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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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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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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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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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.

Love the latest product news and helpful shopping advice? Sign up for our newsletter and get the latest features delivered straight to your inbox.

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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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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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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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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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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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.

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.

Sign up for our newsletter for the latest product and shopping advice.

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:

Meet the Experts

Vinegar isn't the only solution you should be cautious of. There are several other chemicals you should avoid in your coffee maker to protect your appliance and your health, too.

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I write about appliances day in and day out, and I admit I can get unreasonably excited about features and cookware most people consider mundane. That said, I think it’s fair to say the new Ninja BlendBoss is something we can all get excited about.

Looking like the quirky offspring of a viral Stanley Cup and a blender, I finally got my hands on what’s shaping up to be the cutest personal blender on the market.

Here’s why I’m so excited to review this playful countertop appliance, and why I think you should be excited too.

My First Impressions of the Ninja Blendboss

I have yet to put this new contender for best blender through our rigorous testing process, but even just unboxing it has me genuinely excited.

With a 12000-peak-watt motor, Ninja promises that this blender is its most powerful 'ice-crusher' yet, which is an impressive prospect given that Ninja's smaller, less powerful Blast Max, reviewed and given five stars by our expert chef, Lydia Hayman, successfully turned ice into the perfect slushie consistency. I'll certainly be putting this claim to the test myself, but I am going in with high hopes.

The Stanley-style tumbler is what really catches my eye. Not only is the blender available in some of the most fun colors I’ve seen on an appliance lately, mimicking that iconic Stanley look, but the 26oz cup, with a removable straw and hooked handle, makes it perfect for car errands or gym trips.

It’s single-serve and not designed for blitzing soups or dips, but it doesn’t claim to be anything more than the ultimate smoothie companion, so I won’t hold that against it. Plus, Ninja offer separate BlendBoss travel tumblers with straws for under $40 (at the time of writing), so you can whip up several drinks in one go.

Initial shopper reviews are also promising, with 300 Amazon reviews and an overall 4.7-star rating. One satisfied shopper, Brielle, wrote, 'This thing is amazing! I was using my bulky Vitamix to make smoothies and decided to try the Ninja. Not only does it make better smoothies than my Vitamix, but it takes up less space, looks nicer, and I don’t have to dirty an extra cup.'

I can’t wait to put it through its paces, but if it lives up to Ninja’s usual quality, I have a feeling we’re looking at a winner.

What to Shop

Want to hold off until we can put the BlendBoss through its paces? Don't fret, we have several other tried-and-tested recommendations to upgrade your kitchen.

Not quite sure which appliance is best for you? Our pro chef has put together a guide to the best blenders, food processors, and juicers to help you pick the best investment for your home.

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A good spring clean and declutter is a must for every kitchen, but you shouldn't stop at your pantry.

One appliance expert is urging you to check for one potentially toxic addition in your kitchen, and replace it with a lower-toxicity item in 2026 – your coffee maker.

This is what you need to check for on this appliance, and the best non-toxic coffee makers to consider in its place for a healthier morning routine.

Why You Need To Swap Your Toxic Coffee Maker This Spring

When creating a non-toxic home, most of us consider the best non-toxic cookware and the best non-toxic air fryers first, leaving our old, reliable coffee makers out of the picture.

However, according to Amy Chernoff, appliance expert at AJ Madison, plastic-based coffee makers are silent health risks. 'These machines repeatedly heat water through plastic reservoirs and tubing, which can leach microplastics and chemical residues into a drink many people consume daily. Because of this constant exposure, even small amounts can add up over time.'

Studies support this, too. Snekkevik et al. wrote in one 2024 paper that, 'Mechanical, physical, and chemical processes are the predominant factors driving the generation of micro- and nanoplastics from plastic materials during food preparation,' including coffee makers, 'with extended use and wear increasing the likelihood of malformations, cracking, and oxidation of the plastic.'

As such, there has never been a better time to switch out your old appliances and those made with BPA plastics. You can check the composition of your existing appliance by looking up the make and model online.

We are not suggesting you ditch the best coffee makers entirely, however. They are, after all, one of the best ways to organize a morning routine for efficiency. Instead, Amy urges, 'In 2026, upgrading to stainless steel or glass-based brewers is one of the simplest ways to reduce everyday kitchen toxicity.'

When picking non-toxic appliances, such as a new coffee maker, you'll want to consider how you like to brew your coffee first. If you like an automatic machine that runs in the background while you get on with other tasks, our pick is the Aarke Drip Coffee Maker, available on Amazon.

While on the more 'investment' side of the price scale, its large capacity makes it ideal for bigger, busier households, while its premium design means it both looks good and is built to last.

If you don't mind a more hands-on approach to your coffee, or you need to keep kitchen counters clear, the Aeropress Premium, from Williams Sonoma, is made of high-quality borosilicate glass, with a stainless steel filter. It makes enough coffee for one each brew, too, making it perfect for smaller households.

What to Shop

We have tried and tested our fair share of glass and stainless steel coffee makers in the past. These six are some of our top favorites to help you enjoy your morning coffee from a non-toxic appliance.

It isn't just your appliances that need addressing when looking to curate a healthier kitchen. Consider these six simple kitchen switches to banish microplastics targeting your food storage and cleaning supplies, too.

Until I tested the Bialetti Venus coffee maker, I thought that café-quality espresso was unachievable in my tiny kitchen, as I have no space for a big fancy machine.

Previously, I made do with instant coffee for my partner and guests (a smell I truly despise), as I was too lazy to clean out a French press.

It was safe to say that, for my first experience with a Moka pot, testing the Bialetti Venus 6-Cup coffee maker, available at Amazon, I was expecting many of the same frustrations.

However, I was met with an almost meditative experience that I now genuinely look forward to. I have been converted to the slower way to brew seriously smooth java, and won't be looking back from this non-toxic coffee maker.

My Experience With the Bialetti Venus Coffee Maker

My First Impressions of the Bialetti Venus Coffee Maker

I am a sucker for well-designed packaging that limits waste and plastic, so I was thrilled when I opened the box to find that the Bialetti Venus coffee makercame wrapped only in branded tissue paper, and everything was 100% recyclable. The only thing in the way of plastic was the tape holding the box closed. This made disposal simple.

The coffee maker felt lighter than I anticipated, but not cheap. The 18/10 stainless steel body was beautifully polished, and the ergonomic heat-resistant plastic handle felt sturdy and easy to hold. The lid works on a hinge system, and the raised flap at the back was easy to keep in place while holding the handle securely for a controlled pour. It didn't feel awkward or like it would be easy to slip and spill coffee later.

The instruction pamphlet was tucked inside the pot, and I was impressed to see that it features 17 languages, as well as diagrams to illustrate key points, making it very easy to interpret. Although huge, the thinner paper made it easy to fold down to see what I needed, so it didn't take over the counter as I worked.

I tested the pure stainless steel six-cup model, and it was a nice size for my small kitchen. It is also available in four-cup and 10-cup sizes at Amazon, as well as in a copper-silver finish if you fancy something with a little bit of added flair to live on your countertop.

Specifications: Bialetti Venus Coffee Maker

Performance: Bialetti Venus Coffee Maker

This was my first experience with a Moka pot, so I followed the instructions to the letter. This included running three full brews and pouring them away before brewing up a batch that you can drink. These 'sacrificial' brews are to help remove any metallic flavor left from the manufacturing process for better-tasting coffee.

After unscrewing the base chamber from the top chamber and tipping out the funnel filter, I started by rinsing it out with plain warm water and drying it by hand using a soft kitchentowel. It is worth noting that both the edge of the lid and the funnel inside the top chamber are sharp at the edges, so care is needed when reaching inside to avoid nicking yourself. If you have larger hands, this might be tricky.

In accordance with the instructions, I then filled the lower chamber with cold water to the bottom of the pressure valve. The first diagram in the instructions took all guess work out of this for me, despite the lack of etched markings inside the unit.

The funnel filter then slotted perfectly on top and was filled with the ground coffee. There was no measurement for this in the manual, but a quick online search revealed around 30g was ideal for the six-cup coffee maker, and I ran with that, grinding them finely and tipping them in.

The instructions are very clear that you should not press these grinds down, which would be a mistake when making coffee in this pot, so I shook the base gently to even them out, wiped away any spills from the rim, and screwed the top chamber back on. This took me a few attempts to get the hang of at first, and I had to duck to eye-level to make sure it was not wonky, but this got easier the more I did it.

With the compartment screwed hand-tight, I put the Bialetti Venus on my electric stove top, positioned so that the handle was not over the heating element (the plastic handle is heat safe, but I wanted to make sure it stayed cool enough to touch), and turned it on to a low-medium heat. On my nine-setting electric stove, I chose setting four, and let it brew as I got on with making some lunch.

