I’ve been loyal to my old dual-zone Ninja air fryer for years. It may use a traditional non-stick coating, but the versatility of two separate baskets has always been a non-negotiable for me

Now, however, Ninja has raised the bar with the dual-zone version of the beloved non-toxic Ninja Crispi, and, quite frankly, I'm obsessed.

With two independent glass cooking containers, Ninja's signature Sync and Match cooking functions, and a PFAS- and PTFE-free design, it combines the convenience I demand with the healthier materials we should all prefer. It could well be the strongest contender yet for this year's best non-toxic air fryer.

We reviewed the Ninja Crispi Pro last year, and it has reigned as our best glass air fryer ever since. Its borosilicate glass containers double as both cooking vessels and food storage, streamlining meal prep, cooking, and leftovers.

Combined with excellent cooking performance, it's an exceptionally well-designed appliance. Our only real criticism was that the multiple components can take up a fair amount of storage space in smaller kitchens.

The DualZone, by contrast, feels much more like a traditional air fryer. A fixed base houses two removable glass baskets that slide in and out independently, while still including storage lids so you can cook, store, and reheat in the same containers. Better still, the baskets are fully dishwasher-safe, making cleaning a kitchen after dinner far easier than with many traditional or ceramic-coated air fryer baskets.

The new Ninja Crispi DualZone features an eight-quart total capacity between two glass containers, each with a four-quart capacity. Each dish also has its own crisper plate for even results.

My favorite features are Ninja's Match Cook and Smart Finish functions. I can use each basket independently, or stagger start times to cook two foods at different temperatures and times while ensuring they finish together, perfect for roasting meat in one basket and vegetables in the other. When I'm batch cooking, the Match function copies the same settings to both baskets, making it easy to prepare larger quantities with minimal effort.

So far as non-toxic kitchen appliances go, it is easily one of the best I have seen, and the stunning Vista Green and Rose Quartz are seriously chic, too. They add a hint of color without overwhelming your kitchen design. It simply makes cooking more fun.

What Else to Shop

From my favourite air fryer accessories to non-toxic cleaning products, I've rounded up the products I always keep on hand to get the most out of my air fryer while creating a healthier, more streamlined kitchen.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Looking to detoxify the rest of your kitchen? Brush up on the most common cookware labels and myths to help replenish your collections and reduce accidental exposure.

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Summer is the season of sizzling burgers, seared steaks, and caramelized onions – but all that cookout cooking often comes with a downside: lingering grease and food odors that can hang around your home long after dinner is done.

Instead of filling your kitchen with smoke, heat, and smells, you can move the action outside. IKEA's $75 portable induction cooktop lets you create an instant outdoor cooking station at a fraction of the cost of a full outdoor kitchen, keeping cooking mess and odors out of your home while giving you more space to socialize as you cook – no grill required.

Whether you're hosting friends or simply enjoying a quiet meal in the sunshine, it's a simple, affordable upgrade that makes summer cooking cooler, cleaner, and far more enjoyable.

Outdoor cooking often gets a reputation for being complicated. Even the best grills require regular maintenance, take time to heat up, and can limit what you cook. A portable induction burner, on the other hand, offers far more flexibility. You can fry, boil, sauté, or simmer almost anything outdoors, all while keeping excess heat and lingering cooking odors out of your kitchen. It's one of the simplest ways to make summer cooking cooler, cleaner, and far less stressful.

The IKEA TRILLREDA Portable Induction Hob is an excellent budget-friendly way to take the hottest, messiest cooking outdoors with minimal setup. Thanks to induction technology, it heats magnetic cookware directly, making it fast, precise, and highly energy efficient. All you need is a power outlet, a flat surface, and the best induction cookware to create an instant outdoor kitchen.

The hack is also endorsed by Homes & Gardens’ Head of Solved, Punteha van Terheyden. She shares, 'My parents always did this for our Iranian parties as we had to fry so much onion beforehand, and it was a game-changer. I do it myself now, too, as I am very sensitive to cooking smells.

'It makes a huge difference, especially when you’re cooking in bulk or in a small kitchen where the odors really linger.'

Shoppers are equally enthusiastic about the portable induction cooktop, praising its fast heating, ease of use, and convenience for everything from everyday meals to outdoor cooking. It's the perfect quick fix.

What Else to Shop

Preventing kitchen odors requires a layered approach. To help keep your space fresh while making summer cooking easier, I’ve rounded up some of my favorite accessories for neutralising kitchen odors, simplifying cleanup, and streamlining everyday meal prep.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Moving your cooking outside is also a great way to stay cool when hosting outside in summer, but we have several more tips to make al fresco less stuffy this season.

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I love ice cream. Come rain or shine, there are few situations a tub of a creamy sweet treat wouldn't improve. That is why I am so obsessed with Nutribullet's new compact Chill Ice Cream Maker.

The small-but-mighty machine can make ice cream, sorbet, gelato, smoothie bowls, and frozen yogurt without monopolizing your counters, making it the perfect ice cream maker for small spaces.

With $57 off for the Amazon Prime Day sale, the Nutribullet Chill is the most affordable this quick-fan-favorite has ever been. It's a no-brainer: If you love a summer ice cream social, you need this petite pint maker.

Yes, it is easy enough to go to the store and buy a pre-made pint of ice cream when the sun comes out. However, homemade gives you the chance to have fun with personalized ice cream recipes to suit any mood or occasion.

Once you have frozen the ingredients for 24 hours, the maker churns your mix to creamy perfection.

It is the customer reviews that have me so excited to add one to my counter. Dadorf, on Amazon, shared in their five-star review, 'So far we've tried everything but smoothie bowls, and we're hooked! Our favorites are frozen yogurt (we use a whole milk strawberry flavored yogurt), the ice cream, and the mango sorbet recipe that came with the Chill is to die for!

'What we normally do is run the Nutribullet Chill the next night as we finish dinner, and bam! Fresh frozen delight! It's so easy to use, the recipes that come with it are delicious, and we can alter the basic formula to add our own ingredients. Two containers are included, so you can double up or stay one ahead, like we do, with tomorrow's treat in the freezer while we're gobbling up one we just made.'

Perhaps the biggest draw, however, is the size. As I struggle with small kitchen storage, ice cream makers have previously felt like too much of an investment. They have a reputation for being bulky and tricky to store, and for me, a single-function appliance usually is not worth the space.

Measuring just 9.6"L x 5.74"W x 15.08"H, the Nutribullet is around half the size of traditional ice cream makers, making it simple to store or leave on the counter. It's already in my basket, and I can't wait to make the most of it to survive summer.

What Else to Shop

To help you host the perfect ice cream socials this summer, I have rounded up a list of my top cold-treat accessories to kit out your sweet-treat bar.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

The right tools will only carry you so far when hosting. Be sure to avoid these common summer hosting mistakes to keep guests comfortable in the heat.

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The vacation you’ve been looking forward to is finally just around the corner, and the last thing you want while you’re away is to be worrying about your home appliances. We’ve all had that moment – pulling out of the driveway only to wonder if the oven is definitely off, or if something has been left running in the bathroom.

Leaving appliances switched on is a common source of anxiety, but what many people don’t realise is that there are several household items you don’t need to leave plugged in at all while you’re on holiday. In fact, there are key items you should always unplug before leaving the house, whether they’re on or off, to reduce risk and unnecessary energy use.

Beyond peace of mind, taking a few minutes to switch things off properly can also help improve your home's EPC rating by reducing standby energy consumption over time.

To help bring some reassurance before you travel, we spoke to electricians and appliance experts about what should always be switched off and unplugged before a trip away. Here’s what they recommend.

1. Wi-Fi-Connected Devices And Hubs

Devices like Wi-Fi routers, game consoles, and smart home systems don’t need to stay plugged in while you’re away. While the risk of hazard is low, they can still quietly add to your energy bill over time.

‘I would consider unplugging Wi-Fi-enabled devices if I’m going on holiday, or at the very least switching off or disabling their connectivity features,’ says Bill Gilbert, Technical Writer and Resident Appliance Expert at iFixit.

Most appliances draw less than a watt in standby mode, but over the course of a longer vacation, even these small amounts of phantom energy use can add up. If you'd rather not unplug everything individually, the Amazon Smart Plug is an easy alternative. Compatible with Alexa, it lets you remotely switch devices off or create schedules so they automatically power down while you're away, helping reduce standby energy use with minimal effort.

If you're managing multiple devices, the Amazon Basics Smart Plug Power Strip makes it easy to control and schedule several appliances at once, helping reduce standby energy use while you're away.

2. Battery Chargers

It may be tempting to leave chargers plugged in, but experts caution against it – particularly when lithium-ion batteries are involved.

‘I would avoid leaving lithium-ion devices charging unattended for extended periods or while away from home, as thermal runaway – although rare – can occur if a fault develops during charging,’ says Thomas Opsomer, iFixit’s Repair Policy Lead.

Instead, fully charge devices before you leave and unplug chargers at the socket, or arrange for someone to periodically check anything that requires charging while you’re away.

3. Countertop Appliances And Non-Essentials

Coffee machines, toasters, hair tools, and other countertop appliances don’t need to remain plugged in while you’re away. Even when the risk is low, unplugging them removes any residual uncertainty. If you prefer a more seamless setup, a smart option like the Cync Smart Indoor Plug from Amazon can also help you switch devices off remotely before you leave.

‘Voltage spikes or power surges can still damage connected appliances, even if they’re switched off at the unit, before a breaker has time to respond,’ says Paul Karandos, Luxury Appliance Specialist at Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center. ‘While many modern appliances include internal safeguards and automatic shut-off features, best practice is still to disconnect them at the socket when not in use for extended periods.’

It’s also a simple way to remove that lingering 'did I switch everything off?' feeling before you leave the house.

4. Heat-Producing Appliances And Electronics

Anything that generates heat – or remains warm on standby – should be unplugged before you go. Devices that feel even slightly warm when left connected are still drawing power, which can add unnecessary load and, over long periods, increase wear on internal components.

Fans, purifiers, lamps, consoles, large computers, and tumble dryers all fall into this category, and switching them off at the socket is a simple way to reduce risk and eliminate standby energy use while you’re away.

5. Older Or Well-Used Appliances

Older appliances naturally come with more wear and tear, which can increase risk over time. In homes that haven’t been recently rewired or updated to current electrical standards, there can also be a higher likelihood of electrical issues developing, particularly when systems are under load or left unattended for long periods. The same applies to older appliances, which may not have the same safety features as newer models.

For extended trips, a more comprehensive approach – such as switching off breakers to non-essential areas of the home where appropriate – can further reduce risk while also cutting down unnecessary energy use.

Shop Smart Plugs and Timers

Before you head off, take a final walk through your home to ensure everything is properly switched off and unplugged. Even small steps – like removing standby devices from sockets – can make a big difference to peace of mind. And remember: half-inserted plugs are a risk not worth taking.

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For yet another summer, we’re facing record-breaking temperatures – and in an older home without air conditioning, I’m feeling every degree of it.

When I first came across the Ninja SLUSHi 88 oz Frozen Drink Maker, I honestly thought it was more gimmick than essential – just another single-use appliance that would end up gathering dust. But after weeks of 95°F heat and no real relief, it’s become one of the most-used ways I’ve found to stay cool without AC.

From frozen lemonades and classic slushies to frozen cocktails, it turns everyday drinks into genuinely refreshing heatwave essentials. And with the Ninja SLUSHi 88oz currently $150 off at Target, there’s rarely been a better time to add one to your kitchen ahead of the 4th of July.

I have the larger Ninja SLUSHi Max from Amazon, which I reviewed earlier this year, and I didn’t expect to love it quite as much as I do.

The Ninja SLUSHi, also available at Target, works by taking any liquid with at least five grams of sugar per 100 millilitres and continuously churning and chilling it at the same time, producing a smooth, icy drink in just minutes. Even at full capacity, the 88 oz model can make around seven to eight servings in about an hour, which makes it perfect for entertaining or hot-weather batch drinks.

It uses RapidChill technology, so there’s no need to pre-freeze or add ice, which keeps the whole process simple and fuss-free. It’s a strong alternative to the best blenders, especially if you’re tired of experimenting only to end up with something that doesn’t quite hit that classic soda-shop texture.

I’ve tried everything from fizzy lemonade to pure fruit juices and enjoyed every single one. And for those with a more refined palate, it also handles alcoholic slushes beautifully, adding a fun but elevated twist to summer dinner parties.

For those hosting smaller gatherings or wishing to create personal sweet treats, the 72-oz Ninja SLUSHi is under $180 at Walmart, now too.

What Else to Shop

All you really need is the Ninja SLUSHi (also available at QVC) and a glass to start turning out frozen drinks all summer long. But if you want to take things up a notch and really impress guests, I’ve pulled together a few fun accessories that lean into that old-school soda shop nostalgia – little touches that make every slushie, frozen cocktail, or iced treat feel that bit more special.

We have a whole host of other tips for keeping cool when hosting outside in summer, too.

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There are few times as well-suited to hosting as summer, when the sun stretches late into the evening, and you can gather friends and family outdoors.

However, cooking for a crowd poses a unique set of challenges, chief among which is the combination of summer heat mixed with that of your oven.

The solution? One of the best non-toxic air fryers, of course. The best news is that our top hosting pick, the Typhur Dome 2, is currently $115 off in the Prime Day Sales. It's the best XL upgrade for the busiest hosts.

A good-sized air fryer is one of my must-have finds to prep a home for summer hosting. They not only cook your food more quickly than your regular oven, but they also use less energy to keep a kitchen cool in peak summer heat.

Our expert chef Lydia Hayman reviewed the Typhur Dome 2 last year and fell in love, agreeing that it is easy to see why Typhur ambassador Brooklyn Beckham has chosen it as one of his favorite appliances for simplifying a kitchen.

With one of the biggest capacities we have ever seen on an air fryer and a PFAS-free basket, it is the best choice for cooking for four or more. Better still, it's simple to use, AI-enabled to remove guesswork, and quiet, so it will not interfere with your hosting this summer, or as we look ahead to the cozier seasons.

One of Lydia's few complaints was the price; however, the Prime Day Sales make it a much more considerable investment for Prime members ahead of the summer rush. I've rarely seen it so affordable, making it the best time to snap it up.

What Else to Shop

To help you make the most of your air fryer, I have rounded up my favorite air fryer accessories that make cooking, cleaning and maintenance simpler.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

The Typhur Dome 2 is not an easy appliance to store. Luckily, we have rounded up the best ways to conceal an air fryer in a kitchen to keep your space neat and functional.

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There are summer mornings when it feels too hot to even think about breakfast, let alone cook one. On days like that, a quick smoothie becomes the easiest way to stay nourished without turning on the stove or forcing down a heavy meal.

I don’t want to deal with anything overly complicated first thing in the morning, which is why the nutribullet PowerCore XL Blender has caught my attention, especially with its current $30 Prime Day discount.

According to our expert tester, this best blender delivers smooth results in seconds with simple, no-fuss presets, which is exactly what I need to uncomplicate my mornings.

If you have ever wondered which food prep appliance you need, a blender is probably the best place to start. From morning till night, they can blitz everything from pancake batter and smoothies to soups and sauces.

The nutribullet PowerCore Blender makes it even easier. With a generous 72 oz pitcher, six-point blade, and a 1400-watt motor, it makes light work of seeded fruits and tough rolled oats to create a super smooth mix.

We recently reviewed the PowerCore and loved just how easy it was to use. Nowadays, choosing the best kitchen appliances can be overcomplicated by the sheer number of functions a single tool offers. The PowerCore does one thing and does it well. With three variable speeds, a dedicated smoothie setting, and a pulse option, it keeps the morning routine streamlined and fuss-free while still delivering consistently smooth results.

Our only complaint is that when blending a pitcher full of ice and lemonade, it struggled and veered toward being too loud. In smoothies with cubes or frozen fruit, however, it posed no issue. If you are looking to create cooling slush-style drinks, a dedicated tool such as the Ninja Slushi Max, also available at Amazon, will always be my recommendation.

Being easy to clean and dishwasher-safe makes this an investment shoppers love, too. For instance, verified shopper Nicola Lannone shared in their five-star review, 'I was looking for a blender that can handle frozen fruit, ice, and nuts without struggling, and this turned out to be a great option. The motor is strong and creates a good vortex that pulls ingredients down into the blades, so you don’t have to constantly stop and stir.

'The texture is honestly comparable to much more expensive blenders (I owned a Vitamix for a while). Smoothies come out creamy, ice gets crushed evenly, and even tougher ingredients like almonds blend without much effort.'

It might finally be the thing to make me a morning person in summer.

What Else to Shop

To help you make the most of your new appliance, I have curated a selection of my must-have accessories to help clean a blender, and serve and store in style.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Short on space at home? Consider one of the best blender food processor combos to double the functionality without the storage space.

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As a sweet-treat lover, I think it’s unthinkable to get through summer without ice cream. Store-bought pints are fine, but making your own at home adds an extra level of fun. Besides, I can't find white chocolate caramel Kinder Bueno Oreo ice cream at the grocery store.

The Ninja CREAMi Ice Cream Maker first launched five years ago, and since then it has remained a firm favourite in the home dessert space. If you haven’t picked one up yet (why not?), there’s good news: It’s currently $50 off ahead of the heatwave.

Capable of making ice cream, sorbet, gelato, frozen yoghurt, milkshakes, and more, with full control over mix-ins, it remains one of the best ice cream makers money can buy.

Most of Europe is already suffering a heatwave, and the US is reportedly next, with triple-figure temperatures expected across most of the country.

While air conditioning and smart fan placement are key to keeping a house cool, frozen treats such as ice cream play a significant − and more entertaining − role. Store-bought does the job, but the Ninja CREAMi Deluxe gives you free rein of any ice cream recipes your mind can muster.

The Deluxe 11-in-1 gives you double the functionality, too. You can split a single base into two mix-in flavors without making a second batch. Add candy or chocolate chips to the top half, serve first, then mix cookies or nuts into the bottom and enjoy later. It is perfect for households with different tastes, or if, like me, you simply cannot make up your mind.

To make, simply add your base mix into the pint container, freeze for 24 hours, and then churn to create the silky texture for your mix ins. With extra XL pint lidded pots available at Ninja, you can have plenty of flavors stashed away to suit any mood.

What Else to Shop

Planning an ice cream social this summer? I have rounded up a selection of my must-haves for enjoying creamy treats in style.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Churning pints for a crowd? Brush up on the most common summer hosting mistakes before your guests arrive.

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When a heatwave hits, most of us focus on staying cool and looking after ourselves – wearing sunscreen, staying hydrated, and keeping our homes comfortable. But soaring temperatures can also take a toll on the appliances we rely on every day.

From working harder than usual to generating excess heat and consuming more energy, some household appliances can become less efficient during periods of extreme heat. In some cases, leaving them plugged in unnecessarily can contribute to overheating, extra wear and tear, and increased energy use.

The good news is that a few simple adjustments can help. In fact, some of the same appliances experts recommend unplugging during a heatwave also feature on the list of items you should always unplug before leaving the house, and before going on vacation, helping to reduce energy waste, minimize potential safety risks, and even support efforts to improve your home's EPC rating by cutting unnecessary electricity consumption.

We asked electricians and appliance experts which appliances are worth unplugging during a heatwave, and why doing so could help keep your home cooler, lower energy bills, and protect your appliances for the long term.

1. Small Non-Essential Appliances

It’s easy to overlook just how many small appliances are plugged in around the home at any given time. From phone chargers and gaming consoles to electric toothbrush chargers and beauty tools, many of these devices continue drawing power even when they’re not actively being used.

'During a heatwave, unplugging anything non-essential can be a surprisingly effective way to reduce unnecessary energy consumption,' says Amanda Nelson, Co-Owner of Young Cardinal Electric. 'Not only does this help limit excess heat generated indoors, but it also reduces demand on local power grids, which are often under increased pressure as households ramp up air conditioning and cooling systems.'

Experts recommend unplugging items such as chargers, personal electronics, gaming consoles, essential oil diffusers, and small beauty appliances when they’re not in use. As a bonus, cutting so-called 'phantom' energy use can also trim your electricity bill and support efforts to improve your home's EPC rating over time.

The advice mirrors guidance around the items you should always unplug before leaving the house: if you don't need it, don't leave it plugged in. During a heatwave, this simple habit can help keep energy use in check while taking a little pressure off both your home and the wider grid.

2. Countertop Appliances

While it’s not practical – or even possible – to unplug larger appliances such as refrigerators or ovens during a heatwave, smaller countertop appliances are a different story. Kettles, toasters, coffee makers, blenders, and air fryers are all easy to unplug when they’re not in use and can be left disconnected until you need them again.

As well as drawing small amounts of standby power, these appliances can be more vulnerable to power fluctuations during periods of high electricity demand. Unplugging them helps reduce unnecessary energy use and removes the risk of appliances being damaged by unexpected power surges.

By contrast, larger appliances are often protected by dedicated circuits and built-in safety measures, meaning they generally don't need to be unplugged during hot weather. Instead, focus on the small appliances you use intermittently. It’s a quick, low-effort habit that can reduce energy waste, help improve your home's EPC rating over time, and is another smart addition to the list of items you should always unplug before leaving the house.

3. Air Conditioning Units And Fans

It may seem counterintuitive to include air conditioners and fans on this list during a heatwave, but there's no need to switch them off if you're actively using them. Instead, pay attention to how hard they're working. Cooling appliances often run almost continuously during extreme heat, which can put extra strain on older models or units with worn components.

‘In the extreme conditions experienced during heatwaves, appliances can be more susceptible to overheating, especially if they are older or have worn components. Unplugging them reduces the risk of overheating, which can lead to malfunctions, damage to the appliance, or even fire hazards,’ says Bill Gilbert, Technical Writer and Resident Appliance Expert at iFixit.

There can also be wider energy implications during periods of prolonged heat. ‘I could imagine unplugging a window-mount air conditioner if there was potential to stress the local power grid,’ says Bill Gilbert, Technical Writer and Resident Appliance Expert at iFixit. ‘California has a "Flex Alert" system where residents are asked to voluntarily reduce electricity use during times of exceptionally high demand, such as heatwaves, to help prevent strain on the grid and reduce the risk of blackouts.’

