Le Creuset is no stranger to retiring beloved colors, with several timeless favorites disappearing from shelves in recent years. This time, it's Olive – a rich, earthy ombré green – that's set to be discontinued.

First introduced in 2024, the lush green was the perfect sweet spot for year-round hosting, adding a sumptuous sun-soaked pop to summer tables but feeling just as at home during winter festivities. It is safe to say it is a controversial decision – and one that many fans are not too pleased with.

The remaining Olive pieces have been discounted at Le Creuset, and many are sold out. We don't expect the rest of this non-toxic cookware to be available for long, either, as shoppers rush to complete their Olive sets before the color disappears for good.

Shop The Last of The Le Creuset Olive Collection

While no one understands the full decision process behind retiring colors at Le Creuset, it is often done to make space for new colorways. Olive is not the first to go this year, either, with Shallot and Caribbean having been retired back in February.

With its vast array of green shades, including Thyme, Artichaut, and Foret, it is perhaps unsurprising that one is on the way out. However, it does not make the news any easier on fans, who have shared their disappointment on Instagram over the discontinuation of the only warm, vibrant green on offer.

'Glad I’m basically at pot peace now because it’s very frustrating when you keep discontinuing the beautiful vibrant colors,' one commenter shared. 'Another color gone? Yikes,' added another.

Despite the discontent and threats of boycott, the remaining pieces are selling quickly at Le Creuset, Williams Sonoma, and Crate & Barrel, so if you want a final piece to remember it by, now is the time.

Unsure of which shade to choose for your kitchen next? We have rounded up the best Le Creuset colors for each birth month as a good place to start.

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There are few launches as coveted as Le Creuset's annual harvest collection. The fairytale-esque gourd-shaped dishes have become the most sought-after centrepiece for fall tables. For autumn enthusiasts, they are the holy grail.

Although we're still in the height of summer, Le Creuset appears to already be dreaming of cozy fall feasts with the quiet relaunch of their most popular pumpkin pieces, including the endearing Pumpkin Butter Dish.

The launch has historically arrived in September, and we still expect a more robust drop at the turn of the seasons. However, given how quickly these collector's items usually sell out, we don't suggest waiting – they really are some of the best cookware money can buy.

Shop the Early Le Creuset Harvest Collection

Le Creuset's pumpkin cookware has become a true fan favorite, selling out year after year, with listings disappearing each spring. The current launch offers four of the most popular pieces from years gone by, including the 'new' butter dish (restocked after a seasonal hiatus), large cocotte, mini cocotte, and braiser.

Each piece carries the same heirloom quality as the rest of the Le Creuset line, making it some of the best stoneware and cast-iron cookware on the market. The dishes are oven-safe to 500°F, including the butter dish, which doubles wonderfully as a small baking vessel for cheeses, sides, and desserts. As one of the more affordable pieces in the collection, it is a sweet investment for those shopping on a budget or who already have a quality Dutch oven to rely on for seasonal cooking.

With the current heat dome, it can feel far too early to consider our fall table decor ideas and seasonal menus, but acquiring these pieces is not always smooth sailing at the height of the season. One Reddit user, for instance, reported receiving their Cocotte a few weeks ago after a six-month back order. So, planning and shopping ahead can pay off when it comes to Thanksgiving hosting.

The harvest launch is not the only exciting thing happening at Le Creuset at the moment. They are also running their factory-to-table sale, offering their biggest discounts of the year.

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I rarely find that ultra-expensive cookware is worth the price. I’ve tested plenty of budget alternatives that come surprisingly close in performance.

That said, the Le Creuset Signature Dutch Oven is a clear exception. It’s one of the few pieces I would happily pay full price for again. With the Factory to Table sale offering up to 40% off select chef essentials, it’s an unusually good opportunity to invest.

I don't think I have ever seen this best non-toxic cookware so affordable, and in such iconic colors, too.

I reviewed the Le Creuset Modern Heritage Dutch Oven back in March of this year, and it has sat proudly on my stove ever since. It is one of my most versatile pieces of cookware; I rely on it for everything from soups and stews to pastas, and it gets every guest talking, whether they are visiting for dinner or just a quick coffee catch-up.

When it comes to choosing the best cookware, you can rarely do better. That is why the Factory to Table sale has my attention. I have rarely seen such classic pieces discounted so heavily, especially in the most iconic colors. Now, the Factory to Table Sale is bringing some of the biggest discounts you will find all year, expanding on the famous in-person ticketed warehouse event, without the physical shoving that comes with it.

From Traditional Deep Round Skillets to Roaster Sets, it has everything you need to outfit your kitchen in non-toxic enameled cast iron.

It has become a cult kitchen classic thanks to its combination of heirloom-quality materials, manufacturing, and durability. With a cast iron core designed for superior heat retention and a glass enamel coating that protects against rust and pitting, it is easy to care for, non-reactive, and cooks extremely evenly when heated slowly. It is reliable and unbeatable when it comes to excellence.

As if the sale wasn't enough, spending over $250 on the Le Creuset site in July entitles you to a free care kit with a brush, soap, and stacking felts to keep your pans in top condition for years to come. It makes cleaning and caring for your cookware a breeze.

Shop the Le Creuset Factory to Table Sale

Still not quite ready to spend Le Creuset prices, even on sale? We have a full list of the best cast iron cookware to browse, including some choice budget-friendly picks.

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Shopping for food storage is hardly glamorous. It is often the afterthought of the kitchen, relying on tired plastic pots that usually look a little worse for wear.

Now, however, Le Creuset is offering timeless stainless-steel food containers that look just as good as its best non-toxic cookware, combining the brand's signature style with a durable, non-toxic approach to food storage.

The stainless steel pots can be used for everything from on-the-go lunches to arranging a fridge.

As a health-conscious cook, I am always looking for food storage ideas that both help to reduce food waste and limit my exposure to plastics. Stainless steel is one of the best ways to do this as a non-reactive material that is more durable than glass. As a clumsy person, this is essential to me.

The Le Creuset On The GO Boxes are made from the same quality stainless steel as their best-selling pans, including the Essential Stainless Steel Pan I reviewed not long ago. The lightweight design means that the pots are simple to pack and take with you, and are much easier to move around your kitchen than heavier glass containers if you struggle with grip or finger dexterity.

Being metal, the containers are, of course, not microwave-safe, which may prove awkward for those who like to reheat their leftovers in the same container they stored them in. That said, the steel helps to keep the contents warm if added hot, especially if it is preheated in advance, adds one reviewer.

In their five-star review, they shared, 'As someone who avoids microwaves and plastic, this has been a perfect solution. I preheat it by filling it with hot water and sealing the lid while I heat my food separately. Then I dump the water, add my food, and seal it, and it keeps everything hot really well until lunchtime.'

They may be a simple swap, but when it comes to creating a non-toxic home, few kitchen upgrades offer the same combination of practicality, durability, and sleek design while delivering everyday peace of mind.

What Else to Shop

From non-toxic food storage to essential care tools that keep them performing at their best, I’ve curated six healthier kitchen swaps designed to reduce potential exposure and create a more mindful cooking environment.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Looking for something a little more fun for your summer food storage? Le Creuset has quietly relaunched its coveted summer fruit cocottes, perfect for summer hosting.

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To me, welcoming guests for a meal is all about whimsy – making my home and cooking feel that little bit more magical for the people I love. As it turns out, Le Creuset is on the same wavelength.

Expanding on their best non-toxic cookware range, the heritage brand has quietly launched three seriously cute fruit-shaped cocottes – a peach, a strawberry, and a blueberry – that make the perfect single-serving bowls for any summer table. In previous years, similar collections sold out fast.

These new pieces are already selling out across retailers, and knowing Le Creuset's history with retiring even the most popular pieces, you'll need to snap them up quickly if you want to perfect your playful warm-season setup.

This is hardly the first time the brand has launched a playful seasonal collection. Le Creuset's Fall 2025 collection saw the release of charming pumpkin-shaped mugs and cocottes, for instance, and in 2023, the brand launched the first iteration of the fruit pots, with the familiar strawberry and blueberry, alongside an apple and raspberry.

It is hardly surprising that the first launch sold out almost immediately, and I expect nothing less from the most recent, revamped drop, especially as they tap into one of this season's most fun trends – making a home more whimsical. We are seeing it everywhere, with gardeners creating whimsical yards for the summer, too.

The new designs look more polished, with perfectly graduated pastel coloring and improved lid and side handles to increase functionality without ruining the juicy-looking design. They're bigger, too, boasting a 16-ounce capacity over the original's 14-ounce, making them even better suited to personal crumbles, dips, and desserts.

I rarely recommend investing in themed kitchenware. I have a small kitchen, so I understand the hassle of storing seasonal pieces out of the way in the off-season. That said, your serveware doubles as both the best cookware and summer table decor ideas; it is hard to pass up.

Made from Le Creuset's signature stoneware, the pots are safe from -9°F to 500°F, meaning you can chill desserts such as tirimassu or cheesecake overnight to set, or bake single-sized crumbles and stews without adding more dishes to clean up after a dinner party.

When not in use, they're pieces I would happily leave on my counter to turn kitchenware into decor. We are fully in the era of having fun with our food again, and I, for one, am here for it.

What Else to Shop

Whether you're refreshing your summer table ahead of peak hosting season or searching for playful ways to elevate your tablescaping, I’ve rounded up some of the most charming fruit- and vegetable-inspired cookware and serveware to bring a touch of whimsy without sacrificing practicality.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Not sure which Le Creuset color to invest in? Discover the best Le Creuset Color for your birth month as a starting point.

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I'll be honest, at no point did I think that a few pieces of felt would ever have that much of an impact on my kitchen.

However, after ending up with some cookware protectors from Le Creuset, I can safely say that my minuscule cookware storage has never been neater, nor have my pans been so safe from chips and damage.

Simple but efficient, the cookware protectors are now considered one of my must haves for anyone in possession of one of the best Dutch ovens. This is why.

Why I Swear By The Le Creuset Cookware Protectors in My Tiny Kitchen

No one understands the struggle of small kitchen storage as I do. Living in a compact period home, my cabinet space is severely limited, making stacking pans and using vertical storage to save space essential.

However, my most expensive investment pieces – my Le Creuset Modern Heritage Dutch Oven and Classic Signature Stainless Steel Frying Pan – can be easily damaged by stacking. Scratches and chips quickly degrade the quality of a pan, and when you’ve invested in heirloom-quality cookware, proper care is crucial for ensuring longevity.

In the past, I avoided stacking my most prized pots, leaving them on the counter or using an old cork trivet from Amazon haphazardly to keep the bases separated. Then I came into possession of the Le Creuset cookware protectors – star-shaped felt barriers designed specifically for deep cookware and stacking inverted lids.

They’re super soft, flexible, and fit perfectly into my 5-quart Dutch oven, protecting not just the base but the sides and rim, too. The fact that they are so helpful for all cookware, from non-stick pans and baking trays, to cast iron skillets and beyond, only makes them that much more practical for an everyday workhorse kitchen.

They're an all-in-one essential for organizing pots and pans, especially for the devoted Le Creuset collector, and I can't believe I ever did without them.

What to Shop

Organizing kitchen appliances and cookware is never easy, no matter the size of your space, especially when it comes to investment pieces such as cast-iron cookware.

To help streamline your cooking area and protect your heirloom items, I’ve rounded up six top picks for storage and care that will keep your kitchen both neat and stylish.

With the storage taken care of, brush up on the best ways to clean and care for every type of cookware to ensure your investment staples last for decades to come.

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I’ve tested hundreds of pots and pans while writing my guide on how to choose the best cookware, which features Le Creuset at the top. It has long been one of the most recognizable cookware brands in the world. I received my first Le Creuset pot when I graduated from cooking school. It was a gift from my mother, who received hers as a wedding present in the ’90s.

So, when the brand unveiled the Le Creuset Modern Heritage collection to mark its 100th anniversary, I wasn’t sure how to feel. The new style leans retro-meets-modern, and as a long-time fan of Le Creuset’s traditional look, I was keen to see whether the update was purely an aesthetic moment – or a genuine improvement in cooking performance.

I reached out to the brand, and they sent me a Modern Heritage Round Braiser to test. Long story short: I’m now converted.

Le Creuset Modern Heritage Round Braiser: Specifications

Design & First Impressions

The Le Creuset Modern Heritage collection leans into a minimalist mid-century design, with stainless steel handles, domed lids, wide side handles, and soft, rounded edges. I chose a classic cream colorway (Brioche) and was absolutely blown away when I unboxed the dish; the people in the kitchen with me were cooing over it, too.

One of the most welcome upgrades is the enlarged stainless steel lid handle and the generously sized, tilted side handles. They’re thick, spacious, and easy to grip – even when wearing bulky oven gloves!

These small but thoughtful changes make lifting the lid or carrying a hot, heavy pot feel far more secure, reducing the risk of spills, drops, or burns. Le Creuset has also done away with the ridged lid, opting instead for a smooth, modern finish that feels cleaner and more contemporary.

As ever, each Le Creuset Modern Heritage piece is cast in sand, coated with porcelain enamel for durability, and fired for heat resistance. This collection is no exception: it feels sturdy, heirloom-quality, and genuinely beautiful to look at.

Cooking Performance

For testing, I turned to my go-to recipe when testing the best Dutch ovens: my mom’s chicken casserole. I started by rendering the chicken skin in the Le Creuset Modern Heritage braiser until beautifully crisp and golden (see the photo below). I could comfortably fit four chicken thighs without crowding the pan.

After removing the chicken, I sautéed onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in butter. Everything slid easily around the pan, with no sticking or burning, and softened to a perfect golden texture.

Next, I added wild rice, stock, herbs, and returned the chicken to the pot before placing the retro lid on top. The handles felt sturdy and secure as I lifted the braiser into the oven. I baked for 45 minutes, removing the lid for the final 10 to get a crispy finish. It was also easy grab the domed stainless steel handle with my oven gloves (much easier than it is with the traditional knob).

The casserole emerged with crispy rice edges and perfectly tender chicken. It’s exactly the performance I expect from the brand; the Le Creuset Modern Heritage design delivers without compromise.

Cleaning, Storage & Maintenance

Thanks to the spacious, smooth design of the Le Creuset Modern Heritage braiser, I found cleaning refreshingly easy. Food residue doesn’t get trapped on the lid, as there are no ridges or knobs. The stainless steel elements do benefit from a quick wipe or light polish to keep them looking smart, but the slightly brushed finish helps minimize fingerprints. Le Creuset really has thought of everything here.

The dish is apparently dishwasher-safe, but after cooking, I simply rinsed everything in warm, soapy water,then wiped away any crispy rice bits with my trusty silicone dish scrubber (Amazon). I left it to air-dry on the counter before remembering that it's better to hand-dry cast iron to avoid rust. Our cleaning experts have written a guide on how to clean every type of cookware, which comes in handy.

In terms of storage, the wide tilted handles did make things less ergonomic in my cupboards. The lid fit neatly without chipping around the rim, though – something I’ve noticed on cheaper cast iron pieces, such as the Lodge Dutch oven I tested in November – so I wasn't feeling too precious about it getting scratched or damaged in my drawers.

How Does it Compare?

I compared the Le Creuset Modern Heritage braiser with my mom's Signature Le Creuset Dutch oven, which is over 30 years old. The design has changed ever so slightly since then, with the brand switching from black plastic knobs to metal ones and creating glossier, more refined colorways.

I own one of the most recent colorways, the Signature Dutch oven in Thyme (though I didn’t have it in my test kitchen to compare), and while I love it, I actually preferred the Modern Heritage dish for its practical handles and mid-century modern style. In terms of price, both the Signature and Modern Heritage designs cost the same, so it's really just down to personal preference at the end of the day.

My only hesitation is longevity of the range: I do wonder how long Le Creuset will keep the Modern Heritage collection in production (as it was a 100th anniversary launch) and whether it will be possible to build a full set over time. I’d also love to see the brand explore something like Staub’s stackable set, since storage isn’t always practical. That said, with such beautiful and statement designs, you’ll likely want to keep the Le Creuset Modern Heritage pieces out on display or in open shelving anyway.

Should You Buy It?

If you love to cook, appreciate thoughtful design upgrades, and want cookware that performs beautifully, the Le Creuset Modern Heritage collection is well worth the investment. From the braiser I tested to the matching Dutch oven and baking dish, the collection really makes a statement and is a joy to cook with. Then again, I should never have doubted Le Creuset.

How We Test Cookware at Homes & Gardens

The best cookware has to tick all the boxes: versatility, manageable weight, safe materials, brilliant cooking performance, and, crucially, ease of cleaning.

You can read more details about the testing process behind how we test cookware at Homes & Gardens, including how long we test each piece for and specifically which recipes we trial.

Having trained at a professional cookery school and worked as a food writer and recipe editor for some of the world's leading recipe companies, from Mindful Chef to Deliciously Ella, I do have exacting standards.

Choosing the perfect Le Creuset color isn’t just a practical decision – it’s a personal, lifelong commitment. With a dazzling array of shades – from glossy reds and dreamy pastels to sleek, chic neutrals – selecting the right one can easily become a contemplative affair.

What if your ideal hue was already written in the stars? Each birth month has a color inspired by its birthstone: January’s deep Garnet, February’s regal Amethyst, March’s serene Aquamarine, and so on. It’s a playful, personal way to choose the best cookware that feels made for you.

It’s not astrology, but there’s a touch of cosmic charm, blending seasonality, color psychology, and birthstone inspiration. The best Le Creuset color should feel naturally ‘you’ – whether you’re investing in a first Dutch oven that will last a lifetime or searching for a thoughtful, meaningful gift for someone special.

The Best Le Creuset Color for Your Birth Month

Struggling to pick the perfect Le Creuset color? Our birth month guide pairs you with a shade that’s made for you. As a Kitchen Appliances Editor, I’ve also recommended a standout piece of cast iron cookware tailored to your birthday and your individual cooking style.

That’s your complete guide to the best Le Creuset color according to each birth month. If you're inspired to carry your birth month palette beyond the kitchen, you're in luck.

Explore our Style editor's guide to birth month interior paint color, and our Gardens editors have even explored plants tailored to your unique birthday, like birth month berries.

I can hardly believe it's been a year since the Wicked movie hit theaters (if not for the fact that my inner monologue has since been replaced with the lyrics of 'Defying Gravity'). As the second movie approaches (it's coming out on 21 November), the buzz is really building, and I've seen hints of pink and green popping up everywhere – including in the rather spellbinding Le Creuset X Wicked collection.

Yes, even heritage cookware can receive the Wicked treatment. If you've been on the market for the best Dutch oven, now's your moment to snap up two limited edition shades of Le Creuset's signature model: a deep emerald green and a luminous pink.

Le Creuset creates the kind of cookware that will claim a spot in your kitchen for years to come – but that doesn't mean it can't dip into the trends. If you've seen Le Creuset's fall 2025 collection, you'll know that the brand isn't afraid to experiment with new silhouettes and playful designs, and the Le Creuset X Wicked collection brings a touch of magic to some of the best cast iron cookware you can buy.

Taking inspiration from Wicked's two protagonists – powder pink Glinda, and the more mysterious but fearless Elpheba – the collaboration features new Dutch ovens finished with embossed lids and contrasting metal knobs. Le Creuset is known for its oven-to-table versatility, and these Dutch ovens will certainly become a centerpiece of their own when it's time to serve guests at your next dinner party.

The Glinda embossed Dutch oven feels as timeless as any Le Creuset design, with a glossy pink finish that you might recognise from the viral petal braiser. Here, however, the floral detailing on the lid has been swapped out for a sketch of Glinda bearing her crown and magic wand, while a gleaming gold handle graces the center.

The Elphaba embossed Dutch oven is, naturally, emerald green, but there's more to it than meets the eye. You'll spot Elphaba and her broomstick etched into the top (along with a pair of flying monkeys), while the interior is matte black to complement the black nickel handle on the lid. If you're looking for a more striking piece that will still stand the test of time, and capture a moment in movie history, I'd venture to say that this is the perfect investment.

Of course, quality cookware usually boasts a steeper price tag, and it can be easy to question should you buy Le Creuset? (both the Elphaba and Glinda Dutch ovens will set you back a cool $450, after all). Here at Homes & Gardens, however, we're unwavering Le Creuset fans – and we can't resist a pop culture crossover either. The Le Creuset X Wicked collection is bound to be popular, so I'll be placing my order before these limited edition pieces fly away for good.

Shop more Wicked-inspired kitchenware

'Tis the season of colorful cookware collaborations: the Le Creuset X Wicked collection comes hot on the heels of the Our Place x Crocs butter yellow drop. It looks like my kitchen will be a riot of color and fun this fall.

Herbal, green, and refreshing – Sage only launched last spring, and it’s one of my favorite cookware colorways ever created. So I was genuinely disappointed when Le Creuset announced it was getting axed from their collections.

My kitchen has a Mediterranean garden theme, and I’ve been collecting the Thyme colorway. I’d been hoping to add Le Creuset Sage pieces as an accent tone. Luckily some Le Creuset Sage pieces are now on sale, so I can pick up a few bits before they disappear completely and in time for fall baking.

For anyone wondering, 'Is Le Creuset worth the money?', now is the perfect moment to snap up some of the best cast iron cookware at a bargain. With Sage on clearance, I’ve rounded up the best prices below – so you can grab a Le Creuset deal.

