For someone who spends a lot of time in the kitchen, my knife skills aren’t up to scratch, which is why I rely on gadgets to help me slice and chop. However, my countertops can quickly become cluttered, and the last thing I need is another electronic appliance with a cable getting in my way.

So when I saw these two Zyliss manual food shoppers, I had to put them to the test to see if they could replace my usual go-to KitchenAid food chopper.

Design and use

The first food chopper I tried had me at the name. Who wouldn’t want to own a gadget called the ‘Zick Zick’? The Zyliss Zick Zick 3 food chopper, $32 at Amazon, is a compact food chopper that fits together for easy storage.

How does it work?
You place the food in the storage cup — but be warned, the bottom lifts off, and it’s not designed for liquids or anything messy. Then you twist the top section and press the plunger down, which exposes the zigzag-shaped blade that chops the food. But, once will not be enough, you will need to continue using the plunger until the food is chopped to your desired consistency.

The second food chopper I put to the test didn’t have me quite so excited about the name — it’s the Zyliss Easy Pull Food Processor, $29 at Amazon — but it does require a hands-on action that makes it fun to use.

How does it work?
Unlike the Zick Zick 3, this version requires you to pull and extend the handle on the top section, which in turn rotates the blades. Once you release the pressure on the pull mechanism, it will return to the base so you can pull it out again.

The blades

Rather than having a traditional rotating blade, as you might expect with a food chopper, the Zick Zick 3 has a blade unit that is pushed down onto the food. However, it does still rotate, but not how you would expect.

On the first plunge the blade cuts down, and then on the next plunge, it rotates to land at a different angle, ensuring the whole area of food is covered.

You'll also notice that the blade is in one section. I thought it looked sturdy and robust, quite different from its counterpart.

The blades within the Easy Pull Food Processor form part of a removable section, that insert into the center of the bowl’s base. The blades consist of a slightly thicker plastic blade at the bottom and three thinner metal blades above. To keep you safe, they come with a protective casing for storage.

I felt the blades looked quite lightweight, and I was skeptical of what they’d be able to slice through.

Performance

If you’re used to using an electric food chopper or processor, you might be disappointed with the results or surprised by how much energy you need to put in to achieve them.

I started with red onions and cut them into eighths before placing them into both gadgets. My aim was to get finely chopped onions suitable for sauteing. It was clear from the start that the Zick Zick 3 found the onions a struggle, and I had to intervene to move them around. The vegetable's texture was too tough for this chopper, despite its sturdy blade. It didn't have enough movement to achieve the chop.

The Easy Pull Food Processor was much more impressive, even though I was concerned that the blades felt lightweight. However, I did find after 10 pulls that the blade dislodged from the central point and I had to reposition it. After another 10 pulls, I finished up with the finely chopped onions I desired.

My next food-chopping mission was to chop frozen mango into a puree. Neither of the food choppers could handle this tough job, so I defrosted the mango in my microwave before giving it another go. The mango was now much softer, and the Zick Zick performed well, although it struggled to achieve a smooth puree. However, it was still perfectly adequate as a fruit sauce to add to my overnight oats.

There wasn’t a huge difference between the two food choppers, although I think the Easy Pull Food Chopper achieved a slightly better result. You also have the added advantage with this version, as it has a fixed base, which will avoid any messy accidents.

One of my favorite healthy snacks to make is low-fat pancakes. The recipe calls for finely chopping the oats and seeds, in an effort to help the ingredients bind together as it foregoes the usual sugar in favor of dates. These are very dry ingredients to chop, and although the Zick Zick 3 did make a difference, it didn’t achieve the fineness I was after.

In this instance, the Easy Pull Food Chopper achieved a much finer result, and there was a clear winner.

Cleaning

One of the problems of using extra gadgets to help you chop and prepare food is the extra cleanup that’s often involved. Although both gadgets are dishwasher-safe, with the exception of the top part of the food processor, they were both fairly tricky to hand-wash.

With four blades to contend with on the food processor, I found it hard to remove all the food residue, however, since the blades detach, the bowl was easy to clean.

I also had an issue with the Zick Zick 3. I found it hard to reach into the blade sections to remove the food residue. And then replacing the plastic guide cover was a bit of a fiddle.

But if I had to choose between the two for ease of cleaning, I would opt for the Easy Pull Food Processor.

The verdict

There are plenty of reviews that show consumers love these products and say they’ve been using them for years. And at Tom’s Guide, we know that there’s nothing better than hands-on experience with a product over time to show whether it’s worth buying or not.

However, these Zyliss manual food choppers haven’t made me change my mind — I’m still going to keep using my electric food chopper. But if I was to recommend one out of the two, I’d choose the Zyliss Easy Pull Food Processor.

I thought it performed best when chopping, where in some cases the Zick Zick struggled. And on the cleaning front, I found it easier to clean up. It also has the added advantage of a slightly larger bowl capacity and a bowl with a base that can’t be removed. And although neither gadget is expensive, my preferred version is slightly cheaper.

More from Tom's Guide

• This KitchenAid chopper makes cooking dinner so much easier — there's just one thing missing
• Best food processors: expert tested and rated
• I've been using this compact yet capable food processor for a year, and it's cut my meal prep time in half

After testing a whole stack of digital kitchen scales for Tom’s Guide, I’ve changed my mind about the best kitchen scale I recommend. Despite putting each scale through a set of tests for accuracy, speed, functionality, and ease of use — not to mention design and cleaning — nine months later, there’s one scale that I reach for, and it’s not the top pick.

The Zwilling Efinigy Digital Kitchen Scale is a great contender — after all I did recommend it as the best kitchen scale in the guide. But after further everyday use, there’s one contender I rely on time after time.

It’s not that easy to pinpoint the exact reason why I favor this particular kitchen scale. Several factors make it my current go-to model.

Why KitchenAid’s Dual Platform Digital Kitchen Scale is my top choice

I’m a great fan of KitchenAid stand mixers, and now the company’s kitchen scales are among my top choices too. Here are 5 reasons why I changed my mind about my favorite kitchen scale.

1. Two scales in one

You don’t often get a kitchen scale that has two scales in one. But with KitchenAid’s Dual Platform scale, you can measure anything from a few coffee beans for a single cup of Joe to a heap of flour for a large loaf. And while I’m talking about bread, the small scale is perfect for accurately measuring ingredients such as yeast, where precision is everything.

The dual scale gives you added flexibility that you don't get with other contenders.

2. Easy to access controls

With some scales, such as Zwilling’s Efinigy Digital Kitchen Scale, you have to flip them over to adjust the measurement from, say, kilograms to pounds, as the button is on the base of the gadget. This can be a problem if you’re mid-flow and realize you’ve got the wrong measurement set.

However, with the KitchenAid Dual Scale, this can be changed by pressing the setting button, which is positioned next to the on/off button on the top of the scale. It’s also super easy to reset the scale to zero, so you can add and weigh another ingredient into your bowl without using a separate one.

After regularly using the KitchenAid scale for nine months, I now realize how frequently I swap between metric and imperial measurements.

3. It’s super intuitive

It won’t take you long to get into the swing of using this scale, and despite its extra weighing platform, it’s intuitive to use. You soon became accustomed to which button relates to which scale, which you’ll only need to use if you want to reset the scale to zero.

And, as I’ve mentioned above, it’s really simple to change the measurement to suit your recipe.

4. No bowl, no problem

You might not be bowled over (excuse the pun) with a kitchen scale that comes without a bowl, but for me, I’m happy not to have a bulky gadget taking up precious space in my cabinets. I also find that I tend to use my mixing bowl to weigh ingredients, which also leaves one less item to clean.

So, although the likes of Smeg’s Contemporary Scale, with its majestic-looking bowl, are designed to stay out on your countertop, it will restrict your working space when not in use.

Etekcity’s Digital Kitchen Scale also comes with a large bowl, but because it’s not as pretty as Smeg’s version, you’ll want to store it in your cabinets. However, it’s nowhere near as sleek or streamlined as the KitchenAid scale.

5. A premium product without a premium price

KitchenAid stand mixers are premium appliances, and that comes at a high price. For instance, the KitchenAid 5-quart tilt-head stand mixer has an MSRP of $499 at $499 at Amazon.

However, although KitchenAid’s Dual Scale is not a budget kitchen scale, like Escali's Primo Digital Scale, which is $25 at Amazon, it’s less than OXO’s Good Grips Kitchen Scale, which is $63 at Amazon, and recommended as the best kitchen scale for large loads in our buying guide.

While you’ll still pay $57 at Amazon for KitchenAid’s scale, you do get two scales in one.

More from Tom's Guide

• Bread makers swear by this kitchen scale that has a special baker's function
• I tried this designer kitchen scale and was disappointed at first — but the dual lid makes it worth it
• Cosori’s Smart Nutrition scale wants to help you master your macros — I put it to the test

When it comes to our daily chores, having one of the best dishwashers has been a game-changer in my home. And while certain items, like wooden cutting boards, delicate ceramic, or cast-iron pans, must always be hand-washed, there's one common item you should definitely clean in the dishwasher.

In fact, hand-washing is not just less effective at getting these items sparkling clean, but it also carries the risk of damaging them. So, what's the popular item we're probably washing all wrong?

Don’t hand-wash wine glasses!

According to Maximilian Riedel, CEO and president of glassware manufacturer Riedel (speaking to The Spruce), dishwashers are superior (and safer) at cleaning wine glasses than our human hand-washing capabilities.

When placed securely in the dishwasher and set to the right wash cycle, this will offer a more consistent pressure, without the risk of accidental damage.

In addition, this cuts out the risk of human error. I can’t tell you the number of times a soapy glass has slipped from my hand and crashed against the side of my ceramic sink.

Not to mention the scratches that my cleaning tools have made to my favorite wine glasses over the years. In fact, experts agree that handwashing is more likely to cause long-term damage to glasses.

Dishwashers can give sparkling results

Another bonus is that dishwashers are designed to tackle stubborn stains and marks on glass, so they will ensure a more hygienic clean. They also use specific detergents and steady wash cycles that really get down into the wine glass bowls for a deep clean. More importantly (for me), dishwashers save valuable time and effort, giving you one less chore to do.

Of course, bear in mind that there are certain things you should never put in a dishwasher, otherwise you could end up damaging the item, as well as the appliance. This includes delicate crystal glassware, as the high temperatures and pressure from the cycle can chip and crack glass. Plus, if you have hard water, this can cause the glass to be cloudy, ruining it in more ways than one. Here's how to clean cloudy glasses if you do have this issue.

Top tips for washing glasses in your dishwasher safely

To get the best clean and avoid any damage, make sure you load glassware into the dishwasher the right way — just like you would with everything else.

Ideally, fine glassware should always be washed in the upper rack because of its fragility. Tall glasses and tumblers should be placed along the sides, upside down, and not touching, so the water can flow through.

In addition, always make sure there is adequate space between glasses, as you don't want them to knock against each other or other items.

Plus, most dishwashers nowadays come with wine glass stem holders, which can fold down from the sides of the upper rack. These holders allow you to either lean your wine glasses against them or, depending on the design, slot them securely into position. This method prevents them from tipping over and keeps them secure throughout the wash cycle.

Finally, select a delicate cycle on your dishwasher or an equivalent option with low- or no-heat dry to minimize damage. So the next time you want to make your wine glasses sparkle, let your dishwasher do all the work.

More from Tom's Guide

• 10 things you never knew you could wash in a dishwasher
• How to clean a dishwasher
• 7 dishwasher tips that can save you money

Outdoor pizza ovens have exploded in popularity in recent years, as they let people at home make pizzeria-style pies in mere minutes. They heat up well and can bake a pie in 90 seconds. However, even the best pizza ovens require a little know-how and skill — specifically, rotating the pizza while it's in the oven.

Ooni is looking to make things a little easier with a new accessory that will automatically spin your pizza in the oven as it cooks. While you'll still have to launch the pie yourself, you no longer have to worry about one side of the pizza turning to ash while the other side remains raw.

You spin me round

The Ooni Rotating Stone is a kit that can be retrofitted to the company's Koda 2 series of pizza ovens: The Koda 2, the Koda 2 Pro, and the Koda 2 Max. To install it, you attach an electric motor to the underside of the oven, and then replace the cordierite stones inside the oven with the ones included in the kit.

You'll be able to have the stone continuously turn, or have it rotate just 90 degrees, depending on what you're cooking. While Ooni isn't the first company to come out with a pizza oven with a rotating base, the company says that its mechanism should be more reliable, as it rotates the stone from the edge, rather than from the middle.

Apart from pizza, the rotating stone could also come in handy if you're using the oven to slowly cook other types of foods, such as chicken, and want to make sure the heat is evenly distributed the entire time.

Ooni Rotating Stone price and availability

Ooni will sell the Rotating Stone individually, or as part of a bundle, which will save you $50 from buying each piece separately. All of the bundles go on sale today (March 4) at Ooni.com.

Rotating Stone & Oven Bundles:

Koda 2 – $799

Koda 2 Pro – $1,099

Koda 2 Max – $1,649

Accessory Only:

Koda 2 – $329

Koda 2 Pro – $349

Koda 2 Max – $399

Outlook

Ooni's new Rotating Stone certainly puts a new spin on pizza ovens. While I would argue the toughest part is actually putting the pizza in the oven to start, letting the oven do the work of rotating the pie will at least take some of the work off your plate.

I could see it being more useful when you want to slow-roast something in the oven, so it can slowly turn over a long period of time, with no effort on your part. Regardless, we're curious to see how it performs in the real world.

More from Tom's Guide

• Making pizza at home vs. delivery: I put it to the test | Tom's Guide
• I tried this amazing indoor pizza oven — and now I know why it's one of Oprah's favorite things
• Ninja just dropped its new outdoor pizza oven with a major upgrade

I’m currently redesigning my kitchen for a remodel, and despite having a mid-size space, I’m still struggling to fit everything in. And I know that for those of you with compact kitchens, it can be an even greater battle to decide what to include and what to leave out. Another issue is finding a compact appliance with a pleasing appearance.

Sharp has addressed this issue with its upcoming spring launch of compact kitchen appliances, which solve storage issues while delivering a pleasing aesthetic. We’re still waiting to hear news on the launch date and we'll update you once we have more information.