The key is to use cooling appliances intentionally. If a fan or portable air conditioner isn't needed, switch it off and unplug it rather than letting it run continuously. After all, the goal is to keep a home cool in a heatwave as efficiently as possible, and running appliances unnecessarily only creates extra heat and energy demand.

Setting cooling appliances on a timer can help prevent wasted electricity while ensuring your home stays comfortable when temperatures soar. For a simple, budget-friendly option, the top-rated BN-LINK 24-Hour Mechanical Outlet Timer lets you schedule exactly when fans and portable air conditioners switch on and off. If you prefer smart home controls, the GHome Smart Plug works with Alexa and Google Home from Amazon, allowing you to manage appliances remotely and set customised schedules from your phone.

4. Computers And Home Office Equipment

With so many people now working from home, home office equipment can be an overlooked source of extra heat during a heatwave. Desktop computers, monitors, printers, and docking stations all generate warmth while they're running, and that heat can quickly build up in smaller rooms, making an already warm space feel even more uncomfortable.

Unlike many household appliances that are used only briefly, office equipment often runs continuously for hours at a time. Desktop computers, in particular, rely on internal fans to cool their components, meaning they're constantly pushing warm air back into the room. Add multiple monitors and charging devices into the mix, and your workspace can start to feel noticeably warmer.

When you've finished for the day, it's worth shutting down and unplugging equipment that doesn't need to stay on. Printers, speakers, extra monitors, and chargers are especially easy to disconnect, helping to reduce standby power and prevent unnecessary heat from lingering in your workspace.

If you're trying to keep a home cool in a heatwave, every small source of excess heat matters. Turning off and unplugging home office equipment overnight won't replace air conditioning, but it can help create a more comfortable environment while lowering energy use and giving your devices a break after a long day of use.

5. Appliances That Generate Extra Heat

During a heatwave, it's worth paying attention to the appliances that create unnecessary heat indoors. Table lamps, decorative lighting, and other small electrical items may not seem like obvious culprits, but many bulbs give off heat while they're switched on, subtly warming up a room throughout the day.

If possible, make the most of natural daylight and keep lamps switched off until the evening. It's a small change, but one that can help reduce heat build-up and lower electricity use at the same time.

A heatwave is also a good reminder to check the light bulbs you're using around your home. Older incandescent bulbs generate significantly more heat than modern LED alternatives, which run cooler and consume far less energy.

In my bedroom, I use the Philips Hue Smart 75W A19 LED Bulb, which I purchased on Amazon. I can control the lights directly from my smartphone, and they ended up being one of my favorite purchases from last year's Amazon Prime Day.

Shop Timers and Smart Plugs

Ultimately, keeping your home comfortable during extreme heat often comes down to reducing unnecessary electrical demand wherever you can. Limiting the use of heat-generating appliances and lighting is a simple step that can help keep rooms cooler, cut energy consumption, and ease the strain on both your appliances and the wider power grid.

If you want more seasonal, cooling and heating advice, and the latest news, why not sign up for our newsletter and get the latest features delivered straight to your inbox?

I never knew my daily protein shake was suffering from Crowded Blender Syndrome. Normally, I’d pack ingredients all the way to the top, then wonder why it was struggling to blend.

After three weeks of testing the nutribullet PowerCore XL Blender, I discovered the problem was never my ingredients. The real issue was capacity. Ingredients need space to move freely if you want truly smooth smoothies, batters, and sauces. The XL design quickly proved its worth, delivering consistently thorough blends with minimal effort. Its intuitive controls make it remarkably easy to use straight out of the box, quickly earning a permanent spot on my countertop.

Here’s what to expect if you are ready to 'size up' on your best blender and are sick of too many options that don’t make much sense on the control panel.

Product Specifications: KitchenAid Artisan Plus 5 Quart Stand Mixer

Design and First Impressions

Unboxing the product is straightforward and simple. A large box contains the two main parts of the blender and a lid, multiple directions and paper materials, and some plastic and cardboard wrapping. It’s simple to remove the blender, give it a rinse in the sink and get blending.

One of the benefits of this blender is that little to no knowledge is required to get started. It might take a minute to understand which direction the large container and lid need to go to align and click in properly, but then you can get started.

My first impression was one of relief. There were just a few settings to choose from, unlike some options that feel like the equivalent of learning an entire new computer system just to make a shake. Instead, this just has two options for presets like “smoothie” and “pulse,” or you can just choose from low, medium, or high functions. Easy and quick.

Performance

To test this blender, I followed a thorough process that included multiple cooking tests to see how it did with different consistencies and types of foods and drinks.

I made a smoothie, a milkshake, pancake batter, and an icee/slushie. Each process taught me something different about what the blender can and can’t do, and which processes it is best for.

I also tested ease of use before and after the blending process, such as how easy it is to take it apart and wash it, get food out from around the blades, get the lid on and off, and move the entire appliance around the kitchen in spite of the suction cups on the bottom, determined to keep it in one place.

Overall, the blender performed somewhat well across the tests, though it would be nice to have easier features for pouring or scraping food from the bottom to prevent spills, stronger settings, and better ice handling.

1. Pancake Batter

In the first test, I made pancake batter for my favorite recipe, which includes cottage cheese, oats, eggs, and a sweetener like sugar, honey, agave, or whatever you prefer. I was immediately thrilled that I didn’t have to make it in two batches, like I normally have to do with a smaller blender. Instead, I dumped an entire container of cottage cheese in and still wasn’t even close to halfway to capacity. I added multiple cups of oats and the eggs, and still had plenty of room.

I blended this on the medium setting, and the final result was so much smoother than normal, even with steel-cut oats, which can end up not super smooth and a little too gritty in pancakes. I was happy to see the batter run out into the container like a thick liquid, without needing to be scraped out at all except for around the bottom a bit.

This proved the blender does well with higher quantities of food, not just because it has the capacity, but because it seems to blend better when there’s a heavier load to work with.

2. The Ice Test

On the contrary, I helped my child make an icee or slushie with a pile of 10-ish ice cubes and lemonade. The blender immediately struggled to crush the ice and made very loud sounds. The decibel meter read over 90 at one point, and averaged out around 85 when I was using the high setting. This wasn’t a pleasant experience compared to other blenders and food processors that have handled ice much better. The blender did much better when there were just a few ice cubes, such as in a smoothie, versus trying to handle a more significant amount of ice.

In the ice test, we ended up giving up and settling for large chunks of unblended ice. If you frequently use a blender to crush or blend ice, I’d recommend the Ninja Food Power Blender Ultimate System.

3. Smoothies & Milkshakes

I also used the blender to make a milkshake and a smoothie. While both turned out well, thicker mixtures were a little tricky to remove from around the blades. After testing several settings, including the Pulse and Smoothie functions, I found myself relying almost exclusively on the Medium and High speeds, which delivered better results. Rather than pulsing to redistribute ingredients, I often found a quick shake of the pitcher worked more effectively.

Like most blenders, it needs to come to a complete stop before the container can be removed, but thankfully, this only took a few seconds, making the overall blending process smooth and convenient.

Cleaning and Maintenance

This product comes apart into three pieces, not including the motor, for cleaning. I put all of these items: the lid, the middle and removable part of the lid, and the container into the dishwasher without issue. On a typical cycle, the dishwasher thoroughly cleans the container well, possibly even better than smaller blenders because there’s more room for water and soap to get up into the container and move around, removing old food particles.

Some people might struggle to fit the large container into a dishwasher given its size, so keep in mind it might have to be tilted. The suction cups are strong and effective, but not so strong that you can’t easily move it for storage. But overall, it is not a difficult product to clean or store.

How The nutribullet PowerCore XL Blender Compares

This product is larger, slightly less powerful, and much easier to use than other competitors. If you happen to be using a blender frequently with kids around (mine love to make their own milkshakes), this is an excellent option as it’s quite steady, simple, and self-explanatory. For others who want more extensive settings, competitors might be better options. To fully determine how to shop for the best product for you, check out our chef’s guide to blenders, food processors, and juicers.

On the nutribullet website, 118 reviewers have resulted in an overall rating of 4.8. One of the reviewers also noticed the product’s kid-friendly aspects, writing, “I love this blender! It is so easy to use and quickly blends up whatever I am serving. It is perfect for my kids smoothies and blending things like homemade apple sauce.” Another said it “blends smoothies like a dream,” and some reviewers had an easier experience than I did with ice.

On Amazon, ratings average 4.3 of 5, from 85 reviewers. According to a summary of Amazon’s reviews, people found the following helpful and complained most often about the noise level:

Powerful motor (1400W) that handles tough ingredients like greens, seeds, ice, and nuts

XL 72oz pitchergreat for batch blending and family-sized portions

Dishwasher-safe parts for easy cleanup

Automatic smoothie setting for one-touch convenience

BPA-free plastic pitcher

Should You Buy The nutribullet PowerCore XL Blender?

The nutribullet PowerCore XL Blender is an easy recommendation for most households. It’s reliable and efficient, with a durable design that feels built to withstand years of regular use.

While it has a few drawbacks, its generous capacity makes it difficult to beat for anyone regularly blending large batches of smoothies, soups, or pancake batter.

It is particularly well suited to larger families, meal preppers, and home cooks who prefer to batch-cook. Those who appreciate a simple, no-fuss appliance with intuitive controls will also find plenty to like.

However, if someone is sensitive to noise or uses the product primarily for ice blending, they should avoid this product.

What Else to Shop

To help you make the most of your home blender, we have rounded up six of the best accessories, from noise-dampening pads to leftover storage.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

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As a certified smoothie-snob, I have struggled to find a blender that can deliver truly store-quality drinks in the comfort of my own home.

On a hunt for the best blender, I stumbled on the Vitamix Propel Series 750 Professional Blender in the Early Amazon Prime Day sales, and I think I have finally found the answer to super-smooth blends − and it's now $230 off.

Seriously satisfied shoppers have dubbed it 'engineering at its finest' thanks to its ability to pulverize tough ingredients, crush ice effortlessly, and produce exceptionally smooth blends. Add in the fact that it self-cleans, and it's easy to see why even celebrities swear by it. For anyone serious about smoothies, frozen drinks, soups, or sauces, it looks like one of the standout Prime Day buys of the year.

When it comes to blenders, Vitamix has consistently set the benchmark. Every model we have tested has repeatedly scored over 4.5 stars, and the A3500 we reviewed has remained our top recommendation for well over a year. There is a reason that celebrities such as Reece Witherspoon and Khloe Kardashian have made them a staple in their kitchens.

The Vitamix Propel Series 750 Professional Blender delivers that same professional-grade performance, promising ultra-smooth smoothies, velvety soups, and perfectly blended sauces. Its laser-cut stainless steel blades are designed to power through fibrous produce, ice, and nuts with ease, eliminating the grainy textures that lesser blenders often leave behind.

If that wasn't enough, the blender has a dedicated cleaning function, so you do not have to risk your fingers trying to clean out the bottom of the pitcher. Simply add water and soap, run, and rinse. It counters the worst part of using a blender with ease.

The best part? The capacious 64-ounce pitcher is made from BPA-free plastic, meaning it can safely handle everything from frozen drinks to piping-hot soups without fear of contamination, making it one of the best non-toxic kitchen appliances.

As Vitamix blenders have a reputation for commanding premium prices, Prime Day is one of the best times to invest.

Previous shoppers certainly seem to think the investment is worthwhile. In their five-star review, M. Yu described the blender as 'the perfect kitchen appliance − engineering at its finest,' praising its performance and reliability. They went on to call it the gold standard for smoothies, noting that it significantly outperformed the NutriBullet and Breville blenders they had previously owned.

That sentiment is repeated across countless reviews. While the initial spend can feel steep, the blending power, durability, and seven-year warranty make it all the more worth it.

What Else to Shop

From handy non-toxic kitchen utensils to smart food storage solutions, I’ve rounded up six of my favourite accessories and upgrades to help you get even more out of your new Vitamix. Whether you're blending daily smoothies, batch-prepping soups, or streamlining meal prep, these picks will help you make the most of your investment.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Cleaning a blender can be a laborious task. Luckily, our experts have broken down all of their tips and tricks to simplify the process and make your investment last.

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Fried eggs should be one of the easiest things to cook. In a traditional non-stick pan, they usually are.

Switch to the best non-toxic cookware, however, and the learning curve can feel steep. Stainless steel, for instance, has a reputation for sticking, turning a simple fry-up into a frustrating clean-up job, and leaving delicate eggs in pieces before they reach the plate.

That is what makes the OXO Good Grips Silicone Flexible Turner, available at Amazon, such a kitchen hero. At $12, it is one of the most affordable upgrades you can make for your cookware. Here's why home cooks swear by it.

The smallest upgrades are often the most impactful in a kitchen. While a silicone spatula is hardly groundbreaking, the OXO Good Grips Silicone Flexible Turner is one of the best non-toxic kitchen utensils thanks to its exceptionally thin, flexible edge, which is designed specifically for delicate cooking tasks.

Many cheaper silicone tools or thicker plastic alternatives lack the fine, tapered edge needed to slide cleanly beneath food, often crushing or tearing it in the process. In contrast, the OXO pick slips beneath easily, preventing breaks and easily releasing food from tricky pans such as stainless steel and even cast iron, without scratching cookware surfaces.

Because it is made from silicone, it is safe to use on everything from ceramic non-stick to stainless steel, too, making it a versatile, non-toxic addition to any utensil crock to help care for every type of cookware.

Don't just take our word for it, either. With over 15,000 five-star reviews, shoppers are obsessed with how big a difference a $12 investment made to their cooking.

Verified shopper Brian W. Rossback, for instance, shared, 'I really like these spatulas! I don't care if you are using cast iron, ceramic-coated, Teflon-coated, or stainless-steel pans; this spatula is great.

'It is stiff enough to get under pretty much whatever you are cooking and flip it over, while being flexible enough to get into the edge of the pan. Things don't really stick to the silicone either, so it is really nice not just for flipping, but stirring and mixing in the pan as things cook. No more worries about scratching a surface, and no worries about cleanup afterward as it's non-porous.'

Fellow shopper Cooperator, agreed, dubbing it the 'best spatula, ever!'. They wrote, 'It flips eggs without breaking the yolk; it can chop up hamburger in the pan. It's sturdy but not too stiff. The size and shape make it perfect for cooking anything. It's not too fat, not too narrow. This spatula is right for any job.

'It makes a great gift for those who cook anything at all. It doesn't melt or warp; it holds up against time. I have yet to find another one that even compares to the quality and durability of this spatula.'

What Else to Shop

Securing a seamless cooking experience comes from building up a collection of trustworthy tools that you can rely on for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I have rounded up six of my top picks, and the essential organziers that complement them, to instantly upgrade your kitchen.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Next, brush up on the worst stainless steel cleaning mistakes that might be ruining your cooking experience.

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A quality coffee machine has become almost as essential to the modern kitchen as a stove or sink. For those of us with limited counter space, however, café-quality coffee often comes at the cost of valuable prep room.

With the new Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus, however, you can have the best of both worlds. Designed specifically for smaller kitchens, this compact all-in-one system delivers espresso, filter coffee, and silky café-style microfoam without dominating your countertop.

With barista assist, it removes all of the guesswork from your morning brew, too. As someone constantly fighting for precious counter real estate, I cannot wait to get my hands on what looks to be a worthy contender for the best espresso machines.

The best coffee makers have a reputation for being bulky. To reach the top spot, they often offer several functions, from multiple brew methods to built-in grinding and milk frothing − and the extra bells and whistles usually equate to more room.

The Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus Autofroth Espresso Machine, available at Amazon, delivers all of that without the added mass. Measuring just 10.08" L x 12.17" W x 13.43", it is 30% smaller than its predecessor, the Ninja Luxe Café Pro, which we reviewed and gave five stars last year.

Our expert reviewer Lydia Hayman completely fell in love with the original, saying it was the only machine she ever wanted in her kitchen. One of her only criticisms was that the machine was too big, making this launch possibly the thing to make it truly perfect. I will be sure to put it to the test to find out.

As with the original, the Mini is a highly automated machine, with Barista Assist Technology designed to remove the guesswork from making coffee at home. The system will automatically select the best grind and shot size to give you consistent results, no matter if you are a first-time bean drinker or a trained barista. With single and double-shot espresso baskets, three brew strengths, and three hot water settings, every drink can be tailored to your preferences.

And that's just the coffee. The Luxe Cafe Mini Plus also froths your milk, with a hands-free steam wand calibrated for both dairy and plant-based milks. It's shaping up to be one of the best ways to make espresso at home.

What Else to Shop

At just under $500, the Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus is also one of the more accessible automatic espresso machines I've come across, offering an impressive range of features without venturing into premium coffee-shop territory.

To help you get the most from your new machine, I’ve rounded up some of my favourite coffee accessories, from storage and organisation essentials to brewing tools that can help take your at-home coffee station to the next level.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Not sure which coffee style is best for you? Check out our guide to espresso versus drip for the best morning brew.

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When I learned that the Aarke Coffee Press was made from 100% stainless steel, I knew that I had to put it to the test. With zero plastic, it is the chic way to make a morning brew.

After trialing it at home, I can safely say it did not disappoint. The simple design brews wonderful coffee, with no gritty grounds escaping the quality filter. Even at the premium price point, it is easily one of the best non-toxic coffee makers on the market today.

Here's how I got on with the Aarke Coffee Press, and why this stylish staple will now be a permanent fixture on my counter.

Product Specifications: Aarke Coffee Press

Design and First Impressions

Having reviewed the Aarke Coffee Grinder previously, I expected good things from the Coffee Press. I am glad to say that the high-quality stainless steel has carried over.

Everything about the Aarke Coffee Press (also available at Williams Sonoma) oozes premium quality. The handle feels fantastic in the hand; it is not overly heavy despite the double-walled vacuum stainless steel body, and the polished exterior looks like something you would find in an upmarket coffee shop.

It arrived simply packaged, with no plastic besides a small piece of tape holding the box closed. Inside, the press was nestled in sturdy recyclable cardboard, with a soft bag to protect it from scratches. The matching coffee scoop was wrapped in paper. It is accompanied by an easy-to-read manual that offers suggestions on dosing and grind size, and specific instructions for use with the Aarke Coffee grinder.

What I love the most about this press is that it is plastic-free, with no BPAs in any part of the lid, filter, or plunger. It is pure, durable, non-reactive stainless steel, making it perfectly non-toxic. With a quick rinse, it was ready to use straight out of the box. It could not be simpler.

Performance

The best French presses make making coffee at home simple. Add your coffee grounds, your water, brew, and plunge before serving.

Aarke advises preheating the carafe before using, so I did just that, adding some hot water to let the steel warm up before dumping, drying, and adding my coffee and water.

I used the engraved measurements on the interior of the carafe to brew a four-cup measure, using the 1:12 coffee-to-water ratio to brew just over a single serving. The coffee was steeped for five minutes with the lid turned so that the spout was blocked off to prevent the coffee from cooling down.

I need not have worried about this, however. When the five minutes were up, I touched the exterior of the carafe and found it completely cool. It was as if I had not used the press at all, and it was still fresh out of the box. I was incredibly impressed at just how efficient the double wall insulation was.

Inside, the coffee was still piping hot. The plunger was easy to press down, although I will note that the stainless steel filter does scrape slightly on the stainless steel walls. This creates a small sound, but it is hardly disturbing.

The poured coffee was perfect. The filter kept all the coffee grounds compact and out of the final brew. The coffee was rich and smooth, and according to my partner, who has used it regularly since it arrived, the taste only improved with subsequent use. Whether that is a result of us fine-tuning our method or the stainless steel seasoning with time, I am not sure. Regardless, it makes it a promising investment.

I wanted to further test Aarke's claim that the press can keep coffee warm for up to three hours. To do so, I filled the carafe up to the six-cup measurement and used a food thermometer from Amazon to take readings every hour for three hours.

I preheated the carafe as before and was pleasantly surprised to find that the claim was fairly accurate. After three hours, the water had dropped by 55°F, with the temperature after three hours a comfortable 156°F. We don't generally recommend steeping French press coffee for this long, as you risk over-extraction, but it is nice to know that you are not at risk of a cold brew if you steep a little longer than the suggested five minutes.

Throughout the process, the exterior of the press stayed perfectly cool to the touch. The insulation is next to none.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning a French press always comes with the mildly irritating task of scooping the compacted grounds from the base, but overall, the Aarke is easy to clean.

Because of the large capacity, I found it easiest to use a wooden mixing spoon to reach the base and fish out the coffee to put into my compost. Beyond that the carafe was easy to rinse out. The filter separates with a small screw bolt at the base, making it easy to rinse between the layers and remove any lingering coffee.

All of the parts are dishwasher safe, too, but hand washing is simple enough. Just avoid harsh abrasives to prevent cosmetic scratches. I will note that, being stainless steel, the polished exterior is very prone to water marks if left to air dry, so I suggest towel drying to maintain the shine.

Despite the 34 oz capacity, the press is easy to store in a cabinet or on a shelf and looks good enough to be left on display as part of your coffee station.

How the Aarke Coffee Press Compares

Having used cheap own-brand glass French presses before, the difference is as clear as night and day. You might not be able to watch your coffee brew with the Aarke Stainless Steel Coffee Press; however, the double-wall insulation and plastic-free construction make it a far more elevated brewing experience, without the fear of contaminants.

The top premium contender for the Aarke is the Espro P7 French Press, which has retained its position as the best stainless steel coffee maker for the last few years. Another 32 oz brewer, the Espro is around $5 cheaper on average (at the time of writing). The main difference is in the filter. The Aarke uses a very typical filter comprised of a stainless steel spiral plate, mesh filter, and a cross plate. The Espro uses a patented double wire mesh filter, which is made using BPA-free plastic. As it is BPA-free, it is non-toxic; however, for those who are very particular about 'plastic-free' brews, the Aarke takes the cake.

