Anyone who enjoys fresh coffee at home understands the importance of a quality coffee grinder.

When you brew daily, it is simpler to leave it on the counter, but not every grinder is made the same, with some sticking out as obvious eyesores in an otherwise chic space.

Enter the Fellow Opus 2 Conical Burr Grinder. Shaping up to be one of the best coffee grinders on the market, it is pretty and practical, making a serious statement as part of your home coffee station.

If you want well-designed coffee paraphernalia, Fellow is one of the best options. With high-end, minimal designs, they are easily the go-to option for any modern kitchen. From the Fellow Clara French Press we reviewed (and loved), to the Fellow Stagg Electric Kettle, available at Crate & Barrel, everything is seriously chic.

Building off of the original 40 mm Fellow Opus Coffee Grinder, the Opus 2 transforms its predecessor's boxy, sharp angles into a smoother, more minimalist design while accommodating a wider range of grind settings. The side dial tunes to everything from espresso to pour-over to Aeropress, cold brew, and more.

The new 48 mm burrs promise to generate less heat than other grinders, too, preventing any flavor loss while grinding. And, for easier morning brewing, it comes with a standard catch cup as well as dosing cups for 54 mm and 58 mm portafilters.

Making coffee at home is a notoriously messy process; however, the Opus 2 has been designed with easier clean-up in mind. An internal impeller has been added to clear retained grounds, while a built-in ionizer helps to reduce static, so what you add to the hopper will end up in the cup, and not all over your counter or stuck in the machine.

There is a design to suit every kitchen design, too. The standard edition is available in plain black and plain white; however, the Premium is available in six bold hues with wooden accent tops, matching several of the other Fellow coffee products from the best coffee machines to the best electric kettles, so you can create a cohesive setup no matter your preferred brew type.

While we have not yet had the chance to test the Fellow Opus 2 ourselves, it is certainly on my radar. I can't wait to get my hands on it.

What to Shop

From countertop organizers to vacuum jars, these are the essentials every coffee station needs to stay clean, tidy, and organized – adding a café-style touch to any kitchen corner.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

With your grinder set up complete, brush up on how to choose coffee beans to select the right roast for your brew style.

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August marks the beginning of the end for summer fruit season. Whether you grow your own or pick up berries at the supermarket, this is one of the last chances to enjoy them at their peak.

Rather than let my summer haul spoil before I can eat it all, I'm preserving it now to enjoy through fall and get a head start on next year's spring baking. Instead of turning everything into jam or jelly, I'm reaching for a FoodSaver Vacuum Sealer from Amazon.

This handy food storage idea removes excess air before sealing, helping to protect delicate berries from freezer burn and preserve their flavor for longer. It's a simple way to make the most of peak-season produce now. Here's how.

There are countless food storage tricks to preserve the life of your groceries, but vacuum sealing is one of the best. The process removes oxygen from the bag or container, protecting food from freezer burn and bacterial growth, which causes spoilage. It extends the food's shelf life, be it vegetables, marinated meat, or fresh fruit.

The payoff is undeniable. Your food stays fresher for longer, minimizing food waste to save you money and prevent adding to landfills. It also makes for a fantastic meal prep essential, preserving batch-cooked foods without the inevitable degradation in quality after a week or more spent in the fridge.

One of the best ways to use vacuum storage for food is for those items that degrade the quickest, such as fresh berries. Items that might last only a few days in regular storage can be stretched to last weeks or even months when sealed and frozen.

The trick is to wash, dry, and freeze the berries first, leaving them overnight before using the handheld sealer to remove air. This prevents the berries from being squashed when the bag compresses. By vacuum sealing, you protect freshness by reducing freezer burn and save storage space with flatter, stackable packs.

Alternatively, you can use a vacuum seal container, such as the FoodSaver Marinate Containers, also available at Amazon, to ensure your fruit maintains its shape.

With reusable FoodSaver vacuum bags, I am not worrying about increasing my plastic use, either. Plus, the portable tool fits neatly in my drawer when not in use, meaning it doesn't clutter my small kitchen. It is one of the smartest investments I have made.

What Else to Shop

There are several great ways to prolong the life of your food. I have curated a selection of the best storage investments you can make for your kitchen to eliminate unnecessary waste at home.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Decluttering your kitchen cabinets can also help you gain control over food storage, allowing you to see everything you have in stock so nothing goes to waste.

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In the last five years, more of us have been concerned with less toxic ways of living than ever before, and creating a non-toxic kitchen is one of the first places many of us look to make healthier choices. From cookware and food storage to appliances and utensils, reducing everyday exposure to materials such as BPA and PFAS has become a priority.

That said, the number of labels, conflicting advice, and fearmongering can make it difficult to know where to begin. The good news is that creating a non-toxic kitchen doesn't have to happen overnight. Understanding what to look for, why it matters, and which swaps will have the biggest impact can make the process far less overwhelming.

Having written about creating a non-toxic home for the past three years, I've created this step-by-step guide to help you achieve a non-toxic kitchen, whether you're replacing a single pan or overhauling your entire cooking setup.

Why Detoxifying a Kitchen Matters

We spend a significant amount of time in our kitchens. Whether gathering for breakfast or cooking the evening meal, it is the hardworking hub of the home and essential to all of our routines. We regularly heat items to high temperatures for long periods, often multiple times a day.

Whether you cook from scratch every night or not, the kitchen is a primary source of exposure to potentially risky chemicals and materials, from the headline PFAS and BPAs in cookware and food storage, which, according to the EPA, have been found to have an impact on fertility, development, and the endocrine system, to poor air quality resulting from subpar ventilation.

While this can sound alarming, it is far more manageable than it may at first appear. As Dr. Ryan Marino, associate professor at the School of Medicine at Case Western Reserve University, explains, 'While PFAS have made a lot of news recently, the truth is that we still have very limited data on the actual effects of PFAS, especially since there are thousands of different chemicals that are PFAS.'

If you are concerned about the potential risks, however, there are small, manageable steps you can take to switch to non-toxic cookware and appliances, such as non-toxic air fryers and non-toxic coffee makers. Slow and steady wins this race, without overwhelming you or your wallet.

The Biggest Toxin Sources in a Kitchen

To start, it helps to get your head around the potential hazards in your kitchen, what risk they may pose, and the best substitutes to help limit your exposure over time.

This is not always straightforward, as the term 'non-toxic' is not regulated by any one governing body, making it particularly difficult to understand cookware labels and myths. As Dr. Marino explains, '"Toxicity" is highly nuanced, and so many things that are considered to be "non-toxic" could potentially be toxic in certain circumstances, and some objectively toxic things may not cause any effects in certain situations or may not cause any long-term toxicity, etc.

'In my experience as a toxicologist, most of the time that words like "toxin" are being used, especially online or in social media, they are not used correctly and are often used pseudoscientifically or for fearmongering.'

For this guide, I will break down the materials that studies have shown to carry potential risks to our long-term health, to keep things simple.

Cookware & Appliances

The primary source of concern in a kitchen is the cookware pieces and appliances we use every day. Whether flipping pancakes in the morning, reheating leftovers for lunch, or baking desserts for after dinner, we are most likely to come into contact with potential toxins.

While most cookware is safe to use in normal home conditions no matter what they are made with, be it a traditional PFAS-based non-stick pan or an uncoated stainless steel alternative, some carry less potential risk than others.

Generally speaking, you can break common cookware and appliance materials down into those to avoid, those to use with caution, and those considered 'safer to use':

Those to Avoid

• PFAS and Teflon (PFTE) coatings: The first thing to note is that, according to the FDA, these chemicals are 'joined together in large molecules and are tightly bound to your cookware, so very little is capable of getting into food.' However, they also acknowledge that exposure to PFAS has been linked to serious health issues, such as 'increased cholesterol, high blood pressure, developmental effects, reduced immune response, and increased cancer risk.' The International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified PFOA (a common PFAS chemical) as 'carcinogenic to humans', and a 2023 study by Mount Sinai's Department of Public Health found that elevated PFAS levels in the bloodstream could reduce fertility by up to 40%.
• Cheap BPA Plastics: Often found inside appliances such as coffee makers, they are often chosen as they're cheap, stain-resistant, and waterproof. However, Kelly Johnson-Arbor, a medical toxicology physician and interim executive director at National Capital Poison Center, explained that BPA is associated with health issues, including endocrine disruption and impaired fertility.
• Lead and Cadmium: The FDA has classed these two heavy metals as human health risks and has imposed heavy regulations that ban 'cadmium for use as a color additive or food additive (including as a component of foodware, cookware, or food contact surfaces).' The main cause for concern is around imported kitchen appliances, which may not be under such strict regulations. The expert advice is that, if you're concerned, always look for certifications from the FDA indicating that the product has been tested and meets safety standards.