Crafted in France using durable cast iron and practical stoneware, below are my Le Creuset Sage favorites that I’ve thoroughly tested at home. Take a scroll through the Le Creuset clearance section to find more pieces that might take your fancy.

Last chance to shop Le Creuset Sage

A quick note for anyone new to Le Creuset: I have seen some old reviews on their website that mention cracking, but this issue is caused by thermal shock. Simply never put a hot dish straight into cold water.

I’ve been using my Thyme pieces for years without a single problem. If you avoid this Dutch oven mistake, your Le Creuset Sage pieces should last a lifetime.

Beyond durability, the brand’s enamel cast iron is one of the finest examples of the best non-toxic cookware – free from harmful forever chemicals, making it a safe choice for everyday cooking.

As a lifestyle writer, I'm constantly on the lookout for the best discounts on the biggest kitchen and homeware brands. I've been keeping an eye on my favorite cookware lines ahead of the harvest season, and to my excitement, I've just spotted that these fluted Le Creuset dishes are on sale at Crate & Barrel right now, with over $30 off.

From loaf pans to pie dishes, the pretty collection is ideal for fall baking – whether you're planning pumpkin pies, hearty flans or sweet treats – and they'll look gorgeous from oven to table. If you're wondering should you buy Le Creuset, instead of shopping around for more affordable alternatives, this is the time to try, without forking out full price.

With harvest season almost here, I've been planning out hearty recipes and slow cooker ideas for fall batch cooking – but what I'm truly excited about is the desserts. Picking up a few of the Le Creuset fluted dishes at Crate & Barrel gives me the perfect excuse to try out all of my favorite recipes, and I know that my guests will be impressed by my (ever-growing) collection of elegant bakeware.

Crate & Barrel is my go-to destination for incredible Le Creuset deals, and there are plenty to check out right now. Alongside the charming fluted pie dishes, you can also pick up some of the best cast iron cookware at discounted prices: this oval casserole dish is 35% off, and there's a $175 discount on this signature chambray Dutch oven, too.

I'll be using the Le Creuset oyster fluted loaf pan to whip up Martha Stewart's pumpkin bars, and the classic Le Creuset heritage pie dishes for all of my tarts and cheesecakes. There's nothing better than serving a homemade treat using a gorgeous heirloom piece like a Le Creuset dish; it's always a brilliant investment, but especially during a rare sale like this.

I'm not just stocking up for fall, however – I'll also be buying a few extra fluted dishes to give as Christmas gifts to the avid bakers in my family. Check out my top Le Creuset picks from Crate & Barrel below.

Shop Le Creuset's fluted dishes at Crate & Barrel

Looking for even more Le Creuset? If you're after something truly seasonal, check out the Le Creuset fall collection for 2025.

They say food tastes better when it’s made with love, but I’d argue it tastes even better when it’s made with Le Creuset. The brand is known for some of the best cast iron cookware you can buy, and Le Creuset's fall 2025 collection proves once again why it’s a favorite.

The lineup is filled with beloved classics, including the ever-charming Pumpkin Mugs, but this season introduces a standout with a fresh twist.

Earlier this year, Le Creuset celebrated 100 years with a new launch of the Flamme Dorée collection – a gleaming orange hue that feels both timeless and perfect for autumn. It’s only fitting that the fall collection now features the Signature Pumpkin Cocotte dressed in this radiant shade.

Le Creuset cookware may be an investment, but it’s one I never regret – whether I’m after the best non-toxic cookware or simply the best Dutch oven. With fall approaching, I’m ready to add a few seasonal pieces to my collection.

The harvest collection leans into autumnal hues and Halloween-inspired silhouettes. You may not reach for these pieces every day, but they’re the kind you’ll bring out year after year.

Alongside the showstopping Pumpkin Cocotte, I have my eye on the new Traditional Petit Stock Pot in a persimmon shade ideal for gatherings from early fall through Thanksgiving. I’m equally charmed by the Pumpkin Gravy Boat, offered in both a handsome cream and that same warm persimmon.

Here are a few more of my favorite finds from Le Creuset’s fall 2025 collection.

Shop Le Creuset's fall 2025 collection

While the Flamme Dorée collection put a fresh spin on Le Creuset’s classic retro style, the Modern Heritage collection, launched in August, takes a decidedly contemporary approach. It may be divisive, but I’m still a fan.

When the most elegant pieces from a heritage cookware brand go on sale, it's time to drop what you're doing and start scrolling. The Nordstrom early Labor Day sale has marked down Le Creuset's most covetable shades by up to 41%.

If you’ve been eyeing up the brand, but wondering 'Is Le Creuset worth the money?', this might be your moment. Unlike trendy shades that come and go, these timeless, soft, and sophisticated tones are here to stay – looking just as good on the stovetop as they do on the table.

I've tried and tested the best cast iron cookware, like Le Creuset's Dutch ovens and frying pans, and I track the sales all year round to find the best deals. This blend of quality and style at such a steep discount is a rare find – and feels like the perfect time to invest in cookware that will last a lifetime.

My top picks from the Nordstrom sale

These pieces are practical and pretty; with evergreen colorways and time-honored craftmanship, they will stand by you in every season.

Le Creuset's pots and pans are my personal favorites as a cook, because they do more than sit prettily in the kitchen. They make every pot of soup or freshly baked dessert taste better with their well-crafted, even-heating cast iron and stoneware – elevating even the simplest recipes.

If you're interested in seeing how the Le Creuset outlet shades can fit into your fall table decor, I think Magnolia's 'bare' table trend is the perfect way to style them.

Azure blue and so refreshing, the Le Creuset Caribbean colorway is a fan favorite. So it was a surprise to see the brand announce: 'Last chance for Caribbean! We are bidding farewell to this tropical hue. Shop your favorite pieces (now on sale at Le Creuset) before they're gone for good.'

Many fans were devastated. Some said they have been collecting Le Creuset Caribbean pieces since they got married, or that the turquoise hue reminds them of happy holidays or homelands. For anyone wondering is Le Creuset worth it?, this might be your moment to grab a steal – especially with the chance to own a retiring color that has brought joy to so many.

Caribbean isn't gone just yet. There's still time to scoop up a good Le Creuset deal. I've scouted the clearance section and dropped the best prices below, before the shade disappears forever.

Last chance to shop Le Creuset Caribbean

Le Creuset makes some of the most coveted cookware, kitchenware, and tableware on the market. Crafted from stone, cast iron, and durable ceramics, the pieces are incredibly high quality and rarely on sale.

Thankfully, Caribbean isn't the only beautiful blue shade that Le Creuset has to offer. If you're ready to start fresh, I have another recommendation – take a look at Marseille at LeCreuset.com. It brings a deeper, subtler blue tone to your kitchen that could be more evergreen. My parents have a few pieces in this color that were gifted for their wedding 25 years ago – and they’ve aged beautifully.

Last summer, I got engaged on a camping trip, and since then, we've decided to make an annual ritual of getting out of the city and heading to the coast with our tent. But if I’m being honest, I’m more of a glamper than a purist. I like to be cozy, my coffee poured into Stanley mugs, and breakfasts warm out of a proper pan. Which is why, when I saw the Le Creuset BBQ outdoor collection (a first for the luxury brand), I knew I had to try it.

Known as the 'Alpine' Outdoor Collection in this US, this is an extension of the best cast iron cookware with a rugged twist – ideal for anyone who prefers their campfire cooking or grilling with a side of quiet luxury. I tested the Le Creuset Outdoor Rectangular Griddle, a smooth slab of enameled cast iron promising to serve up perfect smash burgers, grilled vegetables, and pancakes to feed a crowd.

But the collection itself goes far beyond the griddle. There is a pizza pan, a shiny stainless steel grilling tool set, and even a Dutch oven purpose-built for the best grills. For anyone who loves to cook – and loves beautiful cookware – it’s hard not to be seduced by the Le Creuset Alpine Outdoor Collection. But naturally, it's not the most affordable grilling gear on the market, which begs the age-old question: is Le Creuset actually worth it? Here's what I uncovered from my experience.

Design

The Le Creuset Alpine Outdoor Collection is truly beautiful. Smooth textures, lightweight construction and a thoughtful, engraved illustration of an Alpine scene on the back of each piece. These are the details and the kind of craftsmanship you’d expect from Le Creuset – just now made for the outdoors.

I would have loved to try the entire collection, but I picked the Alpine Outdoor Rectangular Griddle, as I thought it would span all my needs. The handles are wide and spacious, so you can actually grip them while wearing oven mitts – which sounds basic, but is so important.

I recognised the matte black enamel interior from my favorite non-toxic pan. It resists dulling, staining, and rusting, and over time it develops a natural patina that only improves cooking performance. Better still, it requires no seasoning, so I could get cooking straight away.

I also tested the Le Creuset grilling tools, which were again, utterly beautiful. They arrived in a cream-toned canvas bag, which is probably the chicest cookware casing I have ever seen. Inside are stainless steel grilling tools, each with its own designated pocket protector so they don’t clang around or get scratched, and will remain in good condition over time. I'm convinced the Le Creuset Alpine outdoor collection set will last me a lifetime of grilling.

As part of the set, you'll receive an outdoor slotted turner, sturdy tongs, a two-pronged fork and basting brush. Each tool was huge, but comfortable to hold (even with my small hands) and long enough to flip and cook from a safe distance. They are made from professional stainless steel with a brushed handle, and they each have a looped handle to hang on your workstation, which is handy.

Cooking performance

Full disclosure: I don’t currently have a big outdoor grill (city life), so I tested the griddle on my gas stove. It still worked beautifully. Each pan in the Le Creuset Alpine Outdoor collection is designed to withstand intense heat – whether from an open flame or the controlled burners of a gas grill. I decided to make burgers with caramelized onions and toasted brioche buns – a summer barbecue menu classic – for my tests.

When I set my pan down on the stove (after a quick rinse in the sink, in case there was any cardboard fragments from the box), it was polished, sturdy, and well-balanced. It heated up very quickly, and there was plenty of space for my food.

First up: onions. They grilled evenly, didn’t stick, and gave off that slightly smoky, caramelized scent that made my whole kitchen smell like a nostalgic, summer family gathering. Then I threw on a few burgers, and they came out juicy with a golden brown texture. The heat retention was impressive – cast iron always delivers, but this is the best of the best.

American-cheese lovers, look away. I don't like processed food, so I opted for grated hunks of cheddar, but I know it's not traditional. In any case, it melted quickly over the golden burgers, and I had space to toast the brioche burger buns in the burger fat. All in all, the meal was absolutely delicious; the best burgers I've had in ages (and that's saying something, as I've been to a lot of cookouts this summer).

Cleaning & maintenance

In my experience at least, this part was less perfect. The griddle cleaned up easily with hot water and a soapy scrub, but there were no instructions included. No care card or cleaning guide. The brand website says that the Le Creuset Alpine Outdoor collection is safe to use with metal utensils, but I wanted to use my wire chain scrubber to dislodge some caramlised burger bits and I wasn't sure if that would impact the enamel. I much prefer to have all the care guidance laid out for me in a booklet, rather than trawling online or guessing, so I can ensure my tools last for years to come (especially when it's a large investment).

For a premium brand like Le Creuset, I expected better. When my Le Creuset Dutch oven arrived, I received a helpful little booklet – so maybe this was just a packaging error. If you’re new to cooking with enamel cast iron (or even just cautious, like I am), it’s something to note.

Is the Le Creuset Alpine Outdoor collection worth it?

Let’s talk price. At $220, the griddle pan is expensive. There's no getting around that. I;d say it's an investment piece or a very generous gift for a keen griller. Le Creuset's lifetime guarantee sweetens the deal, though (see the picture above). This is surely the last griddle you will ever need to buy, and you could even hand it down to the grandkids.

Le Creuset's outdoor grilling tools, surprisingly, are much more affordable – especially considering the quality and professional-level design. The full five-piece set (including the canvas carrier) starts at $159.95 on the Le Creuset website, but you can get the individual pair of tongs for $35.

So, if you want a taste of the Le Creuset outdoor collection without breaking bank, the tools could be a smart entry point.

My verdict

Would I recommend the Alpine Outdoor Collection? Yes – if you care about design, durability, and want to have beautiful outdoor cookware that inspires you to cook delicious al-fresco feasts.

Again, it's not cheap. If I could afford to buy more of the collection, I might go for the smaller griddle square, as that would be a bit more versatile for my lifestyle. I would recommend that you choose wisely.

At the end of the day, this is one of the most beautiful outdoor collections I’ve seen, and the cooking performance was utterly excellent. Le Creuset makes grilling feel genuinely chic, cool, and clean. I might not have the full setup yet, but I’m officially in my grill girl era.

I never thought I’d turn my back on my beloved Le Creuset. Yet, after undergoing surgery in December, I was advised to rest and avoid lifting anything heavy. For the first week of recovery, my fiancé cooked every meal for me, but I was eager to get back into the kitchen as soon as I could. I had been gifted the Tefal Air Light cocotte and rather snobbishly tucked it away in the cupboard. But something told me to give it a go – this could be the lightweight answer to my mobility issues.

I was amazed. It's seriously unbelievably airy and soon became my go-to tool for simmering chicken soup and vegetable stews during my recovery. Each time I used it, I was even more impressed by the cooking performance. The smooth, inner coating is impressively non-stick. To my relief, Tefal state they use a PFOAS-free ceramic coating – which makes it a contender for the best non-toxic kitchen appliances. Plus, it's dishwasher-safe for easy clean up.

I'll talk you through my testing notes, and explain why I will never give up on my trusty, heirloom Le Creuset. However, I'm really grateful to this Tefal cocotte for helping me out when needed ease, efficiency, and delicious home-cooked food.

Specifications

Design

The Tefal Air Oval Casserole Dish is a design marvel, blending large capacity with lightweight handling. It's crafted from cast aluminum, which feels lightweight but sturdy. When I first lifted it out of the box and placed it on my stove, I was immediately impressed by how manageable it felt. It's especially suited for anyone with limited strength or mobility, including the elderly or those recovering from surgery (like me).

However, cast aluminum is known to be less durable than Le Creuset's cast iron enamel. While it can last for many years with proper care, aluminum is more prone to dents or warping over time. It heats up very quickly, so I knew this would be ideal for my recovery as I didn't want to spend hours stirring slow-braises at the stove. But if you ask any chef, they'll tell you that cast iron really is the finest material money can buy for searing meat and slow-cooking.

The color options are limited. I tested the bold red color (available in Europe), while US customers can shop the greyish-black colorway on Amazon. Inside, there's a ceramic white interior. On the outside, there's a self-basting lid with a gold-colored knob. There are also handles on either side, which are very comfortable and make lifting easy, even when the dish is filled with stews or soups. You can carry it from the hob, to the oven and even to the dishwasher without much effort or strain at all.

While undeniably practical, the design doesn’t quite match the elegance of Le Creuset either. The matte red finish, though striking, is much less refined. I don't think I would choose this for serving directly at the table.

Cooking performance

What I cooked in the Tefal Air Cocotte Casserole Dish

This dish excelled on non-stick convenience and quick cooking. I liked the condensation lid, which locks in to retain moisture. Here’s a rundown of what I cooked and how the dish performed.

• Sauteed onions: This is always the first test of a pan for me. Whether diced or sliced, the onions softened and browned evenly in this pot. There was no sticking or burning. A solid first impression.
• Chicken ramen: I was really impressed by how the chicken breasts turned brown and golden on the ceramic surface. I removed the meat to make a broth, then returned everything to the pan with the tight-fitting lid. This locked in moisture, resulting in tender, juicy chicken.
• Vegetable tagine: I half-expected the Moroccan spices to leave a stain on the white ceramic interior, but there was no discoloration. The dish emerged spotless after a dishwasher cycle.
• Pea soup: I was really grateful for the lightweight design while cooking this recipe. It was easy to pour my sauteed onions straight from the pot into the blender. The pot also heats up very quickly, which saved me time and effort when reheating.
• Chicken & rice casserole: My fiancé made his Spanish chicken and rice in the oven. The pot was easy to lift out, when he needed to add more ingredients. The rice was richly flavored and the chicken was tender. It was just a 30-minute dish, which is well suited to cast aluminum.
• Lamb meatballs: Again, browning the meat was a breeze. I was worried that the pan was actually too non-stick and I wouldn't get any fond, but there was a little, so I could deglaze it into a rich sauce.
• Porridge: I simmered oats for my daily breakfast when I was recovering. I usually hate cleaning cooked oats out the pan afterwards, the ceramic interior made it pretty easy. I accidentally used an abrasive sponge one day and saw little scratches in the pan afterwards, so I won't do that again.

Cleaning & maintenance

One of the standout features of the Tefal Air Cocotte Casserole Dish is how easy it is to clean. When handwashing, it’s easy to wipe away food residue with a soft sponge and hot soapy water. A cautionary note: avoid abrasive cleaning pads to preserve the ceramic interior. After a month of use, my dish has a few tiny scratches from my early cleaning mishaps – otherwise, it still looks and performs like new.

It can also go in the dishwasher, which is really convenient. I also appreciated the lightweight materials when it was time to store it away... it was easy for me to lift the pan into high or low cupboards.

What do customer reviews say?

The Tefal Air Cocotte is mainly sold in Europe, so there aren't too many UK or US reviews. French customers on Amazon praised its practicality and lightness. I translated this one comment: 'Good product… light stewpot… perfect for people who are fragile to carry loads!”

Another UK reviewer on Tefal.com said: 'Not like my mum’s old cast iron pots which you need arms of steel to lift. Even my other half who’s just had AC joint reconstruction could lift it.' On the whole, elderly, fragile, or injured cooks seem to be enjoying the Tefal Air Cocotte.

Should you buy it?

If you’re looking for an affordable, lightweight, and easy-to-clean casserole dish – it's a good choice. Just bear in mind, it's best suited to fast cooking dishes and it's unlikely to become an heirloom piece. It doesn’t entirely replace my cast iron Le Creuset – which still reigns supreme for slow braises and dinner-party-worthy presentations.

The other thing I've noticed is that the delivery is quite slow when purchasing from the US on Amazon, so you might want to plan ahead. If you're in Europe, you can get one directly from Tefal.

All in all, I was very grateful for the practicality during my recovery and I continue to reach for it daily. If you value convenience without sacrificing cooking performance, the Tefal Air Oval Casserole Dish is a worthy addition to your cookware collection.

How I tested

I use every pot, pan and casserole dish I test for over a month to see how it fares over time. I've owned many dishes that have been great out of the box, but start to chip, stain, or lose their cooking efficiency after prolonged use. There's nothing worse than this, especially when you've forked out your hard-earned money and need to buy a replacement.

When I'm testing casserole pots, I'm looking for a dish that can handle everything: from quick curries to slow casseroles and oven-baked dishes with a crispy topping. I want to see effortless browning and good texture on my ingredients, without sticking or burning to the pan. I also assess the lids to see if they fit well and help my dishes retain moisture.

In terms of handling, a good casserole dish should feel balanced – not so heavy that it's difficult to carry, but substantial enough to retain heat evenly and ensure a perfect cook. I also look for sturdy handles that make hob-to-oven-to-table transitions effortless.

Cleanup is also key – no one wants to scrub endlessly after dinner, so I evaluate how easily the dish cleans up, whether it’s dishwasher-safe or requires handwashing.

Finally, I look for beautiful design. I love cookware that feels joyous to use and display on the table. However, I never prioritize style over substance, and I try to look past big brand names to see the unsung heroes in the industry.

Also, I should mention, I trained at a professional cookery school and have worked as a food writer and recipe editor for some of the world's leading recipe companies, from Mindful Chef to Deliciously Ella, so I do have exacting standards.

In my book, it’s never too soon to start planning for the next holiday – especially one as charming as Valentine’s Day. This year, beloved French brands Le Creuset and Staub are adding an extra dash of romance to the season with two dreamy new collections.

Le Creuset has unveiled a charming Mon Coeur collection, featuring mini cocottes, jugs and sugar pots with whimsical heart illustrations. Plus, the fan-favorite Heart Cocotte has made an anticipated return; and it's now available in a limited-edition Berry hue.

If you’re planning to host a romantic dinner or a fabulous Galentine’s feast, Staub’s Pink Peony launch is here to impress. Their chef-approved collection of frying pans and Dutch ovens is now available in a soft, romantic pink. I have to admit, I’m totally smitten. Here are my top picks from these trés chic French kitchenware collections.

H&G's favorite pieces from the Valentine's Day drops

I've been lucky enough to test both Le Creuset and Staub brands; I'm a big fan of Staub's Dutch Ovens in particular. These are my favorite items from the Valentine's collection. Each one is high-quality, practical and beautiful. They make thoughtful gifts for yourself or the food-lovers in your life.

FAQS

When is Valentine's Day?

February 14th 2025. That means there's just over a month to plan your dinner parties, write your love letters and make hints about your wish-list.

Which brand is better Staub or Le Creuset?

This one is down to personal opinion. Both are heritage French brands, but Le Creuset was the original, predating Staub by about 50 years. Le Creuset is loved for its variety of colors, seasonal designs, and matching kitchen accessories. They are most popular with home cooks.

Staub is often preferred by professionally-trained chefs – myself included. I think they offer slightly superior performance in braising and slow cooking. The colorways are certainly simpler and more limited, but I think they are chic and timeless. Both brands are equally easy to clean.