They both deliver delicious, rich, grit-free coffee with double-wall insulation that keeps coffee warm for hours. Which you choose will come down to your particulars about plastic, BPA-free or not.

Should You Buy the Aarke Coffee Press?

I would absolutely recommend the Aarke Coffee Press to anyone who enjoys French press-style coffee. It is simple to use with premium construction and materials that promise plastic-free brewing.

While the Aarke does come in at a more premium price point ($150 at the time of writing), the quality justifies the investment. The vacuum insulation promises hot coffee without the risk of burns, and the easy-to-hold handle and balanced carafe make for easy pouring. We have noticed a steady improvement in flavour with each use, too, which promises great things for dedicated users. I think it is worth the price, and will be a fantastic find should it drop into any sales.

What Else to Shop

To help you detoxify your coffee routine and create the perfect home café, I’ve curated a selection of my favourite accessories, from non-toxic brewing essentials to smart organization upgrades that make every cup feel a little more special.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

To help start your more mindful routine, consider selecting the best ethical coffee beans next.

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Stand mixers are kitchen workhorses. They need to be able to handle everything from the most delicate mixing to tough kneading without protest, which is why I was so excited to get my hands on the new super-powerful SMEG Forte Stand Mixer.

I put the 750-watt mixer to the test using my favorite tried-and-tested recipes, and it's safe to say that it is a fantastic addition to the SMEG retro-style lineup, delivering stellar baked results every time and easily vying for a spot on the best stand mixers list.

That said, there are a few tiny snags in using the Smeg Forte Stand Mixer that knocked just half a star off of my final verdict. Here's why I still think it can be worth the investment, and the small details to take into account.

Product Specifications: KitchenAid Artisan Plus 5 Quart Stand Mixer

Design and First Impressions

The SMEG Forte Stand Mixer revives the same classic retro silhouette as the rest of the SMEG offerings, with a curvaceous outline that oozes style and pairs wonderfully with their existing toasters, kettles, and more. Much like the original SMEG 1950s Retro Stand Mixer we reviewed a few years ago, the Forte comes in seven classic SMEG colors, all with stainless steel bowls.

The mixer looks great straight out of the box. It arrived well packaged, in mostly recyclable packaging, using sturdy cardboard and a few fabric bags to prevent the plastic exterior and stainless steel bowl from being scratched. The individual accessories were tucked neatly inside, too.

As with any stand mixer, this thing is not light. Coming in at 21lbs, it is a little lighter than the new KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer I reviewed alongside it, but it is still not easy to lift from shelves if you wish to store it away. After a particularly tough arm day at the gym, my partner had to move it onto a slightly higher shelf for me when I needed some extra counter space. For general day-to-day use, however, it is so pretty that I suggest leaving it in place on your counter as part of your kitchen decor. Small appliance slide mats, from Amazon, can make it easier to move if required.

After unboxing and rinsing the attachments to remove any factory dust, it was as simple as plugging it in and starting to bake. There are 11 speed settings, an increase of one from the original design, that play into the new, more powerful motor. The SMEG Forte boasts a 750-watt motor, up from their previous 600 watts, and over double that of the new KitchenAid. The idea is that this will limit the risk of burnout, a common problem that plagues heavily used stand mixers. The mixer also promises a slow start, which steadily increases the speed up to the selected setting to avoid ingredients flying out of the bowl. I found this to be somewhat effective, but it was not as gentle as other mixers I have used in the past.

The Forte comes with four attachments as standard: A stainless steel wire whisk, an aluminum dough hook, a paddle beater, and a flex-edge beater. They also include a clear plastic splash guard with a pouring spout that sits neatly on top of the bowl.

Performance

To thoroughly test the stand mixer, I tested four of my favorite recipes that would assess the appliance's ability to tackle everything from thick doughs to delicate cream:

The Cake Test

Victoria sponge cake is a very simple recipe, but it is easy to get wrong. Overmix, and you risk a dense, chewy cake that is miles from the lightweight, melt-in-the-mouth result you're hoping for. For this reason, I usually hand-mix this batter for precision.

I started by creaming together the butter and sugar using the flex-edge beater attachment. It powered through the mix easily enough, slowly reducing it down to a light and fluffy paste; however, I did notice some sticking around the edge of the bowl. I think this is because the flex-edge silicone only lines one side of the beater, meaning the other is exposed aluminum. As a result, you only get half the scraping power. I had to stop before adding more ingredients to scrape the edges down.

I proceeded as usual, alternating between adding the flour and eggs so as to prevent the batter from splitting. I did this on a low speed to avoid overmixing the dough, especially when adding the final few measures of flour. This is the part when I usually turn to folding the mix with a spoon slowly to keep the air in. The SMEG was a little heavy-handed for this, even on the lowest speed, but it incorporated everything evenly nonetheless. Power is this mixer's forte,' if you'll pardon the pun, more so than precision.

I admittedly shared and ate the cake too quickly and forgot to take a photo, but it came out evenly with no clumps of flour and rose nicely. It wasn't as fluffy as mixing by hand, but it was still perfectly passable.

The Whipped Cream Test

Whipping cream requires high speeds, so I had a good feeling that the SMEG Forte would excel here.

Adding plain double cream to the bowl, I turned the whisk attachment onto a mid-high setting and let it work. The slow start stopped cream from flying up to the splash guard, which was nice to see, even if it was not the slowest build-up I have ever seen in a mixer. It was a little loud in the process, but nothing uncomfortable. It was as expected from a motor of that size.

It very quickly thickened the cream to a spreadable consistency, ready to be spread onto my cake.

The Bread Test

With its more powerful motor, I paid particular attention to the bread test, making my standard focaccia dough. It was a lot easier than mixing by hand and produced a wonderfully airy bread that sprang up when compressed.

The process of making the dough raised a few concerns, however, most notably in the movement of the mixer head. As with most stand mixers, the speed is limited when using the dough hook to prevent burning out the motor, but that was no issue for me. I did find an issue in fitting the dough hook, however. The metal didn't slot together neatly and felt like it was scraping or catching on insertions, needing a bit of force to get it into place and twist to secure. It made the whole appliance feel a little bit less premium.

That said, even on the slowest speed setting, on a high-hydration dough, the head 'bounced' as it mixed. SMEG claims its head movement is there to mimic the natural movement of hands kneading dough for consistent results; however, this is a 'feature' most stand mixers struggle with, which can loosen the head joint over time. I am not entirely convinced by it. Overall, however, I didn't experience any damage in my time testing, nor did the appliance rock or otherwise move on the counter as I worked.

The handled bowl made the dough easy to move around while the dough was proofing, and all in all, I was very impressed by the texture of my sweet cinnamon sugar focaccia.

The Cookie Test

The final test is cookies, used to assess the mixer with another dough type, and the ease of moving the bowl from the counter to the fridge. I used my base cookie recipe for this to make a chewy chocolate-chunk treat.

This mix is usually a nightmare to make by hand, giving me a shoulder ache by the end, so it was nice to take some of the effort out. As with every other recipe, the paddle attachments distributed ingredients nicely, combining them evenly without any lumps or clumps. It also folded the chunks of chocolate evenly, with no sign of rocking or struggling as it worked.

As I refrigerate my cookie dough overnight (at the very least), I removed the bowl, covered it with foil, and put it in the fridge. The bowl is rather squat in size, being wider than it is tall, which made this very easy to do without having to adjust the height of my shelving. It didn't feel heavy in my grip, either, even with the dough inside.

After baking, the cookies were perfectly chewy, with crisp edges that gave way to an almost Stroop-waffle-esque interior. It was another easy win.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning the SMEG Forte Stand Mixer was easy. The removable components are dishwasher safe, with the exception of the wire whisk. I hand-washed all of the pieces and found that even sticky bread dough came away with ease after a small stint soaking to loosen the oils. I always use a soft dish sponge and non-toxic soap, such as the Attitude Dish Soap from Walmart.

The exterior of the appliance, being shiny plastic, can then be buffed down with a damp cloth and dried to remove splatters and fingerprints.

It was as I was washing the bowl after the cookies that I realised that I had damaged it. When portioning cookies, I have always used my metal ice cream scoop from Walmart. It helps me achieve nice, even balls of dough for evenly sized cookies. I had used the same tool to portion dough from my KitchenAid with no issue, and given that stainless steel is a metal utensil safe, I used it without a second thought in the SMEG. After washing, the deep scratches made themselves known.

I flicked back through the manual and couldn't find any warnings against using metal in the bowl, so I didn't put this down to user error. That said, it is important to note that this bowl is more delicate than it looks.

How The SMEG Forte Stand Mixer Compares

When trialling stand mixers, I tested the Smeg Forte alongside the KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer. Both delivered great results on the same bakes, and I would be hard-pressed to tell them apart if I were blindfolded. That said, the process of using each machine varied, and put the KitchenAid half a star ahead.

Both machines come at a premium price so far as stand mixers are concerned; however, for $50 more, the Artisan Plus offers greater precision control, including a folding speed and a bowl light. Even with a more powerful motor, these were two features I missed severely when using the SMEG Forte.

The general consensus online seems to agree that the Forte, while a great option, may not live up to alternatives. Another professional review, for instance, experienced the bowl rocking under the force of the mixer. While I did not experience this myself, it suggests that it might not be quite sturdy enough to withstand its own amped-up motor.

Shopper reviews are more positive, with the bulk of the praise falling on the cult-favorite retro design. Many Amazon shoppers, for instance, love that it matches their existing SMEG investments. Giving it five stars, shopper M commented, 'I love to bake and was finding making bread and similar products tedious due to the amount of hand kneading. The initial shock and slight buyer's remorse due to the price were instantly gone upon my first use! This machine can handle all types of dough, cookies, squares, buns, etc. If you are looking for a stand mixer and want something sturdy that can get the job done, I highly recommend this product!'

Of the one-star reviews, of which there are very few, customers report a range of issues from cords arriving broken to the tilt head mechanism not holding, and even the appliance not always turning on. None of us appeared to have the same issues, which suggests to me that there may be some quality-control concerns with the odd few appliances. It is worth noting that the overall reception is very positive, however, and these mark only a small section of shoppers.

Should You Buy The SMEG Forte Stand Mixer?

All in all, if you value aesthetics and bake occasionally, I do recommend the SMEG Forte Stand Mixer. It ultimately performed well on all of our tests, delivering tasty baked goods, but it just fell a little short in comparison to others on the market in terms of operation. It wouldn't suit someone running a cake business from their home, but it is a fun-looking addition for the occasional home cook.

If you already have an existing stand mixer that performs well, I do not see a need to rush to upgrade, especially with a recommended retail price of $549.99 at the time of writing. I would wait for a sale to invest.

What Else to Shop

Looking to create a cohesive appliance suite or simply elevate your baking setup? I’ve rounded up my favourite SMEG appliances alongside a selection of baking essentials to help outfit your kitchen in style, without compromising on non-toxic materials or performance.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Looking to make your baking setup more professional? We asked professional organizers for their best tips for storing bakeware to keep kitchens tidy.

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There’s a certain charm to kitchen buys that look like they belong in a high-end espresso bar but cost less than a takeaway coffee. ALDI’s Crofton moka pot–style coffee maker does exactly that. With its sleek silver finish and modern silhouette, it has a designer-look appeal that wouldn’t look out of place in a contemporary kitchen, especially one where every detail has been chosen with care and consideration.

For style-conscious coffee drinkers, ALDI has tapped into something people really want right now: everyday objects that feel considered, good-looking, and easy to live with. This isn’t just a coffee gadget sitting in the background. It’s the kind of piece that earns its place on the counter.

Even better, the Crofton moka pot lands in stores from 17 June, making it one of those ALDI Specialbuys likely to disappear quickly once coffee lovers spot it. As someone who already owns the Bialetti Moka Express – the original moka pot design, available on Amazon – I can completely see why more affordable, design-forward alternatives like this are finding a new audience.

Bring A Classic Coffee Ritual Home

At first glance, it has all the familiar moka pot details: the compact metal body, the simple stovetop setup, and that no-fuss feel people have loved for decades. But ALDI's version gives the classic design a more modern edge. The soft silver finish and clean lines make it look far more expensive than it is, and it fits effortlessly into contemporary kitchens without screaming for attention.

I once read a line in an Italian cookbook that stuck with me: ‘At the bar, we drink espresso. At home, we make moka.’ After travelling across Italy – from the Dolomites to Naples – I realised how true that is. In so many kitchens, a moka pot sits permanently on the stove, usually a well-used Bialetti, ready for the next coffee. It’s not treated like a gadget, just part of everyday life.

Over the years, that ritual has travelled far beyond Italy, too. Moka pots have become a staple in homes across Europe and the US, especially for people who want richer coffee without investing in a huge espresso machine.

Designer-Look Without The Designer Price Tag

What also stands out is how good this little brewer looks for the price. It has that understated, designer-look finish that feels far more expensive than it is – the kind of thing you’d expect to spot in a styled kitchen showroom, not during a weekly ALDI run.

And that matters more these days. Modern kitchens are more open and lived-in now, so appliances have become part of the overall look of the space rather than something tucked away in cupboards. This moka pot fits naturally into that shift. It’s simple, clean, and modern without trying too hard.

Of course, it’s not trying to rival a high-end espresso machine. There’s no automation or café-level precision here, and it does need a little hands-on attention when brewing and cleaning. But that’s part of the charm. It feels refreshingly low-tech in a world full of overly complicated appliances.

Part of the buzz around ALDI’s Crofton range comes down to the Specialbuy factor. These kitchen finds arrive in limited runs and rarely stay in stock for long, especially once they start gaining attention online. With stylish, affordable coffee tools like this in particularly high demand right now, I’d predict this moka pot will sell out quickly once it lands on shelves.

Shop Alternative Moka Pots

If you can’t get to an ALDI store – or you’re simply looking for a higher-end alternative – there are plenty of excellent moka pots available. Below are some of our favourites, including models we’ve personally tested and recommend.

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Lavazza is rethinking convenient coffee with its new Tablì system – a fresh take on single-serve brewing that delivers rich, flavorful espresso without relying on traditional plastic pods.

Plastic is one of the biggest challenges when it comes to creating a more non-toxic coffee setup, particularly with single-serve machines. But for busy mornings, the convenience is hard to beat. Lavazza’s new Tablì 'Tabs' offer a smarter alternative: pure compressed coffee discs with no plastic casing, wrapping, or coating.

The sleek, compact machine is also perfectly suited to smaller kitchens, making this one of the most exciting coffee launches of 2026. The Lavazza System officially launches in August 2026, and pre-orders have already sold out – so it’s one coffee lover's will want firmly on their radar.

The Tablì system has already been launched in Italy, where the machine retails for €249.99, and with great success. If anyone knows coffee, it's them, so if they love it, I know we are already on to a winner.

The Tablì Tabs are simple, and that is where the beauty lies. Each 'Tab' is a round disc made with 100% coffee that is dosed, ground, and tamped into a gem you can hold, smell, and see before it is brewed. There is zero plastic involved, nor any coatings, meaning what you see is what you get.

The tabs are designed specifically to expand as water passes over them, with a concave shape that encourages full saturation, meaning no coffee is wasted. As someone who is always looking for smart ways to stop creating unnecessary waste at home, they're the logical choice.

Being so compact, they will be simple to store, too, even in the smallest kitchens. Lavazza is launching a drawer tab holder machine stand alongside the machine in August, but an airtight container such as the Airscape Stainless Steel Containers from Williams Sonoma will also do the job, keeping your coffee station compact and your coffee fresh.

There will be five tab varieties available at launch: Espresso, Espresso Double (a dark roast), Espresso Lungo (a medium roast), Decaf, and Super Crema – a full-bodied espresso topped with Lavazza’s signature velvety crema that should satisfy even the most discerning coffee drinkers. In Italy, a pack of 12 tabs is priced at €7.99 at the time of writing.

Each part of the system will also be sold separately, from the machine to the coffee tabs themselves. However, the complete bundle includes the machine, 60 tabs, a new milk frother, and a pair of tweezers for handling the tabs without touching them before brewing – an especially thoughtful detail when serving guests. It’s easily one of the coffee launches I’m most excited to try later this year.

What Else to Shop

Don’t want to wait until August to refresh your coffee routine and cut down on the plastic involved in your daily brew? I’ve rounded up six of my favorite non-toxic coffee tools and accessories to help you create a more mindful upgrade to your morning ritual.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

While you are in the mood for picking more mindful coffee, consider how to choose more ethical coffee for products that do better not just for you, but for the planet and coffee workers, too.

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There is nothing that screams summer like firing up the grill – the smell, the family-style meals, the gathering of friends under the sun. It's a time-honoured tradition, but it is not free from stress.

Even the best grills can make outdoor cooking difficult, be it food sticking, getting the right temperature, or having to watch it like a hawk to prevent burning. That's why Ninja's Woodfire Pro Electric Grill, available at Amazon, is number one on my summer shopping list, offering safer, quicker grilling without the fuss.

It does it all, from grilling to air frying, taking the guesswork out of summer feasts, and with $100 off in the run-up to Father's Day weekend, it is one of the best gift options too.

There tends to be some apprehension around electric grills, specifically around the lack of traditional flavor. The Ninja Woodfire Pro, however, uses real wood-burning pellets to develop that signature smoky taste without the live flame.

We reviewed its predecessor, the Ninja Woodfire, and we were seriously surprised by its performance. Despite being electric, our reviewer, Alex Temblador, shared, 'There was a delicious smoky flavor to the fish and vegetables that wasn’t overwhelming. The char created by the grill grate was incredible, too.' If the hundreds of five-star Amazon reviews are anything to go by, it is safe to say that the Pro version continues this legacy.

The added Bluetooth functionality further takes the guesswork out of cooking. While traditional grills require you to stand to attention, the Woodfire Pro uses an app to keep tabs on the progress of your meal, allowing you to monitor temperatures and adjust settings from the comfort of your outdoor dining area, so you don't have to break from socializing with guests.

What really sets the Woodfire Grill apart from your standard picks is the versatility. Ninja never shies away from functionality, and the Woodfire Pro is no different. With grill, BBQ, smoke, air fry, roast, bake, broil, and dehydrate settings, there are very few limits to what this single appliance can do. It could safely replace an entire outdoor kitchen, catering to almost any cuisine for any al fresco dinner.

It's proof that you do not need to overspend on grills to achieve superb results.

What Else to Shop

To help you get summer hosting off to the best start, I have curated the best barbecue essentials designed to complement your new Ninja Woodfie Pro, from non-stick saviours to stylish accessories.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Looking for something a little more permanent? Consider designing an outdoor kitchen for a year-round hosting setup bound to impress.

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When the new KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer first launched, I knew I had to get my hands on it, and having put it through its paces for the last few weeks, I can safely say it has not disappointed.

Having baked for the last 15 years, I understand how your tools can make or break your bake. A bad stand mixer can make the process more awkward than working by hand. Luckily, the Artisan Plus is not that, offering fantastic control and precision over everything from cakes to breads.

Here is how I got on reviewing the KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer, and why I maintain, after my KitchenAid Artisan Plus first look, that it is arguably the best stand mixer money can buy.

Product Specifications: KitchenAid Artisan Plus 5 Quart Stand Mixer

Design and First Impressions

The KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer follows the same design as its best-selling predecessor, the KitchenAid Classic Stand Mixer we reviewed a few years back. The signature tilt-head design has returned, but adding more colors to the mix, totalling 13 overall, with the new Sun Dried Tomato, Wild Blueberry, Iron Ore Bronze, and Oat colorways ensuring there is a style for every kitchen design.

The stand mixer looks great straight out of the box. It arrived well packaged in polystyrene to protect the main body of the unit (so not entirely recyclable), but all the components were tucked very neatly inside, so there was no risk of damage or scratches. The unit itself is rather heavy, both to lift and to move around on the counter. This is so that the unit does not rock or move even on the fastest mixing speeds; however, it might make it more difficult if you want to put it away in a cabinet after each use. That said, the design is so pretty, I suggest leaving it on the counter anyway. Small appliance slide mats, from Amazon, can make them easier to move if required.

From there, it is as simple as plugging in and starting to bake. I noted that there is an included cable tidy on the cord to help keep counters clear. It's a small detail, but appreciated in a small kitchen.

The Artisan Plus comes with four attachments as standard: A wire whisk, a dough hook, a standard paddle, and a double Flex Edge paddle, which came to be my favorite for mixing batters, but more on that later. Each accessory is crafted from solid stainless steel, with a good weight to them that makes them feel premium. The double Flex Edge has two silicone scrapers on either side, which scrape the edges of the bowl to ensure no batter is left unmixed. There is also a clear plastic splash guard that uses silicone 'feet' to clip onto the bowl. I love how sturdy this felt, and yes, the edge of the funnel is sturdy enough to crack eggs against.

A major upgrade from the previous classic design is the bowl handle. This was one of the few things we marked the original classic design down for missing. Also, stainless steel, the bowl is easy to handle and well-weighted, even with a heavy dough inside.

The stand-out new features on the Artisan Plus include the integrated bowl light, which activates whenever you put the head down and stays on when mixing. In my dark kitchen, it was a game-changer for being able to keep an eye on my mixes, casting a lovely yet practical soft glow over the contents of the bowl. It also added a cozier touch to the experience, which I appreciate.

Finally, the new speed settings, specifically the half-speed for folding, were fantastic. Anyone who bakes regularly knows how easy it is for a delicate batter to be ruined by the power of a stand mixer. However, the half-speed works slowly to avoid knocking air out of the mix. What's more, the speed dial can be used in two configurations. Turn the dial one way, and you can 'click' precisely between the marked speed settings. Turn the dial the other way, and you can glide seamlessly between each speed, effectively giving you full control and half-speeds between every markation. It is simply fantastic.

Performance

To thoroughly test the stand mixer, I tested four of my favorite recipes that would assess the appliance's ability to tackle everything from thick doughs to delicate cream:

The Cake Test

Not to blow my own trumpet, but I make a very good Victoria sponge cake. It is basic, but an undeniable classic. Done correctly, the sponge should be as light as air, and it is a mix I usually always hand-mix for precision.

