Milk Frother Buying Guide

What is a milk frother?

As the name suggests, a milk frother is a nifty gadget used to froth milk, typically to add to coffees and specialty drinks, such as frappés and even cocktails. It works by aerating milk, creating tiny bubbles to turn it into a thick and velvety foam. Most coffee machines typically come with a milk frother attachment, but you can also buy standalone models.

Types of milk frothers

There are a few types of milk frother to choose from, depending on how you like to make your coffee and how quickly you want it made in the morning.

1. Handheld milk frother

Hand-operated milk frothers are fairly compact and designed with battery-operated propeller-style whisks at the end of a wand that you insert directly into your cup or glass of milk to froth. They work similarly to a handstick blender, but on a smaller scale.

2. Manual milk frother

Manual models of milk frother are generally as close as you’ll get to a barista style steamed milk. This kind of frother is generally attached to a coffee machine and uses steam to create a glossy and creamy steamed milk. You insert the nozzle into the milk, and once it’s turned on you hold the jug on an angle and move it in a circular motion. To obtain the best results, don’t overheat the milk. And always read the coffee machine’s manual before using it, as steam can scald.

3. Automatic milk frother

Electric, coffee-style milk frothers are the largest and most expensive type, but are the easiest to use and provide the best quality of quickly foamed milk. These small machines allow you to heat and froth milk at the touch of a button. Auto milk frothers come as an attachment on some models of coffee machine; they automatically froth milk after pouring a shot of coffee.

How to use a milk frother

Depending on which type of milk frother you choose, there are a few different methods of use. If you decide on a handheld or manual model, a basic rule of thumb is to get a nice spiral movement in the milk, to help let air and steam pass through the milk for a creamier result. Automatic models do the work for you, making them simpler to use: just pour in the milk and press a button for the desired result.

Click here to compare electricity providers

How much does a milk frother cost?

Milk frothers range in price from around $10 to upwards of $300 for larger automatic models. Handheld models are the cheapest option, and sit at the bottom of the price range, whereas large automatic models have added functions and a larger capacity to froth milk, making them more expensive.

Who sells milk frothers?

Milk frother brands include Kmart, Sunbeam, Living & Co and Nespresso. You can buy directly from the brand or from retailers such as Briscoes, Noel Leeming and The Warehouse.

Kmart milk frother

Kmart offers an automatic model of milk frother that retails for around $40. It has four functions: hot low froth, hot high froth, cold froth and warmed milk. It has a 160ml milk frothing capacity and 320ml milk warming capacity. Its non-stick internal coating makes it easy to clean, and its double-wall design helps to avoid any burns. Plus the detachable power base means you can easily pour your milk once it’s frothed.

Sunbeam milk frother

Sunbeam has just one milk frother on offer, which starts at $89. The automatic frother comes with two attachments for frothing and mixing, and can froth both warm and cold milk. The Sunbeam milk frother has a large capacity of 250ml and froths enough milk for two standard coffees.

Living & Co milk frother

Living & Co (available at The Warehouse) has two milk frothers. The handheld milk frother is just $11, although it’s far less convenient than the automatic frother, which is still fairly affordable at $59. The automatic frother has a frothing capacity of 150ml and a warming capacity of 300ml. It also comes with a detachable froth paddle for easy cleaning.

Nespresso milk frother

Nespresso is known for its quality coffee products, and its milk frothers are no exception. Retailing from $149 to $379, you can find three models of milk frother to suit your needs. All are automatic models that offer between 120ml and 250ml capacity and deliver barista-level milk in mere moments. The most expensive model offers the ability to make over 20 Nespresso coffee and hot drink recipes, including hot chocolate and other similar drinks.

Purchasing a milk frother

When it comes to purchasing a milk frother there are plenty to choose from. Whether you’re after a cheaper handheld model or an automatic model that creates froth-tastic, creamy milk (perfect for the coffee snob), you’ll find a model that suits. If you’re still not certain on a milk frother, start by purchasing a cheaper handheld version; from there you’re free to upgrade if you’re feeling frothier!

Click here to compare coffee brands

About the reviewer of this page

This report was reviewed by Canstar Content Producer, Caitlin Bingham. Caitlin is an experienced writer whose pas sion for creativity led her to study communication and journalism. She began her career freelancing as a content writer, before joining the Canstar team.