If aesthetics and variety are your priorities, Le Creuset might be the better fit. For those seeking performance and simplicity, Staub takes the edge for me.

Are Staub and Le Creuset worth the price?

I can assure you that Staub and Le Creuset are absolutely worth the price if you’re looking for durable, high-performance cookware that stands the test of time. The premium pots and pans aren't just good-looking; they offer excellent heat retention and distribution for delicious food. Plus, the enamel coatings eliminate the need for seasoning and make cleanup very easy.

While the upfront cost is significant, these are investment pieces that can last a lifetime with proper care, and their versatility means you’ll use them frequently. Plus, the chic French designs and fun range of colors are sure to elevate any kitchen. You'll definitely want to keep them on display.

You can head to the Le Creuset website to check out the entire Valentine's collection, which includes some cute pieces from last year. There are also more fry pans and pots available in Staub's Pink Peony collection at Williams Sonoma. I am yet to test Staub's fry pans, but they are definitely worth perusing. Who knows, you might want to make perfect pancakes on Valentine's Day!

From the microwave craze in the 1980s to the Sodastream buzz, kitchen appliance trends have always kept up with the times, making life a little easier – and much more delicious. But over the years, they’ve become so much more than tools for cooking. Now, they help set the mood, reflect our style, and make the kitchen the true heart of the home.

Looking ahead to 2025, kitchens are becoming even more inviting, blending smart innovations with warm, natural touches. From appliances that disappear into the design to materials that bring a touch of nature indoors, here’s a peek at the trends that will make your kitchen the happiest space in the house.

1. Invisible appliances

Camouflage kitchens are taking the design world by storm as we move into 2025. And this wouldn't be possible without invisible appliances. There's no better example of this than Novy's Undercover induction hob. Seamlessly integrated into the worktop, it's virtually invisible – with just LED indicators and a modern remote control panel.

Novy's extractor fans elevate this trend even further, often disguised as shelves or within your ceiling. Combining silence and invisible elegance, this transforms the kitchen into a truly multifunctional space. Whether you're cooking, working, or dining on your worktop, you can enjoy a clutter-free, serene environment.

2. AGA islands

AGAs are set to keep bringing their English country charm to kitchens in 2025. They'll never go out of style, and I've actually spotted AGAs shifting towards the center of attention, quite literally, as part of kitchen islands.

One stunning example comes from Devol Kitchens, where dark cabinetry frames a blush-toned AGA, creating a rustic kitchen island that feels timeless and full of personality.

Thanks to their vitreous enamel coating, AGAs come in a rainbow of colors, offering endless possibilities to make them the heart of your kitchen. Whether you opt for a bold hue to create a statement or a softer shade for subtle charm, an AGA island is a beautiful way to get your loved ones gathered around the stove.

3. Natural alchemy

Natural materials are stepping into the spotlight in 2025, bringing a warm, earthy anti-dote to high-tech appliances. Think hand-hammered details, soft curves in wood grain, and textures that make cooking feel inviting and authentic.

KitchenAid’s walnut wood bowl is a perfect example of this trend. When I tested the new design, the materials didn't just look beautiful in my kitchen – they offered a tactile experience that made baking feel more grounded and connected. A refreshing change from the slickness of modern tech.

This shift toward natural textures reflects a deeper priority: creating spaces that feel comforting and meaningful. Instead of chasing the latest gadgets, people are looking for designs that spark joy, encourage connection, and remind us of the simple pleasures of being in the kitchen.

4. Quiet luxury

In a world full of noise, quiet luxury is a welcome reprieve. Silent appliances like whisper-quiet blenders and air fryers are gaining traction, appealing to mindful cooks who prioritize peaceful environments. These innovations cut down on the hustle and bustle, allowing the kitchen to become a space for mindful cooking and relaxation.

'The kitchen is no longer just a utilitarian space for cooking' says Sabah Mansoor of Sabah Mansoor Design. 'It’s becoming a central gathering place for family and friends, where people can connect, relax, and enjoy each other’s company.' Quiet appliances allow you to create harmonious, multi-functional spaces – where you can cook, dine, and gather, all while enhancing your well-being.

5. Vintage appliances

The nostalgia trend from 2024 is making its way into kitchen appliances, as more people are opting for pieces that tell a story and feel personal rather than following mainstream trends.

I've been spotting vintage moka pots, retro-style Cuisinarts straight out of the 1950s, and even custom-designed espresso machines on TikTok. I was a particular fan of Stanley Tucci's vintage Italian-style colors of his cookware collection which launched at the end of this year; a trend I expect to grow in 2025.

These nostalgic touches bring a sense of character and individuality to modern kitchens. It’s all about blending the past and present to create a space that’s as meaningful as it is functional.

6. Cherry red

Earlier this week, Pinterest predicted 2025 interiors trends. Amid themes like castlecore and surreal dinner parties, they spotlighted cherry red as the color of the year. Dubbed a 'dopamine color' for its mood-boosting, energizing qualities, cherry red strikes the perfect balance between bold and sophisticated. I like to think of it as a more grown-up take on the unexpected red theory.

This tone can instantly transform a kitchen, adding a striking pop of color and uplifting energy to your everyday routines. Le Creuset's Rhône collection exemplifies this beautifully. Though launched over two years ago, the collection is now bang on trend. The Rhone tea kettle is my favorite piece – a nod to the vintage trend, too.

7. Non-toxic stainless steel

As health and wellness remain top priorities for many of us, more people are turning to the best non-toxic appliances to create safer kitchens in 2025.

Stainless steel is leading the way, loved for its durability, easy maintenance, and most importantly, its safety.

Unlike cheap plastics, stainless steel won’t leach harmful chemicals into your food or drinks, making it a go-to choice for health-conscious cooks. Its sleek, timeless look is just a bonus, blending seamlessly into any kitchen style while giving you peace of mind.

Whether it’s the sensorial texture of natural materials, the nostalgic charm of vintage-inspired appliances, or the quiet confidence of health-focused choices, I can't wait to see what 2025 brings us. Here’s to a year of kitchen appliances that inspire, comfort, and help us enjoy cooking even more.

The holiday season is here, and you’ve probably RSVP’d to at least one Friendsgiving, potluck, or festive dinner. Your dish is planned, your outfit is ready – but just as you step out the door, the inevitable question arises: How on earth will you get your culinary masterpiece to the party?

Transporting a heavy, hot Dutch oven is a logistical challenge I’ve faced too many times. As a trained chef, I’m laser-focused on making sure my dish is perfect, but the moment I hit the road, I’m plagued by visions of spilled sauces, cold casseroles, and my hard work turning into a mess in the backseat.

Enter Le Creuset’s new Dutch Oven Tote Bag – your new party plus one. This genius accessory doesn’t just transport your food; it does so with a chic, practical flair. Le Creuset promises your dish will arrive in one piece, still warm, and free from potluck horror stories. Trust me, I’ve been there. So put away those flimsy, plastic carriers; this tote is the savior you didn’t know you needed.

I was expecting it to be eye-wateringly expensive, but the Le Creuset Dutch Oven Tote Bag is retailing at $75, which I think is a justifiable price, since it comes with a five-year warranty and is bound to be your trusted Thanksgiving carrier for years to come.

You could even use it to safely store your Le Creuset cookware at home, keeping protected away from damp corners, potential scratches, and other Dutch oven disasters.

Plus, let’s be honest: the best part about this tote is the conversation starter. When people inevitably ask where you got that adorable bag, you can casually say, 'Oh, it’s Le Creuset!'

Is it a bag or a gift? It’s both!

Beyond being a lifesaver for your holiday hosting duties, the Le Creuset Dutch Oven Tote Bag is also the perfect hostess gift. If there’s a foodie in your life who dreams of owning something from Le Creuset, but splurging on a Dutch oven feels like too much, this tote strikes the perfect balance – practical, thoughtful, and affordable.

I've actually bought the Le Creuset Dutch Oven Tote Bag for my mom, since she has tonnes of holiday parties in the calendar. I can't wait to see what she thinks.

More affordable, but chic Le Creuset Gifts

As a trained cook and kitchen appliances tester, I’ve spent the past year curating a list of my ultimate kitchen gift guide. These are my favorite, more affordable Le Creuset pieces in the Black Friday sales – perfect gifts for sizzling, celebrating, and sipping in style.

At the end of the day, domestic goddess and my culinary Icon, Nigella Lawson, commented on the launch of the Le Creuset Dutch Oven Tote Bag simply saying: 'Brilliant.' And honestly, that's all the endorsement I needed. I can't wait to try it out for myself.

This has been my favorite gift guide to curate this year and in researching for this edit, I have ticked a fair few people off my list. I often find the best gifts under $100 can often be the best gifts full stop and often the most thoughtful too.

Honestly, as well as the most enjoyable to pick for, this gift guide is also the one I have spent the longest on. You can shop fast when money is no object, but put a budget on there and you'll be more conscious of what you buy and who you are buying for, hence way I think these smaller gifts can be the most well-received.

So if you are on the hunt for really chic, impressive, thoughtful gifts that won't break the bank but your friends, family, colleagues, hosts, or whoever you are shopping for, will love, I have you covered right here.

The best gifts you can buy for under $100

$100 can get you a long way in the world of gifting. In this gift guide, you'll find a top-rated blender, the viral Always Pan that's massively on sale right now, luxury La Mer products, and more, yep all under $100. And if you have more shopping to do be sure to check out our other gift guides covering the best homeware gifts, best kitchen gifts, and best gifts for gardeners too.

I have hope you have found some inspiration in our under $100 gift guide. I would be rejoiced to receive any one of these, and as I mentioned I have bought some of these picks as gifts already. Putting a budget on your gifts doesn't limit you at all, as all these products prove there's still so much to choose from and these gifts are every bit as thoughtful as gifts double the price.

If there were a celebrity of Dutch ovens, Le Creuset would be it. The tried and true cooking accessory, which is as chic as it is long-wearing, is practically a status symbol of a kitchen accessory, with many coveting the brand.

Eva Longoria is among their fans, having recently shared a clip to Instagram of herself making white pozole in her cherry red Le Creuset.

While the Le Creuset comes in a range of colors including black, white, orange, and teal, we love how the Cerise shade taps into the unexpected red theory, providing a decorative element to any stovetop as well as countless technical benefits. The best part? It's on sale on Amazon now for $315.

A staple for making warming, seasonally-appropriate meals, such as soups and stews, the Le Creuset's reputation certainly precedes it; however, there are some alternatives that experts also enjoy and recommend.

'I love using my Dutch oven for easy, one-pot recipes,' Lydia Hayman, Homes & Gardens' kitchen appliances editor states. 'It’s my savior in wintertime. The enamel surface helps to achieve a lovely, brown sear on meat: adding flavor to hearty chillis, beef bourguignon, or chicken casserole. Personally, I have a Staub dish, which I use to make delicious Spanish chicken and rice. I brown the chicken first to get a delicious fond on the bottom of the pan. Then, I deglaze it with wine and add saucy tomatoes, broth, and rice. The best part is you can put the entire dish in the oven and cover it with a lid, so the flavors can gently infuse.'

However, there are some preventative measures to be mindful of before you even consider how to clean an enameled cast iron pan – and it starts with how you cook.

'My top tip for using the Dutch oven is to use a generous amount of oil and cook on a medium-low heat, so you don’t get burnt bits stuck on the bottom,' Hayman suggests. 'Also, remember to use oven gloves on those handles when you’re lifting it out of the oven!'

Below, we have rounded up Hayman's favorite Dutch oven and some additional soup season accessories. Happy shopping!

H&G's Soup Season Essentials

I never imagined I would find my dream house in a place inhabited by Britain's favorite fictional bear, but my visit to Paddington's home proved me wrong. The Primrose Hill townhouse is bold, maximal, and full of personality. At every corner, I was struck with unique, storied design inspiration that made me want to immediately purchase a house in the English capital just to fill it with chinoiserie wallpaper and trinkets from my travels.

The English country decor home was created by the team at Airbnb to celebrate the upcoming release of the Paddington in Peru film. It's inspired by the home Paddington shares with the Brown family in the film adaptations of his story, and every detail looks just like the movies. Though I expected to experience movie magic during my visit, I was not prepared for how beautiful I would find the space from a design perspective.

Even though I grew up in New England, the old English country style has always been one of my favorite looks. I love how full of history, life, and pattern British design style is and the way it feels unafraid of having a big personality. I can't say it's not one of the things that brought me to London. If you too dream of living in a house worthy of Paddington Bear, here are the top five lessons I am taking from the home.

1. Books Are Always The Best Decor

Bookshelf wealth was the trend of 2024, and in Paddington's living room, it's easy to see why. Ceiling-high bookshelves overshadow the need for any other decor, bringing instant color and hominess. Beyond the bookshelves, I especially love how the Airbnb team used antique books in alcoves and corners for unexpected warmth.

2. You Can Never Have Too Much Wallpaper

Wallpaper is one of the simplest ways to add pattern and character to your interiors, and it's especially striking in the Browns' bedroom. Rather than shying away from patterns in the rest of the room, the team took the bright paper as a cue to fill it with space with shapes, textures, and colors. I was especially struck by how this room was brought together by all the little details, like the glossy shells in the fireplace (see lesson number five).

3. Don't Be Afraid of a Gallery Wall

We are always talking about 'overlooked' spaces at Homes & Gardens, because tending to them can take your interior design from good to great. The hallways throughout Paddington Bear's home prove the rule. There was nary a staircase that the Airbnb team had not transformed with a gallery wall. These eclectic designs incorporating a variety of plates, frames, photographs, and paintings can be used in any home to create a collage of personal history.

4. Embrace Artful Clutter

Spaces like Paddington's bedroom and the Browns' bathroom (no bear-facilitated flood included) showed me the value of displaying personal effects in every space. The surfaces in both rooms are host to a variety of decorative objects, colorful textiles, and eye-catching garlands. Though clutter has historically been associated with visual overwhelm, clutter is also what makes rooms feel lived-in. Post-visit, I'm seriously considering embracing the 'recluttering' trend.

5. The Joy is in the Details

The blue and yellow kitchen was is far my favorite room in Paddington Bear's home. Though the bright countertops and vertical storage are eye-catching, it's the red accents that take the kitchen to the next level. A variety of retro-style Smeg Appliances and red and orange Le Creuset pots brings in a new color with just styling. By paying attention to seemingly 'small' details, the Airbnb team infused this space with a unique personality.

If you want to experience Paddington Bear's home for yourself, bookings for the Airbnb open at 9AM (GMT) on November 3, 2024. In the meantime, incorporating patterns, books, and intentional clutter can help you accomplish the same stunning English country style in any space.

I absolutely love thrift shopping. I truly believe there is nothing better than entering a secondhand treasure trove and leaving with a bag full of sustainably shopped goods.

However, professional cleaners are warning us that introducing these second-hand treasures into our homes could bring in unwanted guests too, and the last thing I want to welcome through my door is germs. That is why they always sanitize thrift store items before use.

Here, the pros reveal the seven thrift store items you should always sanitize before using, and share their cleaning tips to get the job done.

7 thrift store items you should always sanitize before using

These cleaning secrets will ensure your new 'old' items can enjoy a new lease of second, third, or even fourth life – without the worry of bacteria.

1. Cookware

Thrift stores are a great way to shop sustainably and a brilliant place to pick up secondhand cookware – I've even stumbled across some amazing finds from Le Creuset hidden amongst the shelves. But, cookware is one of the items you should always sanitize before using, advises Forrest Webber, cleaning expert and founder of Bear Brothers Cleaning.

He says, 'That cast iron skillet might look like it's ready for your next gourmet masterpiece, but just remember – it's got a backstory, and it involves a lot of old grease and probably some mystery crumbs.'

So, to clean your cookware, Webber recommends giving them a good scrub with hot, soapy water, using dish soap such as the bestselling Dawn Ultra Dish Soap Dishwashing Liquid available at Walmart. And, if it's oven-safe, Webber recommends baking it at 400°F for 20 minutes to kill off any remaining germs.

He adds, 'Consider it a "reset button" for all the meals that came before,' just be sure you're aware of any mistakes to avoid when cleaning kitchenware, like using abrasive pads or leaving wooden items to soak.

In fact, if you're unsure how to care for wooden cutting boards, I recently tried Stanley Tucci's unusual method for cleaning a chopping board, and it's an ingenious way to give any you find at the thrift store a second life.

2. Glassware

I've found some of my best glassware at the thrift store, but, much like cookware, anything involving eating or drinking needs sanitizing before use, warns Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless.

She says, 'These can harbor bacteria, especially around rims and in cracks. Wash in hot, soapy water or run through the dishwasher on the sanitize cycle.'

If you do opt to use your best dishwasher, we recommend the Cascade Platinum Dishwasher Detergent Pods available at Walmart to give glasses a virtually spot-free shine, but ensure you handwash all delicate or detailed glassware.

And, if you often find yourself wondering why are my glasses going cloudy in the dishwasher, don't worry. Knowing how to remove cloudiness from drinking glasses is as easy as grabbing the household supplies needed out your pantry.

3. Bedding & clothing

Cleaning expert Webber says that thrifted bedding is another item you should always sanitize before using, warning, 'Dust mites love a good thrifted duvet just as much as you do.'

To avoid frantically researching how to get rid of dust mites, as well as snuggling up in someones unsanitized sheets and bedding, Webber recommends washing everything on the hottest setting it can handle, and using white vinegar in laundry for added freshness. Then, tumble dry on a high heat, provided you're not washing any things to never put in a dryer.

The same goes for clothing, says Alessandro Gazzo, professional cleaner at Emily's Maids. He advises, 'Sanitize anything you will wear or be in direct contact with for more than ten minutes. Check the care tags to find out the highest water temperature you can use for that specific fabric first.'

If you're unsure of how to decipher care tags, our essential guide to laundry symbols offers expert guidance on understanding them once and for all.

4. Electronics

Picking up a second-hand electronic that's in working condition at the thrift store can really feel like striking gold – I've picked up three perfect cameras before. But, Rhonda Wilson, quality lead cleaner at FreshSpace Cleaning notes that these should always be carefully sanitized before use.

She says, 'Thrift store treasures have a history. They've been touched by various people, and while I'm all for the stories they carry, I don't want to bring home anyone else's germs or allergens.'

For electronics, Wilson recommends spraying a microfiber cloth, such as the bestselling Eyliden Microfiber Cleaning Cloths available at Walmart with Lysol Disinfectant Spray, which is available at Amazon.

She continues, 'Some spray it directly, but this method will make sure none of the cleaner gets into the crevices,' or use Lysol Disinfectant Wipes available at Amazon for a stress-free solution to clean a monitor or clean a laptop screen.

There are, however, cleaning methods to avoid damaging a TV, so it's important to be clued up on these if you don't want to cause lasting damage.

5. Upholstered furniture

If you've recently sourced some sustainable furniture, it's prudent to know how to clean upholstery.

Cleaning expert Webber says, 'That beautiful armchair? It's not just vintage; it's also home to decades of secrets. And by secrets, I mean crumbs, pet hair, and maybe even a weird smell or two.'

So, begin by using your best vacuum to eliminate any dust, and, if you've got one, your best steam cleaner, too. If you don't, Webber recommends using a fabric-safe disinfectant spray, such as the Tide Antibacterial Fabric Spray available at Walmart, which kills 99.9% of bacteria when used as directed.

6. Stuffed toys

Wondering how to wash stuffed animals, or the best way to clean and disinfect baby toys?

Professional cleaner Gazzo says, 'You should definitely sanitize plush toys and toys for your pets. We all know kids and pets love biting anything they see, and toys are filled with bacteria. Fortunately, most of them are washing-machine safe.'

If they're not, hand wash using delicate detergent, such as Woolite, available at Walmart, or use baking soda, such as the ARM & HAMMER Pure Baking Soda available at Walmart to effectively deodorize them without water. This method will, however, still require a form of sanitization beforehand.

7. Shoes

Around the home, there are many things you can clean with baking soda, and cleaning expert Wilson recommends using it to sanitize secondhand shoes.

She suggests, 'For items with a bit of a smell, use baking soda. Sprinkle a generous amount, and let it sit for a few hours or overnight. Then, just vacuum it up or shake it off.'

It's seriously as easy as that! If your shoes need more serious sanitizing, you can wash shoes in a washing machine, or use disinfectant.

Additionally, cleaning expert Webber says, 'Thrifted shoes are great for the wallet, but let's not forget – they've been places. Literal places. And those places might include some questionable foot fungus.'

So, Webber recommends wiping down the outside with disinfectant wipes or spray, and, like Wilson, suggests using baking soda for the inside. He continues, 'This will make those shoes smell less like someone else's adventures, and more like yours.'

I'm all for shopping sustainably, but there are things you should never buy in a thrift store, according to feng shui experts.

Avoid mirrors, mattresses and anything damaged, chipped or cracked to bypass bringing any negative energy into your space.

When dealing with slow-draining sinks or clogged bathtubs, it can be difficult to work out exactly what is causing bothersome blockages, particularly if they're recurring.

In both your kitchen and bathroom, there are a number of things that you might be putting down the drains that could be causing problems without you even realizing it. Luckily, this makes it preventable the majority of the time.

We spoke to professional cleaners and drainage experts for their thoughts on the surprising things that might be clogging your drains, and their cleaning tips to prevent them from happening again.