Starting with creaming the butter and sugar together, I opted for the double Flex Edge beater to see how efficient it was at keeping the edges of the bowl clean. Admittedly, underestimating the power of the machine, I turned it on too high at first and sent a ring of butter around the top of the bowl. I removed the paddle, scraped the bowl down manually using its edge, replaced it, and tried again more slowly.

This was more successful. The paddle beat the mix until fluffy, keeping the bowl clean as it worked. From there, adding the vanilla and alternating adding the eggs and flour was simple. The clear cover with a spout helped direct ingredients in, but it was not needed to prevent splashes.

The fold speed came into its own when alternating the eggs and flour. This is the point where you are most likely to end up with a dense cake. Adding each slowly and folding it in maintains air, so you do not end up with a tough dough. I left the folding half-speed running as I added each, and found my batter to be lovely and light by the end.

After baking, the cake was fluffy and well-risen, with that airy texture I usually look for. I do think I overmixed it slightly, this being my first time using the stand mixer, but I put that down to user error, not being used to a mixer doing all the work for me, rather than me manually stopping and starting. All in all, I was very impressed.

The Whipped Cream Test

Whipped cream is a pain to make by hand. I did it once and never want to do it again.

I simply poured double cream into the base of the bowl, added the whisk attachment, and set it off on a high speed. I actually mixed it for too long, once again underappreciating the efficiency, but it was nothing that turning it down and adding some more fresh cream didn't fix. The resulting cream was lovely and thick, and perfect for spreading between the layers of my cake with fresh raspberry compote.

The lesson here is that the KitchenAid Artisan Plus is very efficient, taking only a minute or so to perfect whipped cream.

The Bread Test

Bread can be a make-or-break test for a stand mixer, but it is an essential test to pass if you want to avoid the labour of hand-kneading dough. I used a focaccia recipe to test the KitchenAid and found it to be a very straightforward experience.

As with most stand mixers, the speed is limited when using the dough hook, but I did not find that this limited my baking at all. The hook powered through the dough with ease, and the machine did not rock, nor did the head bounce up and down as some stand mixers are prone to. It remained sturdy throughout.

I will note that the top of the dough hook is large and flat, designed to stop the dough from climbing too far up and getting into the gears of the machine. This does mean you have to be smart when adding your ingredients so that they do not sit on top of this, however.

Making bread was also the only occasion when the splash guard failed me. I added a big spoonful of flour into the bowl while the hook was working too quickly, and it flew out of the gap at the back. It was a small mess, and I didn't do it again in any other tests, so I don't see this as a design flaw in any way.

The handled bowl made it easy to move the dough around as it was proofing, too.

The resulting focaccia dough passed the 'window pane' test with ease (evidencing good gluten development from proper kneading), rose perfectly, and created a delicious loaf that my friends demolished in one sitting.

The Cookie Test

My partner makes the best chocolate cookies (I'm not biased, I promise), so I roped him in to help with the cookie test. This dough usually makes our arms ache as we reach the final stages of mixing, so I was excited to finally have my favorite treat without the shoulder pain.

I used the standard paddle for this, once again mixing the melted butter and sugar, and then adding the eggs and flour. It breezed through with ease, with no clumping. Everything was mixed evenly, too, despite the lack of 'Flex Edges'. Once again, the machine showed no sign of struggle or rocking.

Adding in the chocolate, I put the half-fold speed setting to use again, and it dispersed the pieces very evenly without breaking them up too much. It was a softer, layered caramel chocolate, so this really impressed me.

We refrigerate our cookie dough for 24-72 hours before baking, and the stainless steel bowl was easy to remove, cover with foil, and slot onto our fridge shelf without having to alter the height of any of them.

After baking, the cookies were crisp at the edges and gooey in the middle. It is yet another win for the KitchenAid Artisan Plus.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning the KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer is a breeze. With all the main components made from stainless steel, they wipe clean with warm water, dish soap (I use a non-toxic soap such as Attitude Dish Soap from Walmart), and a soft sponge.

The only item that gave me some trouble was the double Flex Edge, as some food was stubborn and stuck in the small silicone crease. Soaking this in warm water helped remove it.

You can leave the parts to air dry; however, I found drying with a soft cotton dish towel to be the best way to avoid marks on the stainless steel bowl.

The main body of the unit can be wiped down with a barely damp cloth. This was easy, even with my matte-textured Oat colorway appliance. I then decided to leave it on my counter, as it looks so pretty, it would be a shame to store it in a cabinet.

How The KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer Compares

The online reception has been just as positive as my own. Verified users on the KitchenAid store have given the appliance five stars, with many commenting on the power and precision.

One noted, 'I made cupcakes with the KitchenAid Artisan Plus, and I totally get why people love it. It looks gorgeous, but it also works really well in real, everyday baking. The bowl is spacious, the mixing is smooth, and the whole process feels effortless. It's one of those products that just makes your kitchen routine better.'

The lowest star review is a three-star review by a customer who had difficulty with the whisk attachment reaching the base of the bowl. I personally did have this issue, and I do not see it mentioned in other reviews, so it may be down to alignment. If this is the case, it is something that can be fixed with a KitchenAid dime trick.

I reviewed the KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer alongside the new SMEG Forte Stand Mixer, and the KitchenAid just edged in front in my assessments. Testing using the same recipes, both mixers delivered fantastic, near-identical results. That said, the SMEG does not have a half-speed, bowl light, or precision slider between the speed settings. The SMEG also struggled more with the bread dough, with more head rocking.

The KitchenAid is $50 more expensive at the time of writing, so whether those small details make or break the savings will come down to personal preference.

I personally prefer the style of the KitchenAid, but that is entirely my own taste and opinion.

Should You Buy The KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer?

All in all, I would absolutely recommend buying the KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer if you ever bake at home and are in need of a new workhorse. Whether you are making cakes, breads, pizza doughs, or cookies, the mixer can handle any mix with ease and precision, making it one of the best investments for home cooks. If you already have an existing KitchenAid, you may not need to rush to upgrade, especially as the new model is $100 more expensive than the original Artisan Stand Mixer at the time of writing, but it is worth keeping on your radar should you need a replacement any time soon.

The five-quart bowl might not be big enough if you run a cake business from your kitchen and regularly make cakes above four tiers; however, for the home baker, serious or casual, it is a certified upgrade that I can barely fault. It looks great and performs spectacularly. I can't wish for much more.

While I did not try any myself, the Artisan Plus is compatible with a wide range of the KitchenAid accessories ecosystem, too, from meat grinders to food processors, making it a worthwhile investment if you love to cook anything from scratch.

I will, of course, continue to use the stand mixer in my home and update this review should I discover anything else of note.

What Else to Shop

One of the best things about KitchenAid is the vast ecosystem of accessories you can add to your appliance. These extend the functionality way beyond cakes and bread, turning your investment into a truly multi-functional workhorse. These are some of my favorite KitchenAid accessories.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Looking to make your baking setup more professional? We asked professional organizers for their best tips for storing bakeware to keep kitchens tidy.

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Just this week, the new KitchenAid Artisan Plus stand mixer landed on my doorstep for testing, and I can already tell that it is going to be the best baking upgrade my home has seen in over 15 years.

I have been baking for as long as I can remember, and started by helping my mom to mix everything lovingly by hand, nary a stand mixer in sight. The manual approach works, of course, but there is no denying that it slows you down a lot. It's certainly left me in a baking slump of late.

That's why I've been excited to start using the Artisan Plus, which is shaping up to be one of the best stand mixers on the market. It has retained all the best elements of its predecessor while ironing out the small, albeit annoying functional snags. The result? An appliance I am genuinely excited to see on my counter and use.

I am yet to finish testing and write up my full review of the KitchenAid Artisan Plus stand mixer, but having unboxed it and trialled a few of my go-to recipes, I am already confident in saying it is shaping up to be a five-star investment.

Visually, not much has changed from the KitchenAid Classic Stand Mixer we reviewed a few years ago. It follows the same iconic silhouette with the domed tilt-head and stainless steel bowl. Now, however, that bowl comes with a very practical handle and a built-in bowl-light so you can keep a much closer eye on your mix.

Like the original KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer we also reviewed, this mixer has the all-important half-speed setting. It emulates hand mixing perfectly, allowing for more careful folds to avoid beating the air out of fluffy cake batters.

The new mixer has a more powerful motor, however, allowing it to also tackle thick, heavy-duty doughs with ease. You have the choice to click between each of the 11 speed settings or slide between them for absolute precision.

It is a small detail, but anyone who bakes regularly will know that that level of control can be the difference between the perfect bake and an overmixed mess.

While you'll never be heating your stand mixer, nor its accessories, I am always conscious of the materials used. Where possible, I like to avoid plastic and pick the best non-toxic kitchen appliances.

With the Artisan Plus, all attachments are made of solid stainless steel (including the double-flex-edge beater, which features food-grade silicone). They're weighty and exude quality. I hardly worry when I toss them in a drawer that they might come out misshapen.

Speaking of storing bakeware, stand mixers are infamously tricky to tuck away. They are heavy, for one, and while the Artisan Plus is reasonably compact for an appliance that can do much more than mix cakes, it is not easy to tuck into a cabinet in a small kitchen.

Luckily, it looks so good on the counter that I find it rather pleasing to keep on display. Like my Modern Heritage Le Creuset Dutch Oven, it screams 'I know what I am doing' in the kitchen, and I like that baking badge of honor.

Besides, with 14 color options, including the new Sun Dried Tomato, Oat (the color I chose), and Feather Pink, there is a shade for every kitchen color palette.

It is possibly going to be my top kitchen addition for 2026, but I will be sure to give the full report when it comes time to review.

What to Shop

One of my favourite things about KitchenAid stand mixers is their versatility. The extensive ecosystem of attachments allows a single machine to transform into an ice cream maker, the best juicer, a pasta roller, or a meat grinder in a matter of minutes.

It is one of the rare countertop appliances that genuinely earns its space on your counter, so to help you make the most of your new investment, I’ve rounded up six of the most popular add-ons.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Looking to inject a fun pop of color into your kitchen this year? KitchenAid's 2026 color of the year, Spearmint, might be the very appliance for the job.

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No brand blends retro charm with modern performance quite like SMEG. Time and again, they prove that convenience does not have to come wrapped in minimalist, utilitarian styling.

The new SMEG Forte Stand Mixer, available from Williams Sonoma, is the latest example. Having finally got my hands on one, I can already say that it feels like a genuine contender to become one of the best stand mixers.

The beautifully crafted exterior has quickly become the focal point of my kitchen, a rare appliance that earns its place on the countertop without looking like clutter. Here’s why I’m so excited about it.

I will admit that despite baking for the better part of the last 15 years, I have always opted for the handheld option in the hand mixer vs stand mixer debate. Having a small kitchen means that a smaller tool is more convenient and does just about the same job, right?

I have used the SMEG Forte Stand Mixer once since it arrived, and I am in the midst of my review process, but I can say right off the bat that it is the countertop upgrade I did not know I was missing. When working through my first test (a classic Victoria sponge cake), it halved the time it took to make, and my arms didn't ache at the end of it.

Sitting neatly at the edge of my counter, it is surprisingly compact, and the stunning vintage design means it looks more like an art piece than a kitchen workhorse.

The Forte offers a higher-performance spec compared to the original SMEG retro stand mixer we reviewed. With a more powerful motor, the new release promises more mixing power, especially when it comes to mixing heavy doughs for bread. This is something I will be testing later on with my classic focaccia recipe.

Equally intriguing, however, is the new folding speed, designed to gently incorporate ingredients without knocking out air or overworking delicate batters. For keen bakers, that could be one of the most valuable additions, and it will likely be the feature that makes or breaks the mixer for me, as it will determine how well you can make the most of your stand mixer.

Another welcome improvement is the inclusion of a flex-edge beater as standard. In my view, this is one of the most useful stand mixer attachments available. The rubber-edged design continuously scrapes the sides of the bowl as it mixes, eliminating the pockets of flour and unmixed ingredients that often require manual intervention. It is a small detail that makes a noticeable difference to both consistency and convenience.

While I am yet to push it to the max, I am incredibly excited by what lies in store, especially if the early swathes of five-star reviews on Amazon are anything to go by, with customers loving the colors and, most importantly, dubbing the expensive appliance a smart KitchenAid alternative that's worth the spend.

What to Shop

If you're looking to elevate your baking setup, SMEG offers a range of coordinating retro-inspired appliances that bring both style and function to the kitchen.

To help you build the ultimate baking station, I’ve curated my favourite picks alongside a selection of non-toxic kitchen essentials designed to support every recipe.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

There has never been a better time to invest in SMEG appliances, with the new SMEG 2026 color of the year, Moonlight, dropping across their appliance range. It's the dreamy neutral that will fit into any kitchen.

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The same story plays out every summer – I get excited about seasonal recipes, only to abandon them because my kitchen becomes too hot to function. The last thing I want is to stand over a blazing stove or oven at the end of the day.

This year, however, I’m getting ahead of the heat with an induction cooktop, such as the Nuwave Induction Cooktop from Amazon, paired with the best induction cookware. I can avoid turning the kitchen into a sauna while still preparing nutritious meals.

By heating the pan directly rather than the surrounding air, induction cooking is not only more energy-efficient but also safer and more cost-effective in the long run. Of course, you can set it up outside too, taking the heat quite literally out of the kitchen, but you'll need an extension cord. Here’s why it makes the perfect portable upgrade for summer cooking.

Keeping a kitchen cool is no easy task. Most of the best kitchen appliances are designed to generate heat, which can quickly make a cooking space feel stifling, especially in the peak of summer.

Rather than relying on an electric stove or oven, switching to an induction cooktop helps reduce the amount of ambient heat released into the room. Induction cooking uses electromagnetism to heat your best non-toxic cookware directly, rather than warming the stove surface itself, meaning far less heat is transferred into the air. It is so efficient that you can often touch the surface soon afterward cooking without risk of burns.

As a full kitchen conversion is not an option for me, a portable solution like the Nuwave Induction Cooktop offers the perfect alternative. With temperature control ranging from 100°F to 575°F in 5°F increments, it allows everything from gently warming sauces to searing steak, all without overheating the kitchen. It's perfect for keeping my cool and avoiding any summer hosting mistakes.

Being up to 80% more efficient than traditional gas or electric cooking, it can also help reduce energy bills, leaving more room in the budget for summer entertaining. It's a brilliant upgrade, even with a small kitchen like mine – I cannot believe I didn't think of this clever addition sooner.

What Else to Shop

To help you get a head start on hot-weather cooking, I have curated a selection of summer kitchen essentials so you are prepared when the worst of the heat hits.

All prices correct at time of publication.

To avoid damaging your cookware or ruining your dinners, brush up on the most common induction hob mistakes before getting started with your new addition.

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My kitchen is truly tiny – you can cross it in two big steps – meaning counter space is at a premium. That's why I am switching from a bulky coffee maker to a compact AeroPress during the Memorial Day Sales.

These seriously sleek non-toxic coffee makers combine several brew methods into one to produce barista-grade coffee in a tool that fits in a kitchen drawer.

The Clear AeroPress, available at Williams Sonoma, proves that you don't need the biggest, fanciest machines and years of training to make a quality brew at home. And with $10 off, it's now even more worth the investment.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

While it might not steam your milk or offer bean-to-cup at the touch of a button, the AeroPress is designed for certified coffee geeks. Crafted from Tritan, a premium BPA-free copolyester, it is durable, shatterproof, and non-toxic, delivering quality coffee without the risk of contamination from 'forever chemicals.'

Our expert barista, Laura Honey, reviewed the Clear AeroPress when it first launched and quickly became a fan, praising its ability to seamlessly brew espresso-style coffee, Americanos, cold brew, and lattes using a single tool. 'If you need tasty coffee on the go, you won’t do better than this. The AeroPress well and truly lives up to its reputation,' she wrote.

'For $50, you won’t find a better coffee maker,' she added, making any discount on it all the more compelling.

For me, the real draw of the portable AeroPress is its size. Designed for travel, whether on a daily commute or a longer vacation, the Clear AeroPress takes up minimal space in kitchen storage. Its durability also means it can be safely tucked into a drawer without the worry of cracking under a little rough handling.

Beyond its function, it is also sleek enough to sit on the counter without disrupting your décor or monopolizing valuable food-prep space, as some bulkier coffee makers tend to do.

While the discount is modest, any price drop on this coffee bar essential is rare, making Memorial Day the ideal moment to upgrade your coffee station.

What Else to Shop

From coffee bar organization staples to smart upgrades that improve brew quality, I’ve curated a selection of must-have tools to elevate your at-home coffee setup.

To help set you on the path of brilliant coffee, our baristas have drafted the ultimate AeroPress recipe.

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After chopping, blending, and shredding with the Ninja Foodi Power Blender Ultimate System for three weeks, it has become a must-have in my kitchen routine.

It is a strong competitor against standalone blenders, food processors, and mixers, instead combining all those functions into one very strong product. After purchasing this product, your counter space will thank you.

Kitchen gadgets that promise to do it all often have home chefs, including me, rolling their eyes when we realize another product will fail to actually blend ice in seconds, slide potatoes with pro-chef-like precision, and deliver on other promises. However, this best blender-food processor combo delivers in terms of speed, versatility, and power. Just watch your fingers!

Product Specifications: Ninja Foodi Power Blender Ultimate System

Design and First Impressions

Prepare a good amount of space and time to get to know each other ahead of unboxing your Foodi. This is because there are quite a few pieces to unwrap and explore, each with a different function, directions in a pamphlet, stickers with tips and tricks on them, and a corresponding recipe book. However, these useful accessories aren’t just extras that will (or should) gather dust in the pantry.

Instead, with some time and experimenting, you can see just how each could be most useful to you with your current cooking needs. Included you will find:

• The motor/base
• A blender and processor pitcher with a pour spout
• An XL smoothie maker bowl with storage lid
• Crushing and chopping blade
• Slicing and shredding blade
• Grating disc
• Disc spindle
• Dough blade assembly
• Hybrid edge blades assembly
• The recipe guide

Upon unboxing, I was excited about the size of the pitcher, which I immediately knew would come in handy making smoothies for my family of seven all at once, not two at a time with other blenders.

I also immediately appreciated some safety features meant to keep the blender on the base, and the top on the blender – extra turns, clicks, and buttons made sure that you really meant to remove it, and that it wasn’t an accident. In addition, strong suction keeps the base in place regardless of what happens up top.

The packaging itself was a mix of plastic protectors and recyclable materials, and all items came well-protected and securely situated in the box.

Blending Performance

Testing a blender doesn’t just involve whipping up a quick smoothie and judging its consistency, especially when it’s a blender/processor combo. Instead, I followed a thorough process that involved multiple cooking tests, outlined below, to test some of its various functions.

I made smoothies, crushed ice, chopped potatoes, and whipped up my first almond butter. Each had its own learning curve to decide which accessories were best and to test different functions’ performance. Throughout, I explored the 'Auto IQ programs,' which allow presets for smoothies, spreads, chopping, and others, but also tried the variable speed and blending/processing time in the manual setting too. I didn’t find any issues with the Auto-IQ settings being inaccurate, but generally found it easier to control the settings myself manually.

Users should note that while this is a high-performing machine, it’s not a quiet one. At over 90 decibels during the blending process, it is not considered a quiet blender. However, it’s on for such a short time as it does its job efficiently that it bothers everyone less than quieter options that take longer.

Overall, the product is high-performance and a joy to use.

The Processor Test

The first test was to chop potatoes, using the food processor and food chute, a hole in the top that allows you to send vegetables and other foods down the 'chute' into the main processor. From there, if a food gets stuck, you can use a helpful tool to shove the rest down to the bottom toward the blades.

The processing function is the fastest and most impressive way of cutting a vegetable I’d seen, and much more efficient than competing products I’ve tested in the past. A single potato was completely sliced and ready to make chips, hash browns, or a casserole side dish in a matter of seconds.

The slices were consistent, no food was stuck in the process, and the only errors were from the operator’s learning curve (such as trying to fit too big a potato through the chute).

The Ice Test

Next, I explored whether I’d be able to tell my kids that we officially have a slushie machine, based on its ability to crush ice as well as our local snow cone shop.

This blender had turned around 20 ice cubes into slushie-ready mix in under five seconds. In this moment, I realized how much I’d been unknowingly suffering with my own blender, shaking and reshaking it to give it a boost between blending sessions as it fought with ice cubes.

If you make a daily smoothie or smoothie bowl, this product is a must-have simply for its mastery of ice crushing.

The Nut Butter Test

Finally, I attempted to make almond butter, by blending almonds and oil, at the suggestion of the recipe book. The book is well-labeled with the appropriate settings to help you understand how to set up your machine to create that exact recipe.

Though I should have used a bit more oil, and ended up with more of an almond butter sprinkle topping than butter consistency, the machine did its job, again in seconds.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Sometimes, it can be difficult to get all the blended or processed food out of the deep pitcher, so have a long spatula on hand to reach all the corners. But the components easily come apart for washing, so that shouldn’t be an issue.

One trick I came to appreciate was putting some water into the blender and continuing to blend after my cooking was done, just for a few seconds, to prevent stuck-on food and drink from becoming too stuck. This made washing much easier afterward.

The entire product is dishwasher safe, which I appreciate as a busy mom of five who has two dishwashers running nearly all the time. With such a wide pitcher, the dishwasher does a great job of getting the larger components clean as well. I was a bit more careful putting blades and other sharp objects in the dishwasher, though, just in case little hands would help unload later.

That brings us to The Accident. While attempting to clean up and store this product, I cut two fingers on a blade. I didn’t drop it or do anything out of the ordinary, other than try to pick it up. So, when I say the blades are super sharp, I mean sharp enough that you shouldn’t touch any of them at all. That can affect storage and cleaning processes, but also likely the reason it’s such an efficient and high-performing product. Keep Band-Aids (available at Walmart) on hand if you are clumsy, and when storing the product, put it up high or otherwise wrap up the parts to protect others from the blades.