Big on style, small on footprint

The new products are a response to research conducted by Sharp and Apartment Therapy, which found that 66% of people living in small spaces struggle to find compact appliance options that feel well-designed, rather than “apartment grade”.

Among those surveyed, 59% were frustrated with inefficient kitchen storage. Taking these common compact kitchen problems into account, Sharp showcased 20 new products at the 2026 Kitchen & Bath Industry Event (KBIS), of which four new appliances address the functionality needs of compact kitchens.

Sharp says the idea behind the new launches is to demonstrate that technology and design in the kitchen can deliver, even in the smallest of spaces.

"At Sharp, we design products that work in step with our customers' living spaces and needs," said Grace Dolan, Senior Vice President at Sharp. "By listening closely to our customers, we understand the importance of offering both enhanced technology and stunning design for small kitchens.

Here's what's coming

So, what has Sharp delivered for the small kitchen owner? Among the new appliances to be launched this spring is the 24-inch Counter-Depth French Door Refrigerator (SJG1166SNS), which offers a luxurious, built-in aesthetic. It features two French doors with 11.3 cu. ft. of capacity, with flexible shelving and a 4.6 cu. ft. two-drawer freezer.

It also features fingerprint-resistant stainless steel, bright LED lighting, a dual-purpose Fresh Converter Drawer, and quiet, efficient operation.

Although we haven't been given an exact launch date, Sharp has told Tom's Guide that this model will be available for $1,599.

Combining two appliances in one is a game-changer in a compact design, and Sharp has come up with the goods. The company’s 24-inch Wall Oven (SWA2462SNS) combines a European convection oven with an air fryer. The oven is also equipped with a pizza mode, temperature probe, gliding rack and soft-close door, and has a 2.5 cu. ft. capacity. This model will be available for $1,299 once launched.

And there's more
Sharp's expanded line of compact kitchen appliances includes two more models: the Sharp 24" Counter-Depth Refrigerator (SJB10455NS) and the Sharp 24" Range Hood (SHC2443SNS).

More from Tom's Guide

• Prevent countertop chaos: 11 ways to store your small kitchen appliances
• 11 products organized people keep in their kitchen
• 7 space-saving hacks to organize kitchen cabinets

Cleaning my range hood filters is a job I put off constantly because it feels time-consuming and tricky. But it's also something that needs to be done. Over time, grease buildup can cause odors, reduce the efficiency of the hood, and even cause a fire hazard.

Whether you can notice the grease or not, it's undoubtedly there, and it'll just keep getting worse. Fortunately, I've just discovered a method that takes minutes and is super easy to follow. Here are the simple steps that'll clean up your range hood filters in no time at all with minimal fuss.

What you'll need

• Boiling water
• Non-abrasive scrubbing brush
• Baking soda
• Dish soap that degreases
• Paper towels

More from Tom's Guide

• This vinegar steam trick will rid your oven of grease and grime — here's how to do it
• 7 things we avoid cleaning, but we really should
• I've just discovered this oven rack cleaning hack — and all you need is a plastic bag

It's not very often that I compare an IKEA product to a cheaper alternative, but when the budget homeware brand came out with a cast iron frying pan, it was only right to put it head-to-head against the best cast iron skillet I've tested, and that comes from Lodge.

Lodge's 10.25-inch Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet costs just $25, whereas the new IKEA VARDAGEN Cast Iron Frying Pan will set you back $35. But which is better?

A cast iron pan is the biggest daily driver in my kitchen, so I've given both the new IKEA VARDAGEN Cast Iron Frying Pan and the Lodge Skillet a good few weeks of daily use. Here's why IKEA's new cast iron pan is good, but not good enough to oust Lodge.

Design

All cast iron skillets look broadly similar, but the likeness between IKEA and Lodge is uncanny. Both have two handles, making them easy to take in and out of the oven, and both have a double-sided pouring spout and deep sides, which is ideal for baking as well as frying.

The main difference is that IKEA's VARDAGEN is 11-inches wide, compared to Lodge's 10.25 inches (although you should note, Lodge makes skillets in a whole range of sizes) and the IKEA has a much longer handle. The VARDAGEN's handle is 10 inches, compared to Lodge's 4.8 inches. On a specs level, there's nothing to make one pan better than the other. It depends on your preferred look and user case.

Overall, the Lodge has a more 'All-American' vibe, whereas IKEA's pan has a more minimalist, Scandi vibe. Which makes sense!

Cooking

The key to getting the most out of your cast iron skillet is to ensure it's well-seasoned, and to pre-heat it before every use. While they're capable of cooking at very high heats, I rarely turn my gas stove above the halfway point when cooking with cast iron. Because the material retains heat so well, you don't need to blast it with fire to get a perfectly even result. That is, if it's a good pan.

I'll address the obvious disadvantage here: my Lodge pan is my daily go-to, and that means I've been using it and building up its seasoning for nearly a year. I will say though, it arrived with a very impressive pre-seasoning, meaning it was ready to go from my first use.

IKEA's VARDAGEN does also come pre-seasoned, but I gave it a helping hand by using it a few times and re-seasoning in the oven between uses. So, not 100% on equal footing, but both should be more than capable of cooking up some tasty meals.

You can see in the photo above that I cooked eggs and bacon in both pans, testing how well they were able to sear bacon and cook up a tasty fried egg without sticking. The Lodge is pictured on the left and IKEA on the right.

One advantage of the IKEA over the Lodge pan was its long handle. This meant I was able to hold onto the edge of the handle with my bare hand while I took a spatula to my egg and stirred sauces. In the Lodge pan, that's simply not an option due to its much shorter handle, which gets too hot to touch without oven mitts.

While both pans did a good job, the Lodge was a clear winner for me. My egg didn't stick, and got nice and crispy on the base, whereas I did need to handle my egg and bacon more carefully in the IKEA pan, and despite giving it the exact same pre-heat, I found that the bacon took longer to crisp up, suggesting that the IKEA pan didn't retain heat as well as the Lodge pan.

Winner: Lodge

Cleaning

Although I've been using it for over a year, I can still remember how easy the Lodge skillet was to use from the very first day I tested it. Its seasoning is incredibly robust and forgiving, making it ideal for beginners. It's a true workhorse in my kitchen, and even when I mistreat it by not drying it off immediately after cleaning, or cooking acidic sauces for a prolonged period of time, it still bounces back with some TLC.

IKEA's VARDAGEN is also forgiving, and its pre-seasoning is also thorough enough that you won't need to give it any special treatment. But it's just not quite as hard-wearing as the Lodge. Put it this way — I'd trust my partner to clean the Lodge pan, but I'd want to clean up the VARDAGEN myself, just to make sure nothing goes wrong.

Winner: Lodge

Verdict

If the IKEA VARDAGEN was significantly cheaper than the Lodge cast iron skillet, I'd be a bit less decisive in my rankings. But considering it's actually $10 more expensive, less forgiving to use and didn't outpace the Lodge on my cooking tests, I think this is a clear-cut case. Buy your bookcase from IKEA, and buy your cast iron from Lodge.

I do admire IKEA's 15-year warranty, which shows that it's willing to back its new cast iron range, and I also prefer the longer handle and more minimalist aesthetics. By no means is this a bad pan, it's just less brilliant than my favorite skillet.

More from Tom's Guide

• IKEA unveils the Klippfisk — an Always Pan rival for a fraction of the price
• I just tried Ikea’s portable induction cooktop — 5 things I like (and 1 I don't)
• IKEA’s new countertop organizer is a game-changer for small kitchens — and it’s just $7

Smeg just dropped a new line of microwaves that are far more stylish than we’ve come to expect from this appliance. In fact, the humble microwave has had a facelift, and rather than being an appliance you’d prefer to obscure from view, Smeg has delivered some kitchen eye candy. But, I wouldn’t expect much else from this iconic brand.

What’s more, apart from appearance, Smeg has upped the stakes in culinary capabilities, and the microwaves can even grill and air fry. With countertops piled up with numerous appliances, it’s a relief when a single unit can offer more than one function.

Smeg’s MOC01 microwave comes with a grill, while the MOC02 combi microwave has a grill, air fry, and oven function. Freshly launched in the U.K. — the MOC01 is £349 at Smeg, and the MCO02 is £449 at Smeg, although you’ll have to join the waiting list for the second release.

You'll also have to wait slightly longer if you're in the U.S. Smeg has confirmed to Tom’s Guide that the MCO02 will be launched as the MOC12 , with an expected MSRP of $600.

Softly does it

Rather than sticking to hard lines, the two new models feature Smeg’s signature curved lines, matte finishes and brushed aluminium detailing. And to make it neat, they have a clear LCD display, and integrated concealed handles. The only problem is deciding which color to choose. Why go for matte black or white, when you can also select emerald green or storm blue?

But, I don't want you to get too excited if you're Stateside, as Smeg has told us that the MOC12 model will only be available in white or black.

Microwave and more

Smeg says that the products are designed to move the microwave beyond reheating and into the heart of modern cooking. I use my microwave for defrosting and reheating, but not much else. So what extra functionality will Smeg’s new offering provide, and will it mean I can reduce my countertop space by ditching my air fryer?

What does the MCO01 offer?
The Microwave with Grill has a generous 29-liter capacity, despite its shallower depth, making it ideal for compact kitchens. And to ensure your food is golden brown and crispy, it comes with a grill rack. It also features inverter technology to ensure even cooking or defrosting. This avoids the hot and cold spots that traditional microwaves are known for.

Apart from the microwave, grill, defrost and reheat functions, it offers multi-stage cooking, allowing you to program several stages at once. It’s ideal for dishes that need defrosting, then microwaving or grilling, so you can set everything in one go without having to reset the time.

Plus, to make your everyday meals easier, it offers 18 automatic programs for cooking meat and poultry, fish and shellfish, vegetables, cakes and desserts, bread and pizza, and rice and grains.

What are the extra benefits of the MCO02?
In the U.K., you’ll pay an extra £100 more for the all-singing and dancing MOC02, which, alongside a grill, also includes an oven and air fry function, and comes with an extra crisp pan and air fry basket. Smeg says the air fry function produces texture and depth typically associated with conventional oven cooking, but in less time, which could make your countertop air fryer redundant.

And while this is slightly smaller in capacity at 27 liters, you get 25 automatic programs instead of 18.

I’d be interested to try the MOC02 to see the results, but I have one problem. I can't decide between emerald green and storm blue.

More from Tom's Guide

• Smeg's new Mini Milk Frother is small, stylish and surprisingly versatile
• I just tested Smeg's portable induction cooktop — and it's a game changer for my kitchen
• Cleaning a microwave — here’s how often to do it and the 5 best hacks to use

Whether you're a seasoned chef or you're just starting your culinary journey, having the right kitchen appliances and tools are essential at every skill level. If you're looking to upgrade your set up and make meal prep simple, look no further than Ninja.

Ninja offers impressive appliances that are designed to help you cook with confidence. I own several of Ninja's top-rated gadgets, and they genuinely make everyday cooking faster and easier. Luckily, now is the perfect time to buy. Amazon is offering up to 45% off select Ninja appliances for a limited time.

From portable blenders and air fryers to ice cream makers and electric grills, Ninja has plenty of deals that make it easier (and more affordable) to cook like a pro. Keep scrolling to check my favorite Ninja picks from Amazon's sale.

Quick Links

• shop all Ninja deals
• shop all Ninja deals at Amazon
• Ninja Blast Portable Blender: was $69 now $54
• Ninja Professional Blender: was $109 now $89
• Ninja Air Fryer Pro 5-in-1: was $179 now $99
• Ninja CREAMi Ice Cream Maker: was $229 now $179
• Ninja Digital Air Fryer & Toaster Oven: was $249 now $179
• Ninja Outdoor Electric Grill & Smoker: was $399 now $329
• Ninja Slushi Max: was $499 now $349

Ninja Deals

If you cook regularly on a gas stove, you know how quickly the iron stove grates accumulate grime. Oil splatters during frying, sauce bubbles over while simmering, and food particles land on the grates with every meal. The gas flame bakes this residue onto the metal, transforming what was initially easy to wipe away into hardened, stubborn buildup.

Within days, your grates can go from clean to visibly dirty. Within weeks, they develop layers of baked-on grease that seem impossible to remove without aggressive scrubbing or expensive specialized cleaners. The longer you wait, the worse it gets, and the cleaning job feels increasingly overwhelming.

With household items you likely already own you can tackle everything from light grease to heavy carbon deposits. The key is matching your cleaning method to the level of buildup. Here's how to clean gas stove grates effectively.

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Our Place is an incredibly popular and on-trend cookware brand famed for its Always Pan, Wonder Oven, and Perfect Power Pot. And it's also no stranger to a pop of color.

Just last year, it did a surprise collab with Crocs (that's right, the shoe brand!) with a buttery yellow drop, and released a limited edition Espresso Collection earlier this year.

And now, there's a new limited edition shade on the block, and it's suitably springtime chic. Our Place is calling it the Forget-Me-Not Blue collection — it looks so similar to our own Tom's Guide blue branding that I'm considering picking up a set myself — and I certainly won't be forgetting about it anytime soon with my eyes on the Cookware Duo for $239.95, or the Always Pan 2.0 for $135 at Our Place.

Forget-Me-Not Blue

An incredibly eye-catching addition to Our Place's already vibrant color palette, the Forget-Me-Not Blue collection reminds me of a mix between a Pantone Blue and the Blue Salt of KitchenAid's 2024 Color of the Year — and I'm here for it. In fact, the 2026 KitchenAid Color of the Year is Spearmint, so there's a definite shift back towards blues.

2025 was all about Butter Yellow, which Our Place fully embraced with the brand's Crocs collab. And while it screams springtime, so does this Forget-Me-Not Blue and dare I say, in a more bold and fun way. It definitely feels like a 2026 trend is on its way.

I also think it slips in really nicely with Our Place's pre-existing color palette, including its very own Blue Salt, a more toned-down pastel shade. Although I'm saying all that in a dream world where I own a variety of existing blue Our Place cookware already. If you're lucky enough to, I'm sure it'll fit right in.

As Our Place puts it: "Forget-Me-Not Blue marries form and function in a reflective shade that fits any kitchen style. Inspired by the color of a memory you can taste, the soft blue of flowers that bloom in the cracks, tender handwritten recipe cards, and decades-old ceramics, Forget-Me-Not is the color of memory itself."

But Our Place aren't the only ones adding a splash of color to the kitchen. Le Creuset just dropped its new Forêt collection, a rich matte green. And the new Ninja BlendBoss is a cacophony of color blending purples with yellows and greens with pinks.

There's clearly an increase in the popularity of colorful kitchenware and with Our Place dedicated to bringing this newest spring-inspired limited-time drop, it creates a buzz to grab it on time, as well as a burst of color to your home.

More from Tom's Guide

• I compared the Always Pan with IKEA's Klippfisk lookalike — here's what happened
• The Always Pan now comes in a limited-edition new color, and it's totally on-trend
• The Always Pan's latest colorway is the result of an unlikely but adorable collaboration with Crocs

IKEA has designed an entirely new range of kitchen storage, named CHOKLADHAJ, which takes the simplicity and eco-friendliness of pine wood and brings a new way to declutter your countertops — or even pantry shelves — for good.

If you're fed up with rooting through your fruit bowl to find what you need, or you've recently discovered that onions and potatoes shouldn't be stored together, then these storage boxes have come at a good time.

The CHOKLADHAJ Food Storage Box comes as a set of two for $14.99. It makes a genius way to store groceries that don't need refrigerating. Arriving as a pair, these boxes are stackable, depending on where they'll fit, and they're compact enough that you could even hide them in a drawer. They've immediately doubled the food storage space in my small kitchen, too.

Why we love IKEA’s CHOKLADHAJ food storage boxes

Organize your often-reached-for fruit and vegetables, from your onions to your garlic, and separate your apples from your pears for your own convenience. You can even use these in your pantry for an affordable glow-up — you'll thank us come hosting season, when you'll be able to find just what you need when you need it!

Not only are these eco-friendly food storage boxes (made from durable solid wood), but their open design will allow your food to breathe. And remember: you don't have to stack them! If you choose not to, you'll be able to fit taller items in the larger of the two boxes, too.

Already nailed your storage solution for fruit and vegetables? Here are some other items shoppers have stored in these handy stackable boxes:

• K-Cup coffee pods (or any coffee pods!)
• Protein bars
• Medicine
• Play Doh
• Pens
• Salad dressings/oils
• Spices

How will I use IKEA’s CHOKLADHAJ food storage boxes?

My pantry is currently a total mess. The storage baskets have are all mismatched, and grabbing something off the shelf sometimes results in having to dodge a falling potato (or two).

These boxes are the perfect size for my pantry shelves, and although they won't fit stacked atop one another, they'll be great for keeping my garlic separate from my onions and my potatoes away from my apples.

I also plan on using two of these on my kitchen worktop, nestled in a corner. I plan to use them to replace my current fruit bowl.

The rest of the CHOKLADHAJ range

You'll find 3 more similar designs in this range, all made to help you declutter your kitchen:

More from Tom's Guide

• This $12 gadget from IKEA has just solved my dark hallway problem
• Prevent countertop chaos: 11 ways to store your small kitchen appliances
• How to declutter your kitchen cabinets in 5 easy steps

I tend to cook a lot of one-pot meals, and I love using my enameled cast-iron Dutch oven as it’s super-sized and versatile — I can move it straight from my cooktop into my oven. But, because I use it most days, it does come up against a fair few messy overspills and scorch marks.

However, as I value the aesthetic of my cast-iron cookware, I leave my Dutch oven on my countertop. So, to keep it looking its best, I need to ensure it is thoroughly cleaned to maintain its brand-new appearance.

But although I prefer using enameled cast-iron over traditional cast-iron, which I explain below, it doesn’t handle high temperatures as well. This means that you’re more likely to notice scorch marks on the bottom of your pan. And to ensure the residue from these scorch marks doesn’t cause further damage to the enamel coating it needs to be removed.

While you might be worried about scrubbing away at the enamel coating, there is an easy way to remove scorch marks — and all it takes is a couple of ingredients that are already in your kitchen.

How to clean scorch marks off an enamel cast-iron pan

1. Begin by washing your cookware in hot soapy water.

2. Allow your pan to dry.

3. Make up a cleaning paste using baking soda and water.

4. Apply the paste to the scorch marks and leave for at least 15 minutes.

5. Rinse off the paste and rewash your pan.

How not to clean enamel cast-iron

Although enameled cast iron is dishwasher-safe, Lodge recommends handwashing it to preserve the finish. It also advises using a gentle dish soap, and avoiding harsh citric-based cleaners that can dull the enamel’s exterior gloss.

Although you can scrub your pan, it’s best to choose a non-abrasive scrub cloth or scrub brush that won’t degrade your cookware.

The benefit of using enameled cast-iron over traditional cast-iron

The benefits of opting for enameled cast-iron over traditional cast-iron, is that you don’t need to season your cookware, as the enamel acts as the protective coating.

This also means that there’s a whole heap of colorful enamels to choose from, with top brands, such as Le Creuset, offering a mountain of choice. I particularly like Le Creuset’s Signature Round Dutch Oven, in Chambray, which is $400 at Le Creuset for the 4.5-quart version.

More from Tom's Guide

• Does an induction cooktop work with cast iron pans? Here’s what the experts say
• The best cast-iron skillets
• Is it OK to cook tomato sauce in cast iron? I asked pro chefs, and they all said the same thing

KitchenAid produces one of the best stand mixers you can buy, and apart from providing eye candy on your countertop, they are sturdy appliances that are built to last. It’s one of the reasons why KitchenAid stand mixers are so sought after.

But even though they are robust stand mixers, if you’re a regular baker and put your KitchenAid stand mixer though a ton of mixing, whisking and kneading, it may need a little tweak to keep it working smoothly.

So, rather than replacing your KitchenAid stand mixer when it starts to sound under strain, I've discovered a fix you can do yourself. Don’t let me stop you from replacing your KitchenAid stand mixer if you’ve been tempted by a different colorway, such as Spearmint, KitchenAid's new color for 2006.

Re-grease rather than replace

“Many KitchenAid owners are discovering that their stand mixer isn’t broken. It simply needs re-greasing,” says Zach Dinicola, founder at Mr Mixer, a KitchenAid repairer.

In fact, he says that stand mixers were never designed to be disposable and routine maintenance can dramatically extend their lifespan.

“Most consumers don’t realize that stand mixers contain internal food-grade grease that gradually breaks down,” explains Dinicola. “Years of storage, holiday baking marathons, and heavy doughs accelerate the process.”

And he adds that a stand mixer that sounds rough or slows down after heavy use usually needs maintenance, rather than replacement. You may also notice oil dripping from the planetary hub or running down the shaft, reducing mixing performance, especially with large quantities, and a loud grinding sound when it’s mixing.

To give your stand mixer new life, Dinicola recommends re-greasing. Apart from reducing noise during operation, he says, “A simple re-greasing keeps the gears running smoothly, protects the motor and helps a mixer stay reliable for decades,” he says.

How to re-grease your KitchenAid stand mixer

While you can call on a professional to service and re-grease your stand mixer, it is possible to do it yourself. Even though I was skeptical at first, with the right tools, I'd be confident in giving it a go.

All you need to know is how to disassemble your KitchenAid stand mixer to access the gears. Then, how to remove the old grease and reapply fresh grease before putting everything back together.

The steps below are recommended by Appliance Parts Pro and cover both the KitchenAid tilt-head and KitchenAid bowl-lift stand mixers.

What you need:
Flat-head screwdriver
Philips screwdriver
Clean rag
Food-grade grease

1. Disassemble your stand mixer

Remove the back cap: Take the Phillips screwdriver and remove the screws on the back cap on the upper body of the mixer. Once removed, pull the back cap towards you and lift it up slightly.

Tilt-head or bowl-lift models: If you have a tilt-head model, tilt the head back and lock it into place. For a bowl -lift model, lower the bowl and remove it.

Remove the trim band: Using the Phillips screwdriver, remove the two screws located on trim band located around the top of the mixer’s head. Then, pull the band away to lift it out. This exposes the motor housing and part of the internal wiring.

Remove the top housing: Unscrew the screws around the perimeter of the top motor housing, then lift off the cover. This exposes the gearbox and motor assembly.

Remove the planetary base: Turn the mixer upside down and look at the planetary hub where the attachments connect. Using a flathead screwdriver, remove the retaining pin that secures the planetary in position. You can now slide the planetary straight down and off the shaft.

Expose the gearbox: Remove the screws securing the gearbox cover to reveal the gears and grease.

2. Get to work on the grease

Clean out the old grease: Remove as much of the grease as you can, using a plastic scraper. Then, take a clean rag and wipe down the gears. You may find using a toothbrush helps to get into crevices, but avoid damaging the gears.

Reapply fresh grease: Take a generous amount of the food-grade grease and apply it to the gears. Cover each gear tooth with an even layer, ensuring any old grease is covered.

3. Reassemble your stand mixer

Replace the gearbox: Attach the cover and secure the screws. Take time to wipe away any excess grease that comes out.

Attach the planetary base: Turn the mixer upright and reinstall the planetary assembly. Align it with the shaft and push it into place, then reinsert the retaining pin.

Secure the top housing and trim band: Secure the motor housing with the perimeter screws, followed by the rear cover and screws.

Clean up: Wipe down your machine to remove any residue.

4. Test your stand mixer

Plug your appliance in and run it on a low, medium and high speed for a few minutes. If you've been successful, you should notice that your stand mixer runs more smoothly while making less noise.

Luckily, you don't have to re-grease your KitchenAid stand mixer that often. It all depends on how much use it gets, but every 3-5 years is probably sufficient.

More from Tom's Guide

• KitchenAid vs Cuisinart: Which stand mixer is best?
• How to clean a stand mixer — keep your KitchenAid gleaming
• How to choose the best KitchenAid stand mixer

Ninja is known for making some of the most buzz worthy small kitchen appliances on the market — and I can personally vouch for the brand's hype. I own several of Ninja's top-rated gadgets, and they genuinely make everyday cooking faster and easier. Luckily, now is the perfect time to buy.

Amazon is offering up to 40% off select Ninja appliances for a limited time. One of my personal favorite deals is on the Ninja Flip Toaster Oven & Air Fryer, which is now $100 off. I own this super convenient and versatile appliance and use it on the daily to cook up my favorite meals.

From portable blenders and air fryers to ice cream makers and electric grills, Ninja has plenty of deals that make it easier (and more affordable) to cook like a pro. Keep scrolling to check my favorite Ninja picks from Amazon's sale.

Quick Links

• shop all Ninja deals
• shop all Ninja deals at Amazon
• Ninja Blast Portable Blender: was $69 now $59
• Ninja Professional Blender: was $109 now $79
• Ninja Air Fryer Pro 6-in-1: was $129 now $89
• Ninja Crispi Air Fryer: was $179 now $159
• Ninja CREAMi Ice Cream Maker: was $229 now $199
• Ninja French Door Premier Air Fryer: was $279 now $199
• Ninja Slushi Max: was $499 now $399

Ninja Deals

There’s nothing like the smell of freshly baked bread to make you feel hungry. And for me, that subtle sweet fragrance also fills me with a sense of comfort. What’s more, even novice bakers can make a perfect loaf, with a little help.

Bread machines take the guesswork out of baking bread and remove the worry of whether the temperature is just right or if you’ve left the dough long enough to prove. And right now, creating your own in-house bakery just got easier, as Cuisinart’s Bread Maker is $119 at Amazon, saving you 29%.

Why I recommend Cuisinart's Bread Machine

I recommend Cuisinart’s Bread Machine as the best compact bread maker in our buying guide. Although it only measures 10.25 x 13.25 x 11.25 inches it can still make up to a 2 lb loaf, or you can choose a 1 lb or 1½ lb loaf if you want a smaller bake.

What’s more, although it’s small in stature, you can still choose from 12 pre-programmed menu options, including three crust options. You can make white, French, whole-wheat, sweet, gluten-free, or artisan bread; opt for a fast bake, use a packaged mix, or make dough. Plus, there are options to make jam, cake, and just bake.

To make everything easy, there’s a clear LED display and push button controls, and the overall design of the bread maker is neat — it won’t look unsightly on your countertop, or take up much cabinet space.

However, because of its compact size, it does make a loaf that is tall rather than wide, so do bear this in mind if you’d prefer a traditional-shaped loaf.

Cuisinart's Bread Machine is an excellent choice is if you are new to baking bread, as you won’t be blowing your budget, especially as you can now save 29%. So, if you’ve been weighing up whether to invest in a bread maker or not, now’s a good time to go for it and enjoy the smell of a fresh loaf in your home.

I’ve spent a long time researching induction cooking and have written a whole stack of articles for Tom’s Guide, from testing Smeg’s portable induction cooktop to tips to unlock your induction cooking potential.

While I am an advocate of induction — I’m even planning to replace my gas cooktop with an induction model when I renovate my kitchen — there’s one aspect about this cooking method that I’ve been concerned about.

I have no issues with how induction works, or even that you need magnetic cookware for heat to be transferred. My issue is whether induction cooking is safe for people with heart devices, such as pacemakers.

It's a real concern for a lot of people. Induction appliances use electromagnetic fields to heat cookware directly, resulting in faster cooking times and reduced energy waste. However, there is suspicion over whether the electromagnetic fields can disrupt these devices.

To discover the truth, I turned to medical and appliance professionals, and I'm glad to report that my worry was unfounded. Apparently, with the right care, people with heart devices can cook with induction without coming to harm.

The truth behind induction cooking and pacemakers

If you have a pacemaker or defibrillator, you may have heard concerns about how induction cooktops, or everyday devices with strong magnets, can disrupt these implants. However, there is no need to be concerned.

“The truth is simple: in rare cases, magnets can interfere with heart devices, but typically only when they’re held extremely close,” says Dr. Ami Bhatt, Chief Innovation Officer at the American College of Cardiology. “That doesn’t mean these technologies are dangerous, it just means a little awareness goes a long way.”

Designed to shield against interference

Like all electrical appliances, induction cooktops generate electromagnetic fields during operation. However, pacemakers are designed to detect and respond to electrical signals, but from the heart.

To mitigate external interference, Dan Young, Category Manager of Cooking at Miele GB, explains that pacemaker manufacturers place great emphasis on shielding and protection against everyday sources of electromagnetic interference in the home.

And Dr. Bhatt adds that shielding techniques and placing the heart device slightly deeper in the chest muscle are straightforward ways to reduce the risk.

Direct and localised heat

Another reassuring element is that induction technology is highly localized, and the electromagnetic field is contained within a small area.

Dr. Scott Cherry, Chief Medical Officer and Physician at Axion Medical, explains, “[Induction cooktops] create a contained EM field (at 20–90 kHz) that heats up special cookware and not the surface.”

And Young adds: “With a pan of an appropriate size placed centrally on the cooking zone, the electromagnetic field is concentrated in the base of the pan itself. Any leakage fields outside the pan are negligibly small and diminish rapidly with distance."

Why distance matters

The main concern you need to be aware of is distance, specifically how far away you are from the induction cooktop. To explain this further, Dr. Cherry says that EMI exposure drops markedly at about 10-12 inches from the edge of the cooktop, and that modern cardiac devices won’t respond at this distance.

Keeping your distance is, therefore, key to staying safe.

Be safety aware

There’s no reason a heart device should keep you from using an induction cooktop. “In normal domestic use, induction hobs are considered safe for the vast majority of people with modern pacemakers,” says Young.

However, all three experts advise asking your healthcare team for guidance tailored to you.

But, if you do decide to buy an induction cooktop, it’s worth following these three steps to stay safe:

• Maintain a normal upright cooking posture while using an induction cooktop, rather than leaning over the cooking area.
• Ensure the pan fully covers the cooking zone to keep everything contained.
• Use the back zones for longer cooking stints, to ensure you keep your distance.

More from Tom's Guide

• How to use an induction cooktop — tips for new users
• I switched to induction cooking in 2024 — here's why I'm never going back
• What’s really stopping you from swapping to induction? An appliance retailer reveals the top 6 fears

As a homes journalist, I'm constantly lusting after chic and expensive home furnishings that are way out of my budget. But seeing as I'm getting married this year, I've been tempted to put one such brand on my wedding registry list: Sabre. The French flatware brand is chic, timeless and sustainable, with removable acrylic rivets that you could switch out from home to home, or trend to trend.

But even though there's a reason this lust-worthy flatware brand will cost you $479 for a 20-piece set, that doesn't mean it's an option for most people. And fortunately, if you want the Sabre look on a budget, IKEA has come out with the ideal solution.

IKEA's new DOFTSKÖLD 20-piece flatware set costs $39, meaning it's less than a tenth of the price of Sabre, and it's got that same signature riveted handle style, which will bring the elevated French bistro style to your flat-pack kitchen.

How they compare

There are some notable differences between these two flatware sets, the first being the shape of the utensils themselves.

For Sabre, you get a shiny stainless steel finish and a sharp dinner knife that could cut through the rarest of French fillet steaks. By contrast, the IKEA set is more dull and blunt, and will likely stand up to day-to-day use going through the dishwasher.

However, the riveted cream handles certainly do evoke the same French elegance, and the acrylic coating will provide a comfortable and smooth dining experience for the whole family.

I've had flatware from IKEA for over five years and it's still performing faultlessly, so there's no reason why the DOFTSKÖLD won't provide the same longevity. However, the Sabre set, which is $479 at Williams Sonoma, has a more modern and angular handle shape which the discerning interiors lover may prefer.

But for $39 versus $479, I know where my money is going!

More from Tom's Guide

• Should you buy IKEA kitchen appliances?
• I just upgraded my home with these 5 IKEA items
• Avoid these decor mistakes that are making your home look smaller

Vitamix makes amazing blenders but they're also very expensive. Even with a hefty price tag, we still awarded the Vitamix Ascent X2 Blender the top spot amongst the best blenders we've ever tested, but it'll also cost you $549.95 at Vitamix.

So, what Vitamix decided to do was release a more affordable version. Introducing the new entry-level blender, the VX1.

Yes, it's still expensive, but it's cheaper than the X2 at just $379.95 at Vitamix. Plus, it still includes the features we know and love, including the self-cleaning cycle, pulse feature, and adjustable speed control.

Meet the VX1

Vitamix has coined the VX1 as "the perfect first Vitamix", and that'll be mostly down to its price. Compared to the brand's entire line-up, it's the cheapest option available — and that's saying something considering it's still $379.95!

While our expert tester gave the Vitamix Ascent X2 a five-star review, saying: "It’s by far the most powerful blender I’ve ever used, and I don’t think there’s any task it can’t handle," I'm excited to see another option available that's a little more affordable.

The feature that's really grabbed my attention with the VX1, though, is that it actually has a larger container capacity than the X2 — sizing up at 64 oz. compared to the X2's 48 oz. This feature matches with the brand's classic Vitamix 5200.

But, it also has only one program as opposed to the X2's three. And it's not dishwasher safe, which is a feature I really want when I'm blending up messy soups and smoothies.

But wait, it does have the same self-cleaning mode as the X2, which means you only have to add warm water, a drop of dish soap, and press a quick button to clean up all the mess.

Incredibly similar in style and look to the X2, it keeps that same more stylish design compared to some of the brand's legacy models – and I'm not mad about that at all.

Despite some differences, the VX1 also has some of the best features that we loved in our five-star Vitamix Ascent X2 review, like being able to pulse your ingredients into fine-tune blends, as well as the same 2.2 HP motor that promises "chef-level performance at home".

Additionally, you've also got the variable speed control, which can be easily adjusted as you blend – 10 different speeds presented on a dial at the center of the blender base.

Why we love Vitamix

Sure, Vitamix doesn't make blenders that are as colorful as the likes of the Ninja BlendBoss or anywhere near as affordable as the Nutribullet Pro 900W, but we still voted the brand's Ascent X2 as the "king of blenders" in our best blenders guide.

Our Homes editor, Millie Fender, even said: "I've never met a Vitamix owner who didn't rave about how much their blender changed their life, and even the Amazon reviews reinforce this."

But what Vitamix has done with the VX1 is offer an entry-level blender with a much more palatable price tag. We'll reserve our full judgment for when we get our hands on one for a full review. Watch this space!

• This is the best blender in the world, and two trusty, cheaper alternatives
• I made smoothies, shakes and pancake batter in Ninja's most powerful portable blender — here's my verdict
• I threw out my Nutribullet blender after testing this Beast personal blender — here's why

If you're looking for modern and minimalist aesthetics in your kitchen, you've likely enjoyed many pieces from IKEA. But there's another huge brand for on-trend home products, and that's Our Place. The brand behind the iconic Always Pan, Our Place has popularized these colorful non-stick pans, and inspired many lookalikes along the way.

One such lookalike is IKEA's new Klippfisk pan, which is available in a blue salt colorway and has similarly-shaped deep-sloping sides that make it ideal for cooking everything from eggs to pasta sauces. And best of all, at $39, it's almost $100 cheaper than the Always Pan. But is it any good, and how does it compare?

I put both the IKEA Klippfisk and the Our Place Always Pan to the test in the Tom's Guide test kitchen, and here's what happened.

Design

There are some obvious visual differences at play here, but there's also a lot these two pans have in common. Both are sauté pans designed for "stove-to-table" serving, and have a generous capacity.

The Always Pan is marketed as a 10-in-1 tool, designed to replace your frying pan, steamer, skillet, saucier, and more. However, there's no reason for the IKEA pan to not replace some of this cookware, too. In reality, it's the addition of a stainless steel steamer basket and a nesting beechwood spatula that gives the Always Pan the edge when it comes to versatility.

The Always Pan 2.0 is oven-safe up to 450°F (230°C), whereas due to its wooden handles and glass lid, you can't put the Klippfisk in the oven whatsoever. If stove-to-oven cooking is key to you, that's your decision made.

These wooden handles are designed to stay cool during use, and also add an elevated Scandinavian look to the pan as a whole, but they do require more care and maintenance than the Always Pan.

However, while its transparent lid is not oven-safe, the Klippfisk's silicone rid and in-built steam vent does allow you to watch your food as it cooks, without lifting the lid away.

Both use a ceramic non-stick coating which is PFAS-free, though Our Place's proprietary "Thermakind" claims to last 50% longer than standard ceramic.

Winner: Always Pan

High heat cooking

To make the test fair, I cooked simultaneously at the same induction cooking setting for both pans. For the first test, I cooked two fried eggs. The first thing I noticed with the IKEA pan was that the eggs didn't immediately sizzle the way they did when I cracked them into the Always Pan. Considering both pans were set to '9' on the induction stove, I thought it was interesting that one had clearly heated, and retained heat, more than the other.

I also found that the Always Pan heated more evenly, meaning the egg was cooked consistently across the entire base, whereas there were spots around the edge of the Klippfisk that didn't sear my eggs sufficiently.

Despite this, both eggs slid along the bottom of the pan, meaning the non-stick coating was broadly consistent in performance for each. Flipping was also easy for each, with the steep edges giving something to push the egg up against before turning.

Next, I fried some bacon by turning the stove up to '11' (out of a possible 15 settings). As you can see in the photo above, the bacon in the Always Pan again seared more consistently than it did in the IKEA pan, where it seemed to take longer to brown and gain some color. Again, I'd put this down to the thinner base on the IKEA pan, which may prevent it from retaining heat the way the Always Pan does.

Ultimately, both pans did a good job of high heat cooking, but the Always Pan was my standout top performer for this test.

Winner: Always Pan

Low-heat cooking

One of the main perks of sauté pans such as these is the ability to switch between frying and low-heat cooking. Because of the deep sides, you could easily use either of these pans to simmer some pasta sauce or slow-cook a curry.

I decided to cook some pasta and toss it through some sauce to test these pans' performance with gentle cooking. For both, the sauces were easy to stir around the ceramic lining and gently simmered for a good 10 minutes without the handles overheating.

However, when I added the lids to the pans, I did find that the metal handle of the Always Pan lid got a little hot to touch, whereas the wooden handle of the Klippfisk's lid managed to stay cool through prolonged use.

Overall, the nonstick design of each of these pans made them both perfectly suited to cooking pasta, soups, curries, and any other saucy dishes you're looking to whip up for the family. I didn't have the same issues with inconsistent heating that I experienced at high heat, which means I'd confidently recommend either pan for these types of meals.

Perhaps because of that heatproof handle, the Klippfisk takes this round, but keep in mind that it can't be transferred to the oven if you're looping to keep your food warm or crisp up a cheesy top layer.

Winner: Klippfisk

Cleaning up

Another benefit of the outstanding non-stick design is that both of these pans are very easy to clean up. Grease and dried-down sauces glided away with some warm water and dish soap.

However, because of the wooden handles, I would be concerned to submerge the Klippfisk in hot water for any prolonged period of time, which makes it a fiddlier choice than the Always Pan.

Neither can go in the dishwasher, but you at least can leave your Always Pan to soak, whereas I'd recommend cleaning IKEA's pan as soon as you're done, and drying it straight after use.

Verdict

The IKEA Klippfisk is $39, and the Always Pan is $135. At over three times the price, is the Always Pan three times as good? Absolutely not. As pans go, these perform very similarly, and the IKEA pan definitely punches above its weight in terms of performance. It feels lovely to use and looks great.

However, I do think you get a better quality construction with the Always Pan. It heated more evenly in my hot heat tests, and it comes with a steaming pan and a nesting spatula for added utility. Plus, it can go in the oven, which the Klippfisk can't.

If money were no object, I'd recommend the Always Pan every time. But if you're on a budget, the Klippfisk is a worthy opponent to this viral pan, albeit with some added quirks.

More from Tom's Guide

• IKEA unveils the Klippfisk — an Always Pan rival for a fraction of the price
• I just tried Ikea’s portable induction cooktop — 5 things I like (and 1 I don't)
• IKEA’s new countertop organizer is a game-changer for small kitchens — and it’s just $7

I’m planning a kitchen renovation this year, and it’s been a long wait. I’ve lived in my house for over 25 years, and my current kitchen was installed soon after I moved in. There’s not much that my kitchen hasn’t been put through in that time, and it’s showing clear signs of wear. However, it’s not just the aesthetics that need addressing.

Having researched what I want from my kitchen renovation, I've been thinking about how appliance use has changed over time, and how this will inform my new kitchen checklist.

I have accumulated a stack of kitchen appliances — and it's not just the case that I've built up a bigger collection over time — we are all enjoying a greater choice of kitchen gadgets than ever before, which, hopefully, make our lives easier.

Prioritizing my appliances

My countertop is almost bending under the weight of the small kitchen appliances taking up space, and I struggle with where to store small kitchen appliances. From my blender, to my bread machine and air fryer, not to mention my prized KitchenAid stand mixer and coffee machine. And I know I am not alone in how my kitchen is being taken over by these gadgets.

To tame my cluttered countertop, I’m considering adding an appliance garage to store items I don’t use every day, such as my blender and bread maker. However, my air fryer is another matter, as it gets more use than my double oven, and it has prompted me to think hard about my new kitchen redesign.

At one time, my oven was used most nights, but now it is rarely switched on, except when I bake. Even when I cook a traditional roast dinner, I turn to my air fryer for a succulent joint and crispy potatoes.

Why I rely on my air fryer

At first, I was skeptical, thinking air fryers were just a gimmick. But, after testing one for myself I have to admit my skepticism was ill-founded.

I now use my air fryer every day, and rely on it to cook a whole heap of meals. What’s more, I even use it to prove dough and bake rolls, when a recipe won’t work as well in my bread machine.

This has left me with a dilemma about my new kitchen design, as I can’t remember the last time I needed to use both ovens, and I barely even use the main one. While I won’t be ditching my oven entirely and relying on my air fryer alone, I’m not going to invest in another double oven, as it simply won’t get used.

This decision affects the design of my kitchen. Although I will still keep my cooktop within the golden kitchen triangle, where the sink, refrigerator, and stove are positioned in close proximity for optimal efficiency, I’m going to be placing my oven elsewhere. In fact, my air fryer will be placed within the golden triangle, keeping it close at hand.

Two years ago, I would never have thought that my air fryer would become a central point of focus within my kitchen design. I thought of it as another kitchen gadget that saved me a bit of time, used less energy and delivered healthier food. Little did I think that it would become the central focus of my next kitchen reno.

More from Tom's Guide

• How to use your new air fryer — 7 essential tips for beginners
• Air fryer dos and don'ts — 7 safety tips I recommend for everyday use
• I finally bought my first air fryer — 5 ways it’s changed how I cook

There’s nothing shy about KitchenAid's stand mixers. Apart from crafting the best stand mixers you can buy, no other kitchen appliance brand comes close in terms of color. In fact, choosing a KitchenAid stand mixer is like walking into a candy shop. There’s so much choice, it’s overwhelming.

To add to the conundrum of choosing your favorite colorway, KitchenAid has just launched its Color of the Year for 2026. And I’m thinking, surely KitchenAid has already covered all bases?

The new arrival is Spearmint. It’s a light, minty-green hue, and a welcome sight that reminds me of spring.

However, don't get too excited. The Spearmint colorway hasn’t cast its way across the whole range of stand mixers yet; in fact, it’s only available on KitchenAid’s Series 5-Quart Tilt-head stand mixer, $549 at KitchenAid, while in the the U.K. it's £699 at KitchenAid.

An energizing 1950s vibe

I’ve already mentioned that choosing a color for a KitchenAid stand mixer leaves you in the same quandary as a child standing in a candy shop. And, this brings me onto Spearmint’s retro vibe. It evokes the 1950s with its turquoise hue. KitchenAid describes Spearmint as a “light and vibrant hue” that "provides a calming, yet revitalizing energy.”

But what may take a bit of getting used to is that instead of a smooth surface, this new colorway has a tactile, sandy finish.

However, if KitchenAid's new Color of the Year for 2026 is a little too bright for your taste, the same model is available in Pistachio — a softer alternative with a green hue — and it’s currently reduced to $379 at Amazon.

Alternatively, if you’d prefer a color that's on the cooler spectrum, you could opt for the stand mixer in Blue Velvet, which is $379 at Amazon.

Valentine’s Day is nearly upon us, but rather than booking a meal for two at your favorite restaurant, there’s nothing more romantic than taking the time to cook for your loved one.

While I’ll leave you to decide on the meal plan, I can help you with creating an intimate mood with tableware. What’s more, everything I’ve picked is from IKEA, so you’ll have plenty left in your pocket to buy a Valentine’s gift. My top three choices out of the bunch have to be the dinnerware set, table runner and bread basket, but at these prices, you could sweep up the whole collection.

I struggle with kitchen space. There’s never enough room to store everything I need in the busiest room in my home. Instead of everything being tidied away behind my cabinets, my countertops take up the overspill.

However, I know that having a neat, tidy kitchen makes it easier to work in and helps my mindset, so I was delighted when I spotted this kitchen storage solution to help clear up my clutter. The Ofiray-home Magnetic Fridge Shelf, $25 at Amazon, is a real bargain. It attaches to the side of a fridge without any complicated fixings and can be removed and used elsewhere, as needed.

Magnetic, versatile storage

This magnetic shelfing unit offers versatile storage with a spacious wired basket and a lid above that doubles up as a shelf. Plus, it comes with four hooks that you can use to attach other essentials, such as mugs, utensils or even a bunch of bananas.

It has multiple uses and could be used to store vegetables or as a coffee station. It’s large enough to house an AeroPress, or a single-service coffee maker, with your pods and favorite syrups all in one place, while mugs can be hung from the hooks.

But this magnetic shelf unit has far more potential than just being used on the side of a fridge. It can be attached to other magnetic surfaces, including washing machines and clothes dryers, to keep your laundry essentials in one easy-to-reach place. And with no permanent fixings, it’s easy to move without leaving any unsightly marks.

What’s more, the Ofiray-home Magnetic Shelf features an attractive design, and the black wire basket is topped with a bamboo board and a metal guardrail to keep items, such as spice jars, in place. And the magnetic fixings can hold up to 30 pounds.

I think this shelving solution is a genius idea and a real space-saver for those where square inches are at a premium, or for those who aren’t confident using power tools.

More from Tom's Guide

• This brilliant $8 kitchen tool instantly fixed my closet's storage problem — and it’s so clever
• I just added a whole new shelf to my fridge, and all it took was this $5 add-on from IKEA
• How I reorganized my kitchen in a morning — discover my 9 quick and easy tips

I'm getting married this summer, which means I'm about to drop some serious cash on a big white dress and a three-course meal for all my nearest and dearest. But while weddings can be expensive, they're also an amazing opportunity for your friends and family to treat you, which is where a wedding registry comes into play.

My parents still use the cast iron cookware and flatware they were given on their wedding day, and if you choose the right items, you could be using the gifts you receive on your wedding day for the rest of your life! This makes choosing all the right products all the more important, and fortunately, as a nearlywed Homes Editor, I've had the chance to test some of the most popular wedding registry items to the test in my own kitchen.

Here's my ultimate wishlist of editor-vetted kitchen essentials that any newlywed couple will cherish, tried and tested in my own home.

Kitchen gadgets

Cookware

Tableware

Ninja appliances dominate my kitchen. From coffee machines to air fryers, I'm a big Ninja fan and now that Presidents' Day sales are live, I'm seeing some epic discounts on some of my favorite machines.

For example, Walmart has Ninja appliances on sale from $39. The sale includes the Ninja Blast Max Portable Blender for $69. The 20-ounce blender is great for smoothies, frozen drinks, post-workout protein shakes, and more. Below I've rounded up my favorite Ninja deals so far at Walmart.

Quick Links

• shop all Ninja deals at Walmart
• Ninja Blast Max Personal Blender: was $79 now $69
• Ninja Professional Plus Duo Blender: was $129 now $99
• Ninja Crispi 3-in-1 Cooking Systen: was $139 now $119
• Ninja Creami Ice Cream Maker: was $199 now $169
• Ninja 14-Cup Coffee Maker: was $119 now $99
• Ninja Flip Toaster 8-in-1: was $249 now $149

Ninja Deals

Struggle with cluttered cabinets? You're not the only one. In fact, it’s very easy for us to just close the door and forget about it. The trouble is that once a cabinet is packed to capacity, it can be tough to keep things tidy and organized.

I often find that organizing the cleaning products I keep stored under the sink is a chore in itself. That’s why I found this useful IKEA hack to quickly handle clutter and keep things neat. The VATTENKAR Desk organizer for $29 at IKEA is essentially a desk caddy and a portable organizer with a handle to carry around.

In addition to using it in your home office, this is small enough to fit inside a cabinet, and easily used to store cleaning products and other bits and pieces around the home. Plus, it also comes with a handy pegboard with holes and hooks to hang loose items on. Here’s why I’ll be making this IKEA item my go-to home organizer.

From desk caddy to cabinet organizer

I love multifunctional storage, and the VATTENKAR desk organizer is exactly that. Not only does it make a practical office desk tidy, but it can instantly handle all your cabinet clutter in seconds. This is thanks to its slimline and ergonomic profile that should fit snugly into a corner of a room or inside a cabinet.

In addition, its pegboard with holes and hooks makes it more practical, and coupled with the SKÅDIS accessories (various containers and hooks), you can really customize it to your needs. I also love how versatile these things are—you can use them to sort out your pantry, keep your bathroom stuff tidy, or even organize your gardening tools.

Plus, it comes with a stylish wooden handle to easily carry around, and won’t look out of place. A great way to get rid of those messy eyesores around your home.

More from Tom's Guide

• Should you buy IKEA kitchen appliances?
• I just upgraded my home with these 5 IKEA items
• Avoid these decor mistakes that are making your home look smaller

I’m a big fan of KitchenAid stand mixers, but paying full price for one of the best stand mixers can feel like an ‘ouch’ moment. I can tell you from experience that they are worth every dime, but it’s definitely worth holding out for a deal.

Right now Amazon has a whole bunch of discounts on KitchenAid stand mixers, with savings up to 30%. That’s right, KitchenAid’s Classic Series 4.5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer is now $279 at Amazon, giving you an extra $120 in your pocket.

If you’re looking to buy a special gift this Valentine’s Day for the baker in your life, KitchenAid’s 7 Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer in Candy Apple Red is now reduced by 18% to $529 at Amazon.

Quick links

• KitchenAid’s Classic Series 4.5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer: was $399 now $279 @ Amazon
• KitchenAid Artisan Mini 3.5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer: was $449 now $329 @ Amazon
• Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt Head Stand Mixer: was $499 now $379 @ Amazon
• KitchenAid’s 7 Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer: was $649 now $529 @ Amazon

We get overexcited at Tom’s Guide whenever we learn Ninja has launched a new product, because we know you get just as excited, too. And we can share that Ninja has launched a new kitchen appliance that’s perfect for winter.

Enter the Ninja HyperHeat 6.5-qt Pressure Cooker, designed to cook your food super-quick. In fact, Ninja claims it’s twice as fast as a standard pressure cooker. But you will have to pay for the convenience — it’s currently $169 at Amazon.

Ninja has a reputation for high-performance appliances and is held in high regard by consumers, who trust the brand, but a pressure cooker is probably not the first product that comes to mind when you hear the name. You’re probably more likely to associate Ninja with the best air fryers and best blenders.

However, Ninja never fails to impress with whatever products it releases. But why would you choose this pressure cooker over any other one on the market? With 1200-watts of power, and HyperHeat Technology, your dinner will be served twice as quick.

What’s more, Ninja claim its faster than the Instant Pot Duo, which offers 1,000 watts. We’re keen to put it to the test to see if it delivers on its promise.

So, what do you get with Ninja’s latest versatile cooker? You get a decent 6.5-qt capacity, giving you plenty of space for a 4-lb chicken or to cook a stew for a crowd. Plus, with nine functions, it offers multi-functional capability. Choose from pressure, slow cook, rice, pasta, sear/sauté, yogurt, steam, Sous Vide, and keep warm.

In addition to speed, Ninja has considered cleanup and included a SimpleServe Pot that can be easily removed and washed, ready for your next cook-up.

What’s more, the cookpot won’t look out of place on your table, making it perfect to cook and serve, whichever of the three colorways you pick. My favorite is Blue Macaron, but you can also choose either Dark Gray or Stone Purple.

More from Tom's Guide

• If my house was on fire, this is the one kitchen appliance I’d save
• Ninja's new BlendBoss blender promises to be the next must-have kitchen gadget
• ‘I have thrown everything at this cooker, and it has performed exceptionally’ — why users are raving about Ninja’s 10-in-1 cookpot for winter meals

After over 25 years with a kitchen I’ve never been happy with, I’m finally planning a new kitchen design. I can’t put into words how excited I am at the thought of ripping everything out and starting again.

But taking on a complete kitchen overhaul is no easy task, even for me as a homes writer, who has interviewed both homeowners and kitchen businesses about this most prized room in our homes. What’s more, a kitchen redesign is an investment, and it’s worth taking the time to research and get everything just right.

That doesn’t just mean choosing the cabinetry and worktops; it also means upgrading appliances. And, perhaps swapping that old favorite, which is within your comfort zone, for an alternative.

That’s exactly what I’m going to be doing with my gas cooktop. Using a gas appliance has always been my preference, likely influenced by my mom, who also used gas. But, there’s one drawback to using a gas cooktop; and it’s even more annoying than not always having exact control over the flame. I’m fed up with the time it takes me to clean up the mess after I’ve cooked.

More control, less overspills

However careful I am about getting the flame level just right, my pans always boil over. What’s more, there isn’t just the base of the cooktop to clean, but the grates, burner caps and controls. And it’s one task that this cleaning fairy despises.

One swipe to a clean cooktop

That’s why I’ll be choosing an induction cooktop for my new kitchen. The controls are more precise, reducing the risk of spills and messy splashes.

I can already imagine wiping it down in seconds, saving me time and reducing my frustration. The sleek surface of an induction cooktop is much easier to clean and maintain than its gas counterpart, making it a strong reason to consider an induction cooktop over a gas one.

Of course, there are many other reasons to switch to induction cooking, as shared by my colleague, Grace Dean, who has been cooking with induction since 2024.

It’s cool to clean

Besides extra cleaning, the cooktop has a flat, glass-ceramic surface with no extra parts to clean, so it stays cool, reducing the risk of burns. Why’s this? Instead of traditional heat-transfer methods for gas and electric, induction uses electromagnetic fields to pass heat directly to the cookware.

This means you’ll need to use magnetic cookware, such as stainless steel and cast iron, as non-magnetic metal, such as aluminium cookware, won’t work. If you’re unsure whether your pans will work on induction, you can try a cheap hack using a magnet.

However, don’t let the pan issue put you off. You might find that switching from what you’re familiar with to an alternative cooking method could make your life easier.

You might also be interested in finding out why my air fryer is taking center stage in my new kitchen design.

More from Tom's Guide

• How to use an induction cooktop
• I've discovered the best thing about induction cooking — and you've got to try this yourself
• I tested IKEA's portable induction cooktop — and it's a game changer for small spaces

The Super Bowl is this Sunday — and if you're hosting a last-minute watch party, now is the time to start shopping. It's no secret that the food can be just as important as the game itself. And if you're looking to serve up some touchdown-worthy snacks, we've got you covered.

Amazon is currently slashing the prices on best-selling small kitchen appliances from top brands like Ninja, Weber, Cuisinart and more. From viral Slushi machines for game-day cocktails to fan-favorite air fryers that deliver perfectly crispy wings, we've rounded up the best appliances that are guaranteed to make you the MVP of game day.

So, if you could use an assist in the kitchen this Super Bowl Sunday, keep scrolling and start stocking up on my favorite appliances — all starting at just $35.

Quick Links

• shop all Amazon kitchen appliances deals
• shop all Ninja deals at Amazon
• Crock-Pot 7-Quart Slow Cooker: was $59 now $35
• Ninja Professional Blender: was $109 now $79
• Chefman Multifunctional Digital Air Fryer: was $139 now $79
• Weber Jumbo Joe Grill: was $99 now $89
• Ninja Air Fryer Pro 6-in-1: was $139 now $99
• Ninja Foodi Possible Cooker Pro: was $169 now $109
• Ninja Sizzle Pro XL: was $199 now $169
• Ninja Crispi Pro: was $279 now $249
• Ninja Slushi Max: was $499 now $349
• Traeger Tailgater Wood Pellet Grill: was $479 now $440
• Weber SPIRIT 3-Burner Grill E-325 Liquid Propane: was $649 now $549

Kitchen Appliance Deals

We've all heard about the viral Ninja Creami, right? For those who haven't, it's Ninja's beloved ice cream maker. People rave about it, and it has often sold out online with so many people wanting a taste of this appliance. We reviewed the Ninja Creami and loved it, having rated it 4 stars out of 5, mostly for the fact that it's so convenient and easy to clean. But it makes customizing ice cream flavors so simple.

Well, that's what we thought — it turns out that people are using this machine for making more than ice cream. One TikToker, in particular, has divided the internet with a video of them making hummus in their Ninja Creami. And we have so many thoughts.

Is it actually chickpea ice cream? Does it melt when it reaches room temperature? Does the missing tahini make a difference? Here's what we think — and what the 150+ commenters had to say about this bold move.

Chickpea ice cream or hummus?

You're going to want to scroll through the comments on this video, mostly for a laugh. It turns out that hummus made in the Ninja Creami is a divisive situation — some people love the idea, and think it's total genius. Others think it's crazy and nothing other than chickpea ice cream.

"That’s because the Ninja Creami is a glorified blender," writes one commenter. And while this is true to some extent, our review can vouch for the fact that creating anything other than basic vanilla ice cream in a blender or food processor tends to end up a "chalky or sandy" consistency.

"Why would you want ice cold hummus?" adds a commenter. And they speak the truth: no one wants ice-cold hummus. Refrigerated hummus is as cold as I'll personally go. Yes, you could leave it out at room temperature before serving, but then that begs the question: would it melt?

One viewer commented, "Yeah, and then it’s liquid at room temp and is ice cream consistency when cold". While others also asked the creator the same question — what is the hummus like when it's not ice cold?

So, is it worth the risk to find out for yourself?

Where's the tahini?

There's lots of disagreement about the missing ingredient in this frozen hummus recipe. And that's tahini. Arguably, this is normally the star of the show for any hummus recipe. "I'm from the Middle East and I don't approve of this "hummus" without tahini" claims one commenter.

The creator of this recipe insists, though, that it doesn't need the tahini — this is music to the ears of people who track their macros. Apparently, you can't even taste that this key ingredient is missing.

Others rave about it...

There are people in the comments section who saw this hack as genius. "I have a sesame allergy, so this is perfect!" writes one commenter.

And, as it turns out, while people won't do this with their own machine, they love seeing others take risks. "This is the kind of mad experimentation I love seeing people do with this machine," adds another comment.

Ninja's advice

In the Ninja Creami instruction manual, it says that you should never blend dry ingredients — hence the use of the chickpea water in this recipe. The manual clearly states, in bold writing "This is NOT a blender". It goes on to add that you should never process a solid block of ice, or ice cubes. The same goes for a smoothie or processing hard, loose ingredients. It says that fruit must be crushed ahead of processing.

In the video, creator @fitnessproductfinder does say that this recipe freezes exceptionally hard, so you might have to spin it a good few times. He also runs the frozen tub under the faucet for a few seconds, after removing it from the freezer, before placing it in the outer bowl.

In the video, the Scoop and Lite Ice Cream settings are both used. The Lite Ice Cream setting is designed for, according to the manual, "health-conscious consumers to make ice creams that are low in sugar or fat or use sugar substitutes. Choose when processing keto or paleo recipes". It's definitely the smartest setting to use in the case of this hummus recipe.

Will you be trying this recipe with your Ninja Creami?

More from Tom's Guide

• Ninja is knocking up to 50% off appliances ahead of the Super Bowl — 15 deals for game-day snacks
• Ninja Creami do's and don'ts — try these tips for better ice cream
• Cuisinart's new ice cream maker fixes my least favorite thing about the Ninja Creami, and costs half as much

I've been a HexClad fan for years. In my ever-growing collection, you'll find a range of saucepans, frying pans, and even roasting tins that I use daily. But if you've also made the switch to hybrid cookware, you may be making the number-one mistake that can prevent your pans from performing at their best.

That's right. Just like cast iron pans, your HexClad needs seasoning. But the good news is, you only need a few minutes to do it, and they'll be back to performing like they're brand new.

Why does your HexClad need seasoning?

Not quite non-stick, not quite stainless steel, HexClad cookware features a laser-etched hexagonal grid that allows food to glide over its surface without sticking, but with none of the fussy requirements of coated cookware.

"Whenever I get a new HexClad pan, it’s really tempting to put it straight on the heat and start cooking," says Michelin Star chef Paul Ainsworth. "But to get the best cooking results, you need to ‘season’ them first.

"I heat the pan over a low-medium heat, take some kitchen paper and rub light cooking oil all over the inside of the pan. I do this three times, and then the pan is ready to go!"

Essentially, by seasoning your pan with a neutral oil, you restore the nonstick properties of its coating layer. In the long term, you should find that this minimizes the need for cooking with lots of oil, and also prevents foods like egg from sticking.

How to season your HexClad cookware

Fortunately, the seasoning process only takes a matter of minutes, and it doesn't need to be done regularly.

In fact, you may find that regular use will naturally replenish the seasoning on your pan, as the oils add an extra layer of protection to the non-stick layers.

More from Tom's Guide

• I was introduced to HexClad by Gordon Ramsay himself — here's my honest verdict after 3 years of daily use
• I tried Gordon Ramsay’s favorite salt and pepper grinders, and now I can’t cook without them
• How to make the perfect smash burger, according to a pro chef

As someone who loves interior style, I’ve always aimed for a kitchen that looks immaculate, stylish, and of course, clutter-free. And despite my best efforts to achieve a minimalist space, there’s one kitchen essential that I just couldn’t hide — my dish drying rack.

I've bought many dish racks over the years, but have never found the right size to fit all my dishware and pots without taking up a huge amount of countertop space. They've either been too bulky, too small, or a challenge to clean or maintain over time.

Not only do I find they ruin the overall aesthetic, but they can take up valuable space, adding to sink clutter. That's when I discovered this handy drying rack that instantly doubled my sink space.

Why I love the OXO fold flat dish drying rack

The OXO Good Grips Aluminum Fold Flat Dish Drying Rack for $46 is a good mix of function and practicality. It has a collapsible design that allows it to convert from a one-tier (flat) to a two-tier rack in just seconds, and its compact size isn't much of an eyesore.

I found this handy to accommodate all of my dishware or pots when needed, and also cuts out visual clutter when flat. I also like the mini utensil holder that can be positioned flat or elevated, depending on your needs.

What's more, the rack is sturdy, with its stainless steel design, and it doesn't feel flimsy like some of the other metal racks I've previously owned.

Perhaps the selling point for me is that you can literally fold it and store it away inside a cabinet or shelf, out of sight. The option of not having a drying rack permanently on my countertop is appealing, freeing up valuable space. Best of all, it's super easy to clean, and I simply wipe it down with a damp microfiber cloth to remove marks.

At just $46, this is a small price to pay for buying more countertop space. And I now have a clutter-free sink zone — which makes this worth every penny.

More from Tom's Guide

• How to declutter your home
• Are you making these 5 decluttering mistakes?
• 7 space-saving ways to organize pots and pans

Doing the dishes is my least favorite chore, but while I'm not a fan of the scrubbing, it's handling the sponge and scrubbing brush that I find the most disgusting. Because they're often left at the bottom of my sink so as not to be eyesores, they can often catch food debris or become slimy between uses. Not only is it gross to handle, it also majorly brings down my Home Editor credentials, acting as a breeding ground for bacteria. Yuck.

Thankfully, I've found the perfect solution to my woes, and it costs just $5 from IKEA. The SKOLÄST sink container is expandable, meaning it can be expanded or shrunk down to fit just about every sink out there. It's got slats for drainage, meaning your sponge won't sit in any standing water, and there's even a little side arm to hold your microfiber cloths.

Here's why adding the SKOLÄST to your basket is a no-brainer for your next IKEA trip.

Fits into any sink

The SKOLÄST sink container is extendable from 15 to 21 inches, including the handles. These handles allow it to perch securely on my sink, no matter which way it's facing. I typically align it with the left hand side of my sink, where it slots neatly underneath the tap and doesn't get in the way of daily washing.

With an impressive capacity, I've been able to store all my daily drivers with no problems. This includes my sponge, scrubbing brush and trusty Dishmatic. And because they're not sitting in the danger zone below, at risk of catching coffee grounds, old flower water or anything else that ends up in the sink between washes, I'm also finding that I need to replace them much less frequently. Considering it costs just $5 to buy, I'd say it's paid for itself already.

Easy on the eyes

I used to leave my sponge at the bottom of the sink because I thought it looked ugly on the draining board. When I'd just finished doing the dishes, the last thing I wanted to do was to leave my counters looking messy and cluttered again.

But the SKOLÄST not only lies low, meaning your eyes only skim over it from a distance, it also looks quite neat and tidy up-close. My kitchen is a similar shade of green, which is yet another reason to love it, but no matter your personal design, it's an attractive little add-on.

More from Tom's Guide

• Should you buy IKEA kitchen appliances?
• I just upgraded my home with these 5 IKEA items
• You don’t need an appliance garage — I’ve been using this $29 IKEA classic for years, and it keeps my gadgets neatly stowed away

I'm obsessed with kitchen storage hacks. With not a lot of cabinet space to work with and a few too many appliances (it's my job to test them!), I am always looking for ways to maximise the space in my kitchen. At this point, my pantry is chock-full, so I am a little desperate for some extra room. And we all know that cluttered countertops instantly make your kitchen look messy!

I was browsing my local IKEA store the other day and spotted the PÅLYCKE Clip-on hook rack, which is designed to slide underneath cabinets to hold things like your mug collection, to free up shelf space.

Anyway, I had a light-bulb moment when I saw it and thought it would be great for holding cleaning rags underneath my sink, instead of them just sitting folded in a corner — and getting lost in the chaos that is this corner of my kitchen. And for $2, I thought I might as well give it a try.

Why we love IKEA's PÅLYCKE Clip-on hook rack

The reason I love these clip-on hook racks so much is simply that they are so easy to fit, with zero drilling required. This also means that you can move them around your kitchen to where they're required, but not only that: they actually look nice, so if you decorate with black accents in your kitchen, these hooks will blend right in.

One clip has three hooks, and they're not only perfect for dish towels, but you could also hang cleaning rags on them, as well as wooden utensils, mugs, measuring cups, a measuring jug — pretty much anything that you use on a regular basis, while you cook, to keep it in arm's reach.

Rated 4.9 stars out of 5 by shoppers, most use it in their kitchen for extra storage. But one shopper claims it works perfectly when placed in their entryway, for holding their keys (genius!), and another uses it in their bathroom cabinet. Another reviewer reports using theirs in their closet, and it works great for holding lightweight handbags or baseball caps.

The rest of the line

More from Tom's Guide

• Should you buy IKEA kitchen appliances?
• I just upgraded my home with these 5 IKEA items
• Avoid these decor mistakes that are making your home look smaller

Gas cooking is an incredibly popular choice for many at-home chefs due to its ease-of-use, cheap running costs, speed between temperatures and flexibility with compatible cookware.

If you're asking the question: "Induction vs. gas cooktop: Which is best for you?" you'll find many reasons why gas cooking is the number one pick for a lot of people, although it's a totally personal choice.

But, despite its many positives, gas cooking does raise some concerns, especially when it comes to health and safety.

Cooking with an open flame heightens the risk of accidents, from burning yourself to causing fires. Gas flames can also release harmful air pollutants, affecting your indoor pollution levels, especially in homes with poor ventilation.

This brings me to an important question: what does an orange flame on your gas stove mean? Well, it's a huge red (or orange) flag. Here's what the experts have to say.

Why your gas flames turn orange

With something so important to discuss, I thought it was a good time to turn to the experts for their advice.

Jason Reese, co-founder and partner attorney specializing in personal injury at Wagner Reese explains exactly what an orange flame means:

"Orange flames are a warning sign of danger, indicating incomplete combustion. In other words, there isn’t enough oxygen mixing with the fuel.

"When it’s working normally, the flame should be blue. Orange flames are often the result of dirty burners, clogged ports, or poor ventilation, though they can also indicate humidity."

And James Roswold, owner at Kansas City Accident Injury Attorneys, adds: "This can occur when dust, grease, or some other material gets accumulated in the burners. This can also occur when the mixture of gas and air gets unbalanced."

So, something's clearly not right, and the biggest indicator of that is the vibrant orange flame, as opposed to the usual blue. Fortunately, there's something you can do about it. Well, several things.

Here's what to do if your gas flames turn orange

If you see an orange flame, your gas stove is unsafe to use and should be turned off immediately. If you're using a humidifier, this should also be turned off to check it isn't causing the flame.

It's important to then focus on tackling the issue before using your gas stove again. If left untreated, the problem will remain and could cause a serious health hazard.

To deal with an orange flame then, Roswold says it can be caused by something as simple as "a spillage of food around the burner ports" resolved with "a quick cleaning of the surface and a check for correct installation of the burner components".

But, if the flames remain orange even after you've checked this, then the problem could be far more serious, and the orange flame could be producing carbon monoxide.

Reese explains: "Continuing to use a gas stove with orange flames is one of the most dangerous things anyone can do. Repeated exposure means CO accumulates in your body, which can cause long-term neurological damage."

He explains that rather than trying to tackle the problem any further yourself, you should call a professional who can fix the problem. Then: "Once it’s fixed, make sure you install a CO detector near your kitchen to prevent future hazards, and schedule annual inspections for all gas appliances in your home.

"Professionals will clean your burner ports, adjust the air shutters, inspect for any blockages, and ensure proper ventilation so you can use your stove with peace of mind."

More from Tom's Guide

• 3 foods you should never cook in aluminum foil — experts reveal why
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• Is your air fryer really toxic? We find out from an expert

I have a confession: I hate microwaves. Perhaps it's because I didn't grow up with them, or that I get paranoid about accidentally putting aluminum foil inside one by mistake. When given the chance to test a microwave, I usually steer clear.

While some microwaves are better than others (that's why we have an entire guide dedicated to finding the best microwave), the average model will perform almost like-for-like with a similarly-priced and sized alternative.

But when IKEA announced its new GÅTEBO 3-in-1 microwave, which can not only reheat but also grill, and even air fry, I was unusually intrigued. For $199, can IKEA really replace three appliances in one handy countertop machine? I decided to put it to the test.

Now, I'm only one day into testing this microwave, so you'll have to wait another week or so for my full hands-on review, but here's my first impressions after getting the GÅTEBO on my kitchen countertops.

Hands-on with the IKEA GÅTEBO Microwave

This thing is big and it's heavy. I had a job getting it out of its cardboard box, and had to displace my toaster to make room for it on my (already straining) kitchen countertops. But if it can act as an air fryer and microwave in one, I'd say that's a more appealing trade-off.

With so many settings to choose from, and some slightly ambiguous icons to choose your desired one, I was pleased to see the inside of the microwave had a clearer explanation of which button correlated with which setting. The instruction manual was also super informative, walking me through the various settings, how to operate them, and even advising cooking times for different types of food on different settings.

The GÅTEBO can air fry, defrost, grill, warm up tea / coffee, and combine microwaving with air frying or convection cooking. I've tried three of these settings so far, and here's what I thought.

Well, it microwaves!

There is such thing as a bad microwave, and the GÅTEBO isn't one of them. But in my experience, there's only so good a microwave can be. It's got a lot of different power settings and a slightly confusing timer setup (I got used to it after a couple of tries), with the classic Start / +30 Seconds button. That's my go-to when reheating leftovers for office lunches, so when it came to warming up some pasta for my partner's lunch, I did the same thing.

After three minutes, the cheesy top was bubbling, but the center was still a little compacted and the sauce quite solid. I added another minute to the heating time and found that the pasta was ready to eat after that. So, four minutes for a plastic container of pasta. Pretty standard for a microwave.

I also used it to heat up some soup for my own lunch. In my experience, soup can often come out boiling hot around the edges of the bowl and still cold in the middle, but the GÅTEBO did a good job of warming it through, with only one mid-way stir from me. It took three minutes and 30 seconds to get my tomato and red pepper soup hot and bubbling. The bowl was piping hot, but fortunately I was using the grill setting to make a grilled cheese to dip in it, which gave the soup time to cool down (and become portable!)

Grilling was sluggish but does the job

I usually cook up a grilled cheese on the stove while my tomato soup warms up in a saucepan, but I decided to go all-in and cook both my soup and my sandwich in the GÅTEBO.

Slightly nervously, I slotted in the metal grilling insert and set the microwave to grill mode, adding five minutes to the timer. If I were doing this in the broiler of my oven, five minutes would be more than enough to cook a grilled cheese on both sides, but I found the top of my sandwich was still a little soggy from melted butter when the machine (handily) reminded me to flip. So I added an extra minute, and flipped at the four-minute mark.

After six minutes, my sandwich was toasted on both sides and I achieved a good cheese pull when cutting into it. I found that the bread was quite dry as opposed to the grilled cheese sandwiches I make on the stove, but it was also a lot less hands-on, which made it a worthwhile trade-off.

Ok, it does actually air fry

I've dedicated an embarassingly large portion of my life to testing and evaluating the best air fryers, so when any appliance claims to replace my beloved Dreo ChefMaker, I regard it with some skepticism. But seeing as the air fryer setting is one of the main selling points of the GÅTEBO, I threw in some frozen french fries and cooked them on the included air fryer basket.

You can choose your temperature all the way up to 240°C / 460°F, which is actually hotter than the maximum temperature in my air fryer. The machine pre-heats and then allows you to choose a cooking time before it begins frying. My frozen fries advise just 10 minutes cooking time when air frying, but according to IKEA's instruction manual, the air fryer takes 21 minutes to cook frozen french fries. I decided to check my fries at both intervals.

After 10 minutes, my fries were soggy and anaemic. So if you're wondering if this machine can replace an air fryer, it definitely won't cook as fast as your typical Ninja or Philips model. But I added another 11 minutes and returned to find my fries sizzling and surprinsgly evenly cooked.

My partner said they tasted like McDonald's fries. They weren't browned or crunchy, but they were hot, greasy, and surprisingly satisfying.

My first impressions

While I don't see myself getting rid of my air fryer any time soon, I've been pleasantly surprised by the IKEA GÅTEBO so far. It's intuitive to use, with a useful manual and clear labelling, and it's also well made with an attractive build.

I'll be running many more tests in the next week ahead of my full review, but as first impressions go, the IKEA GÅTEBO has my stamp of (provisional) approval.

More from Tom's Guide

• Should you buy IKEA kitchen appliances?
• I just upgraded my home with these 5 IKEA items
• You don’t need an appliance garage — I’ve been using this $29 IKEA classic for years, and it keeps my gadgets neatly stowed away

I've been making sourdough for over a year now, and I don't see myself stopping any time soon. The sourdough baking process is therapeutic, the bread itself is healthier than store-bought, and keeping my starter alive makes me feel like I've got a little yeasty pet.

Earlier this week, Vogue proclaimed sourdough as the "hottest accessory" of 2026, and for good reason. Taylor Swift, the Haim sisters, and Sombr have all been spotted recently sporting a handbag-adjacent loaf of sourdough.

But how can you ride this trend train? Don't worry — I've been through the sourdough trenches with countless failed loaves, but now all my breads are successful. And it's all because of the fantastic Sourhouse DoughBed, a genius product that is the secret to perfect sourdough every single time.

Steady temp, steady proof

The first thing you should know about sourdough is that the proof isn't in the pudding, it's in the, well... proof.

You might've heard of a "bulk ferment". This is the first rise, when the bread should turn from a shaggy or sticky dense ball to a light, airy dough. It should double in size.

The most common error for newbie sourdough bakers is that they don't let their dough rise for long enough, resulting in a gummy or dense texture.

I used to scream with frustration when I cut into my loaves to see they were just as gummy and dense as the one before. Take a look at the first sourdough I ever made.

Although not as bad as it could be, this loaf doesn't have the all-important "oven spring" (when the top rises dramatically), has uneven bubbles, and a gummy sheen. This is because I eyeballed the proof in a cold kitchen, two major no-nos when making sourdough.

This is a photo of the first loaf I made with the DoughBed, a few months later. This is made with wholemeal flour, so it'll naturally look different from the previous loaf.

While still not perfect — I'm not claiming to be the best baker in the world, not by a long shot — the second loaf is much better. You can see the even bubbles, the tall "ear", and the golden crust.

This is all due to the proof. With the DoughBed, I'm able to achieve consistent results, rather than guessing with each loaf. The DoughBed keeps your dough at 75-82ºF for hours. It'll only turn off when you turn it off.

As my apartment gets quite cold during the winter, I've had my DoughBed on for around eight hours before, which was long enough to prove a 4-pound double-batch of dough.

I couldn't live without my Sourhouse DoughBed. If you want to dip your toes into the overwhelming world of sourdough, mastering the bulk fermentation is the first step. With the DoughBed, you're already halfway there.

If you want to get into sourdough in 2026, you might want to find out more about keeping your starter alive, or look into smart gadgets that can feed your starter automatically.

Me, though? I only bother with the Sourhouse DoughBed.

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• People are saying you shouldn't cook chicken in the air fryer — here's why they're wrong
• IKEA quietly dropped a new 3-in-1 microwave — and it’s perfect for small kitchens

One of the many reasons to switch to an induction cooktop is that they're easier to clean than conventional electric models. But even so, if you don't clean your cooktop properly, you could risk causing permanent damage to your cooking surface in a process called "pitting".

Whether you call them pits, pock marks or chips, pitting will cause small craters in the surface of your glass cooktop. It's most easily caused by hot sugar hitting the surface of your stove, which, when cooled, will adhere to the glass, taking some away with it when you clean. Here's how to avoid pitting on your cooktop, and what to do if it happens.

What causes pitting?

Unike most common damage you can cause with your cooktop, there's no cure for pitting. The occasional scratch can be minimized, but when you've left a pockmark in the surface of your ceramic cooktop, it's permanent.

That's because you've caused a chemical reaction on your cooktop surface that has adhered hot food to the glass of the cooktop itself. The most common cause of pitting, which you'll find is behind 99% of cases, is hot sugar.

According to Whirlpool, "If sugary spills are allowed to cool down, they can adhere to the cooktop and can cause pitting and permanent marks."

If you've ever made jam or caramel, you'll know that sugar can get scarily hot, and if you do spill it on your cooktop surface, it'll begin to cool and solidify as soon as it touches the cooler glass.

And if you've ever attempted to clean toffee or caramel off a saucepan, you'll know how much it sticks once it's set. It can feel impossible to clean, because it adheres so firmly to the cooler surface. That's the same thing that causes pitting on your cooktop. You can't remove the sugar from your stove without removing some of the glass it's stuck to.

There's also a risk that this could happen if you have sugar stuck to the bottom of a saucepan or frying pan, and even a grain is enough to cause some damage. This is because the base of your pan gets very hot on the stove, which will then melt anything between the stove and the pan, causing the same reaction that results in pitting.

How to prevent pitting

Whirlpool, a major manufacturer of cooktops, recommends taking extra care when cooking with sugary foods. The trick is to not let your sugar crystalize when it hits the surface of your cooktop.

"For foods containing sugar in any form, clean up all spills and soils as soon as possible", it advises on its website.

"Allow the cooktop to cool down slightly. Then, while wearing oven mitts, remove the spills while the surface is still warm."

Another tip is to keep a scraper on hand in your kitchen. This will make it easier to remove jams, sauces and syrups as soon as you spill them.

More from Tom's Guide

• I love my gas range but this portable induction cooktop might have converted me
• My induction cooktop still looks brand new, thanks to these 3 daily rules my family always follows
• 3 things you should never store in your oven

From viral ice cream machines to fan-favorite air fryers, Ninja is known for making some of the most buzz worthy small kitchen appliances on the market. If you've been eyeing one of the brand's top-rated cooking gadgets, now is the perfect time to shop. Amazon is knocking up to 40% off select Ninja appliances.

Whether you're hoping to cook more meals at home this year, meal-prep for the week ahead or you're just looking to upgrade your kitchen gadgets, Ninja has plenty of deals that make it easier (and more affordable) to cook like a pro.

So keep scrolling to check my favorite Ninja picks from the sale. Plus, don't miss our Amazon promo codes page for more ways to save.

Quick Links

• shop all Ninja deals
• shop all Ninja deals at Amazon
• Ninja Blast Portable Blender: was $69 now $54
• Ninja Professional Blender: was $109 now $89
• Ninja Air Fryer Pro 6-in-1: was $129 now $89
• Ninja Crispi Air Fryer: was $179 now $149
• Ninja CREAMi Ice Cream Maker: was $229 now $179
• Ninja French Door Premier Air Fryer: was $279 now $199
• Ninja Slushi Max: was $499 now $349

Ninja Deals

If, like me, you have a compact kitchen, it can often be a challenge to store your essential appliances. And if you want to literally double your countertop space, IKEA has just dropped a new gadget set to solve all your tiny kitchen woes.

The GÅTEBO microwave oven is a freestanding appliance that features a grill and an air fryer function, making it a handy, all-in-one appliance that covers your cooking needs. With its compact size, it’s perfect for small spaces or can easily be tucked away when you’re not using it.

Best of all, it comes at a budget-friendly price of just $199, which is a steal for a multipurpose kitchen appliance and comparable to many of the best microwaves out there. Here’s everything you need to know.

The GÅTEBO has an air fryer and grill function

If you enjoy crispy foods but lack the space for a humongous air fryer, this impressive microwave is a space game-changer. And since I'm always struggling for countertop space for my abundance of kitchen gadgets, this is a great multifunctional buy.

Simply use the included air fry tray to cook your favorite fried foods in no time, giving them that tasty crunch that you won’t get in a standard microwave. I also love the fact that it comes with a grilling function to easily give you that brown and crispy texture for certain dishes, such as lasagne. Additionally, if you're strapped for time or hosting a gathering, this microwave can come in handy to quickly rustle up a feast.

In fact, you won't need to use your oven as much since the GÅTEBO microwave can pretty much do it all. While you might assume an all-in-one appliance like this would cost a fortune, it's refreshing to see that it's just under $200, making it a worthwhile investment.

More from Tom's Guide

• Should you buy IKEA kitchen appliances?
• I just upgraded my home with these 5 IKEA items
• You don’t need an appliance garage — I’ve been using this $29 IKEA classic for years, and it keeps my gadgets neatly stowed away

More from Tom's Guide

• Should you buy IKEA kitchen appliances?
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Induction cooktops are a savvy switch for those hoping to cut down energy costs and make their kitchen safer. By heating pans directly, as opposed to heating a glass surface which in turn will heat your pan, they can bring water to a boil in a matter of minutes.

But this smart tech can feel overwhelming, especially if you've only recently made the switch. And one of the most common causes for concern among induction users is a low-pitched buzzing sound.

I asked an induction expert why induction cooktops can make buzzing sounds, and whether it's cause for concern. The short answer is that it's fairly common for induction cooktops to make buzzing noises, but there are some cases where it can indicate a fault. Here's what you need to know.

Why is my induction cooktop buzzing?

Induction cooktops use magnetic energy to heat your pans, and according to Chloe Blanchfield, product marketing manager at Hisense UK, this can cause a low buzing sound.

“A gentle buzzing or humming sound from an induction cooktop is normal and not usually a fault," Blanchfield told me. "The sound usually occurs because magnetic energy (electromagnetic fields) heats the pan and can cause it to vibrate slightly, especially on a higher heat or with thinner cookware."

So, if your cookware is on the thinner side, this may be contributingt to the buzzing noice. This could be a simple fix, especially if the buzzing irritates you, as switching to a tri-ply cookware set is a lot cheaper than ditching your whole cooktop!

However, according to Blanchfield, the noise could also be down to the internal cooling featured in some cooktops.

"The cooktop’s internal cooling fan may also contribute to any buzzing sounds or vibrations, but usually aren’t anything to be concerned about.”

When should I be concerned?

Although it's clear that a buzzing noise is a normal feature in many induction cooktops, there are some cases where it could be worth getting a second opinion.

"It’s only a cause for concern if the noise from the induction cooktop is very loud or unusual," Blanchfield told me.

What counts as unusual, you may wonder? According to Hisense, this would be "rattling or high-pitched whining, or if it continues when the cooker is on a low heat. If so, the cooktop should be checked.”

More from Tom's Guide

• I love my gas range but this portable induction cooktop might have converted me
• My induction cooktop still looks brand new, thanks to these 3 daily rules my family always follows
• 3 things you should never store in your oven

When a new year rolls around, it's only natural to set ambitious goals. If you’re anything like me, that likely includes eating healthier and cooking more meals at home. Turning those resolutions into reality might require a little bit of help. Fortunately, Amazon is making it easier thanks to its massive Amazon Winter Sale.

From meal-prepping to whipping up some healthy smoothies, Amazon is knocking up to 40% off kitchen gadgets and tools that will simplify nutrition in 2026. Starting at just $10, these deals make it easier (and more affordable) to cook like a pro. Best of all, they come courtesy of our favorite brands like Ninja, Cuisinart, KitchenAid and more.

Below, I've gathered some of my favorite kitchen and cooking deals on Amazon — and the good news is, they're all under $100. Keep scrolling to check them out. Plus, don't miss our Amazon promo codes page for more ways to save.

Quick Links

• shop all kitchen appliance deals at Amazon
• Cuisinart Spin Stop Salad Spinner: was $17 now $10
• Joseph Joseph Nest Lock Food Storage Container Set: was $30 now $25
• Fullstar The Original Pro Chopper: was $49 now $26
• Crock-Pot Portable Electric Lunch Box: was $39 now $29
• Magic Bullet Mini Juicer: was $79 now $39
• Ninja Blast Portable: was $69 now $54
• KitchenAid Cordless Top Down Chopper: was $99 now $89
• Ninja Air Fryer Pro 6-in-1: was $129 now $89
• Nutribullet Ultra 1200: was $129 now $99

Small Appliance Deals

One of the hardest parts about making homemade cakes, cookies, bread, or even meringues isn't the actual baking. It's not the weighing of the ingredients. And it's definitely not the mixing — we've got a stand mixer for that. It's knowing when your food is actually ready to come out of the warm oven and onto your room-temperature countertop. If you're anything like me and tend to leave foods in the oven for a little longer, just to be on the safe side, then things are about to be switched up big time in your kitchen.

Among the releases of new tech for 2026 at CES is the new LG Signature Oven range that will prove itself to be especially handy for bakers. Fitted with LG's AI Core-Tech inside, aptly known as Gourmet AI, each oven has a specially-designed camera sitting inside it to monitor your food at all times while it's switched on and warm. Once your bake looks perfectly browned, it'll alert the app on your phone, ready for you to check and remove from the oven. Talk about taking the guesswork out of baking.

Better yet? All of this is wrapped inside a neat, modern package that will bring a sophisticated feel to your kitchen. Think gold accents, minimalist designs, and convenience at your fingertips.

LG's Signature Oven

How exactly does this oven work? With a bank of 85+ dishes to choose from, you need to prepare your bake as normal and then tell it what you're making on the app. It will then program your oven with the right temperature setting and timer for cooking this specific bake.

While baking, the Gourmet AI camera will continuously monitor your food and send an alert via the ThinQ app when it detects that it appears ready. You can even view the contents of your oven from your phone, adding some serious convenience to your life, especially if you're often forgetting you've got the oven on in the first place.

Undeniably handy when it comes to perfecting those delicate-to-cook items such as meringues, cakes, and even some types of bread, this way you won't ever have to risk opening your oven and your bake collapsing. This handy technology can offer an extra insight into cooking than your recipe book, all while giving you control, whether you're in your kitchen doing the dishes while your food is baking, or on the sofa watching your favorite movie.

What else is new?

Among the other LG products released at CES 2026 were two refrigerators:

The New LG Signature Refrigerator is fitted with A 6.8" display and inside lives smart AI, which works hard to keep your fridge fresher than ever. It anticipates fridge openings based on getting to know your regular patterns, and to keep your fridge at the perfect temperature, it pre-cools before it anticipates an opening.

The LG Signature Smart InstaView Refrigerator boasts an internal camera that can identify ingredients, suggest recipes based on the contents of your fridge, and more. It's fitted with a T-OLED InstaView panel on its front for both convenience and style.

More from Tom's Guide

• Asus confirms price hikes just days ahead of CES 2026 — what you need to know
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• CES 2026 Preview: What to expect

Brand new to the market, Hisense just released one of the most interesting induction ranges we've seen.

Released at CES 2026, Hisense has launched a totally new induction cooking range, all with an AI cooking assistant at the heart of each product. Now, if you know us at Tom's Guide, you know that we're big fans of induction cooking — and that's without the added convenience of artificial intelligence.

Not only are these products crafted to ensure super-precise cooking and temperature control, but they're designed to make cooking — whether for two or 12 — a whole load easier. The built-in AI assistant in this induction cooktop, otherwise known as the ConnectLife AI Cooking Agent, can be accessed through its intuitive touch display, which sits at the center stage of the unit.

Offering two cooking zones, the AI in this sleek unit is revolutionary in more ways than one — it won't only do the cooking and temperature adapting for you, but it shows recipes, can help with meal planning, and the best part: it displays step-by-step guidance for when you're cooking something completely out of your comfort zone.

About Hisense's new smart induction range

This slide-in induction range isn't just convenient to install, but its innovative features will bring a whole new world of benefits to the room you use the most in your home.

The handy addition of the ConnectLife AI Cooking Agent simulates the experience of having a chef in your kitchen, helping you cook, except without the extra two feet taking up floorspace, and the hefty daily price tag. This software will be especially useful when cooking for several mouths, as it takes the guesswork out of cooking pretty much anything and everything, and it adapts cooking temperatures and times on its own, meaning you'll be able to spend more time socializing with your guests. It also means you'll never have to search high and low for that specific recipe book that always makes its way to the very back of your pantry. It can access a library of recipes with the touch of your fingertip, and it'll even walk you through them on its hi-res display.

Let's talk about its exterior: it's 5.8 cu. ft. in total and wrapped in an anti-scratch coating. It boasts a slide-in design to fit seamlessly into your kitchen, and while its induction cooktop offers several cooking zones, it also has the technology to let you bridge two zones together to create one larger cooking area, should it be needed.

Interior-wise, there are two cooking zones in the oven, both of which are fitted with Rapid Oven Preheat Technology to speed up overall cooking time.

What else is new?

Also announced at CES 2026, Hisense is launching the S7 Smart Dishwasher, which, much like the induction range, features a touch display for full control. This dishwasher intelligently adapts based on its current load and how dirty your dishes are. It will adjust everything from water used to detergent, temperature, and cycle length, for the perfect clean. And at the end of its cycle? A Smart Dry system switches on the door fan to ensure you never need to hand-dry. Should you own other HiSense products, it will communicate with these to detect which recipes have been cooked, and alter cooking times accordingly.

Also part of the new AI range is the HiSense PureFit Refrigerator. Boasting an impressive 24” slim design, this refrigerator has convenience written all over it. Not only does it feature an antibacterial guard, banishing 99.9% of any bacteria that might form, but you can interchange its fridge and freezer zones to suit your weekly grocery shop. Revolutionary. ConnectLife also means you can remotely manage the contents of your fridge, adjust its temperature, and better yet? Check it's working as it should be, whether you're in the next room or the next continent.

More from Tom's Guide

• Asus confirms price hikes just days ahead of CES 2026 — what you need to know
• LG Gallery TV is coming to battle Samsung’s The Frame
• CES 2026 Preview: What to expect

One of the best things I did in 2025 was setting aside my Sunday mornings for meal prepping. Gone are the days of returning from the office to an empty fridge, or throwing together a random assortment of ingredients in an effort to create some semblance of a meal. Now, I go into the week with a full menu pre-written and prepared. The secret to my success? Souper Cubes.

These silicone freezer trays make it easy to pre-portion your meals, and they also allow you to freeze your meals into perfect cubes, ready to be microwaved or baked straight from frozen as and when you please. Are they cheap? No. Are they worth it? Yes.

Here's why I recommend them.

1. They make portion control a breeze

I once had a hodgepodge drawer full of random food containers in my apartment, which made it tricky both to pre-portion my meals equally, but also to fit everything into my fridge once portioned.

The Souper Cubes come with measurements alongside the inside of each silicone mold, making it easy to keep track of how much you're portioning as you go. You can also pre-freeze a range of different meal prep combos, to keep things interesting. For example, you could make a curry and then freeze a variety of grains and rice to allow you to switch up your different pairings throughout the week. You can also slot two of the one-cup molds into one 5x5" baking tray, meaning you can bake your entire meal in one dish.

2. They cut out food waste

Everything in the photo above was made in a fridge purge before I went home for the holidays. Using a range of leftover cheeses and potatoes I made two servings of potato dauphenoise which can be baked from frozen. I used up tomatoes and peppers in a spicy pasta sauce, freezing in the one-cup molds to create four pre-made servings ready to be stirred into cooked pasta. I also made some broccoli and stilton soup from yet more leftover cheese, and this can go straight into the microwave whenever I'm in the mood for a hot cup of soup.

I'm pretty good at using up all of the ingredients in my weekly food shop, but switching to pre-making and freezing my meals also makes it much easier to use up odds and ends, even if I'm going away or my menu for the week is already full.

3. The quality is outstanding

I was immediately impressed by the quality of both the molds and the stoneware I bought from Souper Cubes. It's expensive, yet, but it does really feel like an expensive product. The containers get the perfect mix of flexibility. They're soft enough to let me easily decant my frozen meals once set, but firm enough that they won't spill food all over the inside of my freezer.

The stoneware, too, feels elevated. They're the sort of thing you can serve straight from the oven, no need to then decant onto a separate plate. And they come with silicone lids, meaning you can keep them in the fridge between uses if need be.

I'll be firmly sticking to my fridge Tetris in 2026. Will you be making the switch?

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What will the home of the future look like? At CES, Samsung outlined how all of your appliances will talk to each other, and, thanks to AI, will help anticipate your needs, such as recommending you reorder that gallon of milk if it sees you’re running low.

Apart from its new appliances — including a new robot vacuum, washer/dryer combo, and an AirDresser — Samsung announced that it was incorporating Google Gemini into the company’s Family Hub refrigerators, so that its AI Vision will better be able to recognize foods you put in — and even be able to read labels.

At CES 2026, Hyoung Min Park, Samsung’s Vice President for Digital Appliances, sat down with Tom’s Guide and a few other journalists to find out more about Samsung’s vision for its home appliances. Guess what? That means more AI.

Samsung's vision

“Our appliances are no longer mere equipment or devices that perform functions, but actually have a deep understanding of the user, the user’s life, and the user’s living environment,” Park said. “This helps reduce the time, effort, and money they spend on household chores and assignments, and also helps users take care of their loved ones.”

“When you look at the process of cooking — before cooking, during cooking, and after cooking — we find that consumers experience the most stress in the "before cooking" stage, where they have to decide on the menu and decide how they’re going to use the food ingredients.

"I think the biggest change that we are going to see is AI Vision built with Google Gemini for the Bespoke AI refrigerator Family Hub,” Park continued. “Before, our on-device system's camera would have to try to match food items with the data that was contained in the database. But now, with this 2026 AI Vision, the AI Vision is looking at data that is stored in the cloud. It’s able to match the food items, and also it’s able to extract text and it can read labels. This helps us to greatly expand the scale as well as the scope of the food items that we can match and identify, making users' lives more convenient.”

“So, with this generative AI-based AI Vision, we are able to more accurately update food lists and provide much more support to consumers. One example would be the Food Note feature. Based on the list of food ingredients a user has, the AI system will look at which type of food items were used the most during the past week, will come up with a history of these food items, and recommend repurchasing.”

"Also, the Bespoke AI refrigerator Family Hub is able to recommend popular recipe videos and actually convert those videos into text," added Park. "You can store these recipes in SmartThings Food or actually send the recipe directly to your oven or induction or cooking appliance. This makes the entire cooking process much more easy and convenient and improves the user experience throughout the entire food preparation process."

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Announced today at CES 2026, Brisk It, the brand behind some of the smartest (and best) grills that money can buy, is officially bringing to life an AI-powered countertop oven. Think of your air fryer that you use every day, but powered by AI. A total game-changer for busy households.

The Brisk It Neoma AI Countertop Oven can do it all. It gets to learn your likes, dislikes, dietary requirements, and budget, so it can plan your daily meals, source the ingredients, and even deliver them to your doorstep. Once that's done, you will have to put them away in your refrigerator or pantry, but when it comes to doing the cooking, you need only sit back and relax.

This smart cooking device is designed with the knowledge of how to cook every food to enhance its flavor to maximum potential, and it takes the guesswork out of cooking for you. Its app will guide you through each step of the process, or use it in autonomous mode, and it will simply do it for you.

The first of its kind to bring AI-powered cooking indoors, this countertop oven is revolutionary and could change the busy lives of so many people.

Powered by AI

The AI embedded in this piece of kit is somewhat impressive — as well as its capacity to do things like meal plan, order groceries, and cook food to exact temperatures, it can even send information from your phone to the oven, whether you're standing right next to it or upstairs in your bathtub. The Neoma acts not only as a nutritionist but also as a kitchen assistant, too. With similar features to the CHEF iQ MiniOven, it offers fully personalized dining, every day of the week, and from the comfort of your own kitchen.

You can use this countertop oven in one of two ways: connect it with your smartphone and use it as a guide to follow the cooking steps on your phone. Otherwise, it works autonomously, so you can literally sit back and relax while AI does all of the work for you. I know what I'd rather do.

Inside this machine sits similar technology to the Brisk It Zelos (which we gave 4/5 stars in our review) in many ways, but with an indoors shift in technology. Both the Neoma and the Zelos can be controlled remotely, through the Brisk It app and with help from the Vera chatbot.

The Neoma also offers super precise temperature control, from 90 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. You can set it on a timer for anything from 1 minute to 12 hours, while it even offers several cooking modes like baking and roasting, plus an air fryer mode to give your best air fryer a good run for its money. This does mean that you can use it to cook anything from your Thanksgiving turkey to a comforting meatloaf.

Included in the box are not only the main unit but also an air fry basket, baking pan, oven rack, and crumb tray. It has a handy glass door so that you can check on how your food's cooking without letting the heat escape.

What else is new?

Brisk It first launched in 2023 with its Origin 580 Series smoker. Since it has released two more smokers — the Origin 940 and the Zelos 450. This year sees the first-ever launch of not only a countertop oven, but a hybrid grill, too.

Brisk It is releasing its first AI Hybrid Gas Grill, a first-of-its-kind leap in gas grilling that combines fully digital flame control with wood pellet combustion. This innovation allows the flavor of wood smoking to enter the convenience of high-heat gas grilling while being a truly digital