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