Find the best pepper mill for you and care for your mill the right way

Choose the most suitable and best pepper mill for you

A good pepper mill doesn't mean the same features for everyone. Your choice depends on how you use it, the space you have, your kitchen's style and how often the mill is in your hand. Before you make a purchasing decision or compare pepper mill reviews, consider the following:

• The mechanism. The heart of the mill is the grinding mechanism itself. A carbon-steel mechanism (such as Peugeot and De Buyer) grinds pepper efficiently and lasts practically forever. A ceramic mechanism, on the other hand, doesn't rust or corrode, which makes it excellent for both pepper and salt.

• Grind adjustment. Can you adjust the grind from fine to coarse? The setting affects flavour directly: a coarse grind for steak and finishing, a fine powder for sauces.

• Size and ease of use. A large mill looks impressive on the dining table and needs refilling less often, while a small one tucks neatly out of the way in a drawer and is easy to use even for smaller hands.

• Material and appearance. Wood, brass, copper, stainless steel or acrylic – looks matter when the mill is on display every day.

Let's go through the types one by one.

De Buyer Java pepper mills, available in sizes from 30 to 14 cm and in various shades.

Wooden pepper mills

A classic for good reason. A wooden pepper mill brings warmth to the kitchen and suits both traditional and modern styles. Wood withstands wear well, and in a high-quality model the mechanism is built to last for decades. A sleek matt-black wooden mill also makes a stylish detail in a modern kitchen.

In Eiring's range you'll find, for example, the French De Buyer Java pepper mill in beech, in several different sizes and colours – from light natural wood to dark and matt black. The same model is available in 14, 18, 21, 25 and even 30 cm heights, so you'll find the right size for everyday use and for the festive table alike. Peugeot's Paris u'Select in wood is an iconic pepper mill in which French craftsmanship meets a patented steel mechanism whose grind can be adjusted steplessly.

Eiring's selection includes both copper and brass Greek-style crank pepper mills.

Greek pepper mills

If you're after a mill that is both a functional item and an ornament, the Greek pepper mill is worth getting to know. These handmade brass and copper mills are impressive and sturdy, and their mechanism is designed to withstand hard use. Copper and brass also develop a beautiful patina over the years.

At Eiring there are Greek pepper mills in several sizes and models – from traditional straight shapes to bottle-shaped ones and those with a flanged base, in both brass and copper. The largest mills, such as the charming 26 cm copper mill, work as sculptural pieces in the kitchen.

Electric pepper mills – threat or opportunity?

The electric pepper mill divides opinion. Some swear by the traditional, hand-cranked mill, but an electric pepper mill is genuinely handy – especially when only one hand is free in the middle of cooking or when you want to save your hand strength. A one-handed electric mill grinds evenly with a single press of a button. For those who prefer the old-fashioned feel, the classic crank-handle mill and the usual twist mills are of course still around too.

Most models are battery-powered, but newer ones, like the Peugeot Line rechargeable pepper mill, run conveniently on a rechargeable battery. The Peugeot Line has the same award-winning steel mechanism as the brand's manual mills, so going electric means no compromise on grinding quality.

Which is better: an electric or a manual pepper mill? The answer depends on you. If you value convenience and stylish technology, the electric one is a clear choice. If you prefer doing things by hand and the calm rhythm of cooking, a manual mill will serve you well. The same goes for salt: there are also electric salt and pepper mill sets on the market for those who want both with the same technology.

CrushGrind ceramic pepper mills

CrushGrind is a Danish invention that has gathered many fans thanks to its ceramic grinding core. The ceramic mechanism doesn't rust, so besides pepper it suits damp sea salt and spices too. The mechanism is promised an exceptionally long lifespan, and in many models the mill is conveniently filled from the bottom.

In Eiring's range there are several CrushGrind mills: the pretty Billund mill, the modern, clean-lined Lyon mill in 19 and 30 cm heights, and the handy little pepper and salt mill set, which is an affordable way to get to know the mechanism and is perfect for a picnic or the boat.

Stylish salt and pepper mills can be bought in pairs or separately. Several brands are available in our range.

Salt and pepper mills as a pair

A beautiful pair of salt and pepper mills completes the table setting and makes seasoning effortless. When the mills belong to the same series they look coordinated on the table – but remember that salt requires a ceramic mechanism, because salt corrodes metal over time.

Many people look specifically for a matching salt and pepper mill in the very same series. From De Buyer's Java and Peugeot's Paris range you'll find both a pepper and salt mill in the same style. CrushGrind's Lyon series and the mini mill set also offer a ready-made pair. For table settings, well-stocked kitchens also carry Swedish classics such as Skeppshult in cast iron. Take a look at our separate salt mill range too if you'd like to complete the set.

A large pepper mill is an impressive tool for the home cook, one that doesn't need refilling too often!

Large pepper mills

A large pepper mill really lifts the mood and lets you finish dishes with flair right at the table or just before serving. A tall pepper mill is an impressive showstopper that reaches all the way down into deep pots or neatly across the table. The large mill's roomy chamber also means fewer refills. A restaurant-style giant mill is a classic gift idea, too.

At Eiring there are handsome large mills, such as the De Buyer Java 30 cm and the Peugeot Paris u'Select 30 cm. Both have an adjustable grind.

Cleaning and maintaining your pepper mill

A high-quality mill lasts for decades when it's looked after properly. A few simple ways to keep the mill in good shape:

• Keep the mill dry. A pepper mill isn't washed with water and should never go in the dishwasher – moisture can rust the steel mechanism and make the pepper clump. Wipe the outer surfaces when needed with a dry or lightly damp cloth.

• Clean the mechanism by grinding. If grinding starts to feel stiff, run a handful of dry rice through the mill. The rice absorbs grease and moisture and carries old pepper particles out of the mechanism.

• Use dry, good-quality pepper. Damp or oily pepper clogs the mechanism quickly. So always store peppercorns in an airtight container, protected from moisture and splashes, before filling.

• A special note for the salt mill. If there's salt in the mill, always make sure the mechanism is ceramic, and empty the chamber if the mill is left unused for a long time – damp salt clumps easily. And what if there's only one mill in the kitchen? As a rule of thumb you can always put pepper in a salt mill, but you can't always put salt in a pepper mill. Make sure the mechanism is ceramic if you want to grind salt. Salt can rust a steel mechanism.

• Caring for the electric mill. Wipe the electric pepper mill only with a dry cloth and never immerse it in water. If grinding feels stiff, don't wash the mill inside under any circumstances – instead run a handful of dry rice through it.

With these tips you'll find the most suitable pepper mill for you and keep the mill working well for a long time. Browse our whole pepper mill range and find your own favourite – freshly ground pepper rewards your taste buds!