Luckily, the product fits under my standard height counter tops, though I wouldn’t be able to really cook much with it under there, so I have to pull it in and out to cook. But this gives options for storage – the whole thing doesn’t have to go back in the cupboard each time.

How Does the The Ninja Foodi Power Blender Ultimate System Compare?

As a longtime kitchen product tester, I have found this product to be exceptionally better than all other blenders I’ve tried through the years. In addition, it has equal-to-or-advanced food-processing functions and performance.

Competitors include Ninja’s own alternative option, the Ninja Professional Plus Kitchen System, which Homes and Gardens editors also loved and ranked as a top blender/processor. Others included the Nutribullet Triple Prep Blender System, noted for best savings, in addition to the Nutribullet’s Ultra Plus Kitchen System, which comes in at a more affordable price of just under $100 for those on a budget. Finally, the Braun MultiQuick 9 competes with the Ninja Foodi as the most versatile option, and also might be more space-saving for those with less counter space.

For those trying to decide which product is best, first match your needs up with the chef’s guide to blenders, food processors, and juicers.

On Ninja’s website, users rank this product as a 4.1, with close to 200 ratings. 119 of those ratings were five stars, with just 21 as one star. Performance was the top-ranking feature among those reviews, with quality being the lowest. One loyal Ninja fan says, compared to her older product, this one is much bigger with more options. She also noted that she liked the 'pour top' function, in which a small spout opens to let your smoothie pour into your favorite to-go cup without mess or issue.

Amazon customers reflect my satisfaction with the product, with over 4,000 ratings resulting in a 4.5 out of 5 stars. According to Amazon, customers overall note the solid performance, especially for smoothie and dough mixing, with strong motor power and quick blending times. However, there are some durability concerns, with some reporting it lasts for years, while others are concerned about cracking in the plastic pitcher. Customers overall considered it worth the price.

Should You Buy The The Ninja Foodi Power Blender Ultimate System?

Yes, you should buy this product. If you are looking for reliability, consistency, top performance, and don’t mind a little noise to achieve the perfect ice consistency, this is for you.

This product would suit busy cooks who want to chop vegetables quickly and have no use for slow or inefficient motors. Those who frequently make smoothies will appreciate the extra minutes they get back every day, not fighting with a blender, and people who want their products to be versatile and customizable will like the extra options, features, settings, and accessories.

How We Test Blenders

Over the years, we've refined our process for how we test blenders.

The first step is market research. We keep in touch with the industry to make sure that we're always first to hear about a new launch, and will almost always call it in to test to try and be among the first to assess how well it performs. Every blender must be tested for a prolonged period (two weeks or more) to check for any issues and assess the product's longevity, and where possible, we aim to keep blenders in-house to test them on a long-term basis, updating our reviews as the months and years pass to see if our favorite is still ahead of the crowd.

Smoothies are the most basic thing a blender can do. They're pretty much why blenders were invented, so if we've got a model that can't handle these you won't find it anywhere near our rankings of the best.

We then see if a blender can crush ice. Ice is useful for two reasons. One is as a straightforward test of sheer power. Weak blenders won't be able to crush it, or will do half a job. A powerful, premium blender should be able to mist ice cubes into fine white powder. If a blender can't manage this, then it can't earn a perfect score.

A blender will score extra points in our tests if it operates quietly. We monitor the decibel levels on every test. We also clean every blender by hand to see how easy this is, and if it feels safe.

You can find out more details on our How We Test Blenders page.

What Else to Shop

Add six products that help with the featured item, e.g. cleaning tools, extra accessories ti make the most of it.

All prices correct at time of publication.

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After using the GreenPan Bistro 7‑Quart 360° Clear View Air Fryer for two weeks, I found it to be a hardworking, budget-friendly appliance that ticks plenty of practical boxes. You get an extra-large drawer suited to family-sized meals, PFAS-free components, and a standout glass lid that lets you monitor food as it cooks.

I usually gravitate toward air fryer toaster ovens, largely because I live in a small apartment and appreciate any appliance that can pull double duty. But sometimes a single-purpose tool that does one job exceptionally well is exactly what you need, and this model from GreenPan delivers on that front.

I was impressed by how intuitive it was and how reliably it handled everyday staples. If you want an affordable, non-toxic air fryer for a dorm room, small kitchen, or to keep on hand for family dinners and casual gatherings, it’s a strong contender.

Product Specifications: GreenPan Bistro 360 Degree Clear View Air Fryer

Design and First Impressions

The GreenPan Clear View is not your average air fryer. Its signature feature is a clear lid, which the company claims allows you to see when your food is ready. It’s a nice idea, and it does separate it from its competitors, but because it’s anchored by the control panel, it’s not exactly a wide-open view. I was curious as to how this would pan out when cooking. The air fryer was packaged well, and all its parts arrived safely, so unpacking and setting up were a cinch. I made sure to wash the drawer and air crisper tray in soapy water before using it, and just plugged it in.

The drawer is nice and roomy at seven quarts, and looks like it could easily fit an entire bag of French fries or a whole chicken. Perfect for someone like me, with a family that includes two growing teens and a bunch of hungry friends.

The rest of the air fryer is nothing dramatic. Its square shape has rounded edges, and its cord is long enough to use in most conventional kitchens. I also like the LED control panel, which is straightforward, with little easy-to-see screen presets shaped like fish, chicken, steak, vegetables, etc.

Cooking Performance

To make choosing the best kitchen appliances easier, we test a standard set of foods across all of our air fryers to make comparing the results simple.

The GreenPan Bistro was very intuitive to use overall, so much so that I did not find myself needing the instruction manual to get started.

French Fries

Testing frozen fries is always my first move when reviewing a new air fryer, so I happily planned ahead to cheat on my summer diet. The drawer on the GreenPan Bistro 7-Quart 360° Clear View Air Fryer is generously sized at seven quarts, but I resisted the urge to overfill it, knowing crowded fries rarely crisp well.

I started with a modest batch of thin-cut frozen fries and used the preset, which automatically set the temperature to 400°F for 20 minutes. Halfway through, the machine beeped, and the 'Shake' icon illuminated on the control panel, prompting me to pull out the tray and toss the fries. The result after 20 minutes was spot-on: Evenly crisped, golden fries that my son and I quickly divided between us.

For the second round, I pushed the limits and poured an entire bag of fries into the drawer. They fit easily, though I suspected they would need extra time to cook properly. I tried the preset again and followed the same process, including the mid-cycle shake, but as expected, the standard timing fell short. I added five more minutes using the 'Temp/Timer' control. This was also when I tested the Clear View lid to check browning. While the wraparound glass offered a glimpse inside, it wasn’t quite clear enough to judge doneness at a glance.

The added time ultimately did the trick, producing evenly cooked fries despite the fuller basket. Next time, I’ll skip the guesswork and go straight for 25 minutes at 400°F when cooking a larger batch.

Chicken and Salmon

For me, the whole appeal of an air fryer is making healthier meals taste better, so chicken felt like the natural next test in the GreenPan Bistro 7-Quart 360° Clear View Air Fryer. I sliced about a pound of chicken into cutlets, tossed them with jerk seasoning and a few sprays of avocado oil, then arranged them in the basket.

There’s no dedicated 'Chicken' preset, only one for wings, so I selected the Air Fry function and set it to 360°F for 20 minutes. I suspected they might need extra time, but I’d rather add minutes than risk drying them out. When the shake alert sounded, I turned the pieces over with a fork instead. In the end, they needed about seven additional minutes to cook through.

The cutlets came out tender and fully cooked, though the appliance’s 400°F maximum temperature meant they never developed the crisp exterior I typically look for in air-fried chicken. To test that theory, I cooked a batch of breaded frozen chicken tenders for roughly the same amount of time. Those emerged perfectly crisp, though, of course, they weren’t nearly as healthy.

As a final test, I added frozen salmon from Trader Joe's. I lightly salted the fillets, squeezed over some lemon juice, added a spray of avocado oil, and some fresh dill. I used the Seafood preset, which is 360 degrees Fahrenheight at 15 minutes, and that turned out beautifully

Vegetables

For vegetables, I began with a baked sweet potato. I pricked it with a fork, sprayed it lightly with avocado oil, and rubbed it with salt. The Bake preset defaulted to 360°F for 15 minutes, which I knew wouldn’t be nearly long enough. I did some research and found that the usual instructions for cooking a sweet potato in an air fryer are 400 degrees Fahrenheit on Bake for 35 to 40 minutes. That proved to be spot on: When I sliced it open, the sweet potato was steaming and soft inside with a crisp skin, exactly how I like it.

Next, I sliced some zucchini, gave it the same avocado spray and salting, then used the Vegetable preset, which is 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes. This time, I did shake them when the beeper went off, but they still needed longer once the timer ran out. I ended up increasing the temperature by 50 degrees and added another six minutes. I could see enough through the limited window to see they were starting to get a little darker than I’d like after five minutes, so I stopped it and took them out.

I’ve never found the air fryer a great way to crisp up veggies in general, though I’m always hoping to find the holy grail every time I test a new one. Yet, once again, the zucchini was well-cooked, but never got the proper crunch.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning an air fryer is much easier than its larger toaster oven counterparts, and the Clear View was no different. I just took out the drawer, threw the tray in the dishwasher, and washed out the inside of the drawer with a soft sponge and some dish soap. You can put the drawer in the dishwasher as well, but it takes up a whole lot of room, so I tend not to.

If you use the air fryer a lot, you can easily store it on your kitchen counter, and it fits easily under most conventional cabinets. If you have a big enough kitchen storage, it’s lightweight enough to take in and out of storage when you need it.

How Does the GreenPan Bistro 360 Degree Clear View Air Fryer Compare?

The GreenPan Bistro 360 Degree Clear View Air Fryer offers something different with the top-down viewing window, allowing you to keep track of cooking progress without having to open the drawer. That said, it still performs as you would expect any other standalone air fryer to.

Being a standalone air fryer, it does not function as a dehydrator, toaster, or broiler like air fryer oven variants such as the Ninja French Door Air Fryer I reviewed, but that said it does a very good job at what it advertises. Which type you pick will depend on what you need your application to do. Would I replace my air fryer toaster oven, like the Our Place Wonder Oven Pro, with it? Probably not. But, if you are looking for something new to take the place of several appliances, this might not work for you. Otherwise, it is a fantastic, sizable air fryer unit that will deliver time and time again.

Should You Buy The GreenPan Bistro 7-Quart 360° Clear View Air Fryer?

The GreenPan Bistro 7-Quart 360 Degree Clear View Air Fryer is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a non-toxic air fryer that can do all the basics well. It offers a wide range of presets, an intuitive interface, and a nice, deep drawer that works well for groups or families.

The Clear View lid feels more like a gimmick, since you have to peek through the edges of the wraparound window, but it does offer a glimpse of your food if you don’t feel like opening the drawer. I’m also never thrilled when an air fryer doesn’t go over 400 degrees Fahrenheit, considering the entire point is cooking at a high temperature, but it gets the job done nonetheless.

In the end, this is most definitely worth the just over $100 pricetag, and an especially good buy for students or folks looking to stay on a budget. However, if you want something that you’ll use every day, or that you feel more comfortable taking up space on your countertop, I’d suggest looking at one of our favorite toaster oven/air fryer combos.

How We Test Air Fryers

When looking at air fryers, we consider several things. Firstly, we look at the materials, looking for potentially toxic coatings, and prioritizing non-toxic products for peace of mind. Then, we focus on exceptional cooking performance. As a team of trained cooks, product testers, and appliance experts, we rigorously test each model by air-frying frozen fries, chicken wings, and roasted vegetables. During our taste tests, we seek food that’s perfectly crispy on the outside and tender within. Having tested the market leaders, we’re familiar with the industry benchmarks.

Ease of use is key, so our tests evaluate the intuitiveness of controls, basket design, and the accuracy of recipe presets. We also explore special features, like grilling and dehydrating, to assess versatility. While cooking, we make notes on capacity – essential for those looking for family-sized air fryers.

Since cleaning can be a hassle, we check if the removable parts are easy to wash, whether by hand or in the dishwasher. We also examine materials' durability, as this is a key criterion for long-lasting, non-toxic items. After testing, we scour the web for the best and worst customer reviews to assess the air fryer's reliability and overall customer satisfaction.

You can go behind the scenes and read more details on our how we test air fryers page.

What Else to Shop

Even with a non-toxic coating, it pays to be gentle with your ceramic-coated air fryer if you want it to last for years. With that in mind, I’ve rounded up a few of my favorite air fryer accessories to help you get the most from your new appliance while protecting its finish.

All prices correct at time of publication.

If you are looking to keep your air fryer in its best condition for years to come, brush up on the air fryer cleaning tasks you should be doing regularly.

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Summer hosting always has a way of turning the most organized kitchens into a high-pressure operation. Between the heat and cooking larger portions, often while guests are in the house, meal-time stress can build quickly.

That's where a workhorse sous-chef, such as the Typhur Dome 2, available at Amazon, comes in to back up the operation. This high-capacity non-toxic air fryer can handle crowd-sized cooking, including a full 12-inch pizza, without demanding your full attention when you should be talking to guests.

And with $160 off ahead of Memorial Day, this luxe upgrade has never been more appealing.

One of the most common air fryer mistakes that leads to soggy food and underwhelming results is overstuffing the basket. But when you’re cooking for a crowd, batch cooking is often the only alternative, and that is far from practical when you’re hosting in the middle of a hot and humid summer.

That’s where the Typhur Dome 2 Air Fryer comes in. Designed as an extra-large countertop all-rounder, it functions as a quiet kitchen assistant that air-fries, toasts, bakes, roasts, and even cooks pizza with top-and-bottom heating and no risk of harmful materials leaching into your food.

Ahead of peak cookout season, it works seamlessly alongside your grill without disrupting conversation, and negates the need to turn on the hot, slow oven when temperatures are at their peak.

Even better, the flat ceramic-coated tray features a self-cleaning cycle that removes oil and residue in around two hours, helping clean a kitchen after dinner, all via the app when the meal is done.

In order to offer such spacious capacity, however, the Typhur Dome 2 is considerably large. This is not going to be an easy fit for small kitchens. That said, according to our chef, Lydia Hayman, the space sacrifice is worth it if you find traditional air fryers too small for your needs.

In her review, Lydia wrote, 'The Typhur Dome 2 is the priciest model I've ever tested, so I was predisposed to be critical. However, it is also the quickest, most spacious, and easiest to use air fryer I've tried. Really, you're getting a high-performance, non-toxic appliance that could replace an oven, toaster, pizza oven, and grill. It feels good quality, and I'm sure it will last a long time in your kitchen.'

It is, by and large, one of the best air fryers money can buy, and the $160 Memorial Day discount on Amazon makes it all the better.

What Else to Shop

To help you get the most out of your new air fryer and make batch cooking and cleanup far more efficient, here are my six essential air fryer accessories to help you streamline the entire process.

All prices correct at time of publication.

Air fryers are great for more than just crisping fries. We have curated the perfect guide to getting the most out of your air fryer, from sweet treats to leftovers.

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There comes a moment in every compact kitchen when the countertop simply cannot take another appliance. Coffee makers are often among the bulkiest, making them one of the first things to be culled or vetoed.

That is exactly the problem the Keurig K‑Compact Single Serve Coffee Maker, available from Amazon, was designed to solve. This streamlined, no-fuss brewer heats in under a minute, delivering a quick cup of coffee without the sprawling footprint most machines demand.

With Memorial Day just around the corner, it is already $30 off, making now the perfect time to upgrade to one of the best Keurig coffee makers without sacrificing precious kitchen space.

When fighting to keep counters clear in small kitchens, the smaller the appliance, the better. Certain bulky tools, such as the best non-toxic air fryers or the best stand mixers, earn the kitchen real estate space they take up by serving several functions and making cooking simpler.

While the best coffee makers might be just as essential to your morning routine, smaller appliances often do just as good a job as the larger models, with a far smaller footprint. The Keurig K-Compact, for example, measures only 12.5" H x 8.2" W x 13.2" D, making it one of the most convenient picks for small spaces.

The mini model also helps to streamline your routine, keeping coffee simple with quick K-Cup pods from Walmart and three brew sizes, taking the guesswork out of a rushed morning brew.

With over 8,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, the small size and simplicity are adored by shoppers. Giving it five stars, revified shopper Luke VanDerPuy dubbed the maker 'underrated', sharing, 'It's not flashy like some of the new models that have a bunch of color options and different controls. But it's reliable, which is more important to me than all the other bells and whistles.'

Fellow shopper Lizanne F., agreed, adding, 'I love this machine. It's actually my second one; the first I received as a gift. [...] It's so easy to use, and I bought the shelf with a drawer to go below it. 24 k cups fit in there, plus the extra space allows me to add accessories. I will keep buying these until the day I stop drinking coffee.'

It is the perfect tool to uncomplicate coffee, without sacrificing your precious counter space to visual clutter.

What Else to Shop

From improving the quality of your brew to creating a streamlined coffee station, I’ve rounded up six must-have accessories to elevate your morning ritual.

All prices correct at time of publication.

While it might seem straightforward, our baristas have put together a guide to making coffee at home to help you iron out any snags and produce cafe-quality brews in the comfort of your kitchen.

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There are few things worse than a lukewarm drink on a hot summer’s day, and it’s certainly not something you want to serve guests when hosting in the heat.

That’s where a convenient countertop ice maker, such as the Euhomy Ice Maker from Amazon, comes in to save the day.

This unexpected summer hosting essential can produce a small batch of ice in as little as six minutes, drastically cutting freeze time and saving you from last-minute store runs while guests are left waiting for their drinks to chill.

Running out of ice is one of the simplest summer hosting mistakes you can avoid, all with the help of an ice maker. This portable, counter-sized appliance is the best way to stay cool when hosting outside in summer.

With a 1.2L water tank and a powerful compressor, the machine can hold 1.3lbs of ice at a time, with nine cubes (the perfect amount for one glass) taking only six minutes.

It's whisper quiet, too, which is more than you can say for most plug-in appliances. It is no louder than the average refrigerator hum, so you can plug it in and forget about it as you converse with your friends and family.

Hosting keeps me busy at the best of times, so I love that the Euhomy has a self-cleaning function too. With one button, the machine will run automatically for half an hour to flush out the system, all without hands-on scrubbing.

As I gear up for hosting pizza parties with my best pizza oven and ice cream socials in my yard this sunny season, this unexpected essential might be my saving grace.

What Else to Shop

Our experts have revealed more secrets to smarter hosting in 2026 to help set you up for the summer season.

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I’ve already had endless fun experimenting with the Ninja SLUSHi, so imagine my surprise when a late-night launch introduced me to the new Ninja SLUSHi Twist, a two-in-one machine designed to swirl together dual flavors.

Built with the same technology as the Ninja SLUSHi Max – including rapid freezing, support for higher-alcohol mixes, and generous capacity – the dual-canister Twist feels like the ultimate party upgrade for memorable summer entertaining.

The internet quickly agreed that this is the best Ninja appliance for summer, with the machine shockingly selling out in only two hours, according to Ninja's socials. The good news? A restock is already on the way, and you can sign up for alerts through Ninja’s website – this is one release you won’t want to miss the second time around.

This new machine is the answer Ninja fans have been searching for, as until now, creative followers have been cleverly pairing two standard Ninja SLUSHi machines to recreate the classic ICEE-style mixes of our childhoods. the Ninja SLUSHi Twist helps you to effortlessly combine two flavors in a single system, with no mess and no fuss.

The dual canisters can be used independently or together to blend any combination of slush, opening up near-endless flavor possibilities. A manual rotating base also lets you swirl the drinks for a visually striking, layered presentation.

Using the SlushAssist function integrated in the Ninja SLUSHi Max I recently reviewed, the Dual SlushAssist™ Technology senses ingredients in each vessel and auto-adjusts temperatures, so both drinks come out perfect, every time. No ice or blenders required.

Perhaps my favorite potential use for the SLUSHi Twist is the ability to make two different drinks to suit everyone at a party. One side can be used for a fruit slush and the other for milkshakes, for instance.

Alternatively, at a family gathering, one side could be used for child-friendly juice while the other serves an adult-friendly alcoholic slush (just be sure to label which is which to avoid any serious summer hosting mistakes). It’s the perfect upgrade for regular hosts looking to impress.

Signing up for stock updates is simple. Simply add your email for notifications on the Ninja SLUSHi Twist page to know when the next drop hits.

What Else to Shop

If you do not want to wait for the restock or wish to set up your station now ahead of delivery, we have rounded up a few of the next-best machines and fun accessories to prepare your home for summer slushes.

All prices correct at time of publication.

If you are getting excited for summer, consider some chef-approved ice cream social ideas to help your party planning along.

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My love story with slush drinks started when I was five, and my parents would take me to the local play centre. So, when I learned 20 years later that I could make them in my own kitchen with a Ninja SLUSHi Max, I jumped at the opportunity to review this countertop addition.

After testing it for a few weeks in my home, I can firmly say that it is one of the most enjoyable 'novelty' appliances I have ever tried. It slushes quickly, creating wonderful, customisable drinks without the need for ice or noisy blenders, and is the perfect pre-summer investment to impress guests all season long.

With only a few minor snags that ultimately docked just half a star, this fun kitchen investment is one of the best Ninja appliances for families and regular hosts. Here's how I got on with the Ninja Slushi Max.

Product Specifications: Ninja SLUSHi Max

Design and First Impressions

I will admit that I was concerned by the size and weight of the Ninja SLUSHi Max when it first arrived on my doorstep. The box was huge, and the large numbering on the side let me know that it was 44lbs (20KG). Luckily, I lift weights regularly, meaning I was able to move it from the front door to the kitchen, but this is a bulky box to manoeuvre alone if you are not used to lifting weights.

Even then, I still needed a second pair of hands to unbox the appliance. The box is held together with two plastic straps, which must be cut off. Once removed, the top section of the box slides off, leaving the SLUSHi nestled in a cardboard base. I needed my partner's help removing the outer cardboard box to cut the straps, and again to slide this base out as I lifted the main unit.