Use With Caution

• Ceramic coatings: Ceramic-coated appliances are considered safer choices than traditional Teflon, but you still need to treat them carefully. Professional chef and food expert Maricel Gentile, explains: 'Ceramic-coated pans give you that non-stick surface without traditional chemicals, and the coating adds a layer of protection between your food and the metal. Just remember, ceramic coatings don’t like high heat or metal utensils, so be gentle and use medium heat with silicone or wooden tools.' The same goes for washing your ceramic-coated appliances with soft sponges and gentle detergents. You need to protect the coating for it to stay safe and healthy.
• Aluminum: Dr. Marino explains, 'The amount of aluminum that cookware may contribute to food is usually minimal, usually far less than is already present in all of the foods we eat, and should not pose any health risk for most people using it as intended.' However, he adds that cooking acidic ingredients in bare aluminum pots and pans can accelerate leaching, increasing the amount of aluminum that ends up on your dinner plate. 'Foods and recipes high in salt can have a similar effect as well,' adds Bryan Quoc Le PhD, food scientist and industry expert at Mendocino Food Consulting.
• Carbon steel, copper & cast iron: These materials are also safe when used correctly, but you must avoid using them in conjunction with very acidic or salty dishes. Dr. Quoc Le, continues, 'The main health risk is cooking acidic or highly salty foods in carbon steel cookware, which can lead to corrosion. While that can increase the iron content of the food, for most people that is not a problem.' The same leaching effect happens when you combine unlined copper or unlined cast iron cookware with acidic ingredients. Nutritionist Lindsay Malone says, 'For individuals where excess iron may be an issue (such as hemochromatosis), another choice of cookware makes sense.'

The Safest to Use

• Stainless steel: Stainless steel is widely considered one of the safest materials for non-toxic kitchen appliances. Stainless steel is naturally free from the potentially harmful chemicals found in plastics or non-stick Teflon, and is safe for food contact with all types of hot and cold ingredients. You should choose kitchen appliances and the best stainless steel pans with food-safe, 18/10 stainless steel for the highest quality and safety standards.
• Borosilicate glass: Borosilicate glass stands out as one of the top choices for kitchen appliances; the FDA recommends it for thermal shock resistance and chemical durability. It can withstand rapid temperature changes and acidic ingredients, such as in coffee pots, for example. It is also a great option for air fryers, and we regularly recommend the Ninja Crispi Pro Air Fryer we reviewed because of its glass baskets that double as food storage.
• BPA-Free Tritan Plastic: You might have seen a 'Tritan plastic' label on the best blenders or soda makers. This material is a safer alternative to cheap plastics. Its manufacturer, Eastman, conducts extensive third-party testing to prove that Tritan is made without BPA, PFAS, or California Prop 65 carcinogens and chemicals. Tritan has been certified by various food safety agencies, including the FDA, EFSA, and Health Canada.

Utensils

Kitchen utensils often do not pose as big a risk as our cookware. You may have read the alarming headlines about black plastic, resulting from a study published in Chemosphere, which reported high levels of toxic flame retardants in household items made from black plastic. However, it later emerged that the researchers made a math error when calculating 'maximum exposure' limits, overstating the risks. This might have left you feeling confused about what to do with your black plastic utensils.

That said, if you’re looking to minimize all risk of toxins leaching into your food, the best approach is to avoid plastic for any tool that comes near heat (the plastic handle on your vegetable peeler is fine). If you’re less concerned about health and prefer to cling to your existing tools, just take precautions: Avoid exposing plastic to heat and regularly check for signs of peeling or chipping – as this could end up in your food.

I always suggest opting for materials such as steel, food-grade silicone, and wood when selecting new kitchen utensils. Not only are these generally 'safer' to cook with, but they usually perform better too, and last longer. The Bella six-piece Modular Silicone Tool Set, from Amazon, is a great place to start when refreshing your utensil drawer, featuring spoons, spatulas, tongs, and a flipper. The OXO Good Grips Amazon store is also a great place to find long-lasting silicone tools.

Stainless steel tools are often more expensive and cannot be used with delicate cookware such as ceramic without damaging the surface, but are a chef-level option for those who cook with cast iron or stainless steel. The All-Clad five-Piece Set from Amazon cannot be beaten on looks or performance.

When switching your utensils, it is also worth considering your cutting board. A recent study published in Nature Medicine found an increase in micro and nanoplastic concentrations in the brain, kidney, and liver of humans. The extent of the damage it can cause is unclear, but some studies have linked it to inflammation and risks to heart health too. I recommend avoiding plastic altogether. Instead, wooden boards are my top choice. Not only do they look beautiful in the kitchen, but their smooth surface allows knives to glide effortlessly, helping keep your blades sharp and making prep work easier. Note, however, that wooden boards can stain, are one of the things you cannot put in the dishwasher, and need regular oiling to stay in top condition, which prevents them from drying out, cracking, and warping, and helps to repel moisture and odors.

Metal, stone, and glass are other non-toxic alternatives for plastic cutting boards, but these tend to dull your best chef's knives more quickly.

Bakeware

Bakeware follows many of the same rules as cookware and appliances. You want to avoid the same types of coatings where you can, and be careful with how you store bakeware, avoiding stacking to keep your trays and tins from scratching and chipping between uses.

The Caraway Ceramic Bakeware Set is my top choice. Having used it in my home over a few months, the ceramic coating works just as well as traditional non-stick but without the risks of PFAS. Plus, the included organziers make it easy to stash away without damage. For a more affordable alternative, I have had great success with silicone cake pans from Amazon and silicone baking mats, also from Amazon, which reduce direct food contact with existing non-stick trays.

Food Storage

When organizing a kitchen, your pantry storage can be made from almost any material, provided it's airtight enough to keep food fresh and protect it from moisture and pests. The bigger priority is choosing safe materials for food storage exposed to temperature changes, such as containers that go in the fridge, freezer, microwave, or oven.

The material to look out for here is BPA and polypropylene plastics. Dr. Joseph Mercola, Board-Certified Family Physician, explains, '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].

Instead, glass is the superior option. I have used the IKEA 365+ Glass Containers for several years and never had an issue with them. If you would prefer to cut plastic from storage altogether, the Bentgo Glass Food Containers from Amazon come with glass lids and silicone vents for easy microwaving.

Stainless steel such as the Le Creuset On the Go Lunch Box can also be a good storage option, especially when taking food on the go, but be aware that these are not microwave-safe, so they can be a hassle when reheating leftovers.

Plastic can also be avoided by using beeswax wraps, available in cut-to-size sheets from Amazon. These are ideal for covering the tops of open containers in the fridge, or wrapping food to go.

Cleaning

Cleaning a kitchen is a delicate balance between removing harmful bacteria that can cause illness and avoiding unnecessary exposure to harsh chemicals that may leave residues on the surfaces where we prepare food.

It is easy to say 'switch to non-toxic cleaning products,' but what does that actually mean? The reality is that many common marketing terms, such as 'non-toxic,' 'plant-based,' 'chemical-free,' 'green,' and 'eco-friendly', are not regulated, meaning they can be misleading and may still include ingredients of concern.

Rather than trying to memorize a long list of chemical names to avoid, it is often simpler to look for trusted third-party certifications. We explore label reading in more detail in our guide to creating a non-toxic home, but for kitchen cleaning, we recommend prioritizing products certified by the Environmental Working Group (EWG).

The EWG evaluates cleaning products based on their ingredients, considering potential impacts on both health and the environment. It covers everyday kitchen essentials, from dishwashing liquids to degreasers, making it a useful starting point when choosing products for a healthier home.

ATTITUDE, available at Walmart, and AspenClean, available at Amazon, are two examples of EWG-certified cleaning brands that produce everything you could need to clean your kitchen top to bottom.

While you're using up your existing cleaning products, a few cleaning habits you can quit to help you use them more safely without compromising on results. Always wear gloves to protect your skin, and clean in a well-ventilated space. It might feel excessive when using an everyday degreaser, but heavily fragranced sprays and cleaning chemicals can irritate your airways, especially in small kitchens.

When using disinfecting sprays, allow the product to sit on the surface for the contact time stated on the label before wiping it away. This gives it enough time to kill bacteria effectively. On food preparation surfaces, follow up with a clean cloth and warm, soapy water to remove any remaining residue before preparing food.

Finally, avoid using harsh cleaning sprays on unfinished or porous wooden surfaces, where chemicals can be absorbed and potentially damage the material over time. Choosing the right product for each surface is just as important as choosing a lower-toxicity cleaner in the first place.

How to Detoxify a Kitchen

So, you know what to avoid and what to look for instead, but what is the best way to approach detoxifying a kitchen without wanting to tear your hair out?

I suggest breaking it down into three main phases, and working slowly, replacing the items you use most first, and working up to replacing occasional-use pieces in time, as your budget allows:

• Start with: The easiest place to start is with the items you use all the time, cutting off cumulative exposure. Start with your cookware, replacing pots and pans with visible signs of wear such as chipping and scratching. For a more budget-friendly start, you can also replace your old plastic food containers, cutting boards, and utensils for a quick, low-lift win right off the bat.
• Later: With your cookware taken care of, your attention can turn to your small appliances such as the coffee maker or electric kettle you turn on without fail every morning, or choosing the best air fryer to suit your needs while looking after your health. We also suggest altering your cleaning routine and switching to lower toxicity products as and when your current products run out or expire.
• Finish with: If you want to detox your kitchen further, now is the time to look at your baking trays and wider food storage.

As you gradually work through your kitchen detox, it's also worth taking a closer look at your everyday habits.

Small changes can help reduce unnecessary exposure to potentially harmful substances over time. For example, avoid using metal utensils on non-stick cookware, refrain from microwaving food in plastic containers unless they are specifically designed for it, and improve kitchen ventilation while cooking to help reduce smoke, grease, and airborne pollutants.

Together, these simple adjustments can make just as much of a difference as the products you choose.