Having started with cold water as the instructions indicated, on every brew I ran on setting four, the top chamber of the Bialetti Venus started to fill at exactly 13 minutes into the process, demonstrating remarkable consistency. It then took around 20-22 minutes at this same heat to fill the top chamber, at which point I turned off the heat and poured out the coffee. This was indicated by a sudden spluttering sound from the otherwise silent pot.

This felt a little too long for me, so I did some research, with several experienced users on Reddit suggesting starting with hot water in the bottom chamber to speed up the brew. I used hot water from my faucet (not boiling, but the chamber felt warm to the touch when full) and ran the same process again. This time, it took only eight minutes to start filling, and 10 minutes total to fill. This is a far more efficient process that allows for a more flavorful brew and is the approach I will be taking in the future.

The handle was comfortable to hold, having not heated up at all, although the stainless steel was very hot, so due care is needed to avoid touching it. The flap on the lid, designed to hold it in place when pouring to avoid a deluge, was also not cool and comfortable to touch.

After the sacrificial brews, I finally brewed a pot to taste. The process and timings were the same once again, and it brewed a perfect, well-rounded espresso that can easily be used to make any drink style you prefer, be it straight, a shot mixed with steamed milk into a cappuccino, or, as my partner eagerly raced to create, added to quality vanilla ice cream for an affogato at home.

As the main coffee drinker in the household, he immediately declared it 'the best coffee [he's] ever had at home,' and is now very excited to show it off to guests.

Cleaning and Storing the Bialetti Venus Coffee Maker

Cleaning the Bialetti Venus coffee maker is very easy in principle, but it does require some care.

Removing the coffee grounds comes first. When the pot is completely cool, you unscrew the two chambers and remove the funnel filter (I did this by tipping the bottom chamber slightly so that it fell out into my hand). The coffee grounds will be compacted at this point, but the instructions state you should not tap or bang the funnel filter to prevent misshaping the stainless steel, so I opted to use a small metal teaspoon to dislodge them.

This was quick and easy, and I kept the coffee grounds to deodorize my fridge. You can also use coffee grounds to make fertilizer for houseplants, but watch out, as some garden plants hate it.

There was a small amount of water left in the bottom chamber, but the instructions assured me this was normal. The pot is designed this way to prevent it from boiling dry. This was emptied into the sink and amounted to around one teaspoon.

When washing the pot, you should not use soap, but plain warm water to rinse the components and, if needed, a soft, clean cloth or sponge to dry as needed, which is also recommended by Bialetti itself. I found this to be especially important for the silicone gasket on the underside of the upper chamber.

When wiping the interior of the upper chamber, be it when rinsing or hand drying, beware – I found the lid and the inner funnel top to be sharp, and did nick my thumb on the lid edge when towel drying, pictured above. Those with larger hands, such as my partner, might also struggle to reach into the chamber to wipe it out, too.

The instructions do mention that this pot is dishwasher safe, but hand washing is recommended to avoid detergents that can affect the taste of your coffee. This is not something I tested, as I do not own a dishwasher. Regardless, I see it as an unnecessary step for something so simple to clean under a running faucet.

Descaling also seems a simple enough process. I have not yet had to run this on my own Bialetti Venus, but I was very happy to see that the manual suggests descaling with white vinegar, keeping the process free from harsh chemicals.

To do this, you fill the water chamber as usual, but add two teaspoons of either distilled white vinegar, available at Walmart, or food-grade citric acid, available at Amazon, and run a brew without coffee grounds before disposing of the liquid.

Finally, the instructions suggest replacing the silicone gasket on the underside of the upper chamber once per year. You can find replacement gaskets from Bialetti at Amazon.

Storing is also simple. The pot is a convenient size and can fit easily into kitchen cabinets, even in my small kitchen. It's pretty enough when buffed to sit on the counter, too, but the stainless steel may show some smears or smudges.

There are many ways to buff these out and clean stainless steel without harsh chemicals.

What Shoppers Say About the Bialetti Venus Coffee Maker

To learn more about the general customer response, I looked through thousands of Amazon reviews left by verified shoppers, and was pleased to see that the Bialetti Venus coffee maker has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars across over 29,000 reviews.

One recent five-star review left by magheart praised the Bialetti Moka pot for being induction-stove friendly, adding, 'This is awesome!'. They remarked on the 6-cup version making 'perfect' coffee that takes them 'back to the time I lived in Italy.'

Another, Tomasz Kolanek, agreed that it brewed classic quality coffee, writing, 'It’s Bialetti, so everything is clear. Solid build quality, great design, and excellent coffee. Easy to use and delivers rich, authentic espresso every time. A classic moka pot that never disappoints. Highly recommended.'

Of the one-star reviews, one shopper pointed out discoloration at the base of her Bialetti Venus after several months of use. They claim to believe that this is a peeling coating; however, having spent several years as a cleaning editor, the photos look more like severe limescale buildup.

Having tested the pot, I am confident there are no coatings on the stainless steel, so I am willing to go on a limb and say this is a result of using hard water without following the descaling process regularly. I will return to this review after six months of use and update whether this has been an issue.

Other one-star reviews were related to issues with shipping and dispatch on Amazon's part, which are not related to the quality of the Bialetti product itself. All in all, the positive reviews far outweigh the negative and speak for themselves.

Who Would the Bialetti Venus Coffee Maker Suit?

Overall, I think the Bialetti Venus coffee maker, from Amazon, would suit anyone who is looking to make great espresso-style coffee at home without a big machine cluttering up a countertop. It won't froth milk or keep your coffee warm for hours, but the meditative process really adds to a pleasantly slow morning routine, especially for those with electric and induction stoves.

Having tried it, I would certainly purchase one for myself; however, I would personally opt for the smaller four-cup size, as to ensure the correct pressure and the perfect brew, you need to fill the pot every time. The six-cup is just a little too large for my two-person household, but good for when we have guests.

My Verdict

All in all, I found the Bialetti Venus coffee maker easy to use and simple to rinse out. It made great tasting espresso-style coffee that can be used for a whole host of other drinks, and is a fantastic non-toxic option for those of us concerned about PFAS and BPA plastic. It isn't as quick as a kettle or one of the best espresso machines, but that is part of the charm.

It loses half a star only for the fact that it is a little sharp on some edges, and that the instructions say to use cold water to start, when warmer water is a better option for efficiency and flavor. Overall, I would strongly recommend this coffee maker to anyone in the market for a quality Moka pot, or perhaps starting their coffee-making journey at home.

What to Shop

Interested in the Bialetti Venus? These handy accessories can help you make the most of your new Moka pot:

Want to make the most of your coffee? Check out the worst coffee maker mistakes you might be making to improve your home brewing skills.

Testing the stunning Six-Cup Classic CHEMEX Coffee Maker has made me realise that I need at least one great cup of coffee a day to be happy and at my best.

Before it, and despite my full barista training, I have frequently found myself frustrated with leaking water tanks from my Nespresso machine and being caught short without any pods.

So, when I was offered the chance to test the Six Cup Classic CHEMEX®, available at Amazon, I couldn't wait to take things straight back to basics – just great coffee, my kettle, a filter, and a gorgeous glass vessel where the real magic happens.

Now firmly my best pour-over coffee maker, I've been loving the ease and simplicity of the Classic Chemex, not to mention the gorgeous design that has had me leaving it proudly on display.

What I Thought of the Chic Classic CHEMEX Coffee Maker

My First Impressions

First impressions count, and the Six Cup Classic CHEMEX®, available at Amazon, certainly made a good one. The coffee maker arrived in a plain, fully-recyclable cardboard box, with an insert to hold it in place to prevent breakages, as did the CHEMEX Bonded Filters, also available at Amazon. This made it easy to dispose of the box as soon as I opened it.

The coffee maker felt weighty, but definitely not too heavy to use in one hand, and the borosilicate glass is very thick and high-quality, so straight away I didn't have any concerns of burns. It's worth noting that breakages are, of course, always a possibility with a glass coffee maker like this one, so handle with care.

I was impressed by the luxe look and feel of the signature CHEMEX wooden elements, complete with a leather tie to keep it firmly in place, and easy to remove when needed. I was also excited to display it on my kitchen counters between uses because its sleek design really looks that good. Its compact footprint also means it's a great option for easy coffee making in small kitchens.

This coffee maker, which is also available in three, six, and 10-cup sizes on Amazon, also came with a small, handy pamphlet with information on how to use it, including a great tip for easily 'blooming' your ground coffee.

Specifications: Classic CHEMEX Coffee Maker

Performance: CHEMEX Coffee Maker

As I was only making one cup of coffee, I gave my CHEMEX a quick rinse with water and used the included instructions to determine that I only needed one rounded tablespoon of ground coffee – I'm using Costa Ground Coffee, available at Amazon, at the moment. This can be adjusted depending on your preference, but I don't like my coffee too strong day-to-day.