6 surprising things that are clogging your drains

Pouring any old waste and products down your household drains is an easy plumbing disaster to avoid. Simply switching up a few minor habits can help to prevent slow draining, terrible odors and drainage mistakes affecting water runoff.

1. Hair

Perhaps one of the more well-known culprits of shower and bath blockages – hair is a common clogger that is difficult to avoid and could be the reason your sink won't drain.

'Hair is a big one,' says Tyler Tranni, an expert in home remodeling at Tranni Home Remodelling. 'It gets wrapped around drains and stuck, blocking water flow.'

As it's inevitable that hair will come into contact with your shower and bath drains, it's best to use a hair catcher to stop it actually going down, such as the number one bestselling TubShroom Ultra Revolutionary Bath Tub Drain Protector Hair Catcher available at Amazon. This is guaranteed to catch most of the hair, every time you shower. Better yet, it can then be easily and effortlessly removed and emptied to prevent blockages and ensure nice-smelling shower drains.

'Clean them regularly,' reminds Tranni, to prevent them getting clogged up themselves.

2. Rust

Another common, surprising thing that could be clogging your drains is rust – particularly in older homes with older pipework.

Jason Best, plumbing expert and founder of Sewer Repairs explains, 'Over time, the insides of cast iron sewer pipes rust and corrode'. If you suspect this is what is causing clogs in your drains, or is a plumbing issue you have discovered when renovating a house, you should hire a professional handyman to deal with the problem.

'Our pipe descaling equipment scrapes away built-up rust and scale so clogs can pass through freely again,' says Best. 'For severely deteriorated cast iron pipes, we often recommend replacement using trenchless CIPP lining. This involves inserting a resin-impregnated liner which hardens in place to create a “pipe within a pipe.”'

This is also one of the reasons why you shouldn't use vinegar and baking soda to unclog a drain, even though homeowners are often urged to pour vinegar down drains, as it may weaken the integrity of pipework and exacerbate rusting.

3. Cooking grease

It can be difficult to know how to dispose of cooking oil, but pouring it down your sink is never recommended.

Josh Mitchell, plumbing technician and owner of Plumbing Lab warns, 'Grease solidifies inside plumbing, catching other debris and forming clogs. Never pour grease down the drain. Instead, pour it into a container and throw it in the trash,' once it has solidified. Mitchell also recommends using a grease disposal system.

If you have poured grease down your drain, use a heavy-duty kitchen drain unblocker such as Drano from Amazon, to help clear the block quickly and before it gets worse.

Learn the four best ways to dispose of cooking fat.

4. Soap scum and mineral buildup

Surprisingly, soap scum may also be contributing to clogged drains – which can feel unavoidable.

'Traditional bar soaps contain fats that combine with minerals in water to create a hard residue,' says plumbing technician Mitchell.

To avoid this, try switching to liquid soap, or soap-free cleansers to reduce scum. We recommend the Aesop Reverence Aromatique Hand Wash available at Amazon, which leaves skin polished and supple, without causing any blockages.

You may also want to consider using a water softener, such as the Aquasure Harmony Series 48,000 Grains Whole House Water Softener available at Amazon to minimize mineral deposits in your water, suggests Mitchell, which can help to reduce soap scum buildup.

'For heavy limescale, commercial limescale removers are best,' advises general contractor Jason Lamprey from Square One Construction Services. 'Applied regularly, they prevent buildup and keep drains flowing freely.' These can also be used to remove limescale from taps, shower glass and to clean faucet heads.

5. Coffee grounds

After a much-needed caffeine fix, plumbing technician Mitchell warns against pouring leftover coffee grounds down your sink.

'Coffee grounds stick together and easily get caught in your drain's tap,' he says. 'Instead, throw coffee grounds in the trash, or add them to your compost pile.' Coffee grounds make great fertilizer for houseplants and are good for plants when creating an eco-friendly garden.

'Consider a French press for coffee making, which keeps grounds contained and out of your sink,' adds Mitchell.

6. Flushable baby and makeup wipes

While flushable baby and makeup wipes claim to not cause clogs, expert in home remodelling Tranni advises that they should not be flushed down the drain, and could be the cause of your slow-draining toilet.

'Though marketed as “flushable,” they don’t break down easily and accumulate to clog pipes,' he says. 'Instead, I suggest throwing wipes in the trash, not the toilet. For existing clogs, using a plumber’s snake or hydrojet can usually clear them.'

Also, consider using a more environmentally friendly alternative to wipes, such as reusable cloths and liquid cleansers.

FAQs

Do dishwasher and laundry pods clog drains?

When used correctly according to instructions, dishwasher and laundry pods will not cause clogs. However, if you're making mistakes with your laundry pods, such as using too many, excess detergent can accumulate and cause a blockage.

Cutting down on laundry detergent will therefore protect your pipes and, surprisingly, make your clothes feel better, too.

What is the best chemical to unblock drains?

When it comes to unblocking rather than prevention, caustic soda is the most effective substance to use.

This will efficiently break up clogs and get things moving again, and it can also handily be used to clean a bathroom sink.

Alternatively, you can also use the Alka-Seltzer hack to clear slow-moving drains.

If your kitchen sink or dishwasher won't drain, it could be the result of a clogged garbage disposal.

This can be cleaned by turning off the garbage disposal, manually breaking up blockages, using ice to clean the garbage disposal, or cleaning it with baking soda and cleaning with vinegar. If in doubt, always consult a professional plumber for their expertise, especially when dealing with dangerous appliances.

As the weather gets colder, many of us will be turning to a trusty fire pit to keep us cozy on chilly fall nights. A fire pit is a great way to use your garden even as the temperatures begin to drop, providing rustic warmth that can keep a gathering going long into the evening.

The best fire pits are also versatile because you can use them to cook. However, you don't have to stick to tried-and-tested campfire food like s'mores or marshmallows on sticks.

I spoke to a chef and a grilling expert about how to cook on a fire pit, and they gave me four simple methods. With these techniques, the humble fire pit can rival even the best grill.

1. Cook using a grill grate

The best way to cook over a fire pit is to use a grill grate. With a grill grate, you can cook anything you can usually cook on a grill. It's exactly the same process as grilling, so you can make burgers, hot dogs, and anything else you like to grill.

Grilling expert Kita Roberts says 'To use a grilling grate on a fire pit, measure the fire pit and purchase a grilling grate that will cover the available surface from edge to edge.' These are easy to find on Amazon or in camping stores. You can also use a campfire grill like this from BBQ Guys, but this can be a little limited if you want to cook for a lot of people.

The most important thing is to make sure the grill grate is above the fire, not directly on top of it. If your grill grate is on top of the fire, your food will get sooty and taste like ash.

Most fire pit grates have legs or spokes to keep them above the fire, but you don't need this. Kita suggests 'If your fire pit doesn't have a lip that is tall enough to hold the grate above the heat, consider using cinderblocks stacked on either side to hold the grate over the heat.'

With that sorted, the process is the same as cooking on a grill. Chef Rich Parente says 'Let the grill grates preheat before cooking, make sure they’re clean, season with a bit of oil and you’re ready to go.'

2. Pans and skillets

You are not just limited to grilling on a fire pit. You can use pans, skillets, and woks to cook things that would otherwise fall through the gaps in a grill grate.

Chef Rich Parente says 'A pan can go right on top of the grill grate, the same way it would on a regular stovetop.' You don't need to do anything fancy, just place it over the top of the grill grate.

Kita told me that this gives you great control: 'You can move the pan from side to side to control the temperature a little easier.' This is especially great for making steak - you can pan-sear it in garlic or rosemary butter, making for a juicier steak than if you just grill it over the fire.

The only thing to bear in mind is that you should use a cast-iron skillet or pan. This is because the coating on nonstick pans can break down at high heat. Not only will this break your pan, but it's toxic and could cause health problems. That's why Kita says 'I only recommend heavy-duty cast iron for cooking over an open fire if you need to use pots and pans.' Cast iron is much more durable. Plus, you can get them really hot for cooking meat. Kita says 'You can lay them right over the coals and let them get hot for high-heat searing.'

3. Dutch oven

You don't even need a grill grate. It takes a little more effort, but another great way to cook on a fire pit is with a Dutch oven. There's a couple of ways you can do this. The first is just like the other methods above. Rich Parente 'You can use a pot or Dutch oven with a fire pit the same way you would use a pan.'

However, you have another option. You can suspend the pot over the fire to cook with it. Rich says 'If the pot can hang, then you can also buy a tripod or build one with sticks so it can sit over the open fire and boil away.' You can find cheap tripods on Amazon.

If you don't want the hassle of a camping tripod, you have another option. Kita says you can 'Nestle your Dutch oven on the side of the fire and rotate it occasionally to avoid burning as comforting dishes like chili or beans cook inside.'

If you need a Dutch oven, our tests show that Le Creuset or Staub Dutch ovens are best but the Our Place Perfect Pot is an acceptable alternative on a budget.

4. Wrap food items in foil

Finally, for a simple method that doesn't need any new equipment, just use foil. It doesn't get easier than this - just wrap whatever you're cooking in several tight layers of foil and put it straight in the fire.

It takes a little trial and error because you can't monitor the food as it cooks, but it's a simple way to bake salmon or potatoes. It's not as versatile as other methods, but it tastes just as good.

FAQs

What should I use as fuel in my fire pit?

If you're going to cook in your fire pit, make sure you use food-safe wood. Firewood expert Leroy Hite says 'I recommend a high-end hardwood firewood. Hickory wood is great for a bolder flavor and does well with steaks and other red meat. Pecan and cherry woods are more subtle and impart a sweet, slightly nutty flavor to proteins and work well with pork and chicken.'

The fact that you can cook on a fire pit is one of things that makes it more versatile than a patio heater. However, cooking over an open fire isn't always the safest. Chef Parente has a great tip - you can use leather welding gloves or grill gloves so that you can grab hot foil out of the fire.

If, like me, you were heartbroken to hear that Le Creuset were discontinuing the beloved Meringue colorway, you are about to wholeheartedly forgive them. Le Creuset has officially launched the final color of the year – Nuit – and this deep, velvety blue is shaping up to be my favorite shade yet.

Le Creuset says, 'Nuit is an intense and evocative hue inspired by the mystery of the night. Like a moonlit ocean, the luxurious, velvety color swirls from black to true blue.'

To complement the deep blue shade, Le Creuset's Nuit collection is the first to feature a chrome knob. Each cast iron pot is adorned with a durable, circular handle – not just functional, but reminiscent of a silver moon in the midnight sky.

I've already put the mini cocottes on my Christmas list (a little early I know, but I'm dreaming of serving indulgent desserts at a New Year's dinner party). Here's our guide to the new Le Creuset color, including all the models our kitchen team has tested and approved (some are even in the Le Creuset sale already).

Shop the Nuit by Le Creuset Collection

This luxurious new collection is only available on Le Creuset's official site and their selected retailer, Crate & Barrel.

FAQS

Soft and serene, the Meringue colorway was an instant classic for Le Creuset. A timeless choice for wedding registries and elegant kitchens, fans were rightly saddened by Le Creuset's recent announcement.

In a short Instagram post (which could have easily slipped under your radar) Le Creuset said, “Last chance for Meringue. Shop your favorite pieces (now on sale!) before they're gone for good.”

That brings us to the sweetener... Meringue isn't gone just yet. We found a secret sale on Amazon, featuring select pieces. Which means there's still time to scoop up some Le Creuset deals and complete your collection, before Meringue disappears forever.

Last chance to shop Meringue

What's the best alternative to Meringue?

Thankfully, Meringue isn't the only chic neutral that Le Creuset has to offer. If you're ready to start fresh, we have another recommendation – a new shade for Le Creuset, White.

Where to shop Le Creuset Deals

Le Creuset makes some of the most coveted cookware, kitchenware, and tableware on the market. Crafted from stone, cast iron, and durable ceramics, they are incredibly high quality and rarely on sale. With Meringue going out of stock, Le Creuset have some 'last chance' deals on their website, but Amazon has the best bargains I've seen so far.

FAQS

Whether you're shopping for sheets and shams, tableware, or decor, you'll find plenty of options at Nordstrom. Home to big-name brands, including Le Creuset, Stanley, and Staub, and countless smaller specialist stores, Nordstrom offers luxury items at affordable prices.

As an eCommerce Editor, I spend eight hours a day window-shopping some of the world's best home retailers. Price-wise, Nordstrom is comfortably middle-of-the-pack. Compared to the likes of Walmart and Wayfair, Nordstrom decor and appliances are often more expensive, but they're several cuts above in terms of quality. I've learned to shop the Nordstrom sales to get the best value for money and I want to share my wisdom with you.

Below, I'll drop some quick links so that you can shop the Nordstrom sales by department. Then, I'll dive into the details of the best times to shop at Nordstrom and explain a little more about what constitutes a good deal, drawing on my experience as a sales hunter.

Where to find the best Nordstrom deals

• Nordstrom Home sale: browse everything on offer in the Nordstrom home department
• Nordstrom bedding sale: save on sheets and shams from Nordstrom's own as well as big-name brands
• Nordstrom decor sale: shop for seasonal decorations and stylish accents
• Nordstrom tabletop & kitchen sale: save on Stanley, Le Creuset, and Staub

When is the best time to get a deal at Nordstrom?

Nordstrom Anniversary sales

The exact timing of the Nordstrom Anniversary sales varies from year to year, and exact dates won't be released until nearer the time, but it typically runs for a few weeks between July and August.

This is Nordstrom's biggest sale of the year, in terms of breadth of deals and depth of discounts. You could save on everything from home goods to beauty products. This sort of site-wide sale is a great opportunity to snap up items on your wish list for less.

Nordstrom Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales

This year, Black Friday falls on November 28, but I'd expect discounts to start dropping a week in advance and run through Cyber Monday on December 1. If you're a Nordstrom cardholder, you'll get early access to the Nordstrom Black Friday sales, so you can snap up best-selling items before they go out of stock.

Black Friday is one of the best times to shop anywhere online, as stores compete to offer the lowest prices across the widest range of products. In previous years, I've seen deep discounts on out-of-season items, including summer and fall decor, as Nordstrom attempts to shift old stock in time for the new season. I've seen deals on big-name brands, including Nike, Ugg, and Le Creuset.

Nordstrom Half Yearly Sale

If you missed the Nordstrom Anniversary sales over the summer, you don't have to wait a whole year: you can still save in December. In previous years, I've seen discounts as deep as 60% in the Nordstrom after-Christmas sales, touching everything from candles to kitchenware.

How can you tell if you've found a good deal at Nordstrom?

Join the Nordy Club rewards program

As a Nordy Club member, you earn points when you shop. These points go towards Nordstrom Notes, at a ratio of 100:1 – so, for every 100 points you earn, you get a $1 Nordstrom Note.

You can spend your Notes on any item in-store or online. If you want to earn more points, keep an eye out for bonus points events during seasonal shopping events, such as Memorial Day and Labor Day.

As a Nordy Club member, you'll get free two-day shipping, as well as early access to sales events.

There are three different strata inside the Nordy Club: Influencers; Ambassadors; and Icons. Think of it as Bronze, Silver, and Gold: the more you spend, the higher you rise within the Nordy Club, and the better benefits you'll attain, including earlier access to sales and deeper discounts.

Shop at Nordstrom Rack

Nordstrom Rack is a clearance store, where you'll find unsold and overstocked items listed for less, alongside designer items from a few seasons ago.

When you shop the Nordstrom Rack Home deals, you can save up 75% on electronics, accessories, decor, and soft furnishings.

FAQs

Why is Nordstrom Rack so cheap?

Nordstrom Rack is essentially a clearance store, selling last season's or overstocked items.

Nordstrom Rack returns are notoriously tricky: you've only got 45 days to return any unwanted items to get a full refund. If your product is damaged, used, worn, or marked as non-returnable, then you won't be able to exchange your item.

Why is Nordstrom so expensive?

Compared to Target, Walmart, or Wayfair, Nordstrom is more expensive, but they stock much more aspirational brands: Vera Wang bedding, Zwilling kitchen utensils, and Le Creuset cookware, to name a few. When you shop the Nordstrom sales, you can pick up these designer items for less.

If you want to buy furniture, as well as decor and homeware, I suggest you shop for Target deals too. You get a much greater breadth of deals and depth of discounts, and often lower starting prices than you find at Nordstrom.

We've seen plenty of light pastel hues across new collections of cookware and kitchenware in the run-up to the summer season, and this week, it was Le Creuset's turn to bring the sunshine.

Playful, pretty, and pink, Le Creuset announced that its new colorway, 'pêche' is 'fresh, modern, and on-trend'. You can pick up the pêche stoneware in a limited edition collection of the brand's most iconic stoneware and cast iron – but you better act fast, we predict that this new launch of some of the best Le Creuset buys will sell out pretty quickly.

Here's everything you need to know about the beautiful new launch as well as our favorite buys from the collection – now on sale.

The pêche will be available exclusively on Le Creuset's site, so that's the best place to shop the collection. In the US, we have over 70 pêche products made from stoneware and cast iron, but some special pieces are actually in the sale. Here are my favorites.

Shop the pêche collection

So, should you buy Le Creuset? 

Nobody does luxury quite like Le Creuset. Their stoneware and cast iron will last you for a lifetime and, if you look after it correctly, everything should still look as good as new for years to come. Adding a splash of peachy pêche to your table will help to make your summer tablescape brighter and full of color.

Hebe Hatton, our head of Interiors, said 'This new summery shade is perfect if you're a lover of pastels. If (like me) you already have an extensive Le Creuset collection, buying just one piece from the new launch, like the lasagna dish, can uplift your spring and summer table with a wonderful note of color, perfect for pairing with pretty greens, other pinks, blues and yellows – the end result will look beautiful.'

FAQs

Where can I buy Le Creuset's pêche collection?

The line of seventy products is exclusively available on the Le Creuset website. The stock is all limited edition, so I don't think it'll hang around.

What's in Le Creuset's pêche collection?

All of Le Creuset's new launches and best sellers are in the pêche collection, so if there's a product that you particularly like, you can bet money that it will be available in the new colorway.

Whether you're shopping for cast-iron cookware, dainty dinnerware, or hardworking appliances, you'll find everything you need to prepare meals and set the table at Williams Sonoma.

As an eCommerce Editor, I spend my days window-shopping the world's best home retailers. Williams Sonoma offers a wider range of products, including dinnerware and glassware, and the same enviable array of big-name brands, including KitchenAid and Le Creuset.

Over the years, I've learned to shop the Williams Sonoma sales to get the best deals and I want to share my hard-won wisdom with you. First, I'll drop a few quick links to help you shop the Williams Sonoma deals by department. Then, I'll outline the Williams Sonoma sales calendar and explain a little more about what constitutes a good deal, so that you can get more for your money.

Where to shop the Williams Sonoma sales

• Williams Sonoma sale: browse everything on offer at Williams Sonoma
• KitchenAid sale: up to 50% off
• Staub sale: up to 50% off
• Zwilling sale: up to 50% off
• Le Creuset sale: up to 40% off
• All-Clad sale: up to 40% off
• Philips sale: up to 25% off

When is the best time to get a deal at Williams Sonoma?

Williams Sonoma Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales

This year, Black Friday falls on November 28, but I'd expect deals to start dropping at least a week in advance and keep dropping through Cyber Monday on December 1.

In terms of depth of deals and breadth of discounts, Black Friday weekend is the best time to shop at Williams Sonoma. Judging by previous years, you can expect to see up to 40% off kitchenware and small appliances.

Black Friday is a great opportunity to stock up on high-end kitchenware for hosting seasons and gifts for the holidays. When you shop the clearance section, you'll see even steeper discounts: sometimes as much as 75% off kitchen gadgets.

Williams Sonoma after-Christmas sales

If you can face it, the period between Christmas and New Year is the best time to shop at Williams Sonoma for festive decor, as they try to shift stock for the new season.

This is a good opportunity to pick up name cards and tableware for next year's place settings.

Williams Sonoma Spring Savings Event

The dates for the Williams Sonoma Spring Sale vary from one year to the next, but it typically falls in mid-March.

This is the time to stock up on outdoor furniture and decor, while it's still the out-of-season prices.

How can you tell if you've got a good deal at Williams Sonoma?

Join the Williams Sonoma email list

When you sign up for the Williams Sonoma newsletter, you'll get advance warning of special offers and promotions, as well as exclusive discounts, and regular round-ups of recipe ideas and suggestions for seasonal gift-giving.

Explore the Williams Sonoma outlet store

You often get the deepest discounts when you shop overstock and discontinued styles. The Williams Sonoma outlet store has everything from seasoned cast iron skillets to vintage glassware and statement serveware.

FAQs

Why is Williams Sonoma so expensive?

Williams Sonoma is home to elite cooking brands, from All-Clad and Breville to Le Creuset and Smeg. Williams Sonoma sell most of these items are sold at their listing price, whereas other retailers, including Sur la Table, often list them for less.

When there isn't a sale on at Williams Sonoma, it's always worth shopping around to compare prices before you commit to your purchase.

Are Williams Sonoma and Pottery Barn owned by the same company?

Yes, both Williams Sonoma and Pottery Barn are owned by Williams-Sonoma, Inc. I shop at Williams Sonoma for kitchenware and appliances, but Pottery Barn has a wider selection of dinnerware, alongside furniture and decor.

Sometimes, Williams Sonoma doesn't have the deepest discounts. If you're looking to build up an iconic cookware collection, you should shop from the source. When you browse the best Le Creuset deals, you could score deep discounts on Dutch ovens, baking trays, miniature cocottes, and everything else you need to cook and serve delicious meals.

As we eagerly anticipate Easter gatherings and the arrival of warmer weather, there's no better time to infuse your home with the invigorating aromas of spring. Simmering pots offer a fun and creative way to make your home smell nice, whether to refresh your kitchen after cooking or create a more welcoming environment in anticipaton of hosting guests.

We've all heard of the best simmer pot recipes for fall and winter but seemingly neglect to consider this idea for warmer months, which seems a waste considering the bounty of natural fragrances available in your backyard in spring, from blooming botanicals and aromatic herbs to fresh fruit.

In this guide, we explain how to create the perfect spring simmering pot, including how to select the right combination of ingredients and make the most of natural scents.

How to make a spring simmer pot

You can effortlessly create a spring simmering pot with a handful of tools: a pot (or slow cooker), water, and spring flowers. When heated, the simmering water will release the mood-boosting spring aromas of your chosen ingredients into the air, ensuring every corner of your home remains fragrant, and scentscaping your space for spring.

Select your ingredients

Herbs and flowers: What is more quintessentially spring than the smell of fresh blooms and herbs? Select herbs from your indoor herb garden, like mint and rosemary, to introduce a subtle, earthy tone combined with florals like rose, eucalyptus, lavender, jasmine, and violet petals that add an uplifting fragrance.

Fruits: For a zesty and vibrant addition to your simmer pot, use citrus fruit ingredients like lime, lemon, and orange. Add fruit like dried cranberries, strawberries, and apples for a sweet, fruity addition.

Essential Oils: Incorporating essential oils adds an extra layer of depth and potency to your simmer pot. These concentrated plant extracts can not only add extra fragrance, but they also possess antibacterial and therapeutic properties, making them an excellent addition to your simmer pot. You can experiment with different combinations with this essential oils set from Amazon.

Petya Holevich, cleaning expert and Supervisor at Fantastic Services shares her favorite spring simmer pot combinations below:

• Lemons, a few drops of rosemary essential oil or rosemary springs, a couple of cinnamon sticks, and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract.
• Limes, a few mint leaves, and 1 tablespoon of coconut extract.
• Sliced lemon, lime, and orange and 1 tablespoon of coconut or vanilla extract.
• Sliced lemons and strawberries and 1 tablespoon of coconut extract.

Prepare the ingredients to harness the scents

Before preparing the simmer, prepare your ingredients:

Wash and slice the fruits, cutting them into thin rounds or wedges. This will help exude their natural juices and fragrance when simmered.

Bruise the herbs gently by rolling them between your palms or pressing them. This will release their aromatic oils.

Break up whole spices like cinnamon or nutmeg (you can use a mortar and pestle to make this easier). This will enhance their aroma.

Prepare the simmer pot

Fill a pot with water: Start by filling either a pot or slow cooker halfway with water. Heat the water to a gentle boil.

Add your ingredients: Add the selection you've chosen to water.

Let it simmer: Bring the heat to a low simmer and let it work its fragrant magic.

Top up the water over time: Monitor the pot's water levels. Add more water as needed to prevent the pot from drying out and allow it to simmer for longer.

You should only let it sit and simmer for a couple of hours to prevent the ingredients from losing their potency or risking it burning, which won't smell nice. If you’re using a slow cooker, on the other hand, you can let it sit and simmer for much longer, but be sure to monitor the simmering time to prevent the ingredients from becoming overly cooked and dried out

In addition to adding a pleasant fragrance to your home, a spring simmer pot can also help improve indoor air quality by removing odors and adding moisture to the air.

You could have the most expensive coffee maker, best beans, and barista-worthy skills, but if you don't know how to store coffee beans properly, you'll never make a good coffee.

To keep your coffee beans fresh and full of flavor, they must be protected from three key factors. According to the National Coffee Association, these are light, humidity, and oxygen. The best coffee canisters will protect against these by default. However, if you're looking for simple home solutions for storing your coffee beans – as well as answers on how to store coffee grounds – you're in safe hands.

I'm a former barista who's spent years debunking common myths around coffee bean storage (please, please stop putting them in the fridge). I've also spoken with coffee roasters and baristas to give you everything you need to know for storing coffee beans including where to store them, the best way to store coffee them, and whether you should store them as whole beans or coffee grounds. 

How to store coffee beans to keep them fresher for longer

Coffee beans are a lot like coffee grounds. The worst things for them are oxygen, moisture, heat, and light. The presence of any or all of these will degrade the delicious oils in your beans, making them taste sour and bitter. 

Any coffee canister worth its money will protect against all of these, so it's worth investing in some of the best coffee canisters on the market. Once you have one of these, the only thing you'll need to watch is the temperature. Steve Simmons from Octave Coffee says to 'opt for an environment where you know you can keep a stable temperature between 60-75°F.' 

Simmons also recommends making a storage plan. He says 'Your coffee will taste best between seven and fourteen days after roasting.' There is such a thing as having coffee which is too fresh. However, some people like their coffee when it has been left for longer after roasting. It's a factor you can experiment with.

All experts tell you to keep your beans whole and well-stored for as long as possible. Grind your coffee just before brewing, because as soon as your coffee is ground, it will degrade much quicker than when it was a whole bean. Simmons recommends experimenting with different timelines post-roasting to find your perfect cup though.

Here are some of the best coffee canisters on the market. They've been vetted and approved by coffee experts.

If you're caught short and don't have a coffee canister in stock, you're not out of options. The original packaging your coffee comes in isn't a bad place to start. Jessica Easto, author of Craft Coffee: A Manual, says 'many coffee shops package coffee in bags that are perfectly suitable for storing. Simply push out as much air as possible before tightly closing the bag and storing it in a cabinet or other dark place.' 

Unopened, a good coffee bag should keep your coffee fresh for nine months. There's some controversy over whether you should open the packaging and transfer your beans to an airtight container. The general conclusion is this: if the coffee bag features a one-way valve, letting out gas, but no oxygen in, this is a great way to store your beans. Kayla Stavridis, a former barista and coffee expert says 'CO2 valves are excellent for extending the freshness of coffee beans, because it will let air out without letting oxygen in.' However, she says to buy in small quantities – only as much as you would use in a few weeks – to ensure that you're drinking coffee at its freshest.

However, if you put your beans into an airtight container, they'll last longer than in the bag, because you can control the light and temperature much more effectively.

Some people will tell you to store your coffee beans in the freezer. Again, it's a topic of much debate within the coffee community. Max Simmons, from Old Spike Roastery, says 'even with proper storage, beans in the cupboard will inevitably lose their freshness and flavors over time. Storing them in the freezer can shield them from oxygen and light, their two greatest foes.'

They explained that improper freezing and condensation are two great risks you take in freezing your beans. If you get some moisture into your storage cannister, your beans will taste bitter and stale. Make sure you have an airtight container and a reliable freezer. 

Common mistakes people make when storing coffee beans

When I talk to people about their coffee bean storage, I've lost count of the number of times I've heard 'I keep mine in the fridge.' I understand why logic might have made them think that this is a good idea – we keep a lot of food and drink in the fridge – but never, never keep your coffee beans in the fridge. According to the National Coffee Association, the 'hygroscopic' nature of coffee means that it absorbs all the ambient moisture in the air. Keeping them in the fridge is the worst place you can put your beans.

Ideally, you'll keep them at room temperature. If you need to prolong the life of your beans, you can keep them in the freezer – just don't take them in and out all of the time and make sure they're well-sealed.

Brain Abernathy, founder and master roaster at Grumpy Goat Coffee, says 'I've seen plenty of people do all the right things for storing coffee beans and then they'll go and put an expensive coffee canister right next to hot appliances, such as a stove or toaster oven. They might even put it on the window for display. He says 'even the best containers won't be able to prevent all of this heat or light from degrading your beans, so position them intentionally. Try to keep them in the most stable environment you can. In an airtight, opaque container in the pantry is best'.

FAQs

How can I tell if my coffee beans are off?

Kayla Stavridis, former barista and coffee expert, says there are a few easy checks you can run to find out whether your coffee is off. She says 'Smell your coffee, because fresh coffee beans have a strong, pleasant aroma. If your beans smell musty, sour, or like cardboard, they've likely gone stale. Also, if you beans have lost flavor, taste bitter, and look dry or cracked (they should have a slight sheen from natural oils) they're likely past their prime.'

Should I buy coffee beans in bulk?

Buying beans in bulk means you'll have to store them for longer. They'll start degrading quicker, so you're better to buy beans in small batches and consume them within the 7-14 day period after they've been roasted. I've kept mine, in good containers in the pantry, for nine months and been fine, but experts will always tell you to buy small amounts, often.

This is not a drill: the new Le Creuset colors for 2024 are here. The famed French cookware brand is always surprising me with their new takes on classic colors, and their two latest options don’t disappoint in the least. 

Le Creuset have long made some of the best Dutch ovens in the world, and part of that success is the wide range of colors that work in a variety of different kitchens. Rhone and Chambray are no exception, bringing an unctuous burgundy and cool, calm blue-gray.

However, don’t just take my word for it: I’ve rounded up several of my absolute favorite pieces from both color collections, so you can see for yourself what all the fuss is about.

New Le Creuset color collection

The first new color to grace us this February is Rhone, a red-plum colorway inspired by the lush wine-making region of Cotes du Rhône. Le Creuset has also added beautiful gold accents to the cookware for a touch of elegance and luxury. With tones of cherry and red wine influences, this brand new color will add warmth and richness to any tablescape. 

For those trying to go a bit more minimalist this year, the new Chambray colorway is a relaxed blue with cooling gray undertones for a laidback take on traditional hues. I’m particularly obsessed with this color, since it adds ombré influences and blends into any space with ease. It’s sophisticated and neutral, yet demure.

Le Creuset color FAQ

How many color options does Le Creuset have available to purchase?

Le Creuset currently has 20 colors available for purchase: Cerise, Flame, Nectar, Artichaut, Caribbean, Marseille, Rhone, Olive, Sea Salt, Chambray, Azure, Agave, Thyme, Matte Navy, Oyster, Meringue, Brioche, White, Shallot, and Chiffon Pink.

There are hundreds of things around our homes that we buy once and forget about, but several kitchen items need regular updates if you want to stay efficient – and safe – when cooking.  

After all, there is more to instantly elevating your kitchen than replacing the cabinets and changing the layout. Swapping the small utensils you use every day for more luxurious alternatives can instantly up your cooking game, not to mention that they look good, too. 

According to professional chefs, these are the five kitchen items you need to upgrade the next time you have the opportunity. 

Kitchen items you need to upgrade

If you want to update your kitchen without replacing it, changing out the small things matters and is often more than worth the upfront cost in the long run. 

1. Knives

'Investing in the best kitchen knives does more than make cutting vegetables and preparing dinner easier. It can also make you safer in the kitchen too,' begins Tiffany Swan, professional chef, food scientist, and owner of Tiffany Sage San: 

‘When your knife is sharp, it cuts through the product with ease, so you don't have to work as hard. When you work hard on cutting, and your knife isn't sharp, it tends to slide, but you still have a lot of pressure behind that knife, so the risk of hurting yourself is greater. 

‘Did you know that cutting through a carrot takes the same amount of force as cutting through a finger? Gross, I know, but that visual is well worth keeping knives sharp so you don't have to risk it.'

A new set of chef’s knives doesn't have to set you back a small fortune to be effective, either, Tiffany adds. All you need is for them to be sharp and feel comfortable in your hand. 

‘A great way to keep them in great shape is to wash them by hand and never put them in the dishwasher. The harsh temperatures, chemicals, and pressure of a dishwasher are not a friend of sharp edges. Similarly, investing in professional knife sharpening once a year or so will keep your knives sharp, but using a home sharpening tool (not just honing steel) will be useful in between professional sharpenings. 

‘As a professional chef, I sharpen my knives about once a week, but then send them off for a professional sharpening once a year.’

2. Cutting boards

'Even if you learn how to care for a wooden cutting board properly, your chopping blocks still need replacing every few years to maintain food safety – not to mention if they are plastic,' urges Jessica Decker, professional organizer and owner of Become Organized.

‘If you’re using plastic cutting boards, stop immediately!’ she warns. ‘Have you ever seen knife marks in a plastic cutting board and wondered where the little plastic shards have gone? Chances are, they’ve gone directly into the food you’re preparing. Switch plastic cutting boards out for wooden or bamboo.’

3. Kitchen scales

'Old analog kitchen scales and measuring cups are useful, but they are not as good as a good digital set,' says Tiffany Swan, a professional chef. This simple investment not only makes cooking easier but can also improve food – it even helps with meal prep. 

‘For one, you can get a much greater level of accuracy in your measurements if you are doing them by weight rather than by volume in a measuring cup. Baking is all about scientific formulas, so it is important to be as accurate as possible. But my favorite bonus is that you have far fewer utensils to wash: instead of measuring the honey into the measuring cup and then scraping it out with a spatula, you can pour it directly into the appropriate bowl.

‘I like gram scales that measure out to the tenth of a gram and have a capacity of at least five kilograms, so you can easily put your bowl filled with flour on the scale.’

4. Cookware

It should be obvious, but the higher the quality of your pans, the easier they are to use and clean – not to mention the healthier they are, as you are not using tonnes of oil to stop sticking or risking non-stick coatings from peeling. 

Lauren Allen, cookbook author and founder of Tastes Better From Scratch, recommends upgrading your sets to either high-end stainless steel or enamel cookware, such as the best Le Creuset. This allows for better even heating and temperature control when cooking.

‘This can help prevent hot spots that lead to burning,' she explains. 'Quality pans often last much longer as well, saving money over time.’

5. Food processor and blender

Any kitchen appliance that speeds up or simplifies a process is worth the investment, especially if nothing else does the job quite the same. For our professional chefs, this means investing in quality food processors and blenders. 

‘A good food processor quickly chops, slices, shreds and mixes, cutting meal prep times significantly,’ begins Lauren Allen, cookbook author. ‘Models with higher wattage motors easily power through dense items. The wide feed tube accommodates most ingredients without pre-cutting.’

Tiffany Swan, professional chef, adds that: ‘Dressings, pesto, smoothies, creamy soups, hummus, and more are made so much easier with a great blender. Invest in the industry standard Vitamix (refurbished can often save money, but still provide a great quality blender) and treat it like your knives. Wash the blade at the bottom of the jar by hand and send it off to be sharpened every now and again. 

‘There are some things that just can't be made in a sub-par blender. Have you ever had a smoothie you had to chew? I have, and it isn't worth it!’

The best time to check which kitchen items may be on their last legs is when cooking or organizing your kitchen utensils. Take stock of what you don't use and what you use a lot, decluttering and replacing the items that are either dusty or have been loved to death.  

What do Selena Gomez, Cameron Diaz, Halle Berry, Hailey Bieber, and Gordon Ramsay have in common? All of these celebrities, as well as numerous Michelin-star chefs and home cooks, have used Hexclad pans in their kitchen.

The beloved non-stick frying pan was seen in a YouTube video with Selena Gomez and Gordon Ramsay, showing the actress using the pan to fry up a (delicious looking) breakfast burger. With its distinctive honeycomb print, we couldn't miss the coveted kitchen accessory.

As a Hexclad non-stick pan user, Selena Gomez is in good company, 'HexClad stands up to my demands at home and in the studio,' says famed Chef Gordon Ramsay of the pans, which he uses on his show Next Level Chef. He continues, 'Not only are they beautiful pans, but their hybrid technology cooks to absolute, utter perfection.' We can't imagine a more ringing endorsement.

Gordon was so drawn to Hexclad that he partnered with the brand. 'I use the pans at home, and the combination of stainless steel and non-stick functionality is amazing. It’s highly versatile and cooks exceptionally well,' he says. The celebrity chef uses the pans in his kitchen, as well as his restaurants. Selena Gomez knows what she is doing.

The pans have become known for their innovative non-stick hybrid technology, superior temperature control, and how easy they are to clean. Aside from their functionality, Hexclad cookware has a sleek and stylish silhouette that makes pan storage easy. 

At this point, Hexclad pans have a cult following rivaling that of the colorful cookware brand Le Creuset, just to give us a sense of how their ever-popular power. And with these endorsements, how can we disagree? We can invest in the hype via Amazon below.

Selena Gomez's beautiful, sleek and stylish pan is the perfect addition to any kitchen. With cookware like this, we almost look forward to organizing pots and pans.  

Meal prepping is a great way to plan out your meals for the week and ensure that you’re eating healthy home-cooked food. However, nothing is more frustrating for a chef, whether amateur or professional, than realizing you don't have the right equipment to prep and execute the meal you have planned. 

To meal prep effectively, you need to have the right tools in your kitchen. Whether you are preparing to cook for guests or restocking your kitchen and want to ensure you have the items every home cook should have in their kitchen, we've got you covered. 

We asked cooking experts what they thought were the kitchen essentials needed to master your meal prep game and make the process as easy and efficient as possible. Here's what they said.

Kitchen essentials to master your meal prep

When it comes to meal prep, having the right tools and equipment can make the process much easier and more efficient.

1. Utensils

Kitchen utensils are top of our list, with a range of different essential tools being the key to exactitude and control when prepping meals. These will make your meal prep process faster, more enjoyable, and less frustrating.

• 'A sharp set of kitchen knives is a must-have in the kitchen for a successful meal preparation,' says Gabrielle Yap, senior editor and culinary entrepreneur at Carnivore Style. 'Precision is key when you're slicing and dicing, and trust me, a good-quality knife can make a world of difference. I personally prefer a chef's knife, a paring knife, and a serrated knife to cover all the bases.' So, consider investing in a set of high-quality knives with different sizes and shapes to cater to all your cooking needs.
• 'For flipping, stirring, and serving, keep a set of spatulas, tongs, and wooden spoons handy,' advises Robert Smith, private chef at Culinary Collective.
• A quality grater works well for zesting citrus fruits, grating vegetables, and shredding cheese.
• A can opener is a necessary instrument for removing contents from cans.
• 'A detachable garlic press will help save time on garlic preparation,' adds Jeanette Kimszal, owner of The Radiant Root.
• A sturdy vegetable peeler is ideal for a range of veggies, and a brush cleaner for thorough cleaning is also essential.

Before beginning your meal prep, consider if you need any particular utensils beyond those listed to complete the task.

2. Food storage containers

Another crucial aspect of meal prepping is food storage.

'Having a variety of containers with different sizes and shapes for leftovers and prepped ingredients helps keep things organized,' says Gabrielle Yap. 'Choose reusable containers that are microwave and dishwasher-safe to eliminate waste and save money. I'm a fan of glass containers because they're durable, microwave-friendly, and, let's be honest, they just look so much better in the fridge.'

Bamboo options are also great eco-friendly food containers that can enhance your kitchen aesthetic or be used as a pantry organizer. We recommend this four pack, from Amazon.

'I recommend taking measurements of your freezer first so you know what you have the capacity for before you buy,' advises Amy Hand, professional chef and writer at The Skillful Cook. 'Then buy containers that are the perfect size for one serving. This way, you just need to take out one container per portion per day.'

3. A blender or food processor

'Let's not overlook the power of gadgets. A food processor is my secret weapon for chopping, pureeing, and making sauces in a snap,' says Gabrielle Yap. 'And, of course, a trusty blender for those smoothies, sauces or soups. These gadgets can save you time and effort, allowing you to focus on creating delicious meals. '

4. Cutting Boards

Having plenty of cutting boards is essential when meal prepping, including separate boards for fruit and vegetables, meat, fish, and bread.

'It's all about preventing cross-contamination and maintaining those food safety standards,' explains Gabrielle Yap. Plus, this makes the cleaning process a lot easier.

Purchase cutting boards made of high-quality wood or plastic to ensure they are durable and won't break easily. Take proper care of them, and they will last for years. We love these Preston marble and wood boards from West Elm.

5. Measuring tools

'Having a set of measuring cups and spoons on hand is helpful for efficient meal prepping, as accurate measurements are key,' says Robert Smith. We recommend these measuring cups from Target. 

Digital scales can make measuring larger quantities – and using different units, such as grams – much easier. You can find these digital scales at Target.

6. A mixing bowl

'To mix ingredients and store prepared foods, a collection of mixing bowls in different sizes is always useful,' recommends Robert Smith.

You can find this HexClad mixing bowl set, with vacuum seal lids from Amazon, for easy meal prep.

7. Pots and pans

'For cookware, a versatile set of pots and pans are essential,' advises Gabrielle Yap. 'I always keep a non-stick skillet for quick sautés and stir-fries, a sturdy Dutch oven for slow-cooked masterpieces, and a reliable saucepan for sauces and soups. 

'Investing in high-quality cookware is like giving yourself the gift of a seamless cooking experience.'

Stainless steel options are sturdy and reliable, while the non-stick coating adds a
smooth touch to cooking, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free culinary experience. The best option will depend on your cooking style and maintenance preferences.

8. Sheet pans

'Sheet pans are a necessity for roasting veggies, baking meat, and cooking big batches of food,' says chef Robert Smith, making this another meal prep kitchen-essential. 

Additionally, other types of oven dishes, including china and glass are perfect for a diverse range of cooking techniques.   

9. A colander

'Invest in a stainless steel colander for washing and rinsing produce,' advises Jeanette Kimszal. 'Choose one that is easy to clean in the dishwasher'. 

This item can also double as a way to stream vegetables if you can find one that can sit on top of a pot and has a lid. This is a healthier alternative to boiling vegetables.' You can find this CONCORD steamer set, from Amazon.

Remember, these are just some of the essential tools for meal prep. The specific tools you need may vary depending on your cooking preferences and the types of meals you plan to prepare.

With the holidays over, there are some huge savings on the market, and Nordstrom is no exception. Nordstrom's Half-Yearly Sale marks the halfway point to their famous Anniversary Sale, which sees their biggest discounts of the year. 

However, if you know where to look, you'll find that some of the prices are even better. The Anniversary Sale has a wider range of discounts, but with the New Year approaching, there's some pretty big discounts available. 

As a product tester and shopping writer, I've worked my way through all of the 501 home discounts to bring you those worth your money. These are the very best of their after-Christmas sales.

What's on sale at Nordstrom?

If you can't wait to get into the sales, here's a quick summary:

• Bath sale at Nordstrom: up to 65% off towels
• Bedding sale at Nordstrom: up to 40% off on blankets, bed sheets, and throws
• Candles sale at Nordstrom: up to 60% off candles and home fragrance
• Kitchen sale at Nordstrom: up to 35% off Le Creuset, Great Jones, and Staub

Kitchen deals

Nordstrom candle deals

Nordstrom New Year sales FAQs

Gray has a bad reputation for being foreboding, unglamorous, and downright dull. But done right, gray is one of the most versatile neutrals you can use in your home.

Of all the neutrals, gray is one that instantly brings gravitas. Gray is a color that has its own weather system of light levels and hues. From the gentle gray morning rain of a bright wide sky to the breathtaking drama of dark storm clouds, the scope for creating beautiful interiors is endless. It is a shade with myriad subtle color notes that draw inspiration from beach pebbles and clay, as well. 

Decorating with gray harmonizes well with almost every other hue, making it a most adaptable neutral and giving good reason for its popularity, says Helen Shaw, UK director at Benjamin Moore. 'It is the reason why gray kitchen ideas are, even though it has had a recent dip in popularity, still at the forefront of our kitchen cabinet color choices.'

It’s this understated shade that American actress and entrepreneur has chosen for her family's kitchen – Jessica Alba’s gray kitchen cabinets. Versatile and sophisticated, this sultry color pairs effortlessly with any palette, adding depth and elegance to the space.

Despite our love for gray fading in recent years, we expect 2024 to see something on a comeback for this unsung neutral.  

A new kitchen is a big investment while updating an existing one can involve a lot of upheaval, so whichever style or color you opt for it must have staying power. Gray has the benefit of being neutral, which means that it will look timeless on its own, contrast well with other colors, and complement many different materials and surfaces. 

‘Gray is calming and softens a room,' says Suzanne Francis, kitchen designer at Tom Howley. 'In psychology, it represents peace and balance which is so important within a home. It’s practical, simple and reliable.'

‘When it comes to kitchen color trends – soft, muted gray tones can create a warm atmosphere for dinner parties without the worry of passing color trends,’ adds Tom Howley, design director.

Mood is one consideration, but it is also helpful to consider how gray might affect the size of a room. ‘The paler the tone, the more it will reflect the available light. The darker the tone, the more light it will absorb,’ says Justyna. ‘At the extremes, white will make a room look more spacious, and black brings the walls visually inwards. This rule applies to all colors. So a pale gray is ideal if you wanted to make a small kitchen look bigger; a deep charcoal would make it appear smaller. Having said that, a dark color used in a small kitchen can be really effective.’

Shop the gray kitchen edit

Michaels is one of my favorite places to shop during the holiday season. Not only can you find plenty of DIY decor inspiration, but you can also save big on fun and festive pieces from their Christmas collection when you shop the Michaels Big Holiday Sale. 

Whether you're looking for last-minute holiday decor, or you're keen to get ahead of the crowds and score great deals for next year, now is the time to buy. You can score up to 60% off the entire holiday stock, plus another 25% off when you use the promo code 25MRYCMAS. 

I'm a shopping writer. It's my job to keep track of seasonal sales so that you can experiment with modern Christmas decor without breaking the bank. I've spent hours scouring the Michaels site to bring you the deepest discounts on the hottest products.

Whether you're shopping for holiday wreaths and garlands or festive throws and pillows, you'll find it for less in the Michaels Big Holiday Sale. 

Michaels Holiday Wreaths

Michaels is one of our favorite places to shop for DIY wreath supplies, but you can also find some gorgeous pre-made options, too. With The Big Holiday Sale, you can find a collection of festive holiday wreaths for budget-friendly prices, including a few options for the entire winter season, not just the holidays. 

Michaels Holiday Garland

With their extensive floral department, Michaels is one of the best places to look for and make your own holiday garlands. From faux flocked evergreens to strings of natural wooden beads, Michaels offers a variety of garland styles at a range of price points, many of which are on sale for less than $20. 

Michaels Holiday Throw Pillows

If you want to find the best throw pillows on a budget, you'll appreciate the wide range on offer at Michaels. You could mix and match pieces to create a bespoke seating arrangement or pick a favorite and buy in bulk. 

Michaels Holiday Throw Blankets

You can also find a wide range of throw blankets at Michaels, including some more festive styles for the holidays. Whether you’re looking to give the gift of a cozy throws or want to spruce up your space with layers of red and white stripes, you could save big on blankets at Michaels. 

Michaels Holiday Decor

If you want to add a few festive accents to your space, Michaels has some great pieces to choose from. From festive holiday houses and villages to tabletop trees, you can find holiday decor in all sorts of styles. 

Michaels Big Holiday Sale FAQs

Final thoughts

If you're a little behind on your holiday shopping, and you want to get the gifts that your loved ones really want, then you're in luck: we're rounding up the best home gifts to suit every sort of shopper. We've got Le Creuset cookware for keen cooks, portable blenders for health fanatics on the go, and elegant vases for flower fans. 

When Jack Antonoff posted a photo of his friend and collaborator Taylor Swift in his kitchen, fans were quick to analyze everything in the space. From the Le Creuset kettle to the Nespresso Pixie coffee maker, online discourse bloomed about each appliance and piece of cookware. 

However, as avid kitchen connoisseurs, the first thing that we noticed in the famed Taylor Swift-Jack Antonoff kitchen photo was the innovative overhead storage. Behind Taylor, in place of cabinets, Jack has open shelves on either side of the stove. 

Interior design experts say that Jack's no-cabinet kitchen decor has important benefits for style and function. 'First of all,' says NYC-based interior designer and founder of Arsight, Artem Kropovinky, 'The kitchen cabinet idea of using shelves around the stove simplifies cooking. The kitchen is made visually functional and efficient as essential equipment is placed where it is easily reachable.'

Aside from the convenience, this kind of kitchen storage makes Jack Antonoff's kitchen more beautiful. Artem states, 'Opening up upper kitchen shelves allows your gorgeous dishes to function as decorative pieces. Kitchen shelving is more than pure storage for functional items. It is suitable for showing elegant dinner crockery as well as unusual culinary implements.

Jennifer Ebert, digital editor at Homes & Gardens says, 'Behind Taylor Swift, the open shelving gives us a view of Jack's beautiful copper pots and stylish splatterware dishes. These dishes make the kitchen feel warm and homey.'

Furthermore, experts say that open shelves will become a kitchen trend going forward. Artem told H&G, 'Kitchen open shelving will continue increasing its popularity in 2024. The concept falls in line with the modern trend towards personalized, functional spaces.'

If you are planning a kitchen remodel, consider if open shelves over the stove might be an effective alternative to cabinets in your home. After all, Jack Antonoff and Taylor Swift swear by this storage method.

With the holidays approaching, you're likely preparing your kitchen for festive baking, and streamlining this process can start with decluttering certain baking supplies to declutter before the holidays. This can ensure a more seamless baking experience and prevent any baking blunders while creating a more organized space to set the stage for stress-free holiday baking.

Whether you have broken or useless utensils or expired ingredients, it's important to review your baking kitchen utensils to ensure you use your space efficiently and avoid needing to get new items at the last minute. 

Our experts have explained the baking supplies to declutter before the holidays.

Baking supplies to declutter before the holidays

You can use this opportunity to organize your cabinets or pantry, utilizing storage solutions like clear bins, baskets, or labeled jars to organize baking supplies within cabinets and pantries. During this process, group similar items together, such as sugars, flour, chocolate chips, and nuts, making them easily accessible for holiday baking sessions.

1. Mismatched bakeware and incomplete sets

Over time, bakeware can accumulate, and you may lose track and end up with mismatched items or incomplete sets. 

Take a moment to evaluate your baking pans, sheets, and molds and discard any that are missing parts, donating any unused items. 

If you have incomplete sets of measuring cups, spoons, or other baking tools, now is the time to replace or complete these sets. We recommend these baking measuring cups, from Le Creuset.

Having a complete and organized set of tools can make your baking process more efficient, ensuring you don't have to run to the store at the last minute. 

2. Expired ingredients

Next, remove all your baking ingredients and review them, checking the expiry dates and quality. 

'It's crucial to take inventory. Sort through your baking supplies and discard anything expired or seldom used,' recommends Gowdhaman Kandasamy, director of Kitchen Altitude. 'This not only creates space but also gives you a clear idea of what you need.'

Expired spices – Check the expiration dates of any spices that you might use for baking and dispose of any that are more than one to two years old since their flavor will have faded.

Toppings – Assess your collection of sprinkles, edible glitter, and other decorative items. If you have unused or expired decorations, decluttering them will not only free up space but also make it easier to find and use the items you truly enjoy. 

'Be it sprinklers, cake toppers, or chocolate chips, old cake or cookie toppings, over time these elements become clumped or gooey due to the moisture build-up and opened packets,' explains Sunita Yousuf, creator of The Wannabe Cook. 'Even if they feel fine, it’s better to throw them out rather than use them for the holidays.' 

Outdated extracts – Extracts usually expire after two to three years, so smell them to test if they are ready to be thrown out and replace any you will need.

Chunky baking powder – Baking powder can absorb moisture and get hard over time. Check if your baking powder is clumpy or solid. If so, it's time to replace it.

Cracking food coloring – Food coloring dries up over time. If yours is cracked or dry, throw it out.

Old yeast – Active dry yeast expires after only a year or so. Test your yeast to see if it's still active and foamy when hydrated. If not, dispose of it.

'Old yeast won’t make the flour rise, leading to flatbread and dry crust. If you have a yeast that hasn't reached the expiry date but the bottle was opened months ago, you should dispose of it,' says Sunita Yousuf.

Crystallized sugar – Sugar should be soft to be good for baking, however, it can get hard and crystallized if it's been around for too long. If this is the case invest in some new sugar. Brown sugar can be softened when warmed, however, if this is not the case it has lost its usefulness. 

Expired flour – Unbleached white flour lasts around six to twelve months, while whole wheat flour lasts for only four to six months before going stale. Check its dates.

Stale baking additions – 'Check walnuts, pecans, raisins, and cranberries for expired or improperly stored nuts that have turned sour and soft or lost their flavor,' says Yama Jason, founder of House Customize. 'You can taste a small piece first, if it becomes tasteless or has poor texture, do not hesitate to throw it away.'

Clumpy cocoa powder – Dry cocoa powder will get hard and clumpy over time. Sift it to test for lumps, and replace it if necessary

3. Single-use items

Single-use items that are cluttering your kitchen drawers can accumulate and should be evaluated before the holidays. While these tools can be fun, if you find that you rarely use them, it might be time to clear some space by letting them go.

Instead, invest in multi-purpose tools that can replace several single-use ones to save you space and stay organized. For example, a high-quality stand mixer can be used for mixing, kneading dough, and even shredding meat. 

Reducing the number of items cluttering your kitchen can make the whole cooking experience simpler, making it easier to locate what you need.

4. Broken or deformed baskeware

Evaluate tools and utensils for signs it's time to replace your pans and other baking equipment, removing any items that are broken or worn out it can affect the quality of your cooking.

'Check whether the baking utensils are warped or the bottom part of the pan starts to peel off, they will lead to uneven baking with or warring results affecting the flavor and appearance of the food,' says Yama Jason. 'It is recommended to replace them with new quality pans for better baking results.'

Additionally, discard any misshapen cookie cutters that can lead to non-descript cookie shapes.

FAQs

Shop our favorite food organizers

Consolidate multiples to create a more organized space. If you have multiple bags of the same ingredient that are partially used, consolidate them in clear, vacuum-sealed containers.

Combining similar items into one container frees up space and makes it easier to track quantities so you can see when you need to replenish ingredients. 

As the temperatures drop and the seasons shift, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere at home becomes a priority. The best way to do this? With the best fall and winter simmer pot recipes, of course.

These simple blends of water, spices, fruits, and herbs simmering away on your stovetop quickly makes your home smell nice using nothing but natural ingredients for a toxin-free festive fragrance.

Here, experts share their seven favorite simmer pot recipes for fall and winter to make your home a cozy haven for the cold season.

Simmer pot recipes for fall and winter

Whether you are trying to make your house smell like fall or make your home smell good for Christmas, these warm scents are perfect for the cozy season.

When using a simmer pot, cut fruit into slices place them along with any other ingredients in a large pot, and cover them with water. Bring it to a boil before reducing it to a simmer and leaving it on low heat for a prolonged period, at least three hours, until the scent fills your home. Be sure to top the water up every half an hour to maintain a constant level and prevent ingredients from burning.

1. Brown sugar and pear simmer pot

If you are not the best home cook and want to banish bad kitchen smells in favor of a space that smells like a bakery, then a brown sugar and pear simmer pot may be perfect for you. Lindsey Chastain, home blogger and founder of The Waddle and Cluck loves to cut up one pear and add it into a simmer pot with three whole cloves, a star anise, and a good sprinkle of brown sugar for a sweet, warm-scented pot.

Our simmer pot picks

2. Holiday simmer pot with warm spices

If you want to make a home cozy for fall, you cannot overlook the impact of a good home fragrance. If warm and cozy is your goal, this Holiday simmer pot recipe by Barbi Gardiner, founder of The Outdoor Apothecary, is perfect:

‘The Holiday Simmer Pot is a festive concoction that combines the citrusy brightness of oranges and lemons with the deep, resinous notes of pine or spruce, complemented by the sweet warmth of cinnamon and cloves,’ she says.

‘All you need is a lemon and an orange (sliced into rounds), one-and-a-half cups each of cranberries and chopped pine or spruce needles, a cinnamon stick, and one teaspoon each of whole cloves and good quality vanilla extract, such as Watkins Original Gourmet Vanilla, available on Amazon.

‘For an extra festive touch, you can add a clean, dried pine cone, too.’

3. Evergreen spice simmer pot with pine

Fragrance layering is the perfect way to set the scene for Christmas, and you need not look further than this evergreen-inspired pot loved by Barbi Gardiner, of The Outdoor Apothecary. Using fresh pine, it is the closest you can get to living in a pine forest, she says:

‘If you are looking for a Christmassy scent this simmer pot is like walking through a winter forest. The evergreen and spices bring a warm, spicy scent that's perfect for chilly days.

‘Add three cinnamon sticks, 1/4 cup chopped orange peels, 1/2 teaspoon whole cloves, thick peels from one apple, and 1/4 cup each chopped evergreen (pine, spruce, fir) and cranberries for the ultimate Christmas fragrance.’

4. Cinnamon apple simmer pot

Ideal throughout fall or for making a house cozy for Thanksgiving, cinnamon apple simmer pots are perfect, says Amna Muqeem, co-founder and baker at Specially Fried. With warm undertones and fresh fruit, it is the ultimate fall fragrance.

Mix one sliced apple and orange (complete with rind), a one-inch piece of ginger, three cinnamon sticks, and one tablespoon each of whole cloves, and allspice with 10 cups of water for a sophisticated, layered scent.

5. Vanilla simmer pot

If you love rich gourmand fragrances that make your home smell like a bakery, than a vanilla based simmer pot is the perfect fall and winter solution.

For the best effect, you want to use three whole vanilla bean pods, rather than just extract, with a little hit of cinnamon or nutmeg - around a teaspoon or two. You can also add in some fresh apple slices to help add a little extra sweetness and evoke fresh apple pies and crumbles. I feel cozy just thinking about it.

6. Maple woods simmer pot

Every home needs a signature scent, and this maple woods simmer pot is ideal for anyone who likes the idea of making a home smell like a bakery.

Lindsey Chastain, a home blogger, recommends combining two tablespoons of pure maple syrup with one sprig of pine or cedar, a vanilla bean pod or a few drops of strong vanilla extract, and a whole cinnamon stick for a cozy, comforting fragrance.

7. Pumpkin spice simmer pot

Is there anything more autumnal than pumpkin spice? We would argue that you couldn't have fall without it.

To give your home the scent of a warm PSL, combine three cups of water with a tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice, a teaspoon of nutmeg, one or two cinnamon sticks, and some vanilla extract (to your liking). It is by far one of the best scents for fall to make your entryway inviting. Your holiday guests will never want to leave.

What to do with simmer pot ingredients after simmering

Simmer pots use natural ingredients such as fresh produce to create a nice scent – this can lead to food waste and is one of the main criticisms of this home fragrance method.

However, there are a few things you can do to get a little more out of these ingredients or ensure they do not end up straight in landfill, says Lindsey Chastain, home blogger.

If you are throwing the ingredients out, it is best to put them into compost rather than your general trash, she begins. ‘This is a great way to recycle the ingredients and create nutrient-rich soil for your garden.

‘It is also possible to refrigerate the ingredients for a few days and reuse them for simmering a second time or you can dry out the ingredients and store them in an airtight container to be used in potpourri,’ she suggests.

FAQs

How long do you leave a simmer pot on?

When using a simmer pot to scent your home, the longer you leave it the better. At a minimum, you should leave the pot on low heat for three hours, topping the water up every thirty minutes to prevent burning, but you can leave it on for as long as a day – so long as you keep a constant eye on it (turning it off overnight to avoid a fire hazard).

Can you leave a simmer pot unattended?

When using a simmer pot to scent your home, you can leave it alone for short periods, but you should set a timer to check the pot every thirty minutes to ensure the water level is not dropping too low and risking a fire hazard. For this reason, when using a simmer pot over several days, you should always turn it off overnight when you go to sleep.

Although you set a simmer pot up to make a kitchen smell nice, opening up your internal doors and closing external windows can help these fragrances penetrate throughout your home, from making your living room smell nice to making a bedroom smell good. It is the perfect all-encompassing approach that will help make you home feel more cozy, inviting and special throughout the fall and winter seasons.

I’ll confess: I was well and truly sucked in by the Always Pan’s charm when it first launched. The colorful finish and versatility had me thinking I’d be using it for breakfast, lunch and dinner. 

In truth, however, it’s been quite a limiting piece of cookware. Although the 2.0 version can be used in the oven, and withstand much higher heats, the initial version I had in my kitchen was limited to stovetop use, and users were advised to keep heat low in order to keep the non-stick intact. Fine for steaming dumplings or frying an egg, but more challenging for those who want to achieve a crispy salmon skin either on the stove or under the grill. 

Enter the brand’s cast iron range: available in those same fun colours, but with a glossy enamel finish and (supposedly) pre-seasoned interior. Unlike the world of frying pans, however, we’ve already got some pretty attractive options in the best Dutch ovens on the market. Should you invest in the likes of Staub or Le Creuset, or opt for the latest Our Place Cast Iron Perfect Pot? 

I took it home to truly put it through its paces on Thai style-curry, burgers, and much more. After a few weeks of testing, I found a pretty good cast-iron pan, but pretty good isn't the best. Unless you're working with a tighter budget, I'd still go for a Le Creuset over this. 

Our Place Cast Iron Perfect Pot specifications

First impressions of the Cast Iron Perfect Pot

The combination of shiny pink enamel and the dome lid gives the Cast Iron Perfect Pot a retro touch. However, while I enjoy the matte finish on the exterior of the original Perfect Pot, it’s an absolute nightmare to keep clean. Maintaining the finish on this cast iron iteration proved a lot easier. 

This pan is hefty, but no more so than alternatives from other leading brands. It weighs in at 13.7lbs, and in theory that curved lid will be self-basting, meaning that moisture will circulate inside the pot to help with baking bread.

The RRP is $175. It's definitely not cheap, but it's significantly cheaper than many options from Le Creuset or Staub at a similar size, which cost $420 and $379, respectively. Even Made In’s closest alternative is $249, which makes this a surprisingly reasonable option from a brand that charges $150 for a non-stick pan.

What the Cast Iron Perfect Pot is like to use

I love cooking with enameled cast iron. Care and daily maintenance is a lot easier than with a non-enameled cast iron, which requires seasoning, but it’s capable of the same high heat and can go in the oven or on the stovetop. 

When testing this pot, I made a Thai-style curry by first browning some onions and cooking off spices before adding my coconut milk, vegetables, and prawns and cooking in the oven. I first noticed that the pan took a long time to come to heat - much longer than my Le Creuset. When heated enough for me to brown the onions though, the pot maintained heat well to prevent them from burning. There was a little sticking when I added my spices, which is to be expected, but once I added stock and coconut milk I was able to scrape this from the bottom of the pan and get my sauce bubbling. 

As with the Always Pan, you get a nesting beechwood scraper that sits on the handle of the pot. It’s not the most useful when cooking on higher heats, because there’s a good chance it’ll scorch when sat on the handle. It’ll also sit across the pan, but I personally preferred just using my own silicone spatula for cooking. There’s also no built-in resting place for the scraper, so I don't think it's particularly useful with the Cast Iron Perfect Pot. 

To transfer the pot to the oven, I tried to use the included sillicone hot grips to protect my hands from the hot handle. They look groovy, but proved a little bit fiddly to get into and remove from place on the handles. I’ve been defaulting to my regular oven gloves for moving in and out of the oven, but the grips are still great for moving your hot pan from the stove to the dining table. 

I can’t fault how my curry cooked in the oven. It performed pretty similar to my other cast iron pots from Staub and Made In, but the weight is definitely more of a problem. It's 13lbs, 2lbs heavier than its equivalents from Le Creuset and Staub, so when it's full of sauce or stew it makes for a serious arm workout. 

Launched alongside the Cast Iron Perfect Pot, the hot grill can slot on top of the pot in the place of the lid (Lodge bread oven-style) and also be used as a skillet. You can also use the lid of the perfect pot to create some steam, perfect for melting the cheese on a smashburger. I’ve got my current skillet to a well-seasoned place where I can achieve grill lines on everything from steak to aubergine without sticking. Perhaps I went in a little too confidently with the cast iron hot grill, but in my defence, it does claim to require no pre-seasoning. I segmented some peaches and added a little oil to the hot grill while it pre-heated. After a few minutes of grilling I was disappointed that the peaches were sticking to the grill surface, meaning I didn’t get any lovely sear-lines for my finished salad. I was definitely less Insta-worthy than intended. 

After scrubbing away the residue from my peaches and doing a little extra seasoning to the hot grill, I was back in business for dinner. Burgers fared a lot better than my soft fruit had, achieving some nice deep grill lines. 

I also enjoyed being able to use the lid of the Perfect Pot when adding a little water to steam the burgers and melt my cheese slices. It’s a clever addition to the pot, but when you add it into the equation it’ll set you back an extra $95. The Le Creuset Enamelled Cast Iron Signature Square Skillet is closer to $200, although it does come with a handle, which is definitely easier for cooking steak as you’ll need to tilt your pan for basting.  

Cleaning the Cast Iron Perfect Pot

Another thing in favor of this pan is the lifetime warranty. Cast iron really should last a lifetime if you use it right. If you dig a little deeper though, this only covers chips and cracks. Anything resulting from not following the care instructions won’t be covered, and as with the Perfect Pot, these are pretty restrictive. 

They include advice to ‘use low-medium heat to preserve the enamel coating - never heat an empty pot’. I have a bit of an issue with this, seeing as the pan is technically capable of getting up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Presumably, the guidance is to prevent warping at sudden changes in temperature, but these instructions are a little prissy for something that’s designed to be a kitchen workhorse. 

You’re also advised to not use the dishwasher, which is something you can and should be able to do in a fully enamelled piece of cast iron. I always put my Le Creuset in the dishwasher, and frequently use metal utensils when cooking with it. If you opt for this pan, you'll have to use it with extreme care if you want your warranty to remain intact. 

Should you buy the Our Place Cast Iron Perfect Pot?

There are a lot of pros and a fair few cons at play here, but if you’re someone on a limited budget who does want to invest in a cast iron pan, I think you get what you pay for with the Cast Iron Perfect Pot. Combine with the Hot Grill and you’ve got a four-in-one piece of kit, at the price of a single really good Staub cast iron. 

With only one size to choose from, you’ll be lumped with quite a hefty piece of cookware with this pot. It’s 5.5 quarts, meaning you’ll likely get more use if you’ve got a family to feed or you enjoy bulk-cooking things such as soups and curries. 

If you can spare the extra cash and want something not quite so high-maintenance, I’d pick my Le Creuset over the Perfect Pot. It also comes with a lifetime warranty, and it’s a little more forgiving on daily wear and tear. And if you want something a little smaller at around the same price, I’d opt for the Staub cocotte in a smaller size. It’s also a lot lighter, which makes it better for those who might not be able to lug around a 15-pound piece of cooking equipment. With that being said, I wouldn’t blame you for opting for the Perfect Pot to match your Always Pan. It’s a really pretty pot, and it absolutely does the job without being too much of a pain to keep clean or in good condition. 

If we're to take Italian cooking cues from anyone, it's Stanley Tucci. Despite being best associated with the silver screen, the actor has established himself as quite the force in the culinary world – much to the delight of his followers, who enjoy frequent glimpses inside his London kitchen. 

We'd be lying if we said we hadn't already penned a love letter to Stanley's backdrop – from the color on this cabinets (it's Farrow & Balls' Down Pipe, FYI) to his open-shelving that houses a collection of Le Creuset's Dutch Ovens. It seems, however, that this iconic cookware is not the only French-designed piece taking up space in his kitchen. 

Enter Le Creuset's Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 2 Quart Saucepan – one of our favorite kitchen essentials that is a staple of Stanley's cooking videos. And the best part? It's on sale on Amazon right now. 

When investing in a new saucepan, it can be hard to know what you really need to look for. One key factor to consider– and arguably the most important – is whether it has Stanley Tucci's approval, which this saucepan does. But what else do we need to know before investing?

A modern icon: this feels more than a saucepan. It features the distinctive three-ring design associated with the northern French brand. It also fits seamlessly with any pieces from our already-existing Le Creuset collection (yes, including that timeless Dutch Oven that Stanley also knows and loves, as seen below). 

Aesthetics aside, our eCommerce editor, Laura Honey, notes that this Le Creuset is more than capable of cooking up our favorite recipes. And its power might just surprise us. 

'This saucepan comes with a triple-layer construction – with a full aluminum core for superior heat distribution. Its stainless steel exterior also contains lightweight titanium that will effectively prevent scorching, discoloration, and corrosion at higher temperatures. This is something I never knew I wanted until finding this pan,' Laura says. 

'Another feature worth mentioning is that it has ergonomic handles, designed to stay cool, and helper handles that allow for quick, comfortable movement on the stovetop.'

But why stop at the saucepan? We can't help but also add the actor's famous Dutch Oven to our basket. It's what Stanley would surely want, after all. 

If you're striving for perfection, it's important that you know how to store coffee grounds to keep them fresh and delicious. As soon as they're exposed to light, heat, humidity, and oxygen all the aromatic oils will start to break down, meaning your coffee will taste stale and bitter.

There are two key factors to consider if you want to keep enjoying your coffee's flavors at their finest. First, you need one of the best coffee grinders on the market. These won't damage your beans as they grind them up and will likely come with some kind of storage solution. You will also need a good coffee canister. These protect against all the environmental factors that could damage your beans and can keep your grounds fresh for up to a month.

These two will set you up for success, but there are other important factors to consider, such as how you store your coffee beans, where you store your coffee (in a pantry or the freezer), how much coffee to grind at once (only a serving), and how long your coffee will stay tasting good for. We put these questions to baristas, so here's everything you need to know if you want to keep your coffee fresher for longer.

Why use coffee grounds?

Coffee grounds form the backbone of all good brews. They're everywhere too: your barista uses them for espresso, you pack them into your reusable pods, and you sit them in your drip coffee maker. Even a seemingly magic bean-to-cup machine is busy grinding beans to make the best possible coffee.

Coffee starts its journey as plump, red or green beans. When the beans are roasted, they turn a mahogany brown. Roasting brings out the aromas and flavors of the beans, whilst dehydrating them. Having a lower water content means that they'll last longer and taste much better when you've ground them.

Genevieve Kappler, Director of Coffee at Roasting Plant, says that 'Buying fresh, just-roasted, whole bean coffee is the best option for the perfect brew. Roasted coffee is highly volatile and loses much of its flavor and aroma within 7 to 10 days. So, I'd always recommend purchasing just-roasted coffee in bean form and consuming it within 7-10 days.' She says that whole beans carry the flavor and aroma, but protects them from exposure to oxygen. The shorter time frame you have between roast and brew, the better. 

I asked Kayla Stavridis, Head of Marketing at Barista HQ, what good coffee tastes like. She said to look for 'A rich, robust flavor: the bitterness should be pleasant, not overpowering, and it should balance well with the acidity. When tasting fresh coffee, you should notice a slightly sweet, fruity, or even chocolatey note, depending on the type of bean you use.' In other words, if you're not getting those notes it's either because you're using instant coffee or your grounds have gone stale.

How to store ground coffee

Grinding your beans every day isn't always a possibility, so it's useful to do a batch grind in advance. However, if your grounds aren't stored properly, your they won't taste good, even a few hours after grinding. You need to protect against light, moisture, and warmth. These three key factors can skew your brew's flavors and waste your coffee beans because they speed up the reaction between your coffee grounds and the oxygen in the air. However, you can easily protect against them.

You should store your coffee beans and grounds in your coffee maker, in a freezer, or simply in the cupboards. You cannot and should not store your coffee in the refrigerator. Lots of people do, thinking that the cooler temperature will slow down the oxidation process. However, the temperature in a refrigerator is perfect for condensation, meaning that your grounds become moist. As they absorb the water, even if the pack is sealed, they'll start to taste stale and a little dusty rather than aromatic and punchy.

If you're using store-bought coffee grounds, make sure to check shelf life, but there's a couple of caveats here. Lukas van Vyve, founder of Emergent Brew, advises that grounds can be used up to of 4-5 months from the expiration date. However, he adds a warning that 'coffee starts to lose flavor as soon as it's ground, so it's best to consume grounds within a month of opening or grinding'.

Should I put grounds in the freezer?

If you've got lots of coffee grounds and you want to make sure that they don't perish, the freezer is an easy place to put them. Kayla says that frozen coffee grounds can stay fresh for up to two years if stored properly. I'd be more cautious and store coffee grounds in the freezer for no more than six months - That way you'll never risk a bad cup of coffee.

The freezer is a brilliant storage option because coffee is heat-sensitive. Keeping your grounds cold will slow down the degradation process, but if the temperature fluctuates too much, your grounds will suffer. Once your coffee is ground, put it in a sealed bag. If you have vacuum and seal bags like these on Amazon, that's perfect. If you don't, I'd consider investing in them. This will minimize oxygen and moisture exposure. Try to avoid taking the bag in and out of the freezer, because the temperature fluctuations can create condensation, which will affect the taste of your beans.

If possible, place a week's worth of coffee in each bag, then you can defrost them the day before you need them. You don't want to be using them when they're still cold; room temperature is the best temperature for extraction.

Should I store ground coffee in a cabinet?

The next culprit that could make your grounds grim is moisture. Tempting as it is to keep your grounds in glass jars and clear bean hoppers, the sunlight will break down all the flavorful aromas. If you keep them in an opaque, airtight container like these from Wayfair they'll retain much more flavor. Even better, if you have a cool cupboard, you'll be slowing down the reaction between oxygen and your grounds too. Experts recommend not to use a container where the metal might be reactive. We have a whole buying guide for the best coffee canisters, but these are our top three picks:

Keeping grounds from light: in your machine

This is a bit of a cheat. You can buy coffee makers where the bean hoppers are tinted or hidden from sunlight. This means that you can keep a week's worth of beans in your machine as long as it's airtight. If it is, this is the easiest option. Your beans are ground minutes before use and they're well-protected by an expert appliance. This isn't every coffee maker, so check carefully. If your coffee doesn't taste full-bodied and fresh, your hopper might not be as good as you think. Also, make sure not to overload your bean hopper: never put more than a week's worth of beans in. As a precaution, keep your coffee maker out of sunlight (not in the window), so that it has the best chance of preserving your grounds.

Kayla Starvridis told me that coffee makers integrated grinders 'simplify the process and ensures that you're always brewing with the freshest grounds.' Short of that, she re-emphasized that a quality grinder is a 'must-have if you want to grind your own beans, as freshly ground coffee has a superior taste. My personal favorite is a burr grinder, as it grinds beans to a consistent size.' 

How long will they stay fresh for?

There's no fixed time period for which your coffee grounds will be at their best. If you've bought ground coffee from the store, check the date and guidance on the packaging. Cary Wong, the Director of Coffee at Partners, says 'If unopened, the packaging you bought the coffee in will keep it fresh for a long time. Some companies even sell airtight oblique containers like this one which we created with Miir.' He also recommends the Fellow Atmos Vacuum Canister which is also available at Amazon. If you've ground coffee yourself and stored it properly, your coffee can last anything from two weeks in your cupboards to six months in the freezer. Mistakes happen and these don't need to go in the bin. Your plants will thank you for some coffee grounds. Make sure to store and brew them properly to make the most of the flavor. 

FAQs

What is the best way to store ground coffee?

In the freezer, in a vacuum-packed bag, your coffee can last up to two years. However, you'll need to carefully portion your grounds so that you're not always defrosting and refreezing your grounds. I would keep my coffee beans for as long as possible and then grind them just before I need them.

Should you keep ground coffee in the fridge?

Never keep coffee grounds in the refrigerator. This is the perfect temperature for condensation, which will ruin your coffee. Instead, keep them in a cool, dry, dark cupboard or a freezer.

What is the best container to store ground coffee in?

An airtight, opaque ceramic or glass container. We have a whole buying guide dedicated to the best coffee canisters where you can see our tried-and-tested favorites.

How long can you store ground coffee?

Anything from two weeks to two years depending on how you store it. Coffee will last longer as a whole bean rather than grounds. It'll last longest in a vacuum bag in the freezer.

Is it okay to store ground coffee in plastic containers?

If the container is airtight and opaque, plastic is fine. We would recommend glass or ceramic as better options, but plastic is fine.

What do bad coffee grounds taste like?

It might taste bitter, overly acidic, unbalanced, or a little stale. This is likely because you have left your coffee grounds open to air, light, and heat. It could also be because you are over or under-brewing your coffee though.

Does keeping ground coffee in the freezer keep it fresh?

Yes. You can keep ground coffee in the freezer for up to two years according to experts. Make sure that it is in a vacuum-sealed bag and that you don't take it in and out of the freezer often. The fluctuating temperatures can make it taste stale.

My Verdict

At the risk of sounding like a broken record, using freshly ground coffee is the best way to make your brew. If you keep it protected from light, heat, and oxygen, you'll keep your coffee fresher for a lot longer. I'd seriously consider investing in a grinder, because then you have control over the freshness of your grinds, resulting in a more flavorful cup. If that isn't an option, you can't go wrong with keeping them in the freezer.

When you start making coffee you realize just how much goes into these delicious brews. There's a lot to learn, which means it's easy to fall for common coffee maker mistakes that waste your time, money, and compromise on the taste of your coffee. Luckily for you, we made them all so that you don't have to.

It all starts with choosing the perfect coffee maker for your personal needs. Once you've found your match, there are plenty of other factors to consider. These can be as simple as choosing the right coffee beans for your brewer right up to how to grind coffee beans and how to clean your coffee maker.

We've got all the answers to common coffee queries, with tips from baristas to help you elevate the way you drink your morning coffee. We'll cover all the common coffee mistakes people make, including not filtering the water that they use in their coffee maker. With these simple, but effective, tips, you’ll be making the perfect cup in no time.

1. Buying the wrong coffee maker

It's easy to get caught up in coffee makers. The flashy, shiny ones with a steam wand and 60 different coffees might seem appealing, but if you only drink Americano coffees, you probably don't need one.

As a quick guide: French presses are great if you like more acidic, full-bodied coffee; pour-over machines are more delicate and make good filter coffee; drip coffee can cater can make lots of cups of coffee at once and often has a very mellow flavor profile; automatic coffee makers often tackle a range of coffees at the touch of a button, so they're an easy option; espresso machines are what baristas use. They're great for making a top-quality espresso, but they can be very hands-on. 

If you think about the coffee you like and what you'll need, you're much more likely spend money and save money where you need to. With that in mind, our team of experts tested a range of coffee makers on the market and the three below were their favorites.

2. Buying budget beans

Every coffee starts with the beans, so, naturally, that’s where mistakes start too. Former barista and food scientist, Jennifer Pallain says that fresh, high-quality beans are essential for a great cup of coffee. She cautions against buying pre-ground beans or bags which have been sitting on the shelf.

She says, ‘As they age, coffee beans lose their natural oils and aroma, leading to a stale and flat taste in your cup.' Check the packaging and if they were roasted between one and four weeks ago, they'll be brilliant. Jennifer recommends finding a local roastery and buying from there for guaranteed freshness. You also need a smart way to store your beans to stop them from losing flavor.

3. Not matching your maker to your beans

Different roasts and origin beans suit different brewing styles. We asked expert coffee writer Rebecca Wessel, for her favorite combinations. 'A light roast does really well in a Chemex', she says, but it might not suit an espresso machine. Rebecca looks for medium to dark roasts for her drip coffee and espresso machines. You can look into the flavor profiles of the beans you choose. Don’t be afraid to push the boat out, or to test a multi-pack of beans so that you can work out what you like best. Below are three of my favorite coffee makers, which can you can use with a range of beans.

4. Overstuffing your beans

There are a lot of mistakes that people make with their beans, especially related to storage. Once your bag of beans is open, it's exposed to sunlight, heat, and oxygen. Very quickly, the oils will break down and so your coffee will taste weak. If you fill your beans hopper to the top make sure that it's airtight, out of sunlight, and cool. 

Alternatively, you can follow a single dosing technique, where you only pour in the amount of beans that you'll use. You'll need to make sure that you're storing your spare coffee beans properly. I always recommend investing in a specialized coffee canister, because these make storage more reliable.

These are my three favorite coffee canisters:

5. Forgetting your grind-sets

An underestimated but essential contributor to coffee flavors is knowing how to grind coffee properly. It affects the extraction, flavor profile, and intensity of your brew. Kelsey Waddle, a coffee expert from Roasty Coffee, said that ‘Using the wrong grind size can lead to either under-extraction or over-extraction of flavors. For instance, a fine grind for a French press can result in a sludgy cup, whilst a coarse grind for an espresso machine may produce weak shots.’

The easy solution is to invest in a good grinder and think about which grind you’ll need. Lots of machines have adjustable settings. But if you use a French press, pour-over, or espresso machine, you’ll likely be grinding yourself. French presses suit a really coarse grind because it compliments the acidic flavor profiles. Espressos and moka pots need a fine grind for richer, sweeter notes. Below are some of the best grinders that we've tested, if you need a hand with your grind-set.

6. Not getting your ratios right

Choosing the coffee to water ratio is a personal preference, within reason. I was always taught to follow a 1:16 coffee to water ratio and if you want to add milk, just take that off the water. If you want a more delicate, lighter brew you could change the ratio to 1:14, but I wouldn't go any lower. The same applies if you want a stronger brew. For espresso machines, you'll want to weigh 18 grams of coffee for 50 ml of water, so the ratio is closer to 1:2. If you change your ratios to the extremes, you'll spoil your brew, but it's worth playing with it a little.

7. Forgetting to let your beans bloom

This is my last , but important, note on beans, because there's a lot more to the coffee making process.  If you add a little water to your grounds, in a French press or pour over machine, the coffee can bloom. This is how the CO2 is released from your coffee grounds, helping your coffee taste sweeter, smoother, and less acidic. You don’t need more than 30 seconds, but it makes all the difference.  

8. Don’t use tap water

Lots of people ask me 'should I use filtered water for coffee?'. It’s tempting to just use tap water and an easy habit to fall into, but it won't be giving you the best cup of coffee out there.  

Tap water contains impurities and minerals that will interact with your coffee, giving inconsistent results. If you use filtered water your coffee will have a more consistent taste. Kelsey from Roasty Coffee pointed out that ‘Coffee is mostly water, and tap water with high mineral content or chlorine can negatively affect the taste'. Kelsey recommends using filtered water or using a water filtration system to ensure clean and pure water. 

9. Consider temperature

There’s a narrow temperature range at which coffee tastes best. When it is between 195 and 205 degrees Fahrenheit the beans won’t be burnt and bitter, but they also won’t be under extracted and weak. If you own an automatic coffee maker, this still applies to you.

Kayla Stavridis, a barista and coffee expert, laughed over this mistake. It's one we are all guilty of doing. She told me ‘I remember once, when I was rushing to prepare for a morning meeting and I didn’t let my espresso machine heat up properly. The result was a lukewarm, under extracted espresso that tasted sour.' Some machines won’t let you use them unless they’re up to temperature, but make sure to check. 

10. Not keeping it clean

We all know that keeping clean is important, but sometimes it can be hard to see on a coffee maker. Establish a cleaning routine and keep to it. Coffee left in your brew head or grinder can go stale, spoiling your entire cup. We’ve written guidance on how to keep your coffee machine clean, so make sure to follow the practice at least every week. Even better, you could do it after every use of the espresso machine.  

11. Not learning how to steam

If your coffee machine has a steam wand, not only will you need to be meticulous in cleaning it, you’ll also want to practice with it too. If you can sort your steam techniques, you’ll be able to make a silky, smooth, and frothy coffee. Even better, you’ll be able to refine your latte art, which looks beautiful and can impress a guest. I've written a guide for how to steam milk at home, but if you're a visual learner, there are lots of barista videos online where you can watch how to perfectly steam milk. If you don't fancy yourself as a home barista, these machines are really good for steaming milk:

Experiment, experiment, experiment

Coffee isn’t a one-size-fits-all drink. Don’t be afraid to try different grinds, settings, and beans. It’s all too easy to fall into a habit and routine, but coffee makers can do amazing things. If you have a French press, why not try a cold brew? If you have a coffee maker, select an unusual option. If you’re feeling bold, buy a different kind of bean and give it a whirl. 

FAQs

What should I not do with a coffee maker?

There are lots of things not to do with a coffee maker. Leaving it plugged in will use unnecessary electricity; not cleaning it will prevent you making the perfect brew; and buying bad beans will stop you from having a flavorful cup. Make sure to read through our mistakes so that you don’t waste money, time, and coffee on your appliance. 

Is there a wrong way to make coffee?

The flavors of your coffee are shaped by your beans, grind, and brewing technique. These can be worlds apart and no method is right or wrong. As long as you end up with a smooth, balanced cup of coffee, your brewing is fine. There are best practice techniques to follow, which we’ve outlined in our mistakes above, so make sure to follow those guidelines. 

What happens if you put too much coffee in a coffee maker?

Nothing too disastrous. Hot water will extract a limited amount of coffee oils, so all you’ll be doing is wasting good beans. The best way to avoid putting too much coffee in your coffee maker is to use a scoop to measure out your coffee. 

Should you clean a coffee maker after every use?

Ideally, yes. If you’ve used a steam wand to froth milk, make sure to spray it and wipe it clean. That way, milk won’t dry in the spit. I use a brush to clear my brew head of excess grounds and always empty my drip tray after every use. Maintaining your machine like this will ensure that your coffee tastes better and that your machine will last longer too. 

There’s no need to panic, as you’ll have been doing lots of things right with your coffee maker. Everybody gets into bad habits, from neglecting your cleaning routine to skimping beans. However, these add up and can ruin a good cup of coffee. I’d make sure to correct any of your mistakes, but to really focus on experimenting. I always thought I liked darker roasts until I started trying some blonde roasts at a friend’s. Now I make sure to mix up my beans and to try different flavors when I can. Who knows what you'll find.  

You’ve done all the right things: decluttered, organized and tidied, yet still you’re left scratching your head, trying to work out how to make more counter space in your small kitchen. It’s a common frustration, but luckily it’s fairly easy to solve. 

There are actually two ways you can approach it, neither of which involve a complete kitchen renovation, you’ll be pleased to hear. You can, quite literally, make more counter space by introducing a portable island or investing in an over-the-sink cover, for example. Or you can create more counter space, by knowing how to declutter and organize kitchen countertops already in place. 

Both approaches are extremely effective, particularly when paired with the right small kitchen storage ideas. We’ve put together a list of ideas that cover both, so you can pick and choose what works best for you and your lifestyle. 

How to make more counter space in a small kitchen 

It’s all well and good working stylishly arranged kitchen countertops into your small kitchen ideas, but if they aren’t providing you with enough space to prep and cook, it’s time to refocus with function at the fore. 

It’s important to remember that kitchen counters are primarily for food prep, not storage. Keeping items to a minimum should give you the space you need. 'Any items you do leave out should primarily be of practical benefit, but should also spark a little joy – you’ll be seeing them every day, after all,’ says Katrina Hassan, founder of Spark Joy London. 

1. Create more storage space elsewhere

‘One of the best ways to keep counters clear is to focus on other storage spaces; decluttering a small kitchen, organizing kitchen cabinets or organizing deep pantry shelves are all good examples. Do this strategically, and you won’t need to store anything on countertops as everything will have its own place,' says professional organizer Michelle Vig, founder of Neat Little Nest. 

If you’re lucky enough to be in the initial stages of creating an all-new small kitchen layout, you can make this a lot easier by integrating a few ‘creative’ space-saving storage solutions, or perhaps even a pull-out counter, if you’ve got room. 

‘Don’t be afraid to work with a joiner or designer, as they will be able to suggest innovative storage solutions for awkward corners and recesses,' says Will Lyne, lead designer and owner Christopher Peters Kitchens & Interiors. Utilizing pocket doors in a smaller kitchen is a great way to open out additional food prep and storage areas, such as a pantry, without taking up valuable floor space.' 

Take further advantage of early planning by opting for as many built-in appliances as possible. Other ideas include investing in an oven with a microwave function or installing a hot water tap in place of a bulky kettle. 

2. Create multi-functional work areas

However small your kitchen, it will have at least two things; a sink and a cooker top of sorts, both of which usually end up as dead space when not in use. Now’s the time to change that. Whether it’s an inset drying rack, at Amazon, or a custom-fit cutting board, at Amazon, that sits neatly across the top, make those spaces work that little bit harder.

There’s also an extra storage opportunity to be had by displaying good-looking pots and pans on the cooker top – handy if you’re struggling for space in cabinets and drawers. 

‘My Le Creuset pan looks lovely enough to leave out daily; it brings little design love to our stovetop scene – and means our morning eggs are that much quicker to make!’, says Heather Goerzen, design editor at Havenly. 

3. Welcome portable workspace

Portable kitchen island ideas are ideal for creating space in small kitchens, both in terms of surface and storage. They’re versatile too; the top can double up as an extra countertop and a temporary breakfast bar, handy if you’ve got guests staying (invest in a couple of foldable chairs or stools that you can bring out as and when). 

The shelves underneath can be used to store items that might otherwise end up on the countertop, too. Choose one with wheels, so you can move it in and out, depending on whether it’s counter space or floor space you’re looking to increase.

4. Hang utensils on the wall

Storing utensils upright is a practical solution for finding what you need quickly and easily, which is why they often end up positioned in jars on the countertop, close to the stove.

While storing them in a drawer is a sensible solution, utilizing unused wall space, or even a backsplash, is far more space-efficient, and can look quite stylish, too. Consider installing a wall rail with hooks, like this one from Amazon. As well as utensils, you could hang oven mitts, tea towels, cleaning brushes and even mini herb pots – just be sure it’s positioned far enough away from any open flame. 

5. Swap wall cabinets for open shelving

If you’re a keen cook who appreciates having cooking items close to hand, then open kitchen shelving ideas are a great solution. Unlike closed cabinets, you can grab what you need from them quickly and easily without having to sacrifice precious counter space for the privilege.

6. Utilize drawers

Coffee canisters, spice racks, knife blocks, and cutting boards are common counter-clutter culprits, however, you might be surprised to learn that all of these items store wonderfully well in drawers. A little bit of customization is all it takes to make them fit for purpose. While adjustable inserts and dividers work well, bespoke organizers are well worth considering if you want to maximize space. 

‘These can be tailored to your exact specifications, allowing easy access to kitchen essentials. Choose deep drawers for organizing pots and pans, clever pull-out designs which reveal two drawers in one, bespoke internal organizers, knife blocks, and even intelligent charging drawers for all your tech needs,' says Tom Howley, Design Director at Tom Howley. 

When organizing kitchen drawers, allocate the most accessible ones to items that you reach for every day. That way, you’re less tempted to leave them out on the side.

7. Put away appliances

Free-standing appliances take up an awful lot of space on countertops, so it’s really worth evaluating which of them really need to be there. Limit yourself to one or two of the best appliances for small kitchens that you use every day – a coffee maker and a stand mixer, for example, and store the rest away to free up food prep areas. 

‘It’s also helpful to buy counter appliances in a color similar to your wall, tiles, and countertop so they blend nicely into the background,' advises Stephanie Nix, kitchen designer at Neptune. 

8. Layer up

We’d usually associate shelf risers with freeing up space in kitchen cabinets and on pantry shelves, but they’re just as effective when used directly on the countertop, too – as long as you choose an attractive design, like this bamboo version from Target. They’re also moveable, meaning you can reposition them depending on how you want to use your counter space. 

If you simply must store ingredients on your countertop, it’s also worth considering other kitchen organizers, such as stackable containers and Lazy Susans. While they don’t free up counter space underneath in the same way risers do, they do maximize on storage space.

9. Create groupings of items – and position them carefully

Smaller items dotted around the countertop can make for a cluttered feel and usually results in a messier workspace that’s harder to clean, as well. Lesser-used items such as dry ingredients, herbs, vitamins, pens, etc, can be corralled into stylish lidded containers, but for those items you need frequent access to (think washing up liquid, sponges, cooking oils, and seasonings), trays are a better idea. 

‘Position grouped items onto trays rather than directly onto the countertop. That way, everything can be lifted up in one go when you need to wipe the sides, or you can move the whole lot temporarily to free up counter space for cooking,' advises professional organizer Amy Bloomer of Let Your Space Bloom.  

‘Limit yourself to just one or two groupings for every couple of feet of linear counter space. If you have several short runs, space them out so you have one item in each stretch. If you have a longer run, say four to six feet of counter space, you might want to cluster three or four groupings together’, adds Victoria Sass, founder of Prospect Refuge Studio. 

10. Keep on top of tidiness

All your hard work will have been for nothing if you don't keep on top of tidiness going forward. As well as wiping them down regularly, it’s well worth instilling a few daily habits to keep counters clear – or as clear as possible anyway!

FAQs

So, as you can see, it’s perfectly possible to increase counter space, whether that’s literally adding it in, or simply making more of what’s there through sensible organization. Put in the work, and we’re willing to bet your small kitchen won't feel quite so small anymore!

Keeping our homes free of clutter is never easy. It calls for lots of smart storage, which we rarely have enough of, and some savvy home organizing ideas.

An alternative – and incredibly simple – way to keep our homes tidy is to exercise more restraint when it comes to buying new home items, and knowing what to stop buying altogether. 

Resisting the urge to shop will be just as effective as decluttering, whether it be clearing out eyesore drawers in the kitchen or tidying the cupboard under the stairs.

7 home items to stop buying right now

While regularly combing through our belongings with a decluttering checklist to hand helps enormously when we want to create more space, we mustn't forget the power of simply avoiding unwarranted purchases in the first place. 

It reduces the need for a big clear out and it's a great way to make a home look better without buying anything – bonus.

1. Coffee mugs

Sarah Dunn of Ready Set Organize says that as a professional organizer, one of the key items she declutters from homes time and time again is coffee mugs.

'Sometimes our clients struggle to get rid of these, but for different reasons,' she begins. 'Often times the coffee mugs are sentimental. However, remember that the memory is not tied to the physical item. Investing in one nice matching set of coffee mugs can do a lot in terms of reducing visual clutter.' 

Marie Kondo your coffee mugs by replacing them with a good quality set (we love these mugs from Le Creuset) and you'll be able to organize kitchen cabinets more easily.

2. Plastic containers and Tupperware

As useful as they might be, these kitchen cabinet stalwarts tend to pile up and are nearly impossible to store neatly. Organizing Tupperware becomes much less chaotic once you have vastly reduced your collection.

'Clients will say: "But it's good to have some on hand in case we take something to a dinner party,"' Sarah Dunn continues. 'This is a valid point, but with plastic containers, that doesn't mean you need to hoard 100 different choices. Keeping a few older or well-loved options – the ones you wouldn't mind leaving behind at a friend's house – is perfectly fine.'

In terms of things to get rid of in your kitchen cabinets right now, we'd say plastic containers without a lid are up there on the list and would recommend glass containers, at Amazon, instead. 

3. Reusable water bottles

'One item we see too many of in almost every home is reusable water bottles,' comments Juliana Meidl, the founder of home organizing service Serenity At Home. 'While reusing water bottles is great, most of us have way too many.

'They also take up a lot of space in a kitchen. We work with our clients to think through how many they really need and then donate the rest.'

4. Serving pieces

Juliana says that many of her clients have far too many serving pieces, and it's true that these visually pleasing additions have a tendency to clutter up our cabinets if they're not shoved onto the top of cabinets, and forgotten.

'Depending on how much entertaining people do, all those extra serving pieces end up cluttering the kitchen and taking up valuable space,' she says. 

5. Excess cleaning products

'There's no need to have a cleaning closet full of store-bought bathroom and kitchen cleaning products designed for specific tasks. I think we are moving towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly approach to cleaning, with many realizing that a lot of household cleaning can be done with homemade cleaning solutions, like a vinegar and water spray,' says Chiana Dickson, junior writer at Homes & Gardens. 

'Aside from natural stone and some wood surfaces, you can clean with vinegar in lots of areas of the home, and a single spray bottle will take up far less valuable space in our cabinets.'

6. Trend-led impulse buys

A trend-driven impulse buy should definitely be avoided. We love incorporating interior design trends into our spaces, but consider whether you'll get tired of that checkerboard rug or bobbin mirror after a while. 

'Since trends are fleeting, it's unwise to invest heavily in trendy home accessories,' warns New York interior designer Artem Kropovinsky. 'If you choose to buy a trend-led item, ensure it's something you'll continue to appreciate for years to come.'

Wait for discounts and compare prices, and seek out gently-used items that are still in good condition but can be acquired for a fraction of the cost of new products.

6. Single-purpose kitchen appliances

This one is especially important for small space-dwellers or those wanting to declutter their small kitchen properly.

'We find that many clients have a bunch of smaller kitchen appliances that they rarely use,' comments Juliana Meidl. 'Whether it is an Instant Pot, waffle maker, or food processor, we work with our clients to determine what appliances they really use on a frequent basis.

Juliana suggests only keeping your best appliances for small kitchens as these are compact, and either donating or storing the rest somewhere else.

Holding back on these unnecessary purchases is a low-effort way to sidestep clutter, and encourages us to adopt a more minimalist mindset in which we focus more on what we already have.

Are you contemplating whether your kitchen is in need of a Dutch oven? To help with your decision-making, I have curated a collection of the very best Dutch oven alternatives.

As someone who has spent countless hours testing recipes and cookware, I’ll be the first to say – a Dutch oven is iconic. When I reviewed the famous Le Creuset range, I concluded that their signature Dutch oven is one of the most versatile, durable pieces of non-toxic cookware that money can buy. But not everyone has the budget for one.

Luckily, there are plenty of smart Dutch oven alternatives that can deliver equally impressive results for lower prices. Whether you’re braising short ribs, simmering a rich ragu, or baking a crusty bread, the right tool doesn’t have to be cast iron with a French pedigree.

These are some of my favourite stand-ins – each tried, tested, and capable of holding its own on the stove or in the oven. From slow cookers to casserole dishes, skillets and multi-cookers, these Dutch oven alternatives can transform how you cook in the kitchen.

What is a Dutch oven?

A Dutch oven is a heavy, rounded cooking pot, usually crafted from coated cast iron, that can be used on both a stovetop and in the oven. Accompanied by a matching, tight-fitting lid, these traditional pot designs have been used for cooking for hundreds of years. They are often used for stews and soups, but really, they can be used to create all manner of recipes, from roasted meat to homemade bread.

Kitchenware icon, Le Creuset, is the most famous Dutch oven brand, known for their luxurious and colorful designs. I've put many of their products to the test here at Homes & Gardens; the Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Round Dutch Oven (see below) is voted our best Dutch oven overall. It is the one I use as home and I can confirm that this pot is definitely worth the hype.

However, Dutch ovens from brands such as Le Creuset (and their rival brand, Staub) can be quite expensive, so before you commit to a purchase, we're here to take you through our list of the very best Dutch Oven alternatives that can work just as well in your kitchen.

What can I use instead of a Dutch oven?

Whether you've been put off by the price tag of a traditional Dutch oven, have limited cabinet space, or have been using the same Dutch oven for years and are ready to switch up your cookware, let's take a look at the best Dutch oven alternatives for your needs.

1. Slow Cooker

A slow cooker is ideal for low, slow, hands-free cooking. You can quickly chop up your ingredients, throw them in the cooker, and forget about them for a few hours, returning to a perfectly-cooked meal.

Slow cookers can’t perform as many functions as a multicooker, but they’re much cheaper, and certainly a fraction of the price of a Dutch oven. You can cook exactly what you would in a Dutch oven; a slow cooker is perfect for stews, soups, curries, chillies and slow-cooked meat dishes, such as beef bourguignon and coq au vin.

I think your best bet is a basic but effective Crock-Pot, available at Target (see below). It’s inexpensive and gets the job done without any fuss.

2. Instant Pot

Instant Pot is the most famous, well-loved multi-cooker brand. Just like the name implies, you can cook in multiple different ways and enjoy quick-simmered curries, risottos, and meat dishes almost instantly.

My recommendation is the Instant Pot Rio (see below), currently ranking #1 in our tests of the best Instant Pots. This pot can genuinely do it all – pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, and keep your food warm. While it's not as nice to look at as a charming Le Creuset or rustic Staub, it’s much cheaper at under $100.

3. Cast Iron Skillet

Cooking expert, Laura Bais, owner of Julie Cafe Bakery says, 'Many of the recipes I make require a Dutch oven, so it's a staple dish in my kitchen. However, I only purchased one less than a year ago. Before, I used an oven-proof skillet, and it is a really good alternative – especially if you need it for stews. You just have to slightly adjust the temperature so it is a tad lower, and ensure that the skillet you use is oven-proof, deep, and on the heavier side.'

The Field Company Skillet is a staple in my kitchen. I love the sturdy, all-American quality – I'm sure I will pass it down to the grandkids one day. Field Company feature in our guide to the best non-toxic cookware, too.

4. Tagine Pot

Traditional tagine pots can not only sit beautifully on a stove or on kitchen shelving, bringing in beautiful charm and character to a space, they have been designed to cook ingredients in the same way as a Dutch oven.

Featuring a rounded base with a tall, cylindrical lid, tagines are perfect for keeping moisture in stews and creating tender meat and vegetables. A classic tagine pot is usually crafted from earthenware, finished with a beautiful, colorful glaze or pattern. However, you can also purchase more modern designs, made from metals such as aluminium.

Personally, I use an Our Place Tagine Lid, which goes on top of the Always Pan I use for everyday cooking. It's a convenient, inexpensive way to level up your cookware.

5. Roasting Pan

When it comes to slow-cooked meat, a roasting pan may be a better option than a Dutch oven. While it’s not as versatile, whole birds, hams, and joints of beef are all much tastier in a shallower roasting pan. This design can hold all the cooking juices, while promoting crispy browning on top.

The best turkey roasting pans also have large, sturdy, riveted handles which are easier to get a solid grip on – important when you're loading heavy meats in and out of the oven. If you're looking for an affordable option, I love the Blue Carbon Steel Roasting Pan from Made In Cookware.

6. Casserole Dish

Casserole dishes are perfect for oven-baked dishes such as hearty casseroles, pasta bakes, gratins, pot pies and breads. Unlike Dutch ovens, they aren't quite deep enough for curries, stews, or soups, and they tend to be made from stoneware rather than cast iron.

If this sounds suitable for your needs, you can't go wrong with a heritage Le Creuset casserole dish. The tight-fitting lid seals in moisture, so your meals will be tender, and the pretty colors make statement pieces that brighten up your kitchen.

7. Stock Pot

A stock pot, also known as a soup pot, is a great Dutch oven alternative to consider for stove-top cooking, ideal for making larger quantities of soups, broths and sauces.

Depending on the material, not all stock pots can be used in the oven, but their similar structure and design featuring high sides and a lid, make them one of the most popular substitutions for a Dutch oven. This basic stainless steel stock pot (below) is a good buy.

FAQs

Although a traditional Dutch oven will always be regarded as a more luxurious, one-pot-does-all kitchen appliance, there are many other designs that offer just as much versatility for cooking at home.

If a particular Nordstrom-sized gift card is burning a hole in your pocket, well you won't have to wait too long to take advantage of after-Christmas sales. 

Kicking off on Christmas Eve and through to the New Year, Nordstrom shares with us the Half-Yearly Sale; it's the second biggest sale of the year as a halfway marker to the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. Honestly, we expect it to include a similar assortment of products as the Anniversary Sale: think a cozy clearout of sweaters, blankets, boots, as well as bedding, to make way for the White Sales to come our way in January.

However, with the Half-Yearly Sale, we also get the added bonus of an extra 25% off clearance, a promo similar to what we saw around Black Friday. Nordstrom also commonly offers between 25% and 40% off across top brands too, though you're likely to find savings as high as 60%. 

When is the Nordstrom After Christmas Sale?

The December Half Yearly Sale is December 24th through January 2nd. 

What's on sale at Nordstrom?

So far, we've noticed discounts from sought-after brands on soft goods like Barefoot Dreams, Boll & Branch, and Casper, plus housewares including All-Clad, Le Creuset, Staub, Juliska, and many more. 

• Shop Nordstrom Home Sale and Clearance
• Shop Nordstrom Sale Bedding
• Shop Nordstrom Sale Home Décor and Candles
• Shop Nordstrom Sale Kitchen Items

Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale Picks

Nordstrom Shipping and Delivery Options

Nordstrom offers a plethora of delivery and pick-up options. All orders are eligible for free standard shipping. Nordstrom also offers expedited shipping with Two Business Days shipping for $12 and Next Business Day shipping for $20. International shipping is an option as well. 

When you shop online, you can also see its expected delivery date, as well as the ability to filter within proximity if you need it now. With this in mind,  Nordstrom offers Ship to Store as well as Buy Online, Pick Up In Store and Curbside pick up options

Are Nordstrom's after-Christmas sales as good as Black Friday? 

There’s much less fanfare than Black Friday, but sales can be as good, if not better. It depends on what you’re buying. The Nordstrom After-Christmas sale will be a great time to snag holiday decor and clearance, for instance.