What To Shop: Non-Toxic Kitchen Must-Haves

Whether you're setting up your first kitchen or detoxing an old one, I hope this list helps you build a space that’s as healthy and wholesome as it is beautiful.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

An A-Z of Brands We Trust

• Aarke: glass / stainless steel kettles, coffee makers & soda makers
• Aeropress: glass and BPA-free single-serve coffee makers
• Caraway: PFAS-free bakeware, pans, kettles and glass storage
• Le Creuset: cast iron cookware with a protective enamel layer
• GreenPan: ceramic-coated slow-cookers, air fryers, pans, and more
• KitchenAid Mixers: stainless steel attachments, glass, and wooden bowls
• Made In: stainless steel and ceramic non-stick cookware
• Moccamaster: home to BPA-free and PFAS-free coffee makers
• Our Place: non-toxic toaster ovens, blenders, slow-cookers, and more
• Staub: Premium French cast iron cookare
• Vitamix: stainless steel and BPA-free Tritan pitchers

FAQs

Are There Any Downsides to Non-Toxic Cookware?

One of the main downsides to non-toxic cookware is that it can be more expensive than affordably made non-stick. Higher-quality materials increase production costs, while craftsmanship (and sometimes the weight of a name-brand) can all contribute to the cost. The good news is that when properly looked after, this cookware often lasts longer, even decades in the case of cast iron and enamelled cast iron, making it a worthy investment for your home.

Is Scratched Stainless Steel Safe?

Generally speaking, scratched stainless steel cookware is safe to use, as it is a solid metal alloy rather than a coated material. This means it will not flake off into your food, or leach potential toxins.

How Do I Dispose of Old Kitchenware?

Disposing of old kitchen utensils, cookware, and appliances is not always straightforward. While cookware and utensils can technically go in your household trash, this ends up clogging up landfills. Old utensils could be put to other uses around the house, such as stirring paint. Otherwise, they are best given to a scrap facility along with cookware, which can break things down for reuse or recycling.

Appliances need to be disposed of according to your local laws. Most waste centres have a specific location for leaving electrical goods to help prevent fires and keep non-recyclable waste out of recycling streams.

Next, brush up on the non-toxic ways to make your home smell nice to banish kitchen odors without polluting indoor air.

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Cozy season is just around the corner, and while we might not be waking up to crisp, breezy mornings just yet, you can hardly blame me for getting excited for the first fall leaves.

Few things capture the feeling of fall quite like a freshly brewed cup of tea. But rather than rushing through your morning, why not make the ritual part of the experience with the Made In Stainless Steel Kettle?

Crafted from quality stainless steel, it is a simple switch to help create a non-toxic home while choosing the slower life and a more mindful start to your day.

Don't get me wrong, the best electric kettles are incredibly practical, delivering plenty of boiling water quickly and efficiently. However, there is an argument to be made for the slower routine that the best stovetop kettles provide. In a world where everything feels rushed, and efficiency is prized above experience, it can be one of the simplest and least intrusive ways to introduce mindfulness into your routine.

The Made In Stainless Steel Kettle, also available at Amazon, is crafted from 'ultra-conductive' stainless steel for optimal heat transfer, meaning it's also ideal for use on induction cooktops, too. For any tea connoisseurs, the built-in temperature gauge in the handle helps you to keep tabs on the water temperature so you never burn your chosen tea leaves or end up with a lukewarm brew.

Given the trend towards analog rooms and stepping away from instant gratification and ultra-convenience in 2026, we cannot fault the retro design, either. Available in 'Willow Green' and plain stainless steel, the whistling kettle looks just like something you might find on your grandparents' stove, tapping into nostalgic decorating trends without the impracticality of true vintage. It uses a Stay Cool handle, but also includes a handle sleeve to prevent burnt fingers.

If you're looking for one small upgrade that feels equal parts practical, beautiful, and built to last, this kettle is hard to beat.

What Else to Shop

Looking to make your daily tea and coffee ritual more mindful? I've rounded up my favourite non-toxic coffee station essentials to help you create a healthier, more enjoyable cup.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Do not have a kettle at all? Do not fret. It is possible to make tea without a kettle in a pinch.

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I’ve always wondered what kind of chemicals I’m frying right into my food with some air fryers, from the coating on the nonstick surfaces.

When I started cooking with the Cuisinart ClearView Glass Basket Air Fryer, these fears disappeared. The PFAS-free glass cooking product allows you to air fry food, along with other cooking functions, in a high-visibility way.

After cooking with the product for my family for multiple weeks, here’s what I want consumers to know about it.

Product Specifications: Cuisinart ClearView Glass Basket Air Fryer

Design and First Impressions

The air fryer arrived fully assembled in a largely recyclable box and only needed a quick rinse before its first use. Although it is fairly heavy, it was easy to move around the counter without feeling unstable.

The design is a little bulky, but comparable to most basket-style air fryers I've tested. That said, the rounded baskets offer slightly less usable cooking space than newer oven-style models, so larger families may find the capacity limiting.

From the outset, I was keen to test its extra cooking modes, particularly the bake and broil functions, to see whether it could replace my oven for more recipes.

The glass baskets immediately felt more premium than traditional non-stick alternatives, and the included recipe booklet was a nice touch. However, it was fairly basic, so I found myself turning to online recipes for more inspiration.

Cooking Performance

In testing air fryers, we consider a variety of tests and recipes, and other factors such as noise and ease of cleaning. You can find more details on this process in our guide to How We Test Air Fryers.

One unique setting is the 'custom fav 1' and 'custom fav 2,' which allow you to save your favorite settings. This is extremely helpful with kids who always use a typical 35-degree ten-minute cycle for a variety of foods, for example. It also allows you to more quickly start cooking.

Overall, batching was the only frustration given the smaller size of the basket. In addition, I was much more careful allowing my older children to use this breakable product compared to some others in which they can easily grab a handle, shake a basket, and put it back to finish cooking. That said, however, it was a joy to use for small features such as the built-in light that illuminates your food inside so you can determine 'doneness.'

Here’s what I tried:

Chicken

I air-fried frozen chicken nuggets on the 'air fry' setting for around 15 minutes, at a higher temperature of around 450 degrees, because my kids love well-done nuggets. They came out crunchy, and it did take the whole 15 minutes, but even the pickiest kid loved their consistency.

The downside was that I had to cook in two batches, as I could not fit more than 7-10 of them at a time without having them overlap too much to cook well. This makes this air fryer ideal for solo cooking, or maybe for two, but not the best pick for a large family or hosting.

Roasted Vegetables

In addition to cooking the vegetables in the air fryer, I also practiced using the 'recrisp' function in heating leftovers, which allowed them to regain that crunchiness you get right out of an air fryer the first time. Both functions worked well, and the vegetables cooked in around half the time of roasting them in the oven, which was helpful.

After the recrisp, they did feel a bit overdone, so I might stick to that function for other types of food in the future.

Corn on the Cob

I baked corn on the cob then followed that by a broil setting to achieve a crunchier outer layer on the corn. The baking was causing a bit of mushiness but the broil setting helped, showing that sometimes adjusting the setting halfway through is helpful. Since the product is glass, you can keep a good eye on how it’s cooking and adjust through the cooking cycle as needed.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning was simple, with most components being dishwasher-safe. I also found myself using the glass cooking containers with their lids to store leftovers, meaning I rarely had to wash up extra food storage containers.

As with any glass cookware, food can occasionally stick, but no more than I'd expect. A quick wipe around the base where the glass container sits is all that's needed to keep the appliance in good condition.

Storage is the biggest compromise. The unit is fairly bulky and, because of the glass components, requires a little more care when putting it away. I kept mine on the floor of my pantry, though a sturdy, high-clearance shelf would also work. If you have the counter space, however, it's an appliance you'll likely want to keep out for everyday use.

How Does the Cuisinart ClearView Glass Basket Air Fryer Compare?

The product has earned high reviews, with 97% of the 45 reviewers on the site recommending it, with a 4.8 rating. The review summary shares: 'Customers overwhelmingly praise this air fryer for its transparent glass basket, which eliminates guesswork and prevents overcooking while allowing heat retention. The smooth glass surface cleans effortlessly with no trapped food or crevices, making maintenance remarkably simple.

'Reviewers highlight intuitive controls, helpful features like shake reminders and built-in cooking lights, and reliable performance delivering crispy, evenly cooked results across diverse foods. Quiet operation and compact design appeal to small households.

'A few note the basket slides easily during handling, and one reported early malfunction, but these isolated concerns do not diminish overall strong satisfaction.'

I agree with the sentiments in this summary, though I never had an early malfunction.

Should You Buy The Cuisinart ClearView Glass Basket Air Fryer?

I’ve tested dozens of countertop ovens and air fryers in the last decade as a product journalist, and found it to be highly accurate, quiet, and helpful, especially because I rest assured I’m not using chemicals in the materials heating my food.

However, I find it somewhat slower and less convenient on a daily basis, compared to some others that have a single handle that you grab and shake without completely removing the cooking container. In addition, glass has pros and cons that people should consider.

It does have a good amount of settings, but not so many that it’s overwhelming, which is a benefit compared to some competitors with just too many options. There isn’t as much of a learning curve with the Cuisinart Glass Basket Air Fryer, which is also helpful.

Overall, I highly recommend this product to most home cooks, especially in smaller households: It is high quality, feels safe, and cooks accurately.