After that, making your brew really couldn't be simpler. Once I'd spooned the ground coffee into the filter, available to purchase separately, all that was left to do was simply pour over some boiling water from my kettle (the SMEG Electric Kettle) to evenly saturate the grounds, and let it do its thing.

CHEMEX recommends pouring a small amount of water in a circular motion over the coffee grounds to wet them, before waiting for roughly 30 seconds to let the grounds 'bloom', so that's what I did, before slowly pouring the water over the grounds.

It's important to keep the water level at least a quarter of an inch or more from the top of the CHEMEX coffee maker, but as I was only making one cup, this wasn't a problem for me.

My only snags are that I wish the coffee maker came with at least a few filters, and that it featured lines on the side to indicate how much water to pour in per cup of coffee. CHEMEX recommends five ounces per cup, but I had to guess how much that equates to; measuring my boiling water first felt like an extra, annoying step I would like to have skipped.

I know this might ruin the 'look' of the coffee maker, but if the lines were only engraved on one side, you could simply turn it around if you didn't want to see them, and they would have come in very handy. Still, these are only very minor annoyances, and pour-over coffee makers don't really get easier to use than this.

What the CHEMEX Coffee Maker Is Like to Use

Like any pour-over coffee maker, the Six Cup Classic CHEMEX®, available at Amazon, is a breeze to use.

The set-up was quick and simple – all I had to do was fold the filter and pop it in the top – and there was no prep necessary at all. The enclosed instructions manual was handy, and you can also find the step-by-step method on the CHEMEX site, and a video to follow along, if needed.

As mentioned, my only 'frustrations' were having to guess how much water to pour in for my cup of coffee, but this is only a minor complaint. You can easily make just the right amount by pouring your boiled water into your chosen coffee cup first, then tipping that into your CHEMEX, which only adds a few seconds to the process.

Otherwise, my coffee was brewed and ready in next to no time at all (approximately two minutes), and it tasted great, too. I tried mine black first, for a true taste test, and was impressed with how smooth it was. I then added a splash of milk, as I usually would, and thoroughly enjoyed my cup of coffee.

In fact, I think it tasted better than the cup my pod coffee machine makes, and at only a fraction of the cost to buy off the bat. It's also non-toxic, as it's made from glass, so it's a great option if you're looking to buy one of the best non-toxic coffee makers.

I can imagine how good this CHEMEX coffee maker would be if you're hosting breakfast for a few friends and family, as you can make six cups of coffee at once with little to no effort, although the water will take a little longer to drip through the grinds.

The integrated spout also made it easy to pour my coffee from the maker into my cup, with no spitting or spillages. All in all, the CHEMEX coffee maker is a delight to use, and I can't wait to use it daily moving forward.

Cleaning and Storage: Classic CHEMEX Coffee Maker

The CHEMEX coffee maker was easy to clean, with just some warm soapy water and my usual dish brush, the Joseph Joseph Edge Dish Brush, available at Amazon. As the 'neck' isn't too narrow, I was able to get right down to the bottom and edges, but I didn't find any stains or marks even at the very bottom, as the grounds are contained in the filter.

The only thing was, as this is glass, I was a little concerned about it slipping out of my hands and smashing. Luckily, there were no breakages to report! I didn't remove the wooden collar on mine, but this is easy to do with the leather tie for washing up.

Once that collar is removed, this glass coffee maker is also conveniently dishwasher-safe – just make sure you secure the carafe and prevent it from bumping into other dishes.

With a small base footprint and compact height, this carafe is suitable for storing away in your cabinets or leaving out on display on your countertops or kitchen shelf. I'm keeping mine out on display for the time being as I love the way it looks in my kitchen, and I'm yet to find that it makes my kitchen look cluttered.

What Shoppers Say About the Classic CHEMEX Coffee Maker

To find out more about the general customer consensus, I looked through hundreds of reviews on the Amazon listing, as I couldn't spot any on the official CHEMEX website. I was pleased to see it has an average rating of 4.8 stars across 6,884 reviews.

One recent review, from verified shopper Barry Timm, dubs it the 'ULTIMATE coffee maker.'

This is the one!' they write. 'I love it...so easy, fun, and makes a perfect cup, and the best of all...absolutely no plastic or aluminum coming in contact with my coffee or water and no cleanup! Just turf the CHEMEX filter into the trash when done, rinse out the CHEMEX, and it's done!'

Another, from Bill Quinby, echoes Barry's. 'You want good coffee? Allow me to share this with you,' they write. 'I have tried it all: Percolators, French presses, double chamber drip pots. You name it, I’ve tried it.

'When you buy CHEMEX, you enter a world of gourmet coffee-making. They will even recommend obscure techniques for maximizing the flavor...Buy this amazing pour-over pot and welcome to the elite coffee club. Good luck!'

The only negative reviews I could find were all older, and only related to the item arriving broken (nothing to do with CHEMEX, and always a risk when ordering a glass item online), or the item not being the same one described in the listing (again, nothing to do with CHEMEX).

These negative reviews only made up one per cent of total feedback from customers, compared to the 91 per cent of five-star reviews. Zero percent of shoppers gave two stars, only two percent gave three, and six percent gave four stars.

So, the positive consensus on quality and performance really speaks for itself in this instance.

Who Would the Classic CHEMEX Coffee Maker Suit?

Overall, I think the Six Cup Classic CHEMEX®, available at Amazon, would suit pretty much anyone – whether you're usually in a rush, are on a budget, have a compact home, need a little and easy caffeine boost in your home office, or just want something simpler and less fiddly to use than a coffee machine. It won't froth your milk or make your coffee for you, but it's so easy to use that this isn't an issue.

Having tried it, I would definitely purchase one myself, and, unlike most coffee makers, this isn't out of my price range for what I would fork out for great-tasting coffee. I think it's amazing value for money, particularly as it looks so good, and feels like it will last for years, so long as you don't smash it while using or washing it.

It's also good if you live in a small rental, as it's compact enough to store away in a cabinet, and, as it can make six five-ounce cups of coffee at once, it's suitable whether you live alone or in a large family of coffee drinkers.

My Verdict on the Classic CHEMEX Coffee Maker

Overall, I found the Six Cup Classic CHEMEX®, available at Amazon, simple, easy to use, and the coffee it made tasted great. The whole process is so quick and convenient, too, and I love the design and that it's non-toxic.

It loses half a star for that lack of measurement lines I mentioned, and the fact it doesn't come with any filters, but other than that, there isn't much to dislike. And, while I found it could be easy to break when washing, it can conveniently go in a dishwasher, but I don't have one.

You also don't have to thoroughly wash it every time – a quick swill with warm soapy water between uses is likely more than enough.

So, I'd recommend this Classic CHEMEX glass coffee maker to anyone in the market for a pour-over coffee appliance, whether you live alone, in a larger household, only have a small kitchen with little storage, or regularly host breakfasts and brunches for your family and friends.

Are you making any of these coffee maker mistakes? A barista shares how to avoid them.

I don't know if it is just me, but by this point in the year, my kitchen is the least favorite room in my house. After peak hosting season and months of relentless winter weather, my motivation to cook and bake is at an all-time low.

Luckily, KitchenAid is coming to the rescue with its invigorating 2026 Color of the Year – Spearmint, the 'bright and calming minty green that invites you to step into the fresh side.'

The new, invigorating shade is available in the best KitchenAid stand mixer money can buy – the Artisan Series 5-Quart Tilt-Head – and it's the perfect pick if you're looking to upgrade your kitchen game in 2026 with appliances you'll never want to hide.

Why KitchenAid's Spearmint Hue Is Inspiring for Their Latest Color of The Year

If your kitchen has started to feel a little uninspiring and your smaller appliances are looking more haggard than homy, it's the perfect time for an upgrade – especially in the run up to spring, where this 'revitalising' hue sets the perfect tone for Easter baking.

Whether you're swapping out your old stand mixer for an upgraded model or investing in one of the best stand mixers for the first time as a little pre-spring treat, it's the easiest way to create a fresh look for your kitchen and use functional decor to boost your mood, without a full kitchen redesign.

Hebe Hatton, Head of Interiors at Homes & Gardens, points out that blues are having a real moment in the spotlight right now, not just for spring, but for an uplifting pop that can carry you through summer into the chilly winter months without feeling trendy or impulsive.

'It's utterly timeless,' she proclaims. 'It's a low-lift approach to adding something special practically in a way that every busy kitchen demands.'

Brittni Pertijs, design manager: Color, material, and finish, part of the team behind the new colorway at Whirlpool Corporation, shared, 'This year’s Color of the Year, Spearmint, feels like a mood booster – it’s positive, uplifting, and revitalizing.'