I am thrilled to say that without all this robust packaging, the machine is lighter, at 31.99 lbs. Most of this packaging was recyclable cardboard, besides the straps and the tape.

Inside the box, there was the unit and four instruction sheets. One booklet was the regulatory information, and the other three were guides. The full instruction manual and recipe book were accompanied by a condensed QuickStart guide, which contained the essential reading. Finally, there was a troubleshooting sheet with tips for achieving the perfect consistency.

The appliance itself is large, which was expected, given that this is the Max edition, but it's not so big as to completely take over my small kitchen. All in all, I think it is very chic, especially in the gray and gold 'Mocha' colorway. It was also covered in the signature Ninja stickers full of tips taken from the manual. I decided to leave most of these on for quick reference, but otherwise, they peel off easily.

Once in position, the machine must sit on the flat surface for two hours to allow the refrigerant to settle before first use. For easy moving, you can lift the front of the machine and slide it back and forth without damaging your counter.

Performance

The Ninja SLUSHi Max has six main drink settings: SlushAssist, which detects the liquid used and chills accordingly; slush, frozen cocktail, frozen cocktail max, milkshake, and frozen juice.

The unit then has an adjustable dial with 15 more temperature settings so you can achieve the perfect consistency, from cooler and more icy, to less icy and more pourable. When slushing, the machine registers around 70 decibels, around that of a normal conversation. This is not too distracting, and closing the kitchen door when I was in the room next door dulled it enough to not be heard over the TV. I was very impressed.

It is important to note that, as with any slush, be it homemade or commercial, it is a high-sugar drink. As the SLUSHi Max makes clear, this appliance does not work with diet or low sugar drinks without added sugar or syrup. We are not making health drinks here; they are truly indulgent, as the sugar content prevents the liquid from freezing solid. The unit has a built-in 'add sugar' or 'add liquid' warning system, which I put to the test.

Otherwise, I focused on the SlushAssist and milkshake settings for my tests, using fruit juice, low-sugar drink mixes, and dairy, respectively. I did not test the cocktail setting, as I do not personally consume alcohol.

The Slushie Test

The primary function of the SLUSHi Max is to make slush drinks, so a fruit slush was my first test.

After rinsing the machine out, I poured 34fl oz of a pre-mixed coconut and pineapple juice into the top spout, turned the machine on, and hit the SlushAssist button. This programme starts by 'sensing' the liquid, mixing it around without cooling. During this time, the machine is registering the sugar content (it must be at least five grams per 100ml of liquid, which my carton juice was), and picking the right temperature for the type of liquid.

After a few minutes of sensing, the machine switched straight to 'slushing' mode, indicated by the text on the LED screen. I was getting on with making some lunch while this worked, and was surprised at how quickly it was done. I did not fill the machine up to the max line, of course, but for 34fl oz it took less than 15 minutes to form a thick slush. The more liquid, the longer it will take. A max fill of an alcoholic beverage can take up to one hour, according to the manual.

The slush was so thick that I actually found myself turning the fine-tuning dial down slightly towards the thinner mix, and let the machine do its thing. A few minutes passed, the 'enjoy' light came on, and it was much easier to dispense and enjoy. It was exactly the quality I would expect from a commercial vendor.

I repeated this test later with a protein drink mix that I knew was too low in sugar. I added three tablespoons of granulated sugar to the drink mix and mixed it up before adding it to the machine, and chose SlushAssist once again. The process began as usual, and after a few minutes, it became noticeably louder. A few seconds later, the 'add sugar' light came on.

As per instructions, I dispensed some of the liquid, added another tablespoon of sugar, mixed, and added it back in before resuming the programme. This time, the machine 'sensed' the mix for a lot longer before returning to slushing. In the end, however, the programme was completed, and the slush was perfect. The troubleshooting was quick and relatively fuss-free. I was very impressed.

The Milkshake Test

I am a milkshake snob, and I must say that the milkshake setting let me down a little. If you are looking for a super smooth, indulgent shake, this is not the machine for you. Instead, I would suggest sticking to the usual method of milk and ice cream in a blender such as the Ninja BlendBoss I reviewed.

I followed a recipe in the included booklet, mixing whole milk, whipping cream, and vanilla flavoring in a bowl before pouring it into the machine. The fact that you have to mix the ingredients before adding them annoyed me, as you have to mix enough liquid to reach the minimum fill, and you have to use a large bowl. This made a complete mess when I went to add it to the machine, and I resorted to spooning it in. It is by no means as smooth as using juice.

Once it was finally in, I used the dedicated milkshake setting and left it to run. This took a little longer than the juice, at around half an hour for 27fl oz. When it came to dispensing, it was far too thick and took forever (see the video below), and I had to turn the dial to adjust several times before it actually came out into my glass. When it did, it was very icy and slightly clumpy. If you have ever run the experiment of making ice cream by hand, shaking a bag of cream and milk in a bag of ice, it was not too dissimilar to the results of that.

It was far from the thick, silky, smooth experience I would hope for, and while not unpalatable, I cannot see myself using the machine for dairy again.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning the Ninja SLUSHi Max was surprisingly simple, albeit a little cumbersome in my small sink.

The appliance has a built-in 'rinse' setting, which runs the motor without cooling, allowing you to pour in warm water into the empty barrel and dispense, removing the bulk of residue from your drink. I used this after every cycle, filling it to the max line, and dispensing into a large mixing bowl.

In the case of cleaning after juice, this worked wonders at removing all of the residue, meaning that handwashing in the sink was easy. The unit comes apart quickly, sliding the back handle forward to release the mixing unit, which slides off the front. The auger (mixing paddle) then also slides off, and the base condensation tray slides out too. It is truly effortless.

I used a soft cloth and non-toxic dish soap (such as Attitude from Walmart) to wipe out the interior and the stainless steel cooling unit, which remains attached to the main unit. Once dry, everything slides back into the place the way it came off. It is that easy.

After using dairy in the machine, however, the process was a little more irritating. I used the same steps; however required two rinse cycles before removing the components. Beyond that, I had to make an effort to get all of the milk from every small gap. If the milkshake had been restaurant-quality, I would not have minded, but it seemed like a waste of energy.

What Shoppers Say

The overall rating on the Ninja website largely agrees with my experience, with 4.3/5 stars on average.

Of the five-star reviews, customers praise how easy the SlushAssist setting makes the process, removing the guesswork entirely. They also love how easy it is to clean.

One shopper commented that it was 'great for alcohol' with the machine able to slush drinks with up to a 20% alcohol content. 'I have the original Ninja SLUSHi, and I just received the new one. I used them both at the same time with same ingredients. I will say that the new Ninja Max performed much better when slushing alcohol and was much faster. I did not have to dilute the alcohol and was able to get a sorbet-type consistency.' I am glad to hear this, when I cannot test this function myself.

One-star reviews usually comment on customer service, which is not something we take into account for appliance reviews. Otherwise, one user claimed their machine overheated and shut off several times during use. This is not something I have had an issue with, and it is the only example I can find of this complaint.

The story is much the same on the Ninja SLUSHi Max Amazon listing, with overjoyed users loving the increased capacity and speed of slushing.

Should You Buy The Ninja Slushi Max?

All in all, I would recommend the Ninja SLUSHi Max to anyone who is looking for a fun and useful hosting addition to their kitchen this summer. It is big and really only serves one function, but it is a very fun addition for anyone with the space. I personally have a tiny kitchen, but love it so much that I am willing to go through boxing it up at the end of the summer season to store elsewhere over winter.

It is best suited to people who host regularly and people with larger households, where the extra-large capacity and quick cooling times are perfect for catering to a crowd. At $369.99 at the time of writing, it is not the most affordable novelty kitchen 'toy', but I think it is a fun investment if you have the budget and know you will get good use out of it.

What Else to Shop

To help you add to the experience and make the most of your new investment, I have selected six of the best accessories for your SLUSHi.

All prices correct at time of publication.

While planning ahead for summer, brush up on the summer hosting mistakes to avoid to keep things running smoothly.

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Even as adults, my friends and I still get unreasonably excited about an icy slush drink in the summer. Thanks to the new Ninja SLUSHI Max, I can finally make enough for everyone to share without leaving my kitchen.

At first, the large SLUSHi worried me. The extra-large upgrade over the original felt intimidating for a small kitchen. After finally getting my hands on one, though, I can confidently say it earns every inch of counter space.

Now I’m counting down to long, sun-soaked weekends putting it through its paces with slushies, milkshakes, and frozen cocktails, and am convinced that it might just be the best kitchen appliance to have on hand all summer long.

I have yet to put the Ninja SLUSHi Max to the test, although based on initial impressions and existing reviews, it is already shaping up to be one of the best Ninja summer appliances so far.

What intrigues me most is the new SlushAssist technology – a preset program designed to 'read' the drink mixture and automatically adjust the timing and temperature. Whether you’re blending fruit juices, alcoholic mixes, or creamy milkshakes, it’s built to handle the balance for you. I’ll be putting it through its paces to see just how well it adapts.

For non-dairy blends, the machine can also keep drinks chilled for up to 12 hours, making it especially useful for long summer gatherings when guests might wander back for another round well after dinner as the evening winds down. It is the ideal tool for staying cool when hosting outside.

With the increased capacity of the Ninja SLUSHi Max comes a larger footprint, and there’s no denying it’s a sizeable appliance. In my small kitchen, it claims a noticeable portion of the counter space I’d usually reserve for food prep.

That said, it’s far less imposing than the packaging initially suggests and doesn’t look out of place alongside my refrigerator. For keen hosts who regularly entertain larger groups or households with children, I think it is more than worth the counter space.

Even before putting it fully to the test, I can already see it earning a permanent spot in my summer setup. And when the colder months roll around, I’d happily go through the effort of reboxing it and tucking it away until frozen drink season returns.

More to Shop

If you’re already sold and planning ahead for summer gatherings and ice cream socials, I’ve rounded up a few key accessories to help you get the most out of your Ninja SLUSHi.

All prices correct at time of publication.

Need something smaller or more budget-friendly? We have rounded up the best Ninja SLUSHi alternatives, too.

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For those of us who love to host, the warm weather usually brings with it the dream of the perfect outdoor kitchen, poised and ready to impress guests and dine al fresco. For many of us, though, it remains a dream.

This summer, however, we do not have to labor over a hot stove inside as our guests enjoy their time in the sun. Instead, with the help of a portable induction stove such as the Duxtop from Amazon, summer hosting can stay social.

It is the perfect temporary fix that, when paired with the right setup and the best induction cookware, can turn any backyard into an open-air restaurant that can be packed away come winter. Here's how.

An outdoor kitchen is the ultimate luxury for keen home cooks who love to host. Unfortunately, budget constraints and limited space can make a permanent setup difficult to justify. While even the best grills can carry most cookouts with ease, anyone hoping to serve something a little more refined outdoors will quickly realize that a proper stovetop makes all the difference.

Instead of settling for your warm indoor kitchen away from gathering guests, a portable induction cooktop allows you to bring the prep work outside. With precise temperature control, it is ideal for more delicate dishes, whether you are sautéing vegetables in your best non-toxic cookware or finishing sides to accompany perfectly grilled proteins.

The Duxtop portable induction stove, available at Amazon, is the perfect pick for a temporary setup. Powerful yet lightweight, it delivers the control of a full stovetop without the commitment of a built-in installation. It is also practical, as it's easy to wipe clean after a busy evening of hosting, simple to operate, and equipped with built-in safety features that make it reassuringly suitable for gatherings where children may be nearby.

While we have not had the chance to test this stove out for ourselves, the five-star reviews, of which there are over 6,000, speak for themselves.

Amazon shoppers reported that the cooktop is not only reliable, quick to heat, and 'better than electric stoves', but that it maintains temperature perfectly.

One satisfied shopper proclaimed that it is 'so efficient, it feels like magic'. In their five-star review, they noted, 'We originally ordered the double-burner model of this same brand to take to a vacation home we have. It will replace a double-burner gas stove. We loved the double so much, we got a single-burner version of the same stove to use in our camper,' proving the perfect portability.

Another shopper, Donovan, added that the induction was far quicker than his gas stove, 'bringing water to a boil or a pressure cooker up to pressure nearly 50% faster,' meaning you can spend less time cooking and more time one-on-one with your guests.

So, as the weather takes a turn for the better, there's no better way to enjoy entertaining and hosting al-fresco all spring and summer long.

What to Shop

If you are looking to create a temporary outdoor kitchen for summer hosting, I have rounded up six functional picks to help you design a pop-up space that keeps the good times (and great food) flowing all season long.

All prices correct at time of publication.

To fit everyone in comfortably and avoid unsightly clutter that brings the tone down, consult our expert tips for organizing a yard for summer.

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I can hardly imagine summer without a pizza party. It’s an at least once-yearly staple in my social circle, and a pizza oven has long been the missing piece in the whole affair.

That’s why I’m so excited to see that the highly regarded Ooni Karu 12 Pizza Oven is now reduced by $100, just as temperatures start to rise. It’s a perfectly portable solution for alfresco dining, whether you’re setting up in your own backyard or taking things further afield to a lake or beach for a more adventurous gathering.

With its multi-fuel capability, it can cook 12-inch pizzas in just minutes, delivering that coveted blistered crust and smoky finish. A cult favourite for years, it continues to rank among the best pizza ovens for summer entertaining and has become something of an essential for any outdoor cooking setup. Here’s why it earns that reputation.

At Homes & Gardens, we have always loved the Ooni pizza ovens. Having compared Ooni vs Gozney, and Ooni vs Solo Stove, the Ooni models almost always came out on top for practicality and results.

While we have never tested the Karu 12, we have had our hands on almost every other model, from the upgraded Karu 2 Pro to the Karu 16, and never awarded a setup less than 4.5/5 stars, so we are confident that the first-generation oven will deliver the same artisanal results, tailored to beginners.

The multi-fuel system supports both wood and charcoal, with the option to add a gas burner attachment (available separately from Ooni), further adding to its flexibility and portability. Once lit, the oven is reportedly ready to cook in as little as 15 minutes, reaching temperatures of up to 950 degrees Fahrenheit − hot enough to cook a 12-inch pizza in under 60 seconds.

Beyond pizza, its versatility is part of its appeal. It can also be used to sear steak, roast fish, and char vegetables, or even bake simple desserts to finish the evening, making it a genuinely multifunctional centrepiece for outdoor cooking wherever you choose to set it up.

It is the perfect compact addition to any outdoor cooking setup. Summer hosting has never looked so good.

What Else to Shop

If you want to elevate your pizza game at home or away, choosing the right accessories is just as important as the oven itself. I’ve curated six essential picks to help you set up the perfect al fresco pizzeria.

All prices correct at the time of publication.

To help achieve the authentic artisanal experience, we studied the essential things pizza chefs always do for perfect pizza so you can skip the mistakes and achieve perfect results every time.

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SMEG has revealed its Color of the Year for 2026, and it is a stark departure from the usually vivid retro palette the brand is known for.

Moonlight, a rich earth tone, could be mistaken for a safe play. However, the restorative hue, inspired by the 'understated elegance' of natural light, is designed to complement the existing surfaces in your kitchen, rather than distract.

Available in one of the best drip coffee makers, an electric kettle, and a two-slice toaster, the new color just works, no matter your current kitchen scheme. But why?

Moonlight is SMEG's Color of the Year 2026

Looking back at every Color of the Year we know so far, another neutral shade is perhaps not all that surprising. Sherwin-Williams announced Universal Khaki, Dutch Boy chose Melodious Ivory, and we saw a similar story in the controversial Pantone Color of the Year, Cloud Dancer.

Moonlight is a warm, earthy neutral, designed with sophistication in mind. The warmer undertones add depth, steering kitchens away from being too stark or unwelcoming, lending credence to cozy kitchens designed for hosting or comfort cooking.

But why, when the quiet luxury trend seems to be phasing out of both interiors and fashion, have so many institutions settled on understated shades? For SMEG, a famously nostalgic kitchenware brand, it is about creating appliances that 'gently accompany surfaces rather than distract.'

Karen Olle, Marketing Director at SMEG USA, shared in the release, 'We're seeing a real shift in design as homeowners move away from cool greys and toward the warmth of earthy neutrals like beige and ivory. With Moonlight, we wanted to capture that sense of calm in a very tangible way, creating a kitchen that feels organic, grounded, and restorative.'

When choosing the best kitchen appliances, the timeless matte neutral is perfect, blending seamlessly into any scheme, from maximalist kitchens to the 'New Neutral' kitchens rising in popularity.

Rather than draw the eye as a centerpiece, the new SMEG offerings integrate seamlessly into the existing space, as discreet appliances that minimize visual clutter in a kitchen without becoming boring.

They are still a statement, albeit a more considered one. As they mix elegance with quality construction, they are a definitively timeless investment for any kitchen ideas.

What to Shop

For those of us who are irrevocably drawn to comforting, warm-toned neutrals, this shade feels like a natural fit. I have rounded up six picks – both from SMEG itself and a few color-matched accessories – to help you integrate the Moonlight hue across your kitchen.

All prices correct at time of publication.

If you are enamoured by the natural aesthetic, consider these neutral kitchen ideas to balance warmth and timelessness without veering into bland.

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We all seem to be on the hunt for the perfect brewer – a coffee machine that can make a range of excellent drinks, handle beans and milk with ease, and do it all without taking over the entire kitchen counter.

Luckily, the latest espresso machines from KitchenAid appear to be up to the task. Around 25% smaller than previous models, the new KitchenAid KF2 Fully Automatic Espresso Machine combines a built-in conical burr grinder with an integrated milk steaming wand, making it your personal barista at home.

It is already shaping up to be a contender for the best espresso machines – especially thanks to the added cold brew functionality. Here’s everything you need to know.

We’ve always been fans of the KitchenAid coffee machines, particularly the KF range. The KF6, for example, earned an impressive 4.5/5 stars in our expert review by Lydia Hayman, thanks to its exceptionally quiet operation and chic silhouette that sits seamlessly in any modern kitchen. It also delivered consistently strong, well-balanced espresso, the true litmus test for any machine in this category.

The new KF2 variation is simply smaller – offering the same great brewing power on a more compact footprint. It offers six hot and iced recipe options, from rich, bold espresso to refreshing iced coffee, all at the touch of a button. Drinks can also be tailored to taste, too, with a backlit LED display (another upgrade on the previous model) that makes adjusting strength, size, and temperature simple and intuitive.

A built-in burr grinder automatically adapts to different beans and roast profiles, helping ensure a consistently well-rounded extraction without the need for barista-level training.

It has certainly earned its spot on the busiest kitchen counters, and I can't wait to put it to the test.

What Else to Shop

To help you make the best coffee at home, I’ve rounded up a selection of coffee station essentials designed to elevate both your brewing routine and your countertop aesthetic.

All prices correct at time of publication.

With your new automated in-house barista on the way, check out some of the expert coffee bar organization ideas to maintain order.

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What makes a Mother’s Day dinner truly stand out? Effortless hosting that looks impressive on the table but keeps the kitchen calm and collected. After all, the goal is to celebrate Mom, not recruit her as an extra pair of hands.

The secret is choosing appliances that work with you, not against you. Enter the best blender–food processor combos, such as the Ninja Professional Plus Kitchen System. Think of it as the ultimate sous-chef for busy hosts.

If you’re planning a Mother’s Day menu and want it to feel special without turning your kitchen into a high-stress zone, here’s exactly how to make the most of it.

One of the biggest drains on time and energy when hosting is meal prep. Chopping, mixing, slicing, and dicing can take an age, and once guests start arriving, the last place you want to be stuck is in the kitchen. This is where having one of the best food processors saves the day. They can chop vegetables evenly in seconds or mix dough for desserts at the touch of a button, cutting prep time dramatically and freeing your time up.

What sets the Ninja Professional Plus Kitchen System apart, however, is that it combines the best blender, too, meaning it can handle everything from crushed ice for cocktails to up to four generous bowls of silky soup for starters.

Compact but powerful, it means less gadget clutter, far less prep chaos, and more time spent around the table with Mom instead of rushing around the kitchen.

Reviewed for us by our appliance expert Millie Fender, the system proved to be the most powerful of the bunch, with dishwasher-safe attachments making cleaning a kitchen after dinner just as easy, and a countdown timer for you to keep an exact eye on all of your prep.

The Auto-IQ feature offers five presets for smoothies, frozen drinks, nutrient extractions, chopped mixtures, and dough, taking the guesswork out of timings and programme settings so the appliance acts like your sous-chef, accepting delegated tasks with ease.

It really is a game-changing investment for busy hosts and passionate home cooks. And with $50 off, there has rarely been a better time to invest.

What Else to Shop

From compact appliances perfect for smaller kitchens to the table-top essentials that make a meal feel truly special, I have rounded up six pieces to help you ace your Mother's Day hosting.

All prices correct at time of publication.

With dinner arranged, consider some chic Mother's Day gifts for moms with great taste.

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For anyone who enjoys manual-brew coffee or loose-leaf tea at home, an electric kettle is essential. However, kettles made with plastic components have raised growing concerns, with studies warning these may release micro- and nanoplastics into the water you boil and drink.

A 2025 study published in npj Emerging Contaminants found that, while the evidence is not yet conclusive, regular use of plastic kettles may contribute to the ingestion of microscopic plastic particles. As concerns rise about the potential health effects of plastics and so-called 'forever chemicals,' it is not a risk worth taking for something as simple as your morning brew.

The solution? Switch to a non-toxic coffee maker made without plastic in the water path. One example is the fully stainless steel, premium Aarke kettle, pictured above. Here’s why making the change matters.

Why Plastic Kettles Could be Toxic

Concerns are increasingly being raised about whether heat and repeated use of plastic appliances may contribute to the release of micro- and nanoplastics into water.

Many lower-cost electric kettles still incorporate plastics in key components, often using materials such as polypropylene (PP), ABS, or polycarbonate blends, depending on the design. When these materials are repeatedly heated when making coffee at home, there is potential for polymer degradation and additive leaching, introducing microscopic plastic particles into the water.