I would buy this product if I were worried about other PFAS and more suspect cookware surfaces in other products, as it’s hard to argue with the safety of glass. It helps to have a highly intuitive and not-too-complex settings bar at the top, and that cook times and temperatures felt quick and accurate overall. This would suit most people unless they had kids frequently using the product.

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

We have rounded up a selection of the best non-toxic air fryer accessories and alternative models to help you set up a new, healthier cooking setup.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Your kitchen should not be the only consideration when detoxing your routine. We have a complete guide to creating a non-toxic home to help you get started.

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Why would I buy a small, countertop oven when I have an oven? This was my first thought when I began testing the Typhur Sync Oven. But I quickly realized the immense benefits when roasting my vegetables took half the time, and could happen while cooking a pizza for kids on another rack or air frying chicken nuggets. I wondered if I needed my oven anymore after a few weeks.

The oven operates differently from a traditional standard oven. It works based on the temperature of the food and has functions to prevent overcooking, rather than using a set amount of cook time in an oven or even a microwave.

There are multiple levels for cooking and various trays and surfaces to use, so while there’s a learning curve with the process and settings, it might be worth it for many people who don’t have access to an oven or want more precision in their cooking. It has shaped up to be one of the best non-toxic air fryers − here's why.

Product Specifications: Typhur Sync Oven

Design and First Impressions

I had to get help removing the large product from the box. Not only was it tough to do, but the product itself is quite heavy at 26 pounds. There are also rubber grips on the bottom that make it difficult to relocate once it’s in a certain position, so sliding it wasn’t really an option.

I was happy as I explored the design to learn that the trays slide in and out quite easily, but more importantly, that they remain supported and elevated when they are extended, for the most part. This means that you can work with the food with two hands without having to hold the tray with the other.

At first, I was intimidated by the number of settings and learning the best process for selecting what options to use to cook various foods, especially as I started to think through cooking multiple types of food at once. This is because there is a corresponding number you choose for various foods, such as two or three, and I had to keep looking up which number to select in the guidebook.

As I stepped back, I also realized that the product will only fit on one of my counters, in a corner, or positioned in the middle of the island. This means that those without much counter space might not be able to use this product.

There is a corresponding app that is simple to find, sync, and try, but largely unnecessary; you don’t have to use it to operate the oven. After a simple wash-down of some trays and a bit of a learning curve, I was ready to cook.

Cooking Performance

We test a range of standard foods across our air fryers over a few weeks (up to one month) to judge performance and make comparisons between appliances, as detailed in How We Test Air Fryers.

As a mom of five, I set out to make a full kid-friendly dinner as part of this experiment. Here are the tests I performed and how the food turned out.

French Fries

It’s easy to mess up basic potato wedges or French fries in an air fryer or even a standard oven. Sometimes they come out too crispy on the outside, but mushy on the inside. Sometimes they flop and are just mushy overall.

I was pleasantly surprised to see the oven perform so well on cooking these roasted potato wedges in around half the time of a typical standard oven. However, I did notice a substantial nine minutes to preheat the oven to the correct setting.

Chicken

One of the most basic functions of an air fryer, which this oven serves as, is to cook crispy chicken tenders or chicken nuggets. So, I was shocked to see it outperform both my standard oven and my air fryer by around eight minutes, taking just 10 of the projected 18 minutes to actually finish the job.

Pizza

At first I didn’t think a pizza would fit in this oven, but I was wrong. A large-size frozen pizza did fit, but I ended up cutting it in half just for ease of manipulating it. At the end of the pizza cooking setting, the pizza wasn’t quite done enough, so I moved to a broil setting to brown up the top a bit more. However, during the transition from baking to broiling, the pizza started to burn while preheating. So, this experiment wasn’t the smoothest, though the pizza still turned out to be good and edible.

Overall, I struggled with the mental load of choosing the right setting, determining if I wanted to use the app or thermometer or not, and which type of food was meant to go on which rack. All of these are important considerations that get easier with time, but definitely involve a little time, patience, and even taking some notes on what works best for the foods you usually cook.

But, I was pleased to see I didn’t have to cook in batches on any of these items, though I was feeding a family of seven, which is a feat in itself. In this way, the size of the product paid off, and offset the issues with the overall size and space it takes up on the counter.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning the trays on the Typhur Sync Oven was simple. All they need is a simple rinse or wipe down. What I loved most was the crumb catch tray at the bottom of the oven. It is simple to remove and clean out, so you are not spending time scrubbing the base of the main unit after every meal.

Ingredients don’t really get stuck in hard-to-reach places due to this helpful bottom tray, though there was a bit of scrubbing to get some melted cheese off the rack the pizza was on. However, this is to be expected with any oven or tray. The removable parts and even the thermometer are dishwasher-safe, which is a nice convenience after cooking.

Because of its size, storing this oven in the cabinet is likely not an option for most people. But I was able to store it on the floor when I wanted the counter space back for a dinner party.

How Does the Typhur Sync Oven Compare?

I have tested numerous products that perform a versatile number of cooking tasks, including similar ovens and air fryers. I overall found this product to be somewhat harder to use, but with some thoughtful perks such as the ability to pull out the tray without it dropping down, supporting itself while you rearrange something on the tray, and other benefits like quick cooking time. That said, it presented some new issues, such as longer preheating times for some settings, and a significant amount of counter space needed.

A main differentiator is the probe inserted into the food, and how that links to the total cook time. For those that prefer ultra-precise cooking, especially for larger cuts of meat, this will help make a roast, whole chicken, or other meals.

Overall, it is more precise at cooking a variety of foods, but it might be too intimidating or complicated for some users to fully benefit from the product. On the product’s page, over 100 reviewers have averaged a 4.7 rating, with some pointing to its sleek look and durability, and others saying it’s more accessible for some groups than leaning over a full-size oven.

Should You Buy The Typhur Sync Oven?

My verdict is that the oven is well thought out and helpful, solving problems for a variety of home cooks. However, the size and complexity might be a barrier for some.

This oven would suit people who have accessibility issues reaching their full-sized oven. They also might find it helpful if they want to cook multiple types of foods at once, or want more precise, temperature-controlled results in their cooking. But it would be most helpful for those who don’t have access to an oven but want to have the full range of cooking an oven can offer, combined with the benefits of an air fryer. This could fully replace a traditional oven for many.

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

We have rounded up a selection of the best non-toxic air fryer accessories and alternative models to help you set up a new, healthier cooking setup.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

For many of us, choosing the best kitchen appliances can feel overwhelming. When picking from a small countertop oven, a toaster oven, or an air fryer, check out our guide to the best toaster ovens to find the perfect choice for you.

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No matter the size of your kitchen, cluttered countertops can quickly make the space feel chaotic – far from the calm, functional environment you want for cooking and hosting. One of the biggest offenders? Messy appliance cords, which can instantly make even a beautifully designed kitchen feel untidy.

While the obvious solution is to store appliances away to organize a kitchen, that isn't always practical for everyday essentials or smaller kitchens with limited storage.

These stick-on cord organizers from Amazon are the perfect solution, keeping loose cables neatly contained for a cleaner worktop, without sacrificing convenience.

Targeting cables is one of the easiest ways to reduce visual clutter in a kitchen and, in turn, make a kitchen look more expensive.

'I always say, nothing ruins the illusion of a beautifully styled room faster than a tangled mess of tech cords,' shares Jodi Koch, CEO and Owner of Elizabeth Erin Designs. 'If there's a tangled mess of wires, that's all people are going to notice.'

While there are several ways to hide cords on kitchen counters, none are as effective as tackling the mess at the root. The stick-on cord organizers adhere to the back of your appliance – be it the best non-toxic air fryer or the best stand mixer – allowing for the unused section of the cord to be wrapped up out of the way. The wide design of the cable tidies from Amazon accommodates thick cords without bending the wire too severely, protecting it from damage, too.

They are not limited to kitchen appliances, either. They are perfect for organizing cables around media units, in home offices, or beside the bed to reduce visual clutter in a bedroom and promote better sleep.

What Else to Shop

As a cookware and appliance editor with a tiny kitchen, I understand how difficult it can be to keep work surfaces clear. To help you organize kitchen countertops, I have rounded up a selection of the prettiest and most practical kitchen organizers to help restore order to your home.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Of course, a large part of elevating your kitchen comes from the overall design. With that in mind, consider the colors to make your kitchen look more expensive, whether you are redecorating or choosing your next appliance.

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My kitchen is the most humid room in my home, which can make keeping food and snacks fresh a constant challenge. So, airtight containers aren't just an aesthetic choice for me − they're essential for protecting ingredients and reducing waste.

With the popularity of pantry restocks, however, these food storage sets have become notoriously expensive. That’s why the affordable IKEA KORALLVIPPA Food Storage Containers immediately caught my attention.

The set includes six airtight containers, ideal for storing everything from cereals and dried pantry goods to snacks. They help protect food from humidity and pests while keeping cupboards organized. At under $25 for the complete set, they are also one of the most budget-friendly sets I have ever seen.

Airtight kitchen storage is one of the best solutions for most pantry staples, aside from fresh produce that needs airflow. Sealed containers prevent air exchange, helping prevent ingredients from going stale and reducing spoilage.

While many storage jars rely on a simple seal around the rim to prevent leaks, the IKEA KORALLVIPPA Food Storage Containers use a silicone rubber gasket designed to create a much tighter seal. The vacuum-like closure is so effective that the lids include valves to release pressure before opening.

