Spice and pepper mills for grinding peppercorns, sea salt and other dry spices fresh at the table or at the hob. The range suits home cooks who want more flavour than pre-ground pepper gives, and includes brands such as ETA, CASO, PEUGEOT and DOMO.
How to choose a spice or pepper mill
Grinding mechanism. Ceramic mechanisms do not corrode, so they are the usual choice for salt and also cope with peppercorns. Hardened steel mechanisms are traditionally used for pepper and dry spices, but salt can attack them over time. Check which ingredients the manufacturer says the mill is made for.
Manual or electric. A manual mill gives you direct control over how much you grind and needs no power. An electric mill works with one hand, which helps when you are holding a pan, but it needs batteries or a charging cable. Think about how you cook before deciding.
Grind adjustment. Look for a clear way to change the setting from coarse to fine. Coarse cracked pepper suits steaks and roasts, while a finer grind blends into sauces and dressings. Adjustment by a knob or ring is usually easier to repeat than trial and error.
Size and capacity. A tall mill holds more peppercorns and is easier to grip, but takes up space on a small table. A shorter one fits a spice rack or drawer and needs refilling more often. Check how the mill opens for refilling, because a wide opening is far less fiddly than a narrow one.
Materials and cleaning. Wood, acrylic, glass and stainless steel all look different on the table and age differently. Most mills should not be washed under water, since moisture damages the grinding parts and clumps the contents. Wipe the outside with a dry or barely damp cloth, and brush out old residue before switching spices.
Spice and pepper mill brands we carry
- PEUGEOT: a French maker that has produced pepper mills since the 19th century and is known for its steel grinding mechanisms.
- CASO: a German brand focused on design-led kitchen appliances, with a range that extends well beyond mills.
- ETA: a Czech household appliance brand, with two models in our range, the most of any brand here.
Also in our range: DOMO, FINAMILL, ROMMELSBACHER and SOGO.
Frequently asked questions about spice and pepper mills
Can I put salt in a pepper mill?
Only if the mill has a mechanism made for salt. Ceramic mechanisms are generally safe with salt, while steel ones can corrode. Check the product description, and do not mix salt and pepper in one mill unless it is designed for both.
Is an electric pepper mill better than a manual one?
Neither is better in every case. An electric mill is convenient because you can grind with one hand, while a manual mill needs no batteries and lets you control the amount more closely. Electric models make most sense if you cook a lot or have limited grip strength.
How do I change the coarseness of the grind?
Most mills have a knob, ring or dial that moves the grinding parts closer together or further apart. Turning it one way gives a finer grind and the other way a coarser one. Test the setting over a plate and adjust in small steps until the texture suits the dish.
Can I grind spices other than pepper?
Many mills can grind dry spices such as coriander seeds or dried chilli, but not all are designed for it. Oily, sticky or damp ingredients can clog the mechanism. Read the manufacturer's guidance first and clean the mill when you change spices.