While early studies are still not entirely sure of the long-term effects of microplastics on the body, it is generally considered good practice to reduce exposure where possible, working on the 'better safe than sorry' principle.

Other studies support this, adds Dr. Joseph Mercola, Board-Certified Family Physician. In late 2020, a Trinity College Dublin Study reported that polypropylene products, with kettles tested along with infant bottles and lunch boxes, released microplastics. The release of polypropylene rose from 0.6 million to 55 million particles per liter as water temperature rose from 25 to 95 degrees Celsius [77-203°F]. Since a kettle’s purpose is to heat water close to that range, day after day, I would not choose plastic as your main kettle material.'

While the 2025 study did suggest that the level of contaminants released by certain electric kettles may decrease with repeated use, trace levels can persist even after extended boiling cycles. As Dr Mercola reports, 'In a 100-day plastic-kettle study, minerals in real tap water formed protective films inside kettles; after 40 days, ions in water cut microplastic release by more than 89% compared with deionized-water controls. Still, that finding should not be read as a green light for plastic kettles.'

In other words, simply 'boiling out' plastics is not a reliable way to eliminate microplastics, even if the volume of harmful chemicals may reduce over time.

Why Stainless Steel Kettles are the Answer

Stainless steel, on the other hand, is chemically inert, meaning that it does not react or leach potentially harmful chemicals into food or water. This has the bonus of not impacting the flavor, too. That is why it makes some of the best non-toxic cookware.

Beyond the safety argument, they are more durable and are corrosion-resistant, meaning that they are a smarter financial investment, too.

When brewing, stainless steel kettles also offer superior heat retention, keeping your water warmer for longer for repeated brews. This is the case for both stainless steel electric kettles, such as the SMEG Electric Kettle from Williams Sonoma, or the Willow Kitchen Gooseneck Kettle available at Macy's, and stovetop kettles, such as the KitchenAid Stainless Steel Whistling Induction Kettle, from Macy's.

Dr. Mercola agrees, adding, 'I prefer a glass or stainless steel kettle. Ceramic-lined options can also be useful if the glaze and interior materials are clearly disclosed. For a home kitchen, the goal is simple: heat water in glass, stainless steel, or ceramic, then pour it into a ceramic or glass mug. I would also avoid plastic travel mugs for hot tea or coffee, since the same basic principle applies: Heat and plastic are a poor pair.'

What to Shop

Plastics and 'forever chemicals' can creep into many parts of your coffee routine. To help reduce that risk, I’ve sourced six coffee bar essentials made without BPA plastics or other potentially harmful materials.

All prices correct at time of publication.

Meet the Expert

It’s not just health considerations worth thinking about when revamping your coffee routine. Choosing ethically sourced beans matters too. Our guide to selecting ethical coffee can help you build a more environmentally conscious setup.

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It’s no secret that ice cream makers are the fastest-selling small kitchen appliances every summer. This year, however, one model is standing out: The nutribullet Chill, a compact countertop machine that’s quickly winning us over.

Traditional ice cream makers have a reputation for being bulky, unattractive, and expensive. The new launch from NutriBullet flips that expectation. Priced just shy of $200, the Chill is a charming, space-saving alternative that nestles as neatly on your counter as it does into your cabinets.

Reportedly 47% smaller than comparable machines, it transforms nearly any mixture into a creamy, frosty dessert in minutes – it’s hard to imagine it staying in stock for long.

I consume enough ice cream each summer to keep a small creamery afloat, yet I’ve never justified buying an ice cream maker. Even an appliance as tempting as the Ninja CREAMi Swirl – which we reviewed and awarded four stars last year – hasn’t convinced me to surrender precious counter space in my small kitchen.

The nutribullet Chill Ice Cream Maker, however, is a different story. It delivers everything my dairy-loving heart could want in a far more compact footprint. Measuring 9.6" L x 5.74" W x 15.08" H, it is by far the smallest appliance I have come across, and comes with two 16-oz pint cups that double as ice cream storage.

It is ideal for small kitchens that cannot usually afford to sacrifice storage space for 'novelty', seasonal appliances.

The nutribullet Chill delivers five preset frozen dessert programmes, including ice cream, sorbet, gelato, smoothie bowl, and frozen yogurt for true versatility. Its powerful motor and 360 DoubleCream™ Blade Technology transform pre-frozen ingredients (after a 24-hour freeze) into a creamy dessert in under five minutes. For summer hosting, it’s an ideal prep-ahead solution.

While compact enough to store away in the off-season, the machine’s five playful colorways make a compelling case for leaving it on display all summer. My personal favorite is Cotton Candy Pink, though Mint Chip Green, Latte Beige, Matte Black, and Matte White each slip effortlessly into almost any kitchen color scheme.

What Else to Shop

Avoiding impractical machines and making smart investments in your appliances is just one of the many summer hosting mistakes to avoid if you want a smoother-running season.

To impress your guests during the warmer months, I’ve curated six iced-treat essentials designed to elevate your hosting game and bring a smile to every guest’s face.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Need some inspiration for your summer ice cream socials? Check out our chef's ice cream recipes we can't get through summer without.

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The Casabrews ULTRA Espresso Machine is a popular, sleek espresso machine with customization settings that even espresso aficionados would appreciate.

After garnering some popularity on social media, I enlisted the expertise of a professional barista to find out if the Casabrews ULTRA lived up to its reputation and how it compares to more high-end models. Spoiler: It brews rich, delicious, and full-bodied coffee with ease.

And thanks to its stylish stainless steel design, this is one of the best espresso machines for high-quality yet inexpensive espresso at home.

My One-Minute Summary

The Casabrews ULTRA Espresso Machine brews truly delicious coffee to a standard similar to that of professional machines. You can adjust pour time and temperature, although I found that the pour times we set weren't always saved accurately.

Its functionality is easy to understand for those new to espresso making at home – with four buttons for choosing cup size, hot water, steam, and adjusting the brew – and the steam wand does a great job at turning milk silky and thick.

For more customization options, I recommend the Breville Barista Pro, or if you're short on space, the KitchenAid Espresso Machine is a stylish, smaller alternative.

Casabrews ULTRA Espresso Machine: Specifications

Casabrews ULTRA Espresso Machine: Design

The Casabrews ULTRA looks like a compact version of the professional espresso machines you find in coffee shops. It's made almost entirely of stainless steel, and takes about 2-3 minutes to warm up.

Even if you've had no experience making espresso at home, the operation is straightforward. All the parts move and attach intuitively. The drip tray slides out easily with minimal spillage, and the portafilter slots in with a satisfyingly weighty feel to it – and there’s a stopping point, so it’s easy to know when it’s fully inserted.

The tamper feels a little cheap compared to the more premium materials used for the rest of the machine. Its plastic is BPA-free and food-safe, but feels a touch too lightweight for tamping. When you're pressing grounds into the portafilter, you want them to be evenly distributed, and if you’re pressing yourself – as opposed to using a heavier weight – there’s more room for error. During testing, my barista partner and I found that there were occasionally loose grounds on top after pulling the tamper away.

You can, however, easily make a good-quality espresso, and if you are more of a coffee aficionado, you can adjust each shot to precisely how you prefer.

That said, after brewing, the coffee grounds came out as a solid puck, a good sign that the tamper has done its job (and paired with the right pour time).

There are four buttons for the different modes: One-cup, two-cup, hot water, and steam.

To change pour time, hold the two-cup button down for five seconds to be able to change the settings (only the power and two -cup button lights will be lit). Then, press the two-cup to start pouring, then again to stop, and it will show you the pour time.

It is said to remember this for next time, to tailor the brew to your beans without having to adjust the settings every time, but strangely, it did not remember exactly to the recorded time during my testing.

When setting the time to 27 seconds, the next coffee was poured for 26. When set at 24 seconds, the next was 23.5. As it isn't quite accurate, I would recommend setting your pour time a little higher than needed.

A nice touch is that the top surface of the espresso machine is slightly warm as the water heats up. You find this feature in professional espresso machines, as it allows you to gently warm your mug while brewing the coffee. We found the mug to be ever-so-slightly warmer after 5-10 minutes on top of the machine, upside down.

Casabrews ULTRA Espresso Machine: Performance

The Casabrews ULTRA brewed delicious coffee that tasted almost the same as when brewed from a professional machine, which was impressive for such a small appliance.

During testing, I made espressos, Americanos, lattes, and cappuccinos to find out how the Casabrews ULTRA performed. We used coffee beans that my barista partner regularly tastes at work and is familiar with the flavor profile, to see how similar the pour was from this at-home espresso machine.

For the first espresso, we poured for 23 seconds, and it tasted great, but a little acidic and sour. The crema was present and looked good, but could have been thicker.

We increased the pour to 27.5 seconds, and it was perfect. Indistinguishable from the espressos made from a professional machine.

We brewed Americanos by brewing espresso, then adding hot water, then vice versa. Both ways, it tasted almost as good as when brewed professionally, although a little flat.

It also didn't quite have the same body, but it performed exceptionally well at extracting the flavour, as we could taste all the notes in the coffee. The subtle chocolate, berry, and acidic profiles were all present.

The steam wand takes around 45-50 seconds to properly foam the milk and heat it up, which is a little slow, but the result was a thick, glossy milk that is perfect for flat whites, lattes, and cappuccinos.

It also didn’t do what lots of cheap machines do, which is to just blow bubbles into the milk.

The lattes and cappuccinos that we brewed were delicious, full-bodied, and impressive enough that my partner would happily serve them at work.

Casabrews ULTRA Espresso Machine: Cleaning and Storage

The Casabrews ULTRA is easy to clean. The drip tray comes out, allowing you to clean it thoroughly, and the internal parts can be flushed and descaled. A light will show on the LCD screen when it's time to descale the coffee maker.

To flush the machine, following the manual's clear instructions, I ran hot water for 30 seconds through the steam wand, then stopped it manually. Then, I did the same for the group head, and it stopped automatically after 23 seconds.

Hot water comes out of the steam wand, so if you're making an americano, you'll have to flush out the wand after every time you've submerged it in milk.

At 12.99 x 12.2 x 10.31 inches, the Casabrews ULTRA will need a decent amount of space on the counter, but not too much more than some of the bigger Keurig coffee makers.

It's stainless steel, so it'll easily blend into different kitchen interior styles, and it easily fits under my kitchen cabinets. If you prefer to keep yours out of sight, prepare to lift a somewhat heavy (13.55lbs) and bulky machine in and out of your kitchen storage.

How Does the Casabrews ULTRA Espresso Machine Compare?

At $249.99 at Casabrews, and often discounted to around $180-200, the Casabrews ULTRA Espresso Machine is a modest investment, and a more affordable entry into at-home espresso machines compared to premium models on the market. It's relatively compact too, measuring 10.31 in (W) x 12.2 in (D) x 12.99 in (H).

One such example is the Breville Barista Pro, costing $849.95 at Amazon. It perfectly extracts notes of all coffee types, can adjust temperature, includes a coffee grinder, and has exceptional build quality – but it'll take up more space on your counter.

If you're short on space, the KitchenAid Espresso Machine is a slim, stylish alternative that is similarly easy to use, includes a milk frother, and makes delicious coffee, at $249.99 at KitchenAid. It measures 6.38 x 13.15 x 11.26 inches.

Who Would the Casabrews ULTRA Espresso Machine Suit?

The Casabrews ULTRA Espresso Machine is the ideal entry point for those looking to try their first espresso machine, and coffee aficionados who like to have some control over their brew.

Espresso purists may prefer a more comprehensive machine that can adjust the temperature and includes its own coffee grinder, to keep everything needed for precision and customization in one place, such as the Breville Barista Pro.

Next, see which models top our guide to the best coffee makers after our rigorous testing sessions.

I wasn’t old enough to see The Devil Wears Prada in cinemas, but you can be sure that @Can you please spell ‘Gabbana’?” has been etched into my memory since the first time I watched it in my parents’ living room, alongside an unhealthy fixation on those Chanel boots.

That’s why I can’t stop thinking about the Dolce & Gabbana x Williams Sonoma kitchen and coffee collection. From statement toasters to some of the best non-toxic coffee makers, it brings a vibrant hit of colour into the kitchen, with (dare I say) cerulean blues and white Mediterranean motifs that feel entirely Miranda-approved.

The range spans everything from Bialetti moka pots to coffee grinders and storage tins, offering something for every kind of coffee ritual. It’s a playful yet polished way to nod to a cult fashion classic at home – perfectly timed as we wait for the long-anticipated second instalment.

Not all of us want to plaster our homes with movie merchandise, and few of us have the budget to fill our wardrobes with the designer pieces we are sure to see in the upcoming sequel to The Devil Wears Prada.

That is what makes the Dolce & Gabbana x Williams Sonoma kitchen collection feel so appealing – it blends practical investment pieces with beautiful design. Plus, if you catch the subtle fashion references, it is a guaranteed way to start each morning with a smile (and never a catastrophic pursing of the lips).

The pattern itself mirrors motifs used on several iconic Dolce & Gabbana designs, including the recognizable Dolce & Gabbana Sicily Handbag, which retails for over $3,000 for the small size. The Williams Sonoma collaboration offers a more affordable – and practical – way to bring the same signature pattern into your home.

For the coffee lovers, the Bialetti side of the collaboration is a must. Comprising the best mokka pot money can buy in three- and six-cup sizes, a stunning stainless steel and glass French press, matching espresso cups, and the coffee gift/storage tin, it is a delightful way to start each morning, delivering quality coffee every time.

On the appliance side of things, SMEG's iconic retro-style essentials are sporting the summery look. The SMEG manual espresso machine (which we gave four stars in our review) completes your coffee nook, as does the SMEG electric kettle. Alternatively, for those who want to commit to the Mediterranean style, and for less than a Dolce Box Bag, there is the SMEG Fab 5 Refrigerator.

The truth is, no one can do what Dolce & Gabbana and Williams Sonoma can do. As Miranda Priestley would say, 'That's all.'

Want to fully upgrade your coffee nook? We have rounded up the top coffee bar essentials for your home to curate a cafe-style experience in the comfort of your kitchen.

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Is there anything that ushers in summer quite like a cooling slushy drink? I certainly don’t think so.

That’s why as Kitchen Appliances Editor, I was excited to see the game-changing Ninja SLUSHi – one of Ninja's best summer appliances – drop to its lowest price just ahead of the summer rush. It's perfect timing to get your seasonal hosting setup in order before things heat up.

From frozen cocktails to fruit-based slushies at the touch of a button, it delivers instant refreshment in any flavour you can think of, with no mess, no fuss, and no battling ice cube trays. It’s the kind of effortless, crowd-pleasing appliance that quietly transforms summer entertaining.

The Ninja SLUSHi Is at It's Lowest Price Ever

While you can achieve a rough slush using one of the best blenders, the process can be fiddly – think repeated batches of ice cubes and a machine that isn’t always thrilled about crushing them. Even the quietest blenders can become surprisingly loud once ice enters the equation.

The Ninja SLUSHi, on the other hand, uses RapidChill Technology to freeze liquids evenly inside the machine, delivering smooth, icy drinks quickly and with minimal effort. With five preset functions for convenience, it also offers manual control if you prefer a thicker, more indulgent texture or something lighter and more refreshing.

And then there’s the clean up – the part most of us dread. While cleaning a blender can be awkward, the SLUSHi keeps things simple with dishwasher-safe components and a dedicated rinse cycle, making post-hosting clean-up almost effortless. Honestly, it’s music to my (lazy) ears.

Though we have vetted dozens of Ninja appliances, we have not reviewed the SLUSHi ourselves (it's in the pipeline), but the over 4.7/5 star reviews on Amazon speak for themselves.

In their five-star review, verified-shopper Brice commented, 'It chills drinks quickly and turns them into smooth slushies without much effort. The controls are simple, and it’s easy to clean after use. It works well for juices, sodas, and other flavored drinks. Overall, it’s a good choice if you want quick, tasty slushies without a lot of hassle.'

Fellow shopper Margaret adds, 'I use it at our church for a treat to pass out! It usually works fast, at least 25 minutes. The only problem I have had is that if you leave it too long without using it, it all gets sludgy. Best to use it up fast and start again! It would be great for parties at home, too. It’s pricey but worth it.'

With the sale now in full swing, there’s quite simply no better time to take the plunge. I know I won’t be waiting, and judging by the group chat, my friends are already lining up for their first taste as soon as it arrives.

What Else to Shop

Whether you’re planning ice cream socials this summer or simply looking for a refreshing way to cool down when temperatures climb, the Ninja SLUSHi is easily one of the most fun and crowd-pleasing appliances on the market.

To help you make the most of it, I’ve rounded up a few of my favorite additional tools and accessories to elevate your summer hosting setup.

If you are looking to host more outdoors this season, and want to elevate your summer cooking setup, consider the best pizza ovens next.to really impress your guests.

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I have baked for the past 15 years, and at one point, I was making a new cake every weekend without fail, so I understand just how game-changing a new stand mixer can be.

That is why I am so excited about SMEG's newest launch, specifically their new Forte Stand Mixer, available at Williams Sonoma. With a new, powerful motor designed to make kneading even the toughest doughs as easy as whipping meringue, and reimagined accessories to ensure not an inch of the bowl is left unmixed, it is rising to the occasion as a candidate for one of the best stand mixers.

Here’s why I can’t wait to try it in my own kitchen, and why it’s an appliance every home baker should consider, whether it’s your first stand mixer or a long-overdue upgrade.

The SMEG Stand Mixer Every Baker's Kitchen Needs

When choosing kitchen appliances, finding the right stand mixer can be surprisingly difficult. These workhorse machines are the sous chef of your kitchen. Beyond mixing and kneading, with the right accessories, they can grind meat, churn ice cream, slice and grate vegetables, roll fresh pasta, and more. Selecting the right model can make cooking and baking a breeze, saving your time and effort daily.

The newest SMEG Forte stand mixer keeps this essential role in mind and provides a direct-drive motor that can tackle even the toughest of tasks, such as kneading dense doughs with ease. What's more, the head movement is designed to mimic the natural motion of hand kneading for more consistent results.

No longer will I have to constantly stop other tasks to hold the stand mixer still while it struggles against gluten development, either, with enhanced 'Steady-Mix' stability, integrated to reduce vibrations so the machine doesn't shift during use.

The accessories are really where you get the most out of your stand mixer, and SMEG has considered these, too.

The new Forte mixer is compatible with all the existing add-ons, such as the Multi-Grinder Attachment, SMEG Pasta Roller, and Ice Cream Maker, all available at Amazon.

What's more, they have also redesigned the classic dough hook, with a C-shape hook that actively pushes dough off the sides of the stainless steel bowl for a more even mix. Similarly, the redesigned flat-edge beater prevents stuck ingredients at the edges of the bowl.

The mixer comes with a wire whisk, flat beater, dough hook, flex edge beater, and a Tritan™ Renew pouring shield as standard, so you can get baking straight out of the box. I cannot wait to try it out myself.

What to Shop

I’ve accumulated quite a collection of baking essentials over the years, with two full cabinets dedicated entirely to the hobby, so I have an in-depth understanding of what makes for a well-functioning baking space.

I’ve curated six considered picks to help you outfit your kitchen with both practicality and style in mind.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Not sure which baking appliance will suit your routine best? We have compared hand mixers vs stand mixers so you can make the right decision for your kitchen.

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David Beckham has collaborated with Ninja to design a chic new upgrade for one of the brand’s flagship coffee makers.

The former footballer, who has now made a name for himself as a stylish country homemaker (thanks to his green thumb and chicken-keeping skills), has launched a sleek limited-edition Luxe™ Café Pro coffee maker that's chic enough for his counters.

This premium appliance, which combines Ninja’s automated brewing technology with David's fashion-forward aesthetic, means you can now bring high-performing celebrity style straight to the heart of your home.

With so many now embracing artisan home coffee alongside aesthetic kitchen choices, these appliances now have to do more than deliver a great cup. Along with being one of the best espresso machines our in-house professional chef has ever tested, this upgrade will be a centerpiece on your countertop, rather than something you'll have to hide away in your appliance garage.

David Beckham Just Teamed Up With Ninja on a Stylish Coffee Maker

So far as the best coffee makers go, Ninja delivers every time. Having reviewed the original Luxe™ Café Pro, we found barely any faults besides it being large, and the cold brew not being ultra-cold. Otherwise, it performs quickly and quietly, delivering consistently well-extracted espresso, hands-free milk frothing, and the added convenience of a built-in grinder.

The original stainless-steel finish already felt elevated, but the David Beckham redesign takes things a step further, introducing matte black stainless steel and refined gold detailing, alongside ebony wood accents. The result is a countertop appliance that feels as much like an on-trend design object as it does a kitchen essential.

Importantly, every design decision has been made with practicality in mind, ensuring performance hasn’t been sacrificed for aesthetics. In a behind-the-scenes video released by Ninja, Beckham even pushed back on certain finishes, noting, 'I’m all about the details. My issue with that? Fingerprints.'

No fuss, no smudges, just a clean finish that looks as good as it performs.

The machine offers four functions in one: brewing full-bodied espresso, balanced drip coffee, quick cold brew, and offering an independent hot water system.

This is all alongside the hands-free milk steamer and grinder with 25 automated grind settings to take the guesswork out of making good coffee at home. It may be large, but it makes the best use of its real estate, cutting back on the number of appliances you need on your counter.

The David Beckham colorway launch is limited edition, so it won't be around forever, and I predict a sell-out soon.

What Else to Shop

Coffee stations are no longer just practical hubs for a quick morning pick-me-up – they’re increasingly becoming focal points within the kitchen.

To elevate your own coffee corner, I’ve selected six beautifully home essentials to refine both your routine and your countertop.

Even with the perfect appliances and accessories, your coffee corner may look unkempt without the perfect coffee bar organization ideas. Luckily, the experts have shared their top tips for combining pretty with practical.

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There is an expectation that when choosing a coffee maker, you’ll have to sacrifice counter and storage space, especially if you want a machine that does more than just serve up pod coffee. In a small kitchen, it often doesn’t feel worth the trade-off.

