Salt & Pepper Mills

Although there are salt and pepper mills available in all shapes, sizes and designs, be wary of choosing a model purely for its looks - especially for use in the kitchen, where function is paramount.

A pepper mill should have strong and reliable grinding mechanism made from ceramic, stainless steel or high carbon steel. A salt mill, on the other hand, should have a nylon or ceramic mechanism; steel grinders will eventually become corroded by the salt.

Choose a model large enough to hold at least 4 tablespoons of peppercorns or coarse salt, otherwise you'll find that you'll have to refill the mill almost constantly. Make sure that the design allows you to refill easily; some are very fiddly to take apart or make it difficult to pour the salt or pepper into the main body.

You should also check that you can adjust the grind from fine to coarse, and that the setting stays in place without slipping.