Spearmint is also incredibly versatile, she points out. It can bring a fresh pop of color against stainless steel or be a perfect complement in a colorful kitchen. Thanks to its blend of blues and greens, it works just as well in both cool and warm spaces to stand out as a statement or seamlessly blend into its surroundings, too.

The new shade also sees the return of the previously limited-edition 2021 Sand finish. This subtle texture softens the shade, and pulls inspiration from the soft texture of mint leaves, honing in on the tactility of the analogue trend so many of us are turning to in an increasingly overwhelming world, paved in neutrals and slick stainless steel.

'The sand finish is not a texture that you immediately notice with your eyes, but rather one that pulls you in and invites you to touch it,' Brittini shares. 'It has a subtle, grounding warmth that feels reminiscent of baking, cooking, and the moments we spend creating in the kitchen.'

The new KitchenAid is available from 12 February 2026, and launches with a KitchenAid Color of the Year Sweepstakes, where five lucky winners will receive a Spearmint Stand Mixer, plus a matching, limited-edition KitchenAid 36-inch Dual Fuel Commercial-Style Range.

It's the first time the Color of the Year has ever been expanded into the major appliance category, and it's only available to the winners.

What to Shop

With your new upgrade taken care of, discover how to use KitchenAid stand mixer attachments to make the most of your new investment.

PFAS and harsh chemicals seem to have made their way into everything in a kitchen, posing a constant long-term risk to your health. Coffee makers are no exception.

That's why we are so thorough in testing the best non-toxic coffee makers, so you can start your day off with a healthier approach to your morning routine. One of the best we have found? The OXO Brew 8 Cup Coffee Maker, currently $22 off at Amazon.

It's the perfect non-toxic balance of high-quality coffee and affordability (especially with the added sale), making it the best addition for a simple yet satisfying start to each morning.

Keep Your Morning Routine Non-Toxic with This No-Fuss Drip Coffee Maker

Adding a no-fuss coffee maker to your kitchen is one of the easiest ways to organize your morning routine, making brewing a simple cup of joe a breeze. The last thing you want when you're already in a rush is to have to fuss with settings, apps, and programmes to get your caffeine hit.

Reviewed by our expert Aleenah Ansari, she found that this impressive drip coffee maker, while not the fanciest, made the perfect filter coffee, with the entire eight-cup brew taking just six minutes to complete – less time than it takes to wrangle your breakfast together.

Plus, even after years of use, it stayed consistent. You can't hope for much better than that as an everyday coffee drinker. The only downside is that the double-walled stainless steel carafe doesn't keep your coffee warm for hours, as there is no added hot plate.

For that, you might want to consider the Aarke Drip Coffee maker, also from Amazon, which, while larger and more expensive, will keep undrunk coffee warmer for longer. Otherwise, the OXO model is the perfect effortless brew for busy households.

The OXO Brew 8-cup is designed specifically so that all parts of the appliance that make contact with the coffee or the water are BPA-free, too, making it one of the most practical tools for creating a non-toxic home.

It also makes cleaning a drip coffee maker super simple, as the brew baskets are dishwasher-safe in the top rack, and the carafe only needs a rinse out with soap and water, so you won't be wasting precious time before you start your day washing dishes.

Despite the relative 'lack' of features, the pot still comes with a descaling warning light, so you know exactly when to perform a deep clean to prevent damage.

It's perfect for keeping on the counter, with minimal sprawling setup, ready to hit start as you come downstairs each day. And with $22 off the OXO Brew 8-cup at Amazon right now, it's a no-brainer for peace of mind, and a healthier, stress-free start to each day.

What to Shop

We have tried and tested plenty of fantastic non-toxic coffee machines to suit every style and budget, in case the OXO Brew isn't quite for you.

Fancy something with a few more functions? We compared the OXO 8-cup and the OXO 9-cup and found the latter to add some convenience, but at the cost of some consistency.

One of the most annoying parts of using a stand mixer is realizing that the paddle has missed most of the mix at the edges of the bowl. You either have to mix for twice as long or use a spatula to finish the job yourself.

If your best KitchenAid stand mixer is guilty of this, there's a shockingly easy fix, expert bakers reveal, and all you need is a coin and a screwdriver. No fancy tools or mechanical skills required.

Here's how you can use the dime trick to ensure even mixing in minutes.

How To Use The Dime Trick For Even Mixing

Christina Karras, expert baker and founder of Dolce by Tina, says that the dime trick really is one of the best basic maintenance tasks you can run on your stand mixer. 'If the beater isn’t adjusted properly, you’ll often notice ingredients sticking to the bottom of the bowl or uneven mixing. This small adjustment can make a huge difference in how well everything comes together,' she explains.

While your KitchenAid stand mixer may have been perfectly adjusted straight out of the box, over time, vibrations, heavy loads, and adding and removing different attachments can slowly alter the alignment. It's normal, even if it is frustrating.

Using the dime trick is a quick way to make the minor adjustments needed to get the most out of a stand mixer:

1. Drop a dime (or any small coin) into your clean stand mixer, positioning it towards the bottom edge of the bowl, and lower the head with the paddle attachment.
2. Turn the stand mixer on a slow speed and watch the coin. If it does not move, then the head adjustment is too high, and you need to lower it.
3. Lift the stand mixer head again and use a screwdriver (available from Walmart) to gently loosen the bolt at the base of the head a small amount, turning anti-clockwise a fraction of a turn. Christina advises, 'The key is making small adjustments. Always start by unplugging the mixer, then turn the adjustment screw just a quarter turn at a time and re-test with the dime. You want the beater to gently move the coin, not hit the bowl. Going slowly helps avoid over-adjusting and keeps the mixer in great shape over time.'
4. Repeat the test by lowering the head and running the paddle on slow again. If the coin still doesn't remove, repeat the adjustment.
5. When the coin is moved gently around the bowl's edge, your stand mixer is perfectly aligned. Wash the bowl and paddle before using them for food again.

While you may have to repeat this process a few times over the life of your KitchenAid stand mixer, Christina says you shouldn't have to do it often. 'It’s really only necessary if something feels off while you’re mixing, or if you notice ingredients aren’t incorporating the way they normally do.'

If your stand mixer head is very wobbly, always moving, or stutters when mixing and small adjustments don't rectify the problem, it may be a sign you need to service your kitchen appliances or, in the worst case, replace your old appliances.

What to Shop

Meet the Expert

Want to get the most out of your KitchenAid? Next, learn how to use the KitchenAid stand mixer attachments to get the most bang for your buck on these investment appliances.

Having a kitchen that's short on storage and countertop space tests your patience daily – trust me, I know. That is where having multi-functional appliances makes such a difference.

One of the best space savers is the Nutribullet Ultra Plus+ Compact Kitchen System, from Amazon, which combines two appliances (a blender and food processor) that are essentials to most home cooks, to save you space.

We tested it and ranked it one of our best blender-food processor combos, and it's $65 off right now, making it a great deal for your wallet as well as an improvement to your kitchen setup.

Free up Space on Kitchen Counters and in Cabinets with This Combo Appliance

The Nutribullet Ultra Plus+ system tackles three appliances in one, acting as a personal blender, one of the best food processors, and a coffee grinder, all using one base, saving a third ofthe space in small kitchen storage as having each appliance individually. I don't know about you, but this sounds like the perfect balm for my tiny kitchen woes.

Just because it is a Jack of all trades doesn't mean it is a master of none. When our expert appliance reviewer, Tobey Grumet Segal, tested the Nutribullet Ultra Plus+, she found that the 'two blending cups, a mini-sized food processor bowl, a grinder cup, and four different blades to swap out all do a proper amount of blending and prep work, yet won’t eat up a ton of space.'

When blending, just 30 seconds on a low-volume cycle reduced berries, yogurt, and water into a seamless, creamy smoothie. When adding ice, powdered protein, and frozen berries for the next test, two cycles quickly reduced it all to a perfectly satisfying consistency.

The food processor was just as impressive, although the compact size does mean you may have to chop larger items (such as whole onions) into rough chunks first to get them in. We think this is a fair trade-off for the convenience of organizing a kitchen.

The spice and coffee grinder were also satisfying. Again, one 30-second round created a perfectly fine powder.

If the convenience of its compact size and multi-functional heads wasn't enough, the system is also super simple to clean, being one of the things you can wash in a dishwasher (except the electric base, which only requires wiping with a nearly dry cloth).

It's perfect for small-space living, smaller households, and the average everyday home cook who doesn't need all the fancy gadgets and gizmos to put together a weeknight dinner.

And for $65 off for the whole Nutribullet Ultra Plus+ System at Amazon right now, it's a no-brainer.

What to Shop

After investing, brush up on how to clean a blender to keep your appliance in top condition for longer, and make sure your food tastes fantastic every time.

The last thing you want to be doing on game day is labour away over the stove making food – that's where an air fryer comes in to save the day.

The Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Glass Air Fryer, from Target, is now $30 off and arrives on game day if you order quickly or pick up from your local store. With super quick, crispy results, non-toxic BPA-free glass construction, and baskets that double as storage, it's perfect for whipping up everything from quick snacks to whole dinners for all.

If you need one of the best air fryers to handle full family-sized snack demands quickly (and without potential toxins), this is the one to get.

Ranked as one of the best non-toxic air fryers, this 'pro' version of the Ninja Crispi (also ranked one of our top air fryers) comes with a larger bowl than its predecessor for batch cooking and mass snack making, and precise temperature control for perfect, fast results every time.

The two 6-quart and 2.5-quart containers are made from BPA-free glass, making this air fryer upgrade one of the best quick tricks for creating a non-toxic home, cutting plastic from your cookware.

Better still, included lids mean you can cook, serve, and store your leftovers all in the same container, making it perfect for quickly dishing up picky bits when the game is in full swing (plus it makes cleaning a kitchen after cooking ten times easier, given that the glass 'baskets' are 100% dishwasher safe, too).

As the countdown to game day enters its final days, the Target sale offers quick in-time for kick-off delivery, so long as you order quickly.

Need it in a pinch? You can also collect yours from your nearest store the same day (so long as they're still in stock).

You can really pack the Crispi's containers full and still get great results, too, Tobey assured in her review. When cooking chicken strips, she noted, 'I got all 1.5 pounds of the chicken in at once, and although I was worried it may not cook as evenly in the crowded bowl, it came out perfectly.'

While you do have to take the whole container out to flip or shake your game-time snacks (and slotting it back in can take a little practice), it's perfect for those big batch cook snacks needed to get through the half-time show.

All in all, the Crispi Pro does a great job of offering up quick, crispy snacks, while also offering the option of baking and roasting, allowing you to pull this jack-of-all-trades out whenever you're hosting, be it game day or Thanksgiving. It's a game day essential that will serve you year-round.

What to Shop

After the demands of game day, work through the three air fryer cleaning tasks you should be doing regularly to keep your appliance in top condition.

As a trained chef, I'm a harsh critic when it comes to coffee. I'm obsessive with flavor and texture – and my partner trained as a barista, so our combined standards are impossibly high.

With my days in the professional kitchen behind me, I now make a living by testing kitchen appliances, including the best coffee makers. I’ve tested everything from quiet KitchenAids and automatic De’Longhis to swish drip coffee makers and chic Bialettis. It's rare for me to get very excited by a product anymore, but the Ninja Luxe Café Pro Espresso Maker, discounted by $150 at SharkNinja, changed that. It's the only coffee maker I want in my home.

From cold brew to flat whites, lattes to espresso martinis, it makes the best caffeine I’ve ever brewed at home. All that to say, it's the only one making my Christmas list this year, and once you read my full review below, you'll see exactly why.

Specifications

First Impressions

I know when an appliance is actually luxe, because it makes me immediately want to rip out my dated kitchen and upgrade it with polished countertops and backsplashes to match.

The Ninja Luxe Café Pro Espresso Maker is ultra-professional and high-tech. It's like the Ferrari of coffee machines; mechanical and functional, but with enticing lit-up buttons and dials that get you excited to take it for a test drive. Each part is satisfyingly robust and enjoyable to use, from the vacuum-sealed bean compartment that slots satisfyingly into place to the weighted dials that you twist to select your brew.

The only criticism I made in my notes is that the Ninja Luxe Café Pro is quite large and heavy. I struggled to lift it onto my counter, and once it was situated, I didn't want to move it again.

What's it Like to Use?

At first, I was a little perplexed by all the whizzy dials and options on the Ninja Luxe Café Pro Espresso Maker. But after a few minutes watching SharkNinja’s tutorial videos –and a quick play with the interface – it all clicked. By the end of my first week of testing, I could run it in my sleep.

You start by filling the water tank at the back. I actually take a shortcut by filling the milk-frothing pitcher with water and tipping it straight in – a bit easier than wrestling with the tank itself. Then, load the bean hopper with your coffee of choice (I’m loyal to Illy's Arabica Selections Brasile WholeBeans, available at Amazon).

Choose your shot size – I stick to a single, because a double has me bouncing off the walls – then pop the filter basket into the portafilter. Slot it into the grinder on the left, and the machine will predict the best grind size for your beans. It takes a couple of rounds to dial in, but I’ve learned that size 14 is the sweet spot for my Illy blend. There’s also a built-in scale that measures out the correct amount of coffee grounds.

From here, it’s seamless. Hit Grind, tamp using the built-in lever, then lock the portafilter into the brew head. Pick your drink – espresso, americano, ristretto, cold brew, and the list goes on – and voilà. The Ninja Luxe pours a perfectly balanced shot straight into your cup.

For a latte or flat white, you'll want to use the milk frother. With other machines I've tested, you need to manually steam the milk, getting your angles and timing right to create the perfect texture.

The Ninja Pro Luxe has an automatic steaming function, so you can sit back and relax. There are also multiple preset textures to choose from: Steamed Milk, Thin Foam, Thick Foam, Extra-Thick Foam, and Cold Foam.

Taste Test

When I say you have options with the Ninja Luxe Café Pro, I mean it. When I first got the machine into my kitchen, I didn't even realize there was a whole range of filter settings. You can choose between Classic, Rich, or Over Ice, and the drink sizes range from 175ml to 530ml.

For me, where the Ninja truly shines is in the espresso itself. The shot is rich, full-bodied, bold, smooth, and always at the perfect temperature.

The espresso serves as the perfect base for a variety of your favorite café-style drinks. I experimented with lattes, flat whites, and cappuccinos, following the clever milk measurements and recipe card attached to the side of the machine. Each drink turned out consistently smooth, with the espresso flavor shining through beautifully. Honestly, I’ve stopped visiting my local café – because I can make even better coffee at home.

But that’s not all – the Ninja Luxe Café Pro can also make cold brew. The process was impressively quick, though my first batch came out just slightly warm, enough to melt the ice cubes in my iced coffee glass. Undeterred, I tried something a little more adventurous: espresso martinis (strictly off the clock!). They turned out beautifully, and I even served them to dinner party guests, who raved about the balance and flavor. (Apologies for the lack of photos – I was swept up in the hosting whirlwind!)

Cleaning, Storage & Maintenance

My biggest peeve when testing the best espresso machines is always the clean-up. For a while, I switched to using an Aeropress Original (from Walmart) at home because I was sick of cleaning appliances at work – the simple tube on the Aeropress just needs a rinse in the sink.

Thankfully, while testing the Ninja Luxe Café Pro, clean-up was effortless – so much so that I’d happily keep it in my kitchen permanently. A quick wipe of the steam wand after use is all it takes – no dismantling parts, no struggling with a straw cleaner, no fuss. The machine even has an auto-purge setting that prevents milk build-up and residue, keeping it ready for your next brew.

The only other regular maintenance is the drip tray. It can get a bit grubby, but the trays slide out easily and can be fully disassembled for a thorough clean. I’d also recommend draining it after each use – you’d be surprised how fast the water collects. Keep an eye on the rising orange buoy in the tray; it’s your not-so-subtle warning that a mini 'tsunami' might be brewing!

How Does it Compare?

For coffee lovers who enjoy a more hands-on experience, the best espresso machines from the likes of Breville and De’Longhi will offer greater control. With their traditional portafilters, steam wands, and temperature-controlled boilers, you can fine-tune your grind, tamp, and milk texture, which is satisfying if you know how or are happy to clamber up that steep learning curve (practice makes perfect).

What sets the Ninja Luxe Café Pro apart for me is that it bridges technicality with ease. You still engage in the process – grinding beans, tamping, frothing milk– but without the risk of a bad shot every time. It's really fun and gives you the sense of craft without the potential angst of a fully manual machine.

And compared with other automated machines, I found the Ninja less fiddly and more affordable (well under $1,000). I’ve tested some of the most luxurious machines on the market (like the Jura J8, for example), but the Ninja remains my go-to for its ease and price.

Should You Buy It?

In my opinion, this is a coffee maker that’s truly worth its salt. For the price, you get an impressive amount of fun and functionality. The only people I wouldn’t recommend this to are baristas who want complete hands-on control, or those who are very tech-averse – if mindful, simple brewing is your goal, one of the best Moka pots will suit you better, but you'll obviously sacrifice versatility.

For café-goers looking to save money on takeout and recreate that barista taste at home, you really can’t go wrong. The Ninja Luxe grinds fresh beans, automatically adjusts grind size, and pulls professional-level shots for dreamy lattes, rich Americanos, and so much more. I loved testing this intelligent, highly automated machine – and I’ll be genuinely gutted to send it back to Ninja. Goodbye, espresso martinis!

