I'm a trained cook – these are the 12 clever kitchen gadgets I think practically pay for themselves
These gadgets and gizmos will save you time, effort, and money
You know those kitchen gadgets that sit in the back of a drawer, gathering dust? These aren’t those. As a trained cook and kitchen appliances obsessive, I've searched high and low to find some really great gadgets.
Whether they are saving time, simplifying messy tasks, or cutting down on food waste, these gadgets practically pay for themselves. From perfectly chopped onions in seconds to barista-style lattes at home (without the café prices), these are the kitchen heroes you didn't know you needed – until now.
12 game-changing kitchen gadgets
This mini machine will help you prep dinner in minutes. It reduces tonnes of time and effort, whipping up daily essentials like pesto, curry paste, or salsa. You can even freeze bags of chopped onions or garlic to save time in the week.
This cherry wood stand keeps your recipes front and center. You'll never lose your page while cooking, or get your tablet covered in flour again. I read that some reviewers have had theirs for over 10 years.
Say goodbye to lumpy matcha lattes and watery hot chocolates. This gadget whisks milk and powders to perfection, making velvety smooth drinks. I've saved so much money on takeout drinks since I got this.
These ceramic, reusable air fryer liners make clean-up a breeze – and help your fryer last longer. They're non-toxic and dishwasher safe. Plus, they look so chic.
Chopping garlic is my most hated kitchen task. I prefer this premium press, which is made from durable stainless steel. It can crush multiple garlic cloves – and even ginger pieces – effortlessly.
Skip the expensive, high-calorie bottled dressings and make healthy alternatives with this mixer. You simply add your ingredients and squeeze the trigger to create fresh dressings in seconds.
As the saying goes: buy once, buy well. Global's 40th anniversary collection of knives has everything you need for a lifetime of cooking. They are sharp, ergonomic and beautiful; my chopping has become so much more enjoyable.
I received a coffee grinder as a birthday gift last year. I use it every morning to freshly grind my beans, which saves me money and maximizes flavor. The barista behind our best coffee machine guide recommends this particular machine.
Freshly squeezed orange, lemon, lime and grapefruit juice has never been easier (or more beautiful) with this electric juicer. It's also a gorgeous gift.
This airtight canister features a simple twist mechanism to remove air and prevent oxidation, extending your coffee’s lifespan twofold. You'll drink delicious, fresh coffee every day.
These kitchen gadgets may be small, but they make a big impact. From simplifying meal prep to helping keep your ingredients fresher for longer, they’re designed to make daily life easier and more efficient. By investing in tools that streamline your kitchen routine (and look after your larger appliances) you’ll save time, money, and food waste.
My personal favorites are the Dreo BaristaMaker (I've saved so much money on matcha lattes) and the glass spray bottles for olive oil. The latter are a genius purchase, as they preserve non-stick, help my air fryer last longer and are so convenient to use.
With gadgets this useful, you’ll wonder how you ever cooked without them.
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Lydia is the Kitchen Appliances Editor for Homes & Gardens, testing everything from air fryers and mixers to juicers and coffee machines. She trained in Culinary Arts at Leiths School of Food & Wine and previously served as the Recipe Editor for Mindful Chef.
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