By limiting air exposure, these containers help preserve aromas, flavors, and freshness for longer, making them a smart way to reduce waste at home while organizing a pantry.

The containers are made out of standard plastic, which I would typically avoid in a kitchen; however, as they will never be heated up, there is very minimal risk of contamination, meaning they will not hamper your efforts to create a non-toxic home. In fact, the lightweight plastic makes them easier to use, with less strain on your wrists when lifting them from shelves and pouring than if they were glass. They are still dishwasher safe for easy cleaning, just without the added break risk.

Shoppers love them too, with Laura sharing in their five-star review, 'These containers are excellent for storing dry goods in our cabinets. The set looks good together, saves space, and we love that we can easily see just how much product is in each jar...makes it easier to know when a restock is needed. Also, products seem to stay fresh longer in these jars than they did in the original packaging from the store.'

Others mentioned just how air-tight the containers are, and how perfectly they fit on shelves to make storage simple. For the price, you cannot go wrong.

What Else to Shop

Looking for other smart lasting storage solutions to keep food fresh? I have selected some of my favorites to help you prevent waste and keep your kitchen neat.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Looking to cut down on food waste? Check out these surprising foods to store in the refrigerator to prolong their life.

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After a few weeks of testing, the Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus Espresso Machine has become a staple on my kitchen counter. This compact, convenient all-in-one brewer delivered brilliant espresso without the guesswork, offering the cafe experience in the comfort of my own home.

With a built-in conical burr grinder and hands-free milk frothing, it offers everything you need for barista-style drinks without the training.

That said, there were a few small issues that kept it from five stars, but I am being extremely picky. This is how I got on with the Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus Espresso Machine during testing, and why I still think it is one of the best espresso machines money can buy.

Product Specifications: Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus Espresso Machine

Design and First Impressions

The Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus Espresso Machine arrived well boxed, in mostly sturdy cardboard packaging, with some fabric bags to protect the machine from scratches, and the signature Ninja stickers that held removeable components in place and offered quick tips for easy use. These were mostly easy to remove, but as has been the case with other Ninja products I have unboxed, some leave sticky residue behind. Luckily, we have some great tips for removing stickers if you struggle.

The machine was not incredibly heavy, weighing a little under 19 lbs, with the fabric bag making it easy to lift from the tight cardboard frame to my counter.

The machine comes with everything you need to get started, with a quick start guide and recipe guide, portafilter (with single and double shot baskets), stainless steel milk jug, tamper and funnel, and a complete cleaning kit with descaling solution and water hardness testing strips. Everything felt weighty − a good initial sign of quality.

Brewing Performance and Set Up

Before using the coffee machine, you need to complete some setup steps. Luckily, these are all easy to do.

Beyond cleaning removable components with soapy water to remove lingering factory debris, you need to soak and insert the water filter and perform a water hardness test.

The water filter is soaked in plain water for several minutes, which I did in a clean pitcher with a heavy spoon to hold it down as it tended to float. You finish this step by rinsing it under running water for 60 seconds before fitting it into the reservoir using the included casing, which features a handy dial to set a reminder for when you need to replace it. It's a small detail, but one I appreciated.

The machine also comes with water hardness test strips, making setup refreshingly straightforward. Simply dip a strip into a cup of your tap water, leave it on a flat surface for a few minutes, and compare the resulting color with the included guide.

You can then enter your water hardness into the machine during the initial setup. This allows it to optimize brewing performance and tailor its descaling schedule, helping to improve flavor while reducing limescale buildup over time.

The final step is to run one plain water cycle through your machine to flush out the components. I put the empty portafilter in place, selected the largest serving size with a large mug beneath the spout, and pressed brew. This water was then discarded.

With this complete, you are ready to brew.

Grinding Beans

The first step to making coffee with the Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus is grinding your beans. The top hopper can hold up to 250 grams of fresh beans, and has an airtight lid to keep them fresh between brews.

What I loved about this machine is that it weighs your portafilter and decides the best grind size for your coffee, depending on your selected brew type, taking away any guesswork.

The process is remarkably simple. After selecting your brew type from espresso, iced, classic (drip), or rich, and attaching the dosing funnel to the portafilter, place it into the grinding cradle. On the first press of the grind button, the machine weighs the portafilter and automatically calculates the ideal dose and grind size based on your chosen drink and shot size.

It then displays a recommended grind setting on the LED screen. Simply adjust the grinder dial on the left-hand side of the machine to match the suggested number, press the grind button again, and the machine dispenses the correct amount of coffee. It takes the guesswork out of dialing in your espresso, making the process quick and approachable for beginners.

There was one instance where the machine ran out of beans mid-grinding. An orange warning light came on with a beep, so I simply added more and pressed the grind button again, allowing it to complete the programme without fuss.

Tamping is also simple. You leave the funnel attached and press the tamper down until it is flush with the top edge. These are then removed from the filter (and can be stored in a handy recess on the top of the machine).

The grinder grinds consistently, but suffers from retention. After grinding, I pushed the coffee machine backwards on my counter to sit more neatly in the corner, and the vibrations shook a significant amount of grounds out of place, falling onto the drip tray. It also dropped some grounds each time the portafilter was placed into the cradle. It has the potential to be very messy if you need to pull it out to use it each time.

Brewing Coffee

Brewing the coffee is just as simple. The portafilter slots into position as it would on any other coffee machine, lining the dot up with the dot on the machine and turning until the dot is in line with the head of the arrow on the machine. I will note that the machine needs to be held still when you do this, as its smaller size means that it is not quite heavy enough to weigh it down, and it can slide along your counter as you twist it into position.

With a mug beneath the spout, you press the brew button and let it do its thing. This process is the same no matter which brew type you selected before grinding.

I am happy to report that this process is relatively quiet, so much so that when my partner woke up early for work and made his morning coffee, it never disturbed me sleeping upstairs (and our house is on the smaller side, so noise travels). It is quick, too.

The plain hot water setting is a nice touch, but it can splutter in use, splashing coffee onto the stainless steel backsplash, which needs wiping down after. A dial on the right-hand side of the machine switches the Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus to hot water only, allowing you to make an Americano drink without needing to boil your kettle. This water comes from a separate spout on the left side of the cup, and tends to splutter and flow unevenly during dispensing. On a few occasions, this splashed water over the edge of the mug onto the counter.

When the water neared the top of our mugs, we often had to stop the hot water cycle early, too, to avoid overflowing.

Beyond that, the coffee it brewed was excellent, with a rich, creamy crema on top of each shot. With our choice of quality, locally roasted beans, my partner hailed it as good as, if not better than, a coffee shop.

I will note that, as the coffee maker is designed to be compact, it does come at the cost of a small water reservoir. Four double shots and three water top-ups using the hot water setting drained it from max fill to below minimum (three Americanos and a flat white). The tank can be removed for refilling, but I found it easier to use a large jug to fill it in situ.

There was one instance when using the hot water function, in which the water dropped below the minimum line mid-brew. The machine seemed to panic at this, and made a loud buzzing noise as it continued to try and draw water it could not find. I stopped the programme manually, and added more water to the tank, and this did not happen again. But it suggests you need to double-check the tank before you press start, as it might not stop to warn you as it does when the beans run low.

Frothing Milk

I have never owned a milk frother before, which is what sets home coffee apart from a quality café. The Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus, however, comes with a built-in hands-free milk frother that can steam and froth both dairy and plant-based milks.

As with the rest of the machine, I found this step simple. The included recipe book comes with a general suggestion for the amount of milk you need to create a standard cappuccino, flat white, and latte, so I followed their suggestions.

One small complaint is that the ml recommendations in the guide are not marked in the stainless steel milk jug they included. For a cappuccino, for example, they suggest 150 ml of milk; the jugs etched measurements skip this increment, so it takes a little guesswork. It is not the end of the world, but it does feel like an overlooked detail.

The milk jug is then placed beneath the steaming wand, the desired foam thickness selected with the dial, and the button pressed to begin. I used dairy-based semi-skimmed milk and found that it froths quickly without spitting, and pours wonderfully.

One frothed, you wipe down the wand with a damp cloth and flick it back into its downwards-facing position, where it will automatically purge. There is a drip hole beneath to catch this water for easy clean up.

Be aware when steaming milk after brewing coffee that the handle needs to point outwards, else coffee will drip down onto it.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Whenever I get a new appliance, I dread the cleaning process. Luckily, Ninja has made cleaning the coffee maker a breeze.

The drip tray beneath the appliance can be slid out for easy emptying and cleaning, dissembling into three layers for hand washing with soap and warm water. The portafilter is also hand-washable, and is easy to empty with a firm tap against the edge of a trash can.

The tray needs emptying regularly, I discovered. Luckily, there is an orange floating indicator that will rise when it is getting too full. I suggest emptying it before it reaches the top, as you risk spilling the water as you move to your sink otherwise.

The machine also comes with a long-handled brush for cleaning out the grinder and tamper storage well, as well as some descaling tablets and solution for deep cleaning of internal parts. The conical burr grinder also comes apart for easier cleaning.

What Shoppers Say

The general consensus amongst other uses is overwhelmingly positive, with reviews (at the time of writing) on the SharkNinja site setting the machine at 4.8 stars out of 5.

Shoppers comment on how easy it is to use, the compact size, and the incorporated steamer and grinder, which streamline the process.