How We Test Espresso Makers

At Homes & Gardens, we’ve developed a barista-approved process for testing the best coffee makers.

Our tests are standardized across each machine, so we can compare all of the products against each other without bias. If we think a machine is good enough, it’ll go onto our best espresso machine, best French press, or our highly acclaimed best non-toxic coffee maker list.

If you're keen to see behind the scenes, you can read our dedicated page: how we test coffee makers.

Thanksgiving is stressful enough without worrying whether your turkey will come out dry or, worse, undercooked.

It's a recurring nightmare of mine before the big day – I've bought an expensive bird, followed the recipe to a T, even invested in the best turkey roasting pan, only to find that in the final moments of the roast, it's not come out as expected. It's still amazing to me that a tiny tool like the Ninja ProChef Thermometer can remove that anxiety entirely. Believe me when I say you won't want to be without one this Thanksgiving.

The thermometer features a wireless, stainless steel probe that connects to the Ninja ProConnect smartphone app. I pop it in the meat, set my desired temperature, and let it do its thing.

I tried it on roast chicken last weekend – my go-to for fall family Sundays at the table. The thermometer worked up to 165 feet away, which meant I could happily crack on with prepping side dishes, setting the table, and relaxing on the couch with a glass of wine, while the app provided real-time updates on the roasting meat in the oven.

According to the USDA, your turkey should reach 165°F. But when I asked top chefs for Thanksgiving turkey tips, some recommended pulling it out at 160°F and letting it rest. The temperature should keep rising, giving perfectly juicy results every time (and you can check this, without guessing).

This gadget isn’t delicate. It’s waterproof, durable, and can withstand up to 700°F, so it will come in handy for grill sessions in the summer. I’ve already used it for searing steaks (not outside, in my best cast iron skillet) and even air-frying smaller joints of chicken – and it delivers every time.

More deals on Thanksgiving Turkey Essentials

If you’re also having Thanksgiving-related nightmares, the week before is prime time for grabbing early Black Friday home deals on hosting essentials.

If you're looking for a turkey recipe to impress this year, try Clodagh McKenna's Mulled Marmalade-Glazed Turkey, which is a sticky, spiced delight.

At the start of fall, I stayed at a friend’s home, and she had thoughtfully placed a petite coffee maker in my room. I’m an early riser, and I loved the quiet indulgence of those mornings with a cup of coffee in bed.

It was the new Keurig K-Mini Mate – and it turns out, all the chicest hosts already know about it. With one of the smallest footprints of even the best coffee makers, it’s perfect for tight spaces – and it comes in chic shades that will blend seamlessly with your decor.

I’ve always loved the idea of a bedroom coffee bar. In fact, I’ve been begging my partner for years to move one of the best espresso makers into our room, but until now, we haven't had the space for this luxury.

The beauty of the Keurig K-Mini is that it is super slim and space-saving. I've tested some of the best Nespresso machines, and they can be bulky and not the prettiest to look at. The opposite is true of the Keurig K-Mini, which comes in subtle green and rose-tinted colorways.

It is suited to small kitchens (especially if you want to bring your coffee station ideas to life), your home office desk, and it even makes a very stylish dorm room idea.

Speaking of guest rooms, a coffee maker manages to instantly elevate the space, turning it into a private retreat that will help your guests feel relaxed and cared for.

Make sure to add some coffee bar essentials, like a small canister of Keurig K-Cups. There are literally hundreds of flavors to choose from, but I think the holiday-themed pods are especially charming this time of year.

And if your guests are staying for a few days, don't forget to empty the machine and refill the reservoir regularly to keep everything fresh.

More Chic Coffee Essentials for Guest Rooms

All the chicest hosts I know have taught me that hosting doesn't end in the kitchen and dining room. A few thoughtful touches in the guest bedroom are what keep guests talking long after they’ve left.

If you're a proper coffee addict like me, and you're staying away for the holidays, you can easily pack the Keurig K-Mini in your suitcase and plug it in at the destination. It's a pretty genius move!

If you're looking for a larger coffee maker to feed a crowd, I've tested some great drip coffee makers this year – you can read the reviews in my guide to choosing the best coffee maker for you.

Few kitchen appliances carry the kind of iconic status that the KitchenAid stand mixer does. Introduced nearly a century ago, it has become a cornerstone of British family kitchens, a trusted companion for generations of home bakers. If you don’t own one and have been enviously spotting it year after year on The Great British Bake Off, consider this your moment. This is a rare and much-coveted family essential that is suddenly within reach.

I’ve found it massively reduced. I spied the KitchenAid Stand Mixer at QVC, of all places, and while the editorial floor waits with bated breath for the Black Friday sale to kick in, this deal has almost no marketing noise around it. Here’s your Homes & Gardens siren: it’s a full £300 off. Gasp. KitchenAid mixers seldom see discounts, let alone of this scale

For those who take cooking, baking, or simply good design seriously, this is the ultimate investment piece. It’s the sort of appliance that becomes part of the family, ready to whip, knead, and mix its way through festive seasons for decades to come. With Christmas fast approaching, there’s no better time to bring one home.

Unlike cheaper appliances that wear out after a few years, a KitchenAid is built to last. Investing in one reduces waste and ensures you have a reliable tool for decades of cooking and baking. We’ve tested, used, and recommended them for years; their durability is unmatched.

Shop KitchenAid Essentials

With Christmas fast approaching, we say don’t wait. Order now and have your KitchenAid ready for mince pies, Christmas pudding, trifle, and every celebration to come. For the record, we’re choosing the classic red.

In the last 30 years, Shark has really made a name for itself in the home appliance space. They are now considered one of the best vacuum cleaner brands in the world, rivaling more premium brands for their array of features, but offering advanced tech at a more accessible price point. From anti-tangle brushheads, to mop-vacuum-hybrids, Shark has developed a range of models that make it much easier to tackle messes in the family home.

The Shark Upright PowerDetect, consistently tops our lists as one of the most powerful vacuums and is a great pet hair vac. Though the cordless equivalent, the Shark Cordless PowerDetect compares well for suction, you pay slightly more for the benefits of no cables.

Shark isn't just well-known for their floorcare, though. After sidestepping into the world of air treatment, they have released a number of viral fans and air purifiers. This includes the Shark Flexbreeze which made an impact as one of the first rechargeable and therefore portable fans. Beyond home appliances, they also manufacture hair styling tools.

Read on for our latest news and reviews from Shark. And keep an eye on top offers in our Shark deals hub.

Choosing the Right Blender: Tested and Reviewed by Expert Chefs

Want a Food Processor or Juicer Too? This Is What to Shop

One of my favorite parts of the holidays is all the delicious home-cooked food, but the prep process is far from stress-free. So, I decided to ask professional chefs how they prepare for the busiest kitchen days of the year.

Instead of ingredients and recipes, every chef emphasized one thing – appliance prep. Giving essentials a quick service before the holidays can make all the difference between a smooth day in the kitchen and a Hell’s Kitchen disaster.

From breakfast essentials to thermometers, these are the five appliances chefs say you must give attention to when preparing a kitchen for hosting for stress-free seasonal cooking.

5 kitchen appliances to service before the holidays

1. Ovens

Your pre-holiday cooking prep should not stop at cleaning an oven. Marissa Stevens, founder and recipe developer at Pinch and Swirl, says you should also test that it is heating up correctly – it’s an essential step to ensure nothing comes out under- or over-cooked on the big day.

She shares, ‘Mine works hard year-round, but I still run a quick test bake just to make sure the temperature’s accurate. A cheap thermometer inside tells me if it’s drifting.’

Joanne Gallagher, co-founder and recipe developer at Inspired Taste, suggests using this in-oven thermometer from Amazon for accurate readings and perfect results.

If your oven temperature is incorrect, it may be a sign that it’s time to replace your old appliances, or call an appliance expert for a full service and repairs.

2. Thermometers

The last thing you want to do is give a guest food poisoning. Besides checking her internal oven temperature, Joanne adds, ‘I also keep my internal thermometer (from Amazon) handy for checking the temperature of my turkey and roasts.’

You can check the accuracy of a food thermometer by filling a glass with ice and topping it up with cold water. Submerge the probe so that it is not touching the glass. It should read 32°F (0°c).

3. Countertop Breakfast Essentials

Even the best appliances for small kitchens need a little attention before the holiday rush, especially if you’re making breakfast for overnight guests.

Marissa continues, ‘The waffle maker, toaster, big coffee pot – they're in the pantry depths most of the year, so I clean them up, plug them in, and make sure everything's working. Better to find a problem now than when everyone’s waiting for breakfast.’

Finding smart ways to organize kitchen appliances can also keep them all within arm’s reach without them getting in the way of bulk food prep.

