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FAQ
Are the salt/pepper grinding mechanisms different?
Yes — both in design and in the grade of stainless steel we use.
The pepper burr is made from 420 hardened stainless steel with 40 cutting teeth. This alloy is extremely tough, designed to shear peppercorns cleanly and release their full aroma. The coarser grind profile enhances flavour and texture.
The salt burr is made from 316 stainless steel, chosen for its superior corrosion resistance. It has 50 teeth, producing a finer grind and preventing larger salt crystals from passing through. This material ensures the mechanism remains durable, even after years of contact with salt.
By tailoring both the geometry and the materials, we’ve engineered burrs that are optimised for each seasoning — giving you precision, durability, and the best possible taste.
My mill is no longer grinding. What should I do?
Don’t worry — this is usually a very simple fix. Our mills are designed to be fully serviceable, and the most common cause is that the handle has slipped slightly on the spindle.
To re-connect it:
- Take a standard 2mm hex (Allen) key.
- Loosen the small grub screw at the back of the handle.
- Remove the handle and place it back onto the spindle, making sure the grub screw hole lines up with the slot on the spindle.
- Re-tighten the grub screw securely.
That should get your mill grinding perfectly again. If you run into any issues, please contact us at info@iron-mills.co.uk and we’ll be happy to help.
How do I adjust the coarseness of the grind?
To adjust the coarseness of your mill, turn the central adjusting knob (underside of the mill) clockwise for a fine grind and anti-clockwise for a coarse grind.
Can I order replacement parts?
You can order spare parts using the link below:
We're yet to add all replacement parts to the website. Please use the contact form below if you can't find what you're looking for.
How should I care for my mill?
Our mills are easy to look after. Please follow these guidelines to maximise their working life:
1. Only use pepper in our pepper mills, and salt in our salt mills. The pepper mechanisms are made from a hardened stainless alloy optimised for peppercorns, but they are not designed for prolonged contact with salt. Salt should always be used in our dedicated salt mills, which are made from a corrosion-resistant stainless steel.
2. Do not put any of our products in the dishwasher.
3. Clean the exterior surfaces by wiping with a soft, damp cloth.
4. If your mill does get wet, allow it to dry thoroughly for at least 24 hours before use. This reduces the likelihood of corrosion and protects the mechanism.
5. Keep away from direct steam and heat sources. Don’t store your mill right next to the hob or kettle. Continuous exposure to steam can introduce moisture into the mechanism, accelerating corrosion and clogging the burrs.
6. Empty the mill if not in use for long periods. If you won’t use your mill for a while, empty the contents. This prevents salt or pepper from compacting inside the mechanism, and avoids moisture being absorbed over time.
7. Use dry, food-grade salt and pepper. Avoid using “wet” sea salts or unusually soft/humid spices, as these can clog the mechanism and increase wear. Always choose dry, free-flowing crystals and peppercorns.
8. Take care not to trap your fingers in the grinding components.
9. Our mills are heavy. Please handle them with care and avoid placing them near the edge of surfaces.
10. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads on the exterior, as these can damage the painted surface.
How can I request a return?
You can request a return within your account (login below):