One commented in their five-star review, 'I have never had so much fun playing barista in my home using the Ninja Luxe Cafe Mini Espresso Machine. This was easy to set up, and the instructions for every step of making so many different coffee House classics were so simple. I love that this machine includes a bean grinder as well as the full press setup for making your espresso or coffee.'

There is one limited one-star review which claims 'The coffee was burnt tasting and underachieved,' however, this is a single outlier, and hardly detailed. I take this as an exception.

We previously reviewed the Cafe Mini's larger predecessor, the Ninja Luxe Cafe Pro, and had a similarly wonderful experience. After her review, Lydia Hayman marked the larger machine down only for the sheer size of the appliance, meaning that this mini version is a welcome addition to the lineup for us. It carries with it all of the wonderful features and quality brewing of the previous machine, so which you pick will depend only on the amount of counter space you have available.

Should You Buy The Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus Espresso Machine?

All in all, I would highly recommend the Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus Espresso Machine. It is a fantastic, small-space-friendly coffee machine that is largely automated but still fun to use.

It brews wonderful barista-quality coffee, albeit with a little bit of mess, and has greatly improved our home coffees. In fact, I have lost count of how many times my coffee-obsessed partner uttered that he was excited to use his coffee machine in the morning as he got into bed each evening. He's been so excited to show it off to guests, too.

This is perfectly suited to people who love quality coffee from fresh beans, who want some of that authentic espresso experience at home without the faff of weighing their own and calculating the right pressure. You do not need any barista training or even a deep understanding of coffee to master this machine.

It is especially useful for those who have a small kitchen like me, who struggle to keep counters clear of everyday clutter without another appliance getting in the way.

That said, there is a lack of transparency about the materials used in the inner brew path, and I cannot be sure whether it is one of the best non-toxic coffee makers or not. If you are very health-conscious, it might be worth some extra digging.

How We Test Coffee Makers

At Homes & Gardens, we have a rigorous testing process for all of our coffee makers. This enables us to score coffee makers both individually and against other models on the market.

Once we have researched the best coffee makers on the market, we test at home, as it means we can use the appliance in our regular routines. This helps me uncover advantages (or most likely, pain points) I would never discover with a one-hour session in the test kitchen.

After unboxing, we'll let you know whether we get any extra accessories and what our first impressions are of the coffee maker. Here's where we'll talk about the size, style, build quality, and anything else that jumps out at us aesthetically.

Next, we'll get brewing. We make notes on how easy the coffee maker is to set up and start using. After each brew, we assess the flavor of each cup, the range of the machine, how long it keeps coffee warm for, the ease of cleaning, and the all-important price. Where applicable, we experiment with special features, such as integrated grinders and milk frothers.

Once we are happy that we've tested everything that we can, we'll take a step back and think about how the coffee maker compares to other models. We'll read through online reviews to get a sense of what customers are saying and then, bringing all that information together, our team will let you know who we think it suits and whether it's good value for money. As you can see, we leave no stone unturned.

If you’re interested and want to find out more, you can read all about the process in our how we test coffee makers page.

What Else to Shop

From cleaning essentials to countertop organizers, I have rounded up everything you need to flesh out your new home coffee station.

All prices correct at time of publication.

No matter how good your coffee machine is, the bean you pick will have a huge impact on the final taste of your coffee. We have a whole guide dedicated to choosing coffee beans to help find the best roast for you.

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As eccentric as I am, I will admit that I rarely get excited about microwaves. Why would I? They are some of the most mundane appliances in any kitchen. That said, there is a first time for everything.

Ninja's new CRISPi Microwave with Air Fryer has immediately piqued my interest. In a first, the appliances giant has combined two of the bulkiest countertop appliances into one, helping to save precious counter space in small kitchens while doubling the usefulness.

With the new FusionCrisp function and a PFAS-free interior, it combines everything I love about the best non-toxic air fryers with the practicality of a regular microwave. I am genuinely excited to give it a go.

We have tried and loved both the original Ninja CRISPi Air Fryer and the Ninja CRISPi Pro, and have consistently rated them one of the best glass basket air fryers money can buy. They crisp food quickly and evenly without the risk of PFAS and BPA contaminating food. So, to hear that these features are coming to the microwave can mean only good things.

The CRISPi Microwave uses FusionCrisp Technology, starting the programme with traditional microwaving before finishing with air frying, so you do not need to trade texture for speed, and you'll no longer have to suffer through soggy reheated leftovers for lunch each day, either.

This has the added benefit of being able to cook food in around half the time as a conventional wall oven.

To earn its status as one of the best non-toxic kitchen appliances, the beloved glassware is included, with a PFAS-free crisper tray for the same performance as the best air fryers, albeit in a less conventional shape. The 5.5-quart basket is large enough to hold an eight-pound chicken, four pizza slices, or a 9x11 casserole (enough to feed eight to 10 people).

All in all, it comes with eight microwave presets, including popcorn, potato, defrost, beverage, soup, frozen dinner, frozen vegetables, and soften butter (a setting a lot of us forgetful bakers will greatly appreciate). Add to your traditional air fryer settings, and you have a 14-in-1 essential. It is not the smallest appliance at 16"L x 19.6"W x 14"H, however, when you consider that it takes the place of two, it helps to free up counter and cabinet space.

As someone with a small kitchen, where counterspace comes at a premium, I am excited to put this to the test. I will be sure to report back when I do.

What Else to Shop

From air fryers to cookware, these are the essentials I recommend time and time again to create a non-toxic home and upgrade to a health-conscious kitchen.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Despite its different shape, it is still possible to make the same air fryer mistakes with this microwave combo. Brush up on them ahead of time to avoid poor results.

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For many of us, making coffee at home is a no-frills routine. It gets the job done, but rarely comes close to what you can order at your favorite coffee shop.

The De'Longhi Magnifica Duo Automatic Espresso Machine aims to change that, bringing the barista experience home, but without any of the fussy training. With 20 preset hot and iced drinks, including espresso, drip coffee, iced lattes, and cold brew, plus a built-in grinder and automatic milk frother, it takes almost all the guesswork out of brewing.

When choosing a coffee machine, it is certainly one to consider, whether you are a coffee aficionado or simply need your morning caffeine hit.

If you want to make espresso at home, you need one of the best espresso machines − and the De'Longhi Magnifica Duo is shaping up to be just that. With a built-in grinder, preset menu, and automatic milk frother, it can make any style of drink in minutes. It even takes the fuss out of cold brew, reducing a traditionally 12-hour extraction process down to just three minutes.

High-pressure brewing with pre-infusion creates bold, intense espresso. Lower pressure without pre-infusion allows the grinds to bloom for a classic drip coffee. For cold brew, ambient temperature water and very low pressure steep the grounds longer.

To really make the system effortless, the machine features a built-in conical burr grinder and milk frother, which work seamlessly without extra labor. It is going to be one of the quickest café-style brews of any morning routine.

It's designed for families, too, even if you have different tastes. You can set three dedicated user profiles, each with unique taste preferences to automate drink size, intensity, and temperature, no matter who is making coffee at home.

Better still, the cleaning is just as simple. The removable components are dishwasher safe, and the machine has a self-clean function, so you're not stuck scrubbing.

While we are yet to get our hands on one to test ourselves, pre-launch reviews have been nothing but positive. One on the De'Longhi page dubbed the Magnifica Duo the 'Ferrari of coffee machines,' adding, 'This machine is amazing. And I’ve had some pretty good ones in the past. I have a Moccamaster for drip coffee and a Ninja Deluxe machine as well. But the intuitiveness of this DeLonghi, the ease, the flavor of the coffee when extracted is top-notch. I look forward to every morning to be able to use this machine. [...] I could not recommend this machine more if you are a coffee enthusiast.'

Another commented on how surprisingly quiet it was even when grinding, and others praised how easy it is to clean. I can't wait to get my hands on one and put it through its paces.

What Else to Shop

To help you create the ultimate home coffee station, I've rounded up my favorite accessories, from syrup and bean storage to beautiful mugs that make every cup feel a little more special.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

No matter your machine, your drink will only taste as good as the ingredients you use. With that in mind, we have put together a complete guide to choosing coffee beans to find the perfect roast for your brew type and tastes.

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Whether you spend long days in the office or escape into the great outdoors every weekend, one thing often remains the same – the need for great coffee.

Portable coffee makers are more popular than ever; however, few can produce a truly café-quality espresso. For serious coffee lovers, this 'good enough' simply doesn't cut it.

That's where the Flair 2GO Portable Lever Espresso Maker, available at Amazon, saves the day. This compact manual brewer produces authentic espresso at six to nine bars of pressure, complete with a rich crema, wherever you happen to be. Better yet, this non-toxic coffee maker is BPA plastic-free, too.

Usually, when we think about coffee on the go, the AeroPress we reviewed and loved comes to mind. This handy compact coffee maker is undoubtedly one of the greats, offering all-in-one coffee that is like espresso but not quite the same. The cost of being able to brew anything from French press style to cold brew is the rich, velvety crema essential for an espresso base.

The Flair 2GO, on the other hand, can brew only espresso, but delivers the true experience without the need for the best home espresso machine.

The portable aircraft-grade aluminum frame folds away between uses, making it one of the only foldable lever espresso machines for travel, collapsing down to fit in the palm of your hand. What makes it particularly special, however, is the lever design, which allows users to easily brew between six and nine bar pressure, exactly that needed for incredible espresso with crema, with an integrated pressure gauge to make the perfect shot every time.

