Measuring Cups & Spoons

Best Measuring Cups & Spoons in the UK: Precision Picks from Nordic Nest, Sabatier and Top Retailers

Why precision measuring transforms your cooking

Think of measuring like the GPS of your kitchen: get it wrong and you’ll end up lost, get it right and you arrive at delicious results every time. Whether you’re baking a delicate sponge or balancing a sauce, accurate measuring cups and spoons take the guesswork out of recipes. They’re the unsung heroes behind consistent texture, reliable flavour and repeatable success.

Baking vs. everyday cooking — does it matter?

Absolutely. Baking is chemistry; a slight error in volume can change a cake from fluffy to flat. Everyday cooking is more forgiving, but precise teaspoons and jugs still improve consistency — especially with strong flavours like spices, salt and vinegar. If you only buy one thing, a solid set of measuring spoons is the best bang for your buck.

Standout products you’ll find from Nordic Nest

Nordic Nest stocks a tidy selection of measuring tools that blend form and function. Look out for stainless steel sets and minimalist jugs that suit modern kitchens. These items are often built to last and keep the clean Scandinavian design you’d expect, making them not just tools but small upgrades to your counter.

De Buyer stainless steel measuring sets — ultra-precise for tiny doses

De Buyer’s small measuring cups are ideal when accuracy matters in tiny amounts. Their smallest set covers very small increments — roughly from 0.04 to 0.53 fluid ounces (imperial) — which is brilliant for intense flavourings or test-baking. Stainless steel resists staining and warping and can be dishwasher-safe, so they marry precision with convenience.

De Buyer larger measuring cups — steady for wet ingredients

If you often measure liquids, De Buyer’s larger cup set covers about 2.1 to 8.8 fluid ounces (imperial) sizes — the sort of range useful for sauces, dressings and small batter mixes. Their solid build makes them stable on the counter and easy to pour, reducing spills and recipe mishaps.

Kitchen Knives & Sabatier — more than just blades

When you think “Kitchen Knives,” you might picture blades, but many specialist retailers also stock precision measuring sets from trusted brands such as Sabatier. High-quality measuring spoons and cups from these sources often mirror the brand’s premium approach: polished stainless steel, clear markings and durable joins.

Sabatier measuring sets — professional feel at home

Sabatier’s stainless steel 4-piece measuring spoon and cup sets give a pro-level feel without requiring pro skills. They’re great for cooks who want consistent scoops and neat stacking. If you’re trying to reduce clutter but keep accuracy, compact Sabatier sets are a neat solution.

Functional and stylish jugs and single measures: Rosti, Blomsterbergs and Kockums

Not every measurement task needs a multi-piece set. Sometimes a single measuring jug or decilitre measure is all you need. Brands like Rosti and Blomsterbergs supply practical items that balance readability with durable materials, while heritage makers such as Kockums produce classic sauce jugs with a timeless look.

Rosti measuring jugs — the 1 litre workhorse

Rosti’s 1 litre jug — about 35.2 fluid ounces (imperial), or roughly 1.8 pints — is a kitchen staple. It’s perfect for mixing batters, measuring liquids and pouring with control. Choose a smoke-coloured clear jug for a modern aesthetic and easy reading of levels when you’re mid-recipe.

Rosti Mensura decilitre measure — small but mighty

For those recipes that still use decilitres, a Mensura decilitre measure is handy. One decilitre equals about 3.52 fluid ounces (imperial), and a dedicated decilitre measure speeds up work without faffing around with conversions — ideal if you follow continental recipes.

Budget and mid-range UK retailers to buy measuring tools

You don’t need to spend a fortune to stock your kitchen with accurate tools. UK retailers such as Lakeland, John Lewis, Argos, Robert Dyas and Amazon UK offer wide ranges from plastic basics to high-end stainless sets. Each retailer has its advantages: Lakeland for kitchen-focused innovation, John Lewis for quality brands, Argos for value, and Amazon for huge selection and customer reviews.

Where to splurge and where to save

Spend on durable stainless steel spoons and a solid measuring jug if you bake a lot. Save on plastic measuring cups for quick beverage mixes or camping kits. If you want one versatile buy, a compact stainless steel set and a 1-litre jug cover most scenarios.

