Just because they're a staple in the kitchen, it doesn't mean that salt and pepper shakers and grinders can't be stylish and functional. Ideal for adding a dash of seasoning to any dish, there's a huge range available to suit you and your culinary needs.
In fact, 'seasoning is so intrinsic to cooking you almost take salt and pepper mills for granted in the kitchen, but a good quality grinder will quickly become your favourite kitchen accessory,' says Sarah Savery-Smith, brand director for kitchenware brand ProCook.
Salt and pepper shakers are typically used to add extra seasoning after cooking. These no-frill options don't have additional functions, such as adjustable grinds, but they're useful to have on the dining table so you can season your food as you prefer.
Salt and pepper grinders use internal blades to break down seasoning into smaller pieces. Many have multiple grind settings that can be adjusted via the base or the top screw. 'They often come in various shapes and sizes to suit any home and are easy to maintain,' Sarah explains.
Electric salt and pepper grinders use electricity to grind spices. Sarah says they season at the touch of a button, making them easy and convenient to use. Electric mills usually require batteries, but some rechargeable models are available.
Is there a difference between a salt grinder and a pepper grinder?
They may look the same, but salt and pepper mills use different mechanisms to grind spices. Salt mill grinders are usually made from ceramic, which is naturally oxidised to withstand corrosion and rust, while pepper mills use durable stainless steel to break down the tough texture of peppercorns.
The best salt and pepper grinders to add style to your kitchen
With cheery hues of green and blue paired with a natural light-wood finish (or opt for a monochromatic black and white, if that's more your thing), these charming shakers will add a playful, summery feel to your tablescape.
We're big fans of these stainless steel HAY salt and pepper grinders. While they don't come in a set, you can choose between three eye-catching colours, including one with a wonderfully shiny mirrored finish.
These marble mills from The White Company exude sophistication and timeless charm. Crafted from high-quality marble, each set is meticulously handmade in India, making every one unique.
Addison Ross’ sell-out bobbin grinder has a smaller doppelganger: the Chubbie, featuring the same glossy finish and chunky silhouette. It's easy to refill, with a smooth grind and an even distribution of spices, but the petite size makes it better for seasoning at the table over cooking.
Adjustable grind?
No
Dishwasher safe?
No
Material
FSC certified rubber wood, ceramic grinder
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Best wooden salt and pepper grinders
Dunelm Barbary & Oak Hoxton Vintage Salt & Pepper Mill Set
Best wooden salt and pepper grinders
Dunelm Barbary & Oak Hoxton Vintage Salt & Pepper Mill Set
A rich wooden finish makes this set look more expensive than its high street price tag. Made from ash wood, these mills are designed to be sturdy and durable, and they look great paired with neutrals, golds and spring pastels.
Le Creuset never lets us down with its high-quality kitchenware, and the brand’s stoneware mills are no exception. They’re simple to fill, easy to handle and they distribute ground seasoning evenly and consistently. Our pick is this dreamy teal blue colourway but there are 14 colours available for every decor style.
Avoid a cluttered table with Cuisinart’s all-in-one electric mill, which grinds spices and dried herbs as well as salt and pepper. It’s rechargeable, with a full boost providing 20 minutes of use, while its stand prevents any leftover residue from falling onto surfaces. The included measuring cap can also help when you’re following a recipe.
Adjustable grind?
Yes
Dishwasher safe?
No
Material
Stainless steel
Best statement salt and pepper grinder
Addison Ross Faux Tortoiseshell Salt & Pepper Mill
Best statement salt and pepper grinder
Addison Ross Faux Tortoiseshell Salt & Pepper Mill
This faux tortoiseshell salt and pepper mill from Anthropologie has quickly made its way to the top of our wishlist, with its high-gloss finish and luxurious design making it a real statement piece. It also comes gift boxed if you have any housewarming parties on the horizon.
Fruit-shaped decor is all the rage right now, and this sweet (pardon the pun) pair of lemon salt and pepper shakers from H&M Home will add a touch of whimsy to any dining setup. For a coordinated scheme, style with beautiful matching pieces, including a serving plate, jug and this adorable butter dish.
These electric grinders have LED lights on the base, so you can season with precision. The soft rubber body makes them easy to grip — even if you have greasy fingers from preparing food — and they’re stylish too, with a sleek bronze finish.
Reminiscent of a mystical woodland setting, these sweet mushrooms could easily be mistaken for decorations. Pair them with forest green dinnerware and a wildflower bouquet for an enchanting fairy tale feel.
Jonathan Adler fans will be familiar with the brand’s customary style: striking geometric details and gilded gold accents. These shakers, from his lustrous Versailles range, make for a statement tablescape with a touch of glamour.
You can always rely on Habitat for elegant homeware that punches above its price tag. At just £16, it’s a great price for a set, featuring an orange gradient finish that’s reminiscent of Le Creuset’s iconic wares.
Adjustable grind
Yes
Dishwasher safe?
No
Material
Ceramic, polypropylene
Best luxury salt and pepper grinders
Georg Jensen Cobra polished stainless-steel salt and pepper grinder set
Best luxury salt and pepper grinders
Georg Jensen Cobra polished stainless-steel salt and pepper grinder set
Silver specialist Georg Jensen is perhaps best known for its signature jewellery pieces, but it also has an impressive homeware collection. Among its standout pieces are these futuristic shakers, featuring a polished finish and fluid curves. They’ll make a stunning centrepiece on any tablescape, especially when paired with crisp white linen and matching silverware.
These Joseph Joseph mills grind from the top rather than the bottom, so they won’t leave any debris on your counter. They look great too, with a chic matt finish and muted colours that will appeal to Scandi interior fans.
ProCook’s electric mills have six settings, allowing you to grind seasoning as coarse or fine as your dish requires. Clear windows make it easy to know when they need refilling and they’re effortless to use while cooking. Note that they require six AAAs, so remember to stock up on spare batteries.
These sweet cats are from designer Hannah Turner, who creates ceramic animals from her Bristol-based workshop. All her designs are fun and quirky, but these ginger felines are our favourites for their playful expressions and vibrant colours.
Peugeot invented the first tabletop pepper mill in the 1800s, so naturally, we had to try out the iconic French brand. This bundle comes with a pair of hardy wooden mills, a refill funnel, salt and pepper sachets, and a glossy gift box. If you want something that's sturdy, produces great results, and looks good, they’re hard to beat.