While we have not tested the Flair 2GO ourselves, we have had our hands on the larger Flair NEO Flex and loved how simple it was, the small footprint, and the fantastic-tasting coffee it produced. There is no denying that it is a slightly more involved setup than an automatic machine, but if you are a true enthusiast looking for cafe-quality on the go, we are sure it is a learning curve you will appreciate.

What Else to Shop

Whether you're making espresso at home or on the go, I have rounded up the best accessories for small-scale espresso making to suit small kitchens and travel bags.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Just looking for an on-the-go caffeine boost, but are not as sure on the drink itself? We have an expert guide to making coffee taste better when you don't like coffee, just for you.

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Ice cream and slush makers are fast becoming one of my favorite ways to survive summer. They will never be as effective as AC, but there is no denying the sweet satisfaction an icy treat offers on a hot day.

In my tiny kitchen, however, I usually have to choose between the two, with no space for extra appliances. That is, until I spotted the GreenPan Frost Pro Ice Cream, Gelato & Frozen Drink Maker at Williams Sonoma.

This 7-in-1 machine creates soft serve, gelato, slushie, alcoholic slush, sorbet, and milkshakes (plus self-cleans), all without pre-freezing. It might just be one of the best ice cream makers out there.

I am a big fan of the Ninja SLUSHi Max, which I reviewed before summer, and we could hardly fault the cult-favorite Ninja CREAMi. That said, there is no denying that having both machines on your counter can feel overwhelming.

The GreenPan Frost Pro, on the other hand, combines the best of both into one relatively compact appliance − and in four chic colorways, too.

Besides the six preset dessert options, you can choose from seven different textures, from soft and creamy to rich and firm, creating slushies in 35-50 minutes and soft-serve ice cream in 40-55 minutes. That's far quicker than going to the store in most cases.

It even comes with a handy pop-out holder for waffle cones to truly recreate that ice cream parlor vibe at home.

Although I have not had the opportunity to test the Frost Pro myself yet, the customer reviews are overwhelmingly promising.

Shopper Jamie dubbed it a new family favorite, writing in their five-star review, 'I was gifted this frost pro, and honestly we’ve been loving it! It’s so easy to use, works quickly, and makes the creamiest frozen treats at home. Such a fun addition for our family this summer! We can’t wait to continue trying new recipes.'

Another, Kelser, added, 'We tried the new gelato function first, and the texture turned out super creamy and smooth in about 15–20 minutes. It genuinely tastes like something from an ice cream shop at home.'

What Else to Shop

To help you plan the perfect ice cream social, I have collated a series of frozen treat essentials, from chic serveware to classic cones.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Beyond cooling yourself this weekend, we have some smart tips to keep your home cool in summer to feel more comfortable from morning to night.

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I'll admit, I never cared much for coffee. Until a few years ago, I could barely tolerate the smell, so I didn't think an espresso machine would become one of my favourite new kitchen appliances.

Living with a tiny kitchen meant my coffee-loving partner relied on a kettle and a moka pot for years. However, the arrival of the Ninja Luxe Café Mini Espresso Machine finally lets us upgrade without sacrificing precious counter space, and my first impressions have certainly been lasting ones.

This isn't a full review (I'm still putting it through its paces), but after spending a few days with the machine, I think it might be a contender for one of the best espresso machines out there. Here's what has stood out so far.

Having rarely tried to make espresso at home, when it first came to testing a full espresso machine, I was hesitant. They look complicated, and like too much work for the first thing in the morning.

However, the Ninja Luxe™ Café Mini really lives up to its claim of removing the guesswork from making coffee at home, whether you want espresso, drip, or over ice.

The machine comes with everything you need besides beans and water to get started, including a water hardness test kit, which allows you to program your appliance for custom descaling and cleaning warnings.

From there, it weighs your portafilter, decides the best grind size, grinds, and brews for you. The AutoFroth steamer wand even foams milk to the perfect thickness for everything from lattes to cappuccinos without manual intervention. It felt more like playing with a very well-crafted toy than work, so much so that I get excited making coffee for others, and am even tempted to try some myself (although I may be adding some syrups for that).

At 30% smaller than its predecessor, the Ninja Luxe Cafe Pro we reviewed last year, it has found an easy home on my counter. It tucks neatly into a corner of my small kitchen without getting in the way of my everyday organization and prep work. I am usually reluctant to give up space to appliances, given how little of it there is, but this has proven to be a worthy addition.

I simply cannot wait to show it off to friends and guests.

What Else to Shop

From beautifully hand-crafted coffee cups to stunning syrup bottles, these hand-picked coffee station essentials are perfect for elevating your home coffee routine to a café-quality ritual.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Not sure which setting is best for you? We have broken down the key differences between espresso and drip coffee to help you find the best brew.

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I didn’t expect much out of a portable blender. After all, how helpful could something so small be? I was sorely mistaken. The GreenPan Spin & Go instantly lived up to its name, allowing me to make drinks, smoothies, and the occasional daiquiri quickly and painlessly as a busy mom of five. I was shocked by its versatility, strength, intuitive design, and ease of use right out of the box.

Over three weeks of using this personal blender, it became a go-to kitchen appliance, but a mini-version that I couldn’t live without, replacing bulkier blenders I’ve tested and loved recently.

Here’s why anyone addicted to iced coffee, smoothies, or single-serving cooking should consider this product.

Product Specifications: GreenPan Spin & Go Portable Blender

Design and First Impressions

Unboxing the portable blender is simple and takes just minutes. The designers had mercy on our busy lives and sent it already partially charged, though it’s recommended to charge for a full 70 minutes out of the box.

Of course, like every busy person, I skipped this to see how it would perform upon opening, and got multiple cycles out of it before needing to charge it. From there, the product can perform 15 cycles before needing to be charged for about an hour, which, in my use of the product, meant typically charging it for one hour once per week.

There is little to no setup. You simply open the container, motor, and lid and piece them together with simple directions, such as turning the container to secure it onto the motor.

The product comes in some trendy and pretty colors, including Blueberry, Cream, Seaside, Slate, and Strawberry, to match any preference or kitchen color scheme. At the time of publishing, the product was on sale for around $140, down from the typical price of around $200, suggesting that shoppers in the market for a portable blender should watch for sales on this product.

The product was packaged with some plastic and some recyclable materials, and overall well secured.

Blending Performance

In testing blenders, we put our products through rigorous testing, from chunky ice cubes to sticky ingredients, analyzing how well it will perform across a versatile range of recipes. The settings include: smoothie, crush, clean, blend, or pulse, and each have their purpose and are helpful for different foods and drinks.

Here’s what I found in each test.

The Ice test

Okay, fine, this was actually a daiquiri test. I combined five or six ice cubes with a small premade margarita and a small bowl of frozen strawberries.

I was shocked upon turning on the “crush” setting that all of the ice cubes were obliterated in literal seconds (under 10, to be precise). The blender takes a quick break every five to 10 seconds, which actually seems to help in letting the ingredients settle, just to be shaken up again. Within 15 seconds, the entire daiquiri was made, and all of the ice was smooth in consistency.

The initial few seconds were a bit higher on my decibel meter, in the high 80’s, but nothing stressful or overly unexpectedly loud. After those first few seconds, the sound was less intense.

The Smoothie Test

A thick smoothie consisting of a scoop of protein powder, a 20g protein Greek yogurt, and blueberries was a formidable foe to this small and typically mighty product. It struggled for a bit with getting all the yogurt from the sides of the container, but ultimately prevailed after a little time (still under 30 seconds total).

This test showed that it performs better with some added liquid, whether you are making sauces, smoothies, or dips.

So, in the future, I’ll add a bit of water to the smoothie if I use this product. In the end, it fully mixed the ingredients, with just a single blueberry remaining at the bottom.

The Portability Test

On a busy morning, as I got my kids out the door, I mixed some supplement powders into my coffee with a little ice and milk, a cold treat on a rushed day. This was a small moment of luxury in my busy life, and made me realize that with the right products such as this one, these small indulgences are possible without much extra time or effort.

The portability of the to-go cup meant that I could simply grab it and leave, without a straw (though that works too in the opening) or any cleanup or transferring. This is likely why the pouring spout is pretty small to begin with – it’s really for drinking, not pouring, typically. The only portability issue was that this wider container doesn’t fit into the cupholders of all of my cars. However, it’s still worth the portability to not have to transfer your drink into a to-go cup.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Just when you think this product couldn’t get any more convenient, you realize it’s self-cleaning. With just a little water, a drop of dish soap, and the “clean” button, you don’t have to scrub around blades like other blenders. Another option is to put the container and lid into the dishwasher, but definitely not the motor base. In reality, I’ll likely continue to hand-wash the container because it’s just so quick and easy.

Storing the product is simple for people who don’t want to occupy the counter space. You can disassemble it and easily store it in a small cabinet, or leave it out for the next use without taking up much space at all.

What Shoppers Say

This portable blender is a high performer, and rivals and competitors' products, such as the Ninja Blast Cordless Portable Blender, or the nutribullet Flip Portable Blender. Though some find the GreenPan too small, there is little other criticism, even on the GreenPan site itself, from reviewers.

The powerful, portable, easy-to-clean product stands up to its competitors, even at double the price of some, like the nutribullet.