Materials matter: stainless steel, plastic, silicone and glass

Choosing the right material determines longevity and accuracy. Stainless steel is tough, doesn’t retain odours and often has etched or stamped markings that won’t wear off. Glass jugs let you see liquids clearly, but they’re heavier and breakable. Plastic is light and cheap, but prone to staining and warping. Silicone spoons are flexible and nest neatly, but can stretch slightly with heat.

Stainless steel: the safest long-term option

If you’re building a lasting kit, go stainless. It stands up to metal whisks and rigorous use, and it’s typically dishwasher-safe. Sets from brands like De Buyer and Sabatier lean heavily into this material for a reason: you’ll use them for years without worrying about deterioration.

Design features that actually make a difference

Look beyond pretty finishes. Practical design elements are what you’ll thank yourself for at 7 a.m. when you’re measuring for pancakes. Think about nesting storage, clear, permanent markings, pour spouts on jugs, flat bottoms so cups sit level, and spouts or handles that make one-handed pouring possible.

Stackable vs. individual pieces

Stackable sets save drawer space and keep things tidy, but individual heavy cups can be easier to scoop with if your ingredients are sticky. Consider your kitchen layout: minimal drawers benefit from nesting sets; open shelves might be better for attractive jugs you use every day.

Practical tips for measuring smarter — not harder

Avoid common measuring mistakes with a few simple habits. Use levelled scoops for dry ingredients, measure liquids at eye level on a flat surface, and use spoons for small amounts rather than guessing. If a recipe calls for a decilitre, a small decilitre measure saves conversion headaches.

When to choose spoons over scales

Scales are king for baking by weight, but spoons and cups are faster for sauces, spices and quick fixes. If precision for small volumes is a priority — like 1/8 teaspoon worth of spice — choose a reliable set of spoons that includes fractional measurements for consistency.

Care and maintenance: keep accuracy intact

To preserve measuring accuracy, wash and dry tools after use, avoid abrasive cleaners on engraved markings and store metal spoons away from moisture to prevent spotting. For glass jugs, avoid sudden temperature changes which can cause cracking. These small care steps keep your measurements accurate for years.

Dishwasher safe vs hand wash

Many stainless steel items are dishwasher-safe, but delicate finishes and wooden handles prefer hand washing. If your set has wooden or painted details, hand washing prolongs the life and keeps markings readable. For pure stainless, the dishwasher is a time-saving ally.

Which set should you buy? Quick recommendations

If you want a short shopping list, here’s a practical breakdown: buy a stainless steel measuring spoon set (4–6 pieces) and a 1-litre measuring jug as the base. Add a small shot-glass style measure or decilitre measure for tight precision. For an all-in-one pick, a nested stainless set with both spoons and cups covers most recipes.

Best choices by use-case

For bakers: heavy stainless cups plus a 1-litre jug for liquids. For cooks: flexible silicone spoons and a well-marked jug. For occasional use: budget plastic spoons and a durable glass measuring jug. For travel or camping: compact nesting spoons and a collapsible silicone jug.

Sustainability and longevity — buying once, buying better

Choosing long-lasting materials reduces waste over time. Stainless steel might cost more upfront, but it rarely ends up in landfill as quickly as cheap plastics. Look for brands that offer repairable designs or timeless styling that won’t be discarded with the next trend.

Refillable and recyclable options

If sustainability matters to you, check for recyclable packaging and materials. Stainless steel is widely recyclable, and some suppliers now offer take-back or recycling programmes for worn kitchenware. It’s a small choice that makes your kitchen greener over time.

Final buying checklist before you click “add to basket”

Before you buy, ask: Does it include the measurements I need? Is it durable and well-reviewed? Does it nest or store cleanly? Can it be used in the dishwasher? Will it live happily with my other kit? If you can tick most boxes, you’ve found a keeper.

Shopping across UK retailers

Compare prices and read reviews across retailers like Nordic Nest, specialist kitchen shops that carry Sabatier ranges, Lakeland, John Lewis and online marketplaces. Look for seller warranties and clear product specs so you’re not surprised by size or material when it arrives.

Choosing great measuring cups and spoons is one of the best small investments for your kitchen. They don’t just make recipes work — they save time, reduce waste and make cooking more fun. Whether you prefer the clean lines of Nordic Nest products, the trusted feel of Sabatier sets, or the everyday practicality at UK retailers, the right tools help you cook with confidence. So pick a few quality pieces, look after them, and enjoy the measurable difference in your food.