We like using stick-on cord organizers from Walmart to help hide cables on counters and minimize visual mess. Appliance sliders, also from Walmart, make it easy to pull used appliances forward without damaging worktops.

4. The Fridge And Freezer

Cleaning and decluttering a fridge before hosting should be a no-brainer, helping to streamline the food prep process. However, it is also wise to check that your fridge is holding temperature to secure your food storage ideas against premature spoilage.

Ian Palmer-Smith, Appliance repair expert at Domestic & General, says, ‘The first thing to do is check that nothing is preventing the door from closing properly. For example, is there any food stuck in the seal? Is there a frost build-up in the freezer? Is the fridge-freezer too full?

‘Once you have identified any issues, you can work to remove them. Food can be removed with a quick clean, but frost build-up will mean that you need to defrost the appliance.’'

We suggest cleaning a fridge and freezer with white vinegar from Walmart, as it helps to deodorize and kill bacteria without harsh chemicals, mitigating the risk of food contamination. Don't forget to check the fridge drain, which is usually behind the crisper drawer.

This long refrigerator drain cleaning kit from Amazon is very handy, and Prime members can enjoy next-day delivery.

5. The Dishwasher

The same goes for your best dishwasher.

After cleaning your dishwasher, check the spray arms for any hard water build-up, clean with vinegar to help break down tough deposits without chemicals. You can unclog a dishwasher and its filter ahead of a grease-heavy food season.

The Affresh dishwasher cleaning tablets from Walmart are also a great, quick option, helping to tackle the tub, racks, pump, and hoses.

David Miloshev, appliance technician at Fantastic Services, also urges, ‘It’s also wise to check the seals and gaskets because worn ones cause energy loss and make the machine less effective.

For a quick freshen up mid-hosting, use lemon slices in your dishwasher. It boosts cleaning power and deodorizes the appliance in one fell swoop.

What to Shop

Meet the Experts

With the heavy-duty appliances taken care of, the next step is to organize cookware for the holidays, with top chef tips to streamline your system.

Which Ninja Air Fryer Should You Buy?

Anyone who has spent time researching the best air fryers, will know Ninja is among the most popular brands. They have led the pack when it comes to innovation, being one of the first to launch dual-zone options and offering everything from compact models for small spaces, to extra-large fryers for big families.

I have tested countless air fryers, many of which are Ninja, and it is the only brand I keep in my own kitchen. If you are new to Ninja air fryers though, these are the three you need to know about.

Which Ninja Blender Should You Buy?

Blenders are what Ninja first became known for. Their range has always focused on packing lots of function into an affordable pricepoint, and they have something for everyone. Most of them have multiple blades to cut through your ingredients quicker and more thoroughly than other blenders. Then, when you're finished blending, most of the components are dishwasher-safe, to make cleaning up as easy as possible. If you enjoy a daily smoothie, or want a super-powerful blender-food-processor combo to prep your ingredients, see what we recommend from our rigorous testing.

Ninja Frozen Treat Makers

Ninja launched its first frozen treat maker – an ice cream maker – in 2021, and when it went viral a couple of years later, the brand developed more machines for making slushies and soft serve at home. They now come in a number of models and colorways. See our top picks from the range below.

More Ninja Bestsellers

Ninja Reviews, Deals & News

Those are our all-time favorites from Ninja, but just a fraction of what they do. Scroll on to see more of our Ninja reviews, and keep an eye out for deals.

I'm hosting a Halloween soirée this year, and I always serve up the chic side of spooky.

Drew Barrymore’s Beautiful 2.5QT Slow Cooker in Black Sesame, $19.50 at Walmart (yes, seriously, it's that affordable) is the perfect piece for my plans. Like a tiny cauldron, it warms your dips, melting cheese or chocolate fondue for your guests to simply dive in to.

This mini contender for the best slow cooker has sparked my imagination for serving up a comforting fall menu that looks as good as it tastes. Our team has tested Drew Barrymore's Beautiful Air Fryer and Beautiful Stand Mixer; here's why I think this mini pot could be an equally great buy.

I’m thinking about serving a bubbling black bean queso and a caramel apple dip, so I love that the shallow, wide design allows plenty of space to dip your chip (or fruit skewer) right in the pot.

The three heat settings keep everything at just the right temperature. I can see myself using it for fall family Sundays at the table, like Game Day hosting or even Christmas gatherings (black never goes out of style).

Most kitchen appliances I test have to be hand-washed, but the inner pot on this slow cooker is coated with ceramic and compatible with your dishwasher – great news if you're serving up melted Halloween chocolate or marshmallows, which will get sticky.

If your guest list runs longer – or your appetite for cozy slow cooker recipe ideas grows – Drew’s Beautiful 6QT Programmable Slow Cooker in Black Sesame is just as enchanting. It has racked up glowing 4.8-star reviews from Walmart shoppers.

Home cooks love the sleek aesthetic, competitive price, and the way it turns out crowd-pleasing dishes. One reviewer says: 'Not only aesthetically beautiful, but cooks great... my pork roast was juicy and tender. We all loved it.'

My favorite pieces for a 'Beautiful' Halloween

Between the spooky-chic design of the matte black colorway and the endless potential for comforting recipes, I think Drew Barrymore's slow cooker is a win-win for Halloween table decor ideas.

If you're keen to impress your guests with fun ideas like this, I also recently rounded up the hottest fall food trends of 2025 to keep your hosting game competitive.

Few brands innovate as relentlessly as this one, and even as a Kitchen Appliances Editor, it’s hard to keep up. I’d barely wrapped up testing the Ninja Blast Max for our best blender guide before getting a first look at their next, even cooler creation.

The new Ninja BlendBOSS™ retailing at $139.99, landed on the site today. It has that classic tumbler shape with a sturdy handle (just like the Stanley cup that sits on my desk 24/7), but you can flip the tumbler upside down, place it on a motor, throw in fruit, and blend a smoothie in seconds.

Here's everything you need to know about what is set to be one of the very best portable travel blenders launched in 2025.

At first glance, I'd worry that the Ninja BlendBoss could be a gimmick, but Ninja promises it's not some underpowered portable gadget. The motor is strong enough to crush ice and fibrous smoothies, or whip up savory dips, soups, or purees.

I immediately thought of my sister (always running from the gym to work), and my friend who packs a huge Stanley Cup, a portable coffee mug, and a blender cup of green smoothie for long study sessions at the library. The Ninja BlendBoss is the kind of tool that actually keeps up. It’s completely leakproof too, so you don't need to stress about tossing it in a tote or gym bag with your other possessions.

I love the adorable spaceship-style design. The BlendBoss comes in four colors – Cyberspace, Blue Raspberry, Lavender Lemonade, and Watermelon Bubblegum – which remind me of the Ninja Crispi portable air fryer, and the Ninja Slushi sorbet shades released this summer.

At $139.99, the NinjaBlendBoss hits that sweet spot for gifting. Nicer than something you’d buy yourself on a whim, but not out of reach.

Other personal blenders we rate

There are many fantastic personal blenders on sale today for Amazon Prime Big Deals Day. If you don't need the latest, greatest gadget, the options below are great.

The Ninja BlendBoss is available on SharkNinja as of today, and with Amazon, Target, and TikTok Shop picking it up soon, I can see this becoming one of those gifts everyone starts talking about. I’m already making a mental list of who’s getting one.

If Ninja is known for anything, it's constant innovation. The Ninja Blast Max is a chunky, 22-oz version of the original Ninja Blast, which I tested last summer. I was a big fan of the original and there wasn't much I'd have improved. Making it larger certainly wouldn’t have been my first thought, but once I got it into the test kitchen, I realized that more had been upgraded than just the size.

In fact, the Ninja Blast Max stands out from all the best personal blenders I’ve tried. The large cup has fixed blades inside, which means you can twist off the cup and drink straight from it without the motor base attached. Cleaning is easier, too – no worrying about water getting on the motor.

On top of that, the Max comes with Auto-IQ Blend, Smoothie, and Crush settings, which automatically tailor your drinks to the exact texture you want, whether you’re making a simple protein shake, fibrous green smoothies, or crushing ice for cocktails. This isn’t just a bigger Ninja Blast, it’s better – in every way.

Product specifications

Blending performance

If you think you'll be blending straight out of the box, think again. The Ninja Blast needs a 3-hour initial charge, which was actually a bit frustrating, since I had a busy day of testing ahead and I wanted to make my smoothies first. However, once fully powered, you can get up to 25 blends before needing to charge again. Once the green charger light finally got glowing, here's what I made in the test kitchen.

Test 1: Berry breakfast smoothie

A berry breakfast smoothie is always my first test when trying out the best blenders. I started by pouring some oat milk up to the 'minimum liquid' line on the side of the Ninja Blast Max – super handy. Then, I added my challenging breakfast ingredients: frozen blueberries, strawberries, chia seeds, flax seeds, almond butter, and a banana. There was more than enough room for everything.