Should You Buy the GreenPan Spin & Go Portable Blender?

Yes, you should absolutely buy the GreenPan Spin & Go Portable Blender. The product is simply life-changing, by giving you quick and easy access to healthy (or just fun) drinks and foods, eliminating steps like transferring liquid in the busy moments that matter.

Its intuitive design means you won’t have to guess, and the powerful motor means you won’t be shaking the ingredients to remix them or struggling through a blending job. It just does what it’s supposed to do.

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

From must-have blender accessories to non-toxic portable food storage, we've curated our favourite kitchen essentials to simplify meal prep and make eating on the go easier.

All prices correct at time of publication.

Looking for something a little bigger, but still need to be cautious with storage space? Check out the best blender food processors to save space.

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

The Beast GO Cordless Portable Blender is designed to be as stylish as it is practical. Its sleek, compact design takes up very little counter space, while the cordless construction makes it easy to blend wherever you are. In theory, it's a clever twist on a kitchen staple, allowing you to blend smoothies, shakes, dressings, and sauces at home, at work, or on the go.

Designed for portability, the Beast GO promises up to 13 blending cycles per charge and claims to be 50% more powerful than the average portable blender. It certainly has plenty of appeal for anyone short on space or constantly on the move.

After testing it, however, I found the experience to be a little more mixed. While there is a lot to like, a handful of frustrations hold it back from being one of the very best portable blenders for the money. Here's exactly where it shines, and where it falls short.

Product Specifications: Beast GO Cordless Blender

Design and First Impressions

Opening the blender was fairly easy, and all of the individual parts were laid out in a cardboard tray and individually wrapped in plastic. In addition to the motor base, it also comes with a 670 mL blending vessel, storage lid, drinking lid, carry cap, straw, charger, and cleaning brushes. I liked that this blender seemed to come with everything you needed to make a smoothie and take it on the go, which was definitely a plus, especially for anyone who doesn’t want to buy a bunch of individual items.

The motor base was halfway charged out of the box, so I plugged it in to get to a full charge. Immediately, I wished the charging cord were longer, but I made a mental note to swap it for a longer cord later if needed. Once the motor base was charged, I was ready to blend cord-free by simply adding a few ingredients and using the single light-up button on the motor base to either pulse or blend.

The base is also much lighter than my current blender, which I have to lug out and put away after each use. That makes the Beast GO Cordless Portable Blender ideal for people with small kitchens or who like to make things on the go, and it becomes even more lightweight if you swap the motor base out for a flat base.

Blending Performance

We test a range of standard foods across our blenders over a few weeks to judge performance and make comparisons between cookware. You can find more details on this process in our guide to How We Test Blenders,

For each of these tests, I used the standard 30-second blend cycle, occasionally stirring, shaking, or running a second blend cycle if needed. One of Beast’s tips is to start with five to seven pulses if you’re blending tougher ingredients.

The Smoothie Test

My first test on this blender was a fruit smoothie made with frozen pineapples, frozen mangos, coconut milk, and protein powder. The blender also comes with instructions on the order in which you add ingredients, starting with liquids, followed by powder and nut butters, then leafy greens, then fresh or frozen fruit, and ice cubes as needed. If you don’t add enough liquid, the button light will blink yellow, prompting you to add more liquid before proceeding. I was usually able to make this smoothie in two blending cycles, though I often had to stir in between.

I also find that many items with a smaller amount of liquid need more than one blend. This wasn’t necessarily surprising since the blades were much smaller than a typical home blender, and I found that shaking the blender while it was running did help; however, someone who wants a blender that’s one-and-done might find that this blender requires some guess-and-checking to ensure that all your ingredients are incorporated. The blender came in at 80 decibels when making this smoothie, which was quieter than my countertop but still a bit grating.

I also tried a peanut butter banana smoothie. This is my go-to smoothie, so I knew I had to use this combination of frozen bananas, soy milk, peanut butter powder, protein powder, and cacao for this test. Since I prefer a smoothie with a thicker consistency, I added less liquid than would be typically used to get a smoothie consistency, which meant that I needed to shake the blender during the first blend and run it a second time to get everything smooth. Then, it was easy to add the drinking lid and enjoy. The blender came in at 80 decibels, which was to be expected since it had large chunks of frozen fruit.

The Ice Test

Similar to the Beast Mighty 850 we reviewed, crushing ice is not this blender’s forte. The first time I added large ice cubes to the blender and pressed the button, I was initially met with a blinking yellow light, which indicated that there was a motor overload. I decided to add four ounces of water and then blend to see if that would work, and I was able to blend the ice into something resembling a crushed ice texture.

When testing it again, I added ice cubes up to the fill line and then blended. Initially, the blender didn’t turn on, and I realized this was because the large ice cubes were blocking the blade from spinning. After spinning, the blender turned on and ran its 30-second cycle. The sound averaged 70 decibels, which puts it on the quieter side but not the quietest option out there. Upon opening the blender, I found that the ice on the blade was more powdery, but the ice at the top of the blender was entirely intact. If making frozen drinks or concoctions, you might want to opt for something more powerful, such as the Vitamix e520.

The Sauce Test

While making steak, I decided to make chimichurri sauce with roughly chopped parsley and shallots. Initially, I tried to blend without any liquid, which did not work, so I added several tablespoons of olive oil and blended for 30 seconds. The blender did a good job of incorporating all the ingredients without pulverizing everything, and I was able to open the top, add the rest of the ingredients, and serve the sauce.

The smaller size of this blender is ideal for making sauces for my spouse and me. That said, I could see someone making food for a much larger group of people needing a blender with a larger capacity.

Portability

The Beast Go Portable Blender wins in the portability category, even enabling you to add ingredients, blend, and drink your concoction entirely on the go. I never had any issues with leaking as long as I had screwed the bottom very tightly. It’s very light and portable, making it great for anyone who’s on the go, and it fits easily in a smaller fridge at work. I was even able to rinse it out and clean it immediately.

The current design seems to assume that you’ll leave the motor base while drinking it, something I saw in all of the photos and promotional materials, though my preference was to flip the blender and add the drinking lid so I could take the blender on the go without an attached base. Even though I had read the instructions, I spilled my first smoothie all over myself because I unscrewed the blender from the base, which is what I did with the blender I typically use.

Afterward, I was much more careful to tighten the bottom, flip it, remove the motor base, and add the drinking lid. In hindsight, the instructions are very clear about how to open the blender, so I’d consider this a user error.

Cleaning and Maintenance

To clean the blender, wash the blending vessel, lid, and cap in the top rack of your dishwasher. The blender comes with a base cleaning brush, which can be used to clean the blade thoroughly with soap and water. It also comes with a straw cleaner, something I already had but appreciated using to clean the included silicone straw.

All the silicone accessories were easy to clean, and I didn’t need to use the dishwasher to clean any of the components. I found that hot water and a bottle brush were best for scrubbing the inside of the blending vessel, though I did notice that the ribbed interior of the blending vessel usually required some more meticulous scrubbing, especially when I made chunkier dips and sauces, or if I let it sit instead of washing it immediately.

My main gripe is that the blades of the blender cannot be removed from the motor base, which is not dishwasher safe, and cannot be submerged in water. To get around this, I covered the charging port and tilted the base to the side so only the blades would be under running water, and I scrubbed under the blades to clean them.

What Shoppers Say

The Beast Go Portable Blender is the best portable blender that I’ve tried, especially because it has a decent capacity and battery charge. This blender is on the pricier side, especially for the capacity, although many reviews found it to be worth the investment for how portable it was and how long the battery lasts.

It’s also ideal for people who are on the go since you can make and take your blended concoctions on the go with relative ease. Customers on Amazon agree, saying that this is a great portable blender that delivers reliable results, but it doesn’t replace a countertop blender that’s more powerful or has capacity for large batches.

Some constructive reviews concurred with my own experience, commenting that the blender can’t blend things that are too chunky or grainy, and that it was often frustrating to clean because of the ribbed interior. In particular, one person noted that blended nuts and seeds gather around the blades, making it harder to clean at times.

In terms of personal blenders with stronger blending power, the Nutribullet Ultra we reviewed is an option with a higher capacity at 32 ounces and can blend through frozen fruit, leafy greens, and powders in one go, and it’s even powerful enough to crush ice.

Should You Buy the Beast GO Portable Blender?

Overall, this is ideal for somebody looking for a cordless portable blender that looks pretty on your counter and next to your desk at work, and is particularly good if you want to blend something and immediately pour it onto your food or into a storage container. It’s also ideal for people who camp or take road trips since it has decent battery life and is easy to store.

Want something a little more powerful and are willing to forego the cordless feature? Check out our Ninja Blast review, which is ideal if you make protein shakes, or browse our list of top blenders. Otherwise, if you like your portability but prefer an insulated design that keeps your drink cold all day long, check out the Nutribullet Flip Insulated Blender.

You can certainly find more powerful countertop blenders at this price point, but this one is great for people with limited storage space who are only making one to two servings of smoothies or smaller amounts of dips and sauces. For a more powerful countertop blender that can make smoothies and soup as well as crush ice, try the Vitamix E520.

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

From must-have blender accessories to non-toxic portable food storage, we've curated our favourite kitchen essentials to simplify meal prep and make eating on the go easier.

All prices correct at time of publication.

Looking for something with a little more versatility? Consider the best blender food processor combos to save space on double appliances

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

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.

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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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