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Milk frothers

Flat whites without a steam wand

If your machine has no steam wand, a separate frother is how you get milk for flat whites and lattes. Options range from a pocket-sized handheld whisk to an electric jug that heats and froths.

This hub explains the trade-offs in texture, cleaning and storage so you can match a frother to your drinks and your counter.

What to look for

Frother type
Handheld whisks are tiny and cheap but make airier foam. Electric jug frothers heat and texture milk more evenly but take counter and storage space.
Texture quality
For latte art you want fine microfoam, which a steam wand does best. For everyday milky coffee, a jug frother is more than good enough.
Cleaning
Milk residue must be cleaned promptly. Removable whisks and dishwasher-safe jugs make daily use less of a chore.
Capacity
Jug frothers have a min and max fill line. Pick a size that matches how many milky drinks you make at once.

Small-space notes

  • A handheld frother stores in a drawer and is ideal for one drink at a time.
  • An electric jug is a small appliance — count it as part of your counter budget.
  • If you already have a steam wand, you probably do not need a separate frother.

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