SMEG is seeing to that, however, launching their new Retro Manual Espresso & Cold Brew Coffee Machine, designed with both small spaces and great coffee all year round in mind.

As the brand’s smallest coffee maker to date, it features built-in accessory storage and delivers classic espresso and cold brew options, plus a steam wand, all without monopolising your countertop. I cannot help but eye it as a contender for one of the best coffee makers.

Finally, a Chic Coffee Maker fit For Small Kitchens

Smeg has always been a go-to for those of us who want more from our appliances than pure function. Its ‘50s-inspired silhouettes have sat proudly on kitchen counters for years, adding a sense of retro charm without the compromised performance of genuinely vintage machines.

The brand’s newest espresso and cold brew machine delivers barista-level results at home without the traditional bulk of some of the best espresso machines. Acting as both a cold brew specialist and milk steamer, it consolidates multiple functions into one compact unit, reducing the counter space required in small kitchens while also offering built-in storage for accessories. It feels like a genuine lifesaver, making a small kitchen feel bigger without sacrificing morning luxuries.

While it isn’t fully automatic, it does include a built-in pressure gauge and a professional 58mm stainless steel portafilter, giving you intuitive, hands-on control over every brew. Better still, the passive cup warmer helps keep each serving at an optimal temperature. To minimize friction, a simple QR code gives you quick access to digital manuals, tips, and guided set-ups, so even the coffee newbies can make the most of their new investment.

From making cold brew to whipping up cappuccinos with the built-in steamer (making steaming milk at home simple, and without an extra appliance cluttering your space), I can't wait to try it for myself.

What Else to Shop

SMEG has long been celebrated for the unmistakable retro styling of its appliances, but there are plenty of other ways to bring a nostalgic touch to your coffee station. I’ve curated six of my favorite pieces to help update your setup and capture that effortless vintage chic.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

With the perfect coffee maker for your kitchen, next pick out some of the best coffee bar essentials to elevate your setup for a cafe-sle experience at home.

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If you had to sum up world-renowned interior designer Kelly Wearstler’s design style in a single word, it would be juxtaposition. Her work is defined by blending contrasts, unexpected pairings, and taking risks, so it’s little surprise she has embraced Breville’s latest Mixed Metals collaboration with Williams Sonoma.

'I love mixing metals – it’s something I do in every project,' Wearstler shares. 'This collection gets it. The brass and stainless together – it’s functional, but it’s also a beautiful design.'

Launched in an assortment of Breville’s most iconic kitchen appliances, from the brilliant coffee makers to sleek countertop ovens, the full six-piece collection, now available exclusively at Williams Sonoma, proves that everyday pieces can move beyond function into something truly worth the countertop real estate. As much a piece of art as the color of your cabinets, or painstakingly selected worktops.

Breville's mixed Metals Collection Gets Interior Designer Kelly Wearstler's Seal of Approval

Developed by Breville and Williams Sonoma, mixing metals layers warm brass with cool stainless steel, a raw-and-refined mix that stands out as an architectural accent on any kitchen countertop.

'The strength of mixed metals is in the tension they create. Stainless steel feels precise and modern, while brass brings warmth and depth. Together, they create a more layered, dynamic presence,' said Wearstler. 'In this Breville collection, that contrast elevates the everyday, resulting in sublimely functional pieces that also shift the visual language of the kitchen in a subtle but impactful way.'

Styled in her own home kitchen to highlight the interplay of materials, finishes, and sculptural form, the pieces fit perfectly into any statement-making eclectic kitchen ideas. They're glamorous in the most practical form.

The collection brings together some of Breville’s most celebrated designs, including the Smart Oven with Air Fry, which we awarded 4.2 stars for its intuitive controls and reliably crisp, evenly cooked results.

It also features the Smart Kettle Luxe, long regarded as one of our best electric kettles for its precision and considered design, alongside the Toast Select Luxe Toaster, which earned 4.8 stars in our review for its exceptionally sleek profile and impressive range of settings.

Learn more about Kelly Wearstler with our expert design profile, which delves into all the facets of her style to spur your imagination.

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Induction cooktops are becoming an increasingly popular choice when renovating a kitchen, offering an energy-efficient, safe, and, most importantly, sleek option for modern kitchens.

However, even with toughened glass surfaces, these counter-level installations can become scratched or marked after years of sliding the best induction cookware across them, which can dull their sleek aesthetic.

That’s where something as simple and affordable as an induction cooktop mat, available at Amazon, comes into play. Often made from thin fiberglass or silicone, and designed to tolerate high heat, these protective sheets sit between the pan and the surface, helping prevent scratches, scuffs, and residue buildup without interfering with how induction technology works.

How Induction Mats Keep the Heart of Your Kitchen Looking Its Best for Years

When comparing induction vs. electric stovetops, induction comes out on top for speed and efficiency. They are also easier to clean when closing down a kitchen after dinner, with a toughened glass top designed to stand up to everyday use.

That said, without proper care, they are still susceptible to discoloration, scratches, and burnt-on food residue from splashes.

Induction cooktop mats, available in various sizes to fit any ring size, are designed to sit between the stove and your pan. They catch spills, reduce rattling from heavy cookware, and make cleanup much easier. Instead of scrubbing the glass after every meal, you can simply wipe or rinse the mat.

Because induction heating relies on a magnetic field that heats the cookware itself, rather than the glass surface, the mat can remain safely in place while cooking. As long as the material is specifically designed for induction use, heat still transfers efficiently to the pan while the cooktop remains protected. It may slow down the process marginally, but not so much as to make it an inconvenience in your nightly routine.

What Shoppers Say

In one five-star review left by Ruby, they shared, 'These silicone protectors are a lifesaver for anyone as picky as me about how their cooktop looks and lasts. I use these every single time a pan touches the burner. Every time. I don’t have a single scratch on my glass top, and I’ve been using it for two years.

'They wash easily and hold up well. I can’t recommend them enough! Buy them, you won’t be disappointed.'

They are an uncomplicated addition that instantly helps to make your kitchen look more expensive and maintain that 'just fitted' appeal.

What Else to Shop

Small investments that blend seamlessly into your space without compromising functionality can work wonders in making a kitchen feel more luxurious, and keeping it that way for years to come.

Here, I’ve selected six useful items to help you protect your kitchen without it ever feeling like hard work.

With your kitchen protected, next, brush up on how to clean a kitchen naturally to protect your health and your surfaces from the negative effects of harsh chemicals.

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One of the main drivers behind a daily coffee shop ritual is the difficulty of recreating a barista-grade experience at home. However, De'Longhi’s newest model, the PrimaDonna Aromatic, aims to change that.

From rich espresso to smooth drip coffee and full-bodied cold brew, the new bean-to-cup machine takes the guesswork out of your morning brew with fully automated settings. It’s almost like having a personal barista living on your countertop.

The best part? It looks perfectly sleek, too. As Homes & Gardens' resident Kitchen Appliance Editor, it’s certainly on my radar as a contender for one of the best coffee makers. Here’s why.

De’Longhi’s New Coffee Maker Takes the Guesswork Out of Home Coffee

Coffee makers from De’Longhi have consistently earned near-top marks from our expert reviewers. Models such as the De’Longhi Magnifica Plus and the De’Longhi La Specialista Maestro both scored over 4.5 stars, praised by our experts for their ease of use, extensive drink settings, and reliably excellent coffee.

Naturally, expectations are high for the latest release, the De’Longhi PrimaDonna Aromatic.

Offering 38 preset curated recipes, this brand-first bean-to-cup machine automatically recognises your beans to fine-tune grind size, dose, and temperature. The result is café-grade coffee at home at the touch of a button. Better still, it's ready in minutes, and offers both hot and cold brews, giving it potential to be one of the best espresso machines and the best iced coffee makers, too (subject to our full review).

No more long coffee shop queues, leaking takeaway cups, or unnecessary daily spending. Automating the technical elements of brewing, it removes the guesswork from your morning routine, uncomplicating coffee so that you don't need any barista experience to achieve a professional-level cup at home.

The ritual of having your 'usual' is also preserved, with smart user profiles ready at the touch of a button, so your daily brew is perfectly set to your preferences, no matter who you share your machine with at home. It's a truly personalized experience, and I, for one, cannot get my hands on one.

What Else to Shop

Upgrading your coffee maker is just one part of achieving café-quality coffee at home. To elevate your setup even further, I have selected six coffee bar essentials designed to refine your routine and transform it into a ritual worth savoring.

No matter which machine you settle on, you need to avoid the most common coffee maker mistakes to achieve perfectly smooth, barista-grade coffee at home.

I have always been a fan of homemade smoothies, and as a dedicated gym-goer, having a tumbler I can take on the go is a must. That’s why, after testing the Ninja BlendBoss Tumbler Blender for the last few weeks, I’ve decided to keep it as part of my morning routine.

Finding the best personal blender can be tricky. Some models simply aren’t powerful enough to break down fibrous greens, while others lack the chic design you’d want to carry with you on the go. Fortunately, the Ninja BlendBoss Tumbler Blender tackles both of these issues head-on.

Here’s how it performed while I tested it across a range of smoothies and protein shakes – along with the minor snags that led me to dock half a star from an otherwise fun countertop addition.

Product Specifications: The Ninja BlendBoss Tumbler Blender

Design and First Impressions

I personally think that the Ninja BlendBoss Tumbler Blender is one of the best blenders for design in recent years. It's fun, opting for what I can call a 'pop-art' style rather than being sleek and modernist. With the bubble-esque base, Stanley style tumbler, and cute color options, it looks almost futuristic on my counter. There is something for everyone, from the more refined 'Stone Mint' that I tested (and is pictured above), to my personal favorite 'Lavender Lemonade', a sweet lilac and butter yellow combination that simply makes me smile.

The packaging was just as bright, filled with tips for using the appliance. I was pleased to see several recyclable components, such as the box and protective shell; however, the fabric bags protecting the components and the several stickers did bring the recyclability score down. This is minor, as the bags I can repurpose elsewhere at home, leaving only the stickers to waste. All in all, not terrible, but not the best.

The blender comes with three 'pamphlets': The regulatory and safety sheet, and two quick start guides, and an info sticker on the tumbler, which offers more information about the three blending modes. The quick start guides covered everything I needed to get the papliance running, and even included a basic starting smoothie recipe, and instructions on the order in which to add the ingredients for a perfect blend. This, I would later find out, would be very important, but more on that in the smoothie test break down below.

Putting the blender together was just as simple. After rinsing it all out to remove any lingering factory dust, the blade base screws on neatly to the top of the large tumbler and locks into place, offering peace of mind and preventing leaks. Then, it is as simple as locking it onto the motor base, and choosing your desired setting.

It is worth noting that the tumbler, despite its large, ergonomic Stanley-style handle, is on the heavier side, weighing 1.3lbs (600g) when empty and with the drinking lid and straw. It is large, with thick walls to withstand ice-crushing, but this could detract from the portability slightly if you have a compromised grip. This wasn't a problem for me, but it is worth considering.

One thing that does not detract from this potability, however, is the straw. I was worried that with it, the lid would not close. However, Ninja's foresight has given the straw a silicone flex base, meaning it compresses into the tumbler when the flip-hinge lid is down. It then conveniently pops back up when you open the cup. It's simple but effective.

Blending Performance

The Smoothie Test

We test all of our blenders (from the best blender food processor combos to the best quiet blenders) the same way: Using a simple breakfast smoothie mixture of milk, yogurt, protein powder, chia seeds, banana, frozen berries, and fresh spinach. This tests everything you need in a blender, from the ability to break down seeds and ice to shredding fibrous veggies and dealing with the clumping and grittiness of powders.

I filled the tumbler up with the ingredients in the order recommended by Ninja on the quick start guide (see above slide four). However, I realised I forgot to add my protein powder scoop at the same time as my chia seeds, so I threw it in just before adding the frozen berries. This, I would learn, was a mistake – but more on that later.

I screwed the blades into place, inverted the tumbler and saw no leaks, and placed it on the base. I selected the preset 'Smoothie IQ' setting and let it run. The first thing I noticed is that this blender is loud, maxing out on the smoothie setting at 97.7 decibels when recorded with the Decibel X app. The Smoothie IQ program runs for 55 seconds (matching Ninja's claim perfectly, proving great accuracy), and this noise was horrid. The Smoothie setting is designed to stop and start periodically at the beginning of the blend to allow ingredients to settle, meaning no more guesswork, stuck items, and chunks.

With the programme over (counted down with the five LED lights on the base), I removed the tumbler, flipped it, and unscrewed the blades. A small vacuum forms during blending, but it wasn't difficult to remove despite this. The smoothie was almost perfectly smooth, with the only texture being a few tiny seeds. This is negligible to me, as the fibrous spinach, gritty protein powder, and chunks of berry had been obliterated into the perfect consistency.

This is, however, when I realised just how important it was to add all the ingredients in the perfect order. As shown in slide two, adding the protein powder late meant that upon blending, some of the powder stuck to the sides of the container and was not fully incorporated. When I repeated this same test with the same measurements the next morning, this time adding the powder when I should have, the powder mixed in perfectly, with no clumps left behind.

All in all, it was a smooth experience, if you'll pardon my pun, and I think it will become my new favourite summertime breakfast morning routine, just not too early, or the noise might wake the neighbours.

(Below, you can see the Smoothie IQ setting stopping and starting as it progresses through the programme to ensure an even blend.)

The Ice Test

The ice crushing test is what makes or breaks a good blender score, and as the Ninja BlendBoss comes with a dedicated 'Ice Crush IQ' mode, I had to test it to its limits.

For the first ice test, I added cold water up to the minimum liquid line, and then filled the tumbler with large store-bought ice chunks to the max fill line. I set it off on the Ice Crush IQ mode and cringed at the noise. This time, it totalled 100 decibels, and I needed my noise-cancelling headphones to push through the 55 second programme.

This test crushed most of the ice, but a few of the large chunks in the top of the tumbler were missed. Otherwise, the ice that had made it to the blades was a slushy snow consistency, holding somewhat true to Ninja's claim of 'snow' like textures, mush like their smaller Ninja Blast Max, reviewed for us by Lydia Hayman.

I repeated the test immediately after with the same-sized ice cubes but only half filling the tumbler and had greater success (albeit with no less noise). This time, all of the chunks were blitzed.

It is worth noting that, as the tumbler is designed for consumption from the vessel, and not pouring or decanting, there is no spout, which made trying to pour the slush out a bit awkward, especially into a narrower rimmed glass. I settled for spooning it out or tipping it into a larger rimmed pitcher.

All in all, the ice test was a success, a noisy one with some trial and error, but a success.

The Milkshake Test

Milkshakes are not a standard part of our blender tests, but as the weather is gradually warming up and I had just gotten my hands on some blueberry white chocolate powder, who was I not to test out a sweet treat? Milkshakes are, after all, one of the best things you can make in a blender.

I added milk, a few scoops of vanilla ice cream, and some of the chocolate powder to the tumbler, screwed on the blades, and blended on the 'Blend IQ' setting, a 60-second programme Ninja says is best for protein drinks. As I was primarily using a flavour powder here, I thought this would be a great test.

After the 60 (loud) seconds, the drink was perfectly smooth, with no grittiness or chunks of ice cream. It's going to be perfect for summer, I know it.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning a blender is usually one of the worst parts of making smoothies. However, the Ninja BlendBoss makes it simple.

The tumbler, lid, and straw are dishwasher safe, but they are simple enough to rinse and wipe out by hand (especially as the large rim makes it easy to reach inside). You can also half-fill the tumbler with warm water (not hot) and a few drops of dish soap, and pulse a few times. This was my favorite way to tackle the tumbler, as it rendered it spotless after just three pulses and a quick rinse. You can also remove the silicone sleeve base to check for stuck residue in the bottom corners.

Ninja recommends cleaning the blades with a long-handled soft brush to prevent injury, but it does not include one. As you will also need one for cleaning out the straw properly when washing by hand, I see this as an essential added investment. Luckily, I already had a straw brush, from Amazon, to hand.

The base then just needs wiping with a dry microfiber cloth.

What Shoppers Say

The overall shopper reviews of the Ninja BlendBoss are positive, with an average star rating of 4.6 stars on Amazon, and the Ninja US website.

One five star Amazon review, witten by Jill Anderson, shared a lot of my own findings. They wrote, 'Great for smoothies too. It is actually leak-proof, no, it's not a myth, it really doesn't leak! The lid is easy on and easy off, and attaches to the base very easily as well.' They noted, however, that they wished it came with two tumblers as standard. You can buy additional tumblers for the blender, but at $40 per travel tumbler (complete with lid, and straw) on the Ninja site, it is not the cheapest accessory.

Shoppers also commented on the great size, both in terms of portion and storage. Fellow Amazon shopper D. S. added in their five-star review, 'The 26oz tumbler is genuinely leakproof, lid screws on tight, and it’s easy to clean.' They also loved how they can 'Hit the button and 30-40 seconds later it’s a perfectly smooth smoothie – no chunks, no half-frozen boulders, no need to babysit it.'

Of the one-star reviews on the Ninja site, the users mention leaking lids around the lid release button; however, this is not a problem I have encountered with my own. I will continue to monitor, however, to see if this is an issue that develops with longer use, and update my review as needed.

Other early one-star reviews also referenced a frustration in only having one tumbler. This was when Ninja had yet to release the optional add-on cups. These, however, are now widely available both from Ninja directly and from Amazon.

Should You Buy The Ninja BlendBoss Tumbler Blender?

All in all, I would recommend the Ninja BlendBoss Tumbler Blender to anyone who is looking for a fun personal blender, loves the Stanley style, and wants a large capacity power house for making great smoothies and milkshakes. It is super simple to use, easy to clean, and easy to drink from, with a large 'gulp' hole and thick straw that makes slurping even thick mixes simple, no jaw workout required.

That being said, the loud noise means it might not be the best pick for people who are up very early and want to whip up a drink before others in the house are awake, say for breakfast smoothies on the go, or protein shakes for the gym. Similarly, the tumbler, while perfect for fitting in car cup holders and is leakproof, is not insulated like a Stanley, so it will not keep drinks cool, and it is on the heavier side, so it may be cumbersome to those with lessened grip or a lot to carry.

It is also not suited to blending hot ingredients, as stated on the instructions, so it cannot be used to make small, single-portioned soups. This is not what the blender is designed or marketed for, however, and thus I will not hold it against them.

However, it is a great personal blender that adds a touch of personality to the kitchen.

How We Test Blenders

Over the years, we've refined our process for how we test blenders.

The first step is market research. We keep in touch with the industry to make sure that we're always first to hear about a new launch, and will almost always call it in to test to try and be among the first to assess how well it performs. Every blender must be tested for a prolonged period (two weeks or more) to check for any issues and assess the product's longevity, and where possible, we aim to keep blenders in-house to test them on a long-term basis, updating our reviews as the months and years pass to see if our favorite is still ahead of the crowd.

Smoothies are the most basic thing a blender can do. They're pretty much why blenders were invented, so if we've got a model that can't handle these you won't find it anywhere near our rankings of the best.

We then see if a blender can crush ice. Ice is useful for two reasons. One is as a straightforward test of sheer power. Weak blenders won't be able to crush it, or will do half a job. A powerful, premium blender should be able to mist ice cubes into fine white powder. If a blender can't manage this, then it can't earn a perfect score.

A blender will score extra points in our tests if it operates quietly. We monitor the decibel levels on every test. We also clean every blender by hand to see how easy this is, and if it feels safe.

You can find out more details on our How We Test Blenders page.

What Else to Shop

Having used the Ninja BlendBoss Tumbler Blender for a few weeks, I think there are a few accessories that would make it even better. These are my picks for a smoother experience, and a Ninja alternative that you might like if you're looking for something smaller.

I certainly think that this is one of the best Ninja products for your kitchen, but we have curated a full list for you to kit out your cookspace.

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As a keen advocate of green cleaning, vinegar is a staple in my home, especially for tackling tough jobs like descaling.

For years, many of us have relied on this pantry essential to remove limescale from household appliances. However, experts are increasingly warning that it may be doing more harm than good. While vinegar does dissolve mineral buildup, it can also gradually degrade the plastics and rubber components inside your machine.

That’s a risk hardly worth taking with your best non-toxic coffee maker. Here’s what the experts recommend using instead.

Why You Should Avoid Vinegar in Your High-End Coffee Maker

When cleaning a coffee maker, no matter its price point, avoiding toxins should be at the top of everyone's priority list. Harsh chemical cleaners can leave behind residue that alters the taste of your coffee and could sabotage your health.

Cleaning with vinegar has positioned itself as the ideal solution, being food safe and helping to create a non-toxic home by cutting out the risk of dangerous chemicals. While it is a more gentle option than some traditional cleaning solutions, Lucinda Smalley, hard water expert at Hard Water Home, explains that it is still acetic acid, meaning it can be corrosive to certain materials, impacting the integrity of rubber in particular.

Over time, and with repeated use, this will render the coffee maker inefficient, leading to expensive replacements. If you have just invested in one of the high-end, best coffee makers, this is a costly mistake you will want to avoid.

Interestingly, 'From a hard water perspective, it is also not the most effective option,' Lucinda adds. 'I usually recommend citric acid. It’s naturally derived, food-safe, and much better at dissolving buildup without leaving behind any smell. It also rinses cleanly, which makes a big difference for anything you’re drinking from.'

Dennis Godynuk, lead appliance expert at Comfort Appliance Repair in Tennessee, agrees, adding, 'Many commercial cleaners and even descalers have citric acid as their main descaling agent, so it's guaranteed to be safe and efficient.' The Active Coffee Machine Cleaner and Descaler, from Walmart, is a great example of this and is highly rated by shoppers.

It is a simple swap that takes seconds but can save hundreds of dollars in the future.

What to Shop

The same rules apply whether you’re cleaning a French press or refreshing a single-serve coffee machine.

Once the maintenance is taken care of, adding a few well-chosen accessories is the next step in perfecting your coffee setup. Here are some of my favorites for creating a stylish and functional coffee station at home: