The directions said that a potholder was advisable, but it should have read that to avoid scalding a mitt pot holder is a must.  Even with pushing the lid down as firmly as possible, steam escapes from the lid as well as the spout making it impossible to hold the handle without possible scalds.  Terrible product and I resent having to pay postage in returning it as well as the nuisance in returning it.

Pros: No pros after trying it out.
Cons: Steam escaping from lid and spout making it impossible to hold handle without scalding.