I hit the Smoothie button, and the blender got to work. It was impressively quiet, measuring just 80 decibels – definitely a contender for my quietest blender list. The Ninja Blast Max took 35 seconds to finish the blend.

The results were delicious. I did notice a few tiny flecks of blueberry skin, but they didn’t affect the taste at all. The only truly uniform smoothie I’ve ever had came from an enormous $500 Vitamix, so I can forgive the Ninja Blast Max for a few flecks here and there.

Test 2: Kale smoothie

Next up, a curly kale smoothie, packed with vanilla protein powder, green yoghurt, peanut butter, banana, and oats. The challenge here is the fibrous greens – will the blender be able to blitz them down into nothing? Then there's the nut butter and protein powder – will they clump together or stick to the sides?

The Ninja Blast Max stood up to the challenge. I did have to run the 'Smoothie' cycle twice to really get the kale cut down into tiny flecks, but in the end, it was smooth and refreshing. Just as powerful as the Ninja's best countertop blenders.

Test 3: Ice

Portable blenders aren’t really designed to crush ice. They’re typically too small and underpowered. But I noticed that the Ninja Blast Max packaging boldly claimed: 'TURNS ICE TO SNOW', which was hard to ignore.

To my surprise, it did exactly that. I dropped in three large freezer-fresh ice cubes, added a splash of water, and touched the Crush button. It was pretty loud, but around 60 seconds later, I had a snow-like slush – ideal for frappuccinos or frozen summer cocktails on the go, if that's your thing.

Is it leak-proof and travel-friendly?

When I’ve tested other portable blenders, like the NutriBullet Flip, I always get a flutter of panic packing it into my bag alongside my laptop and notebooks – there’s that constant worry about leaks or spills. With the Ninja Blast Max, I felt strangely confident. The lid screws on tightly and securely, and the built-in seal keeps everything contained (I tested it first by tipping it upside down over the sink).

Once I was out and about, I didn't experience any drips or sticky messes. I can confirm the Ninja Blast Max is a portable blender you can trust.

I was originally concerned about the size of the blender being too large for my bag, but it was totally manageable, as the design is quite wide and squat, plus you can dismantle the motor and leave it at home. It didn't fit into my car cup holders though – if that's a real priority, you might want to get the measuring tape out before you buy – or try the svelte BlendJet2 Portable blender instead.

Cleaning

There are three easy ways to clean the Ninja Blast Max: handwashing, filling the cup with water and a drop of detergent, and hitting Blend, or simply popping the cup in the dishwasher. I tried all three, and each one was quick and effortless.

Compared with the original Ninja Blast, the Max feels even easier to clean. The fixed blades are well-designed, so there are fewer nooks and crannies for food to hide in, and the larger 22-oz cup gives you more room to get in with a sponge if you’re handwashing.

How does it compare?

Ninja Blast vs. Ninja Blast Max

The original Ninja Blast (the link goes to our review) was already one of the best portable blenders out there – compact, convenient, and capable of handling everyday smoothies and frozen blends.

The Ninja Blast Max, however, levels up in almost every area. Its 22-oz capacity gives you more room for larger batches, while the extra voltage and new settings (Smoothie, Blend, and Crush) make it more versatile than the single-speed original. It has a longer battery life, too. It packs in a lot of power, but weighs only 0.4 lbs more than the original.

Both models are easy to clean and dishwasher-safe, but the Ninja Blast Max’s larger jar and new fixed-blade design make it feel even more user-friendly.

NutriBullet Flip vs. Ninja Blast Max

The NutriBullet Flip is another strong contender in the portable blender space, and in some areas, it has an edge. It’s quieter than the Ninja Blast Max and does a better job at keeping drinks cold thanks to its insulated design.

However, the Flip lacks some of the practical touches that make the Max a joy to use. The Ninja’s measurement markings on the side take the guesswork out of prepping smoothies, its transparent cup makes it easier to see the blend in action, and its lighter weight makes it easier to carry around. Most importantly, the Ninja Blast Max can crush ice, giving it the upper hand when it comes to versatility.

Should you buy the Ninja Blast Max?

The Ninja Blast Max takes everything we loved about the original and super-sizes it with more power, more capacity, battery life, and more versatility. It punches well above its weight for a portable design.

I'd recommend it to smoothie lovers who want bigger portions on the go, anyone who likes to make frozen drinks or iced coffees, or those who value ease of cleaning and reliable leak-proof portability.

If you're not quite sure or you need a little more guidance on making the right investment, I recently wrote a guide on how to choose the best blender for your needs.

Last month, Swifties and baking fans went wild when a glittery orange stand mixer appeared on Instagram. The unique shade – dubbed Tangerine Twinkle – was KitchenAid’s playful nod to Taylor Swift’s 'The Life of a Showgirl' album, arriving on October 3rd.

Now the dream is real: the limited-edition sparkly version of the best stand mixer will be available via sweepstakes for just twelve lucky fans, running from September 29 through October 3 at 11:59 pm ET. You can enter here.

If you aren't one of the lucky twelve, KitchenAid is offering $150 off the Artisan® Series 5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer with Premium Accessory Pack, too.

KitchenAid’s Instagram has been filled with Swift-coded teasers over the last few weeks – friendship bracelets, chai cookies, sourdough, and disco balls – which have kept fans guessing about the launch.

The orange mixer is a nod to her new album cover and well-documented love of baking: from chai sugar cookies served at her 1989 Secret Sessions, to gifting friends like Selena Gomez and Zoë Kravitz homemade sourdough loaves. Swift herself recently joked that sourdough has taken over her life.

If you’re also a keen baker – or eager to dive into cozy autumnal treats like cinnamon sourdough or holiday cookies – a KitchenAid is a fantastic investment. I was lucky enough to keep the 2024 Evergreen design series after testing, and it has become the heart of my kitchen.

With its sleek, curved design, it’s both retro and timeless – and with additional attachments, you can make shaved ice, chop vegetables, churn ice cream, and more. You can find out more and how it stacks up against the competitors in my guide to the best stand mixers 2025.

My favorite Taylor Swift-inspired baking treats

Tangerine Twinkle isn't the only 'showgirl' in KitchenAid's collection. The brand also offers a 'Scorched Orange' shade and luxurious copper accessories. I found some more cozy baking essentials I think the superstar would love, too.

Even if you own a mixer already, KitchenAid is making sure nobody misses out on the fun. The brand is also hosting special baking classes over on the KitchenAid Instagram page, so fans can learn tips and tricks inspired by Swift’s favorite recipes.

I've also written about the most creative ways to use your stand mixer, so you can experiment with fun ingredients and experimental recipes, like Taylor Swift herself.

I make a traditional roast every holiday season, which means I need a lot of stove space. There’s the gravy, bread sauce, vegetables, cauliflower cheese, you name it, but that quickly turns into kitchen chaos.

Extra burners are a lifesaver, but let’s be honest: nobody wants an ugly, clunky induction plate ruining the festive aesthetic. Enter SMEG’s Portable Induction Cooktop – a chic, minimalist solution that gives you extra stove space without sacrificing style.

This little appliance is sleek enough to sit on your counter without standing out like a sore thumb, yet sturdy enough to handle your best induction pans and powerful enough to simmer delicate sauces to rapid boils.

The SMEG Portable Induction Cooktop has nine (yes, nine) temperature levels, so you can simmer, sear, or boil from anywhere around the kitchen. Compact and lightweight, it weighs just 7.3 pounds, making it pretty easy to move around, creating a functional kitchen island idea.

I like the modern touchpad controls, which allow you to switch on the heat levels effortlessly. There's also a power boost, meaning no more waiting forever for water to boil before tossing in your pasta or prepping vegetables. We have this function on the cooktop in the test kitchen, and trust me, it's an efficiency game-changer for the busiest meals of the year.

The included temperature probe is a small but thoughtful addition. It plugs directly into the side of the cooktop and allows you to monitor the temperature of your food from 104°F up to 210°F.

Even better, the probe can clip onto the top edge of your best induction pans, letting you keep an eye on sauces, gravies, or any delicate dish without hovering over the stove.

The only caveat? It's pricey, but in all the SMEG appliance reviews I have written, I rave that they feel durable and well-made. You can surely turn to this cooktop year after year – definitely read my SMEG countertop oven with air fry review, if you are looking for reliable, extra oven space, too.

Alternative portable cooktops under $100

If the $465 price tag feels a little too steep, I've found some more budget-friendly alternatives to give you some perspective.

If you’re thinking about upgrading your kitchen with an extra induction stove this holiday season, experts urge people to try this simple magnet trick to check if your pan will be compatible.

If you're in the market for new cookware too, I've tested and reviewed the best induction cookware and the best non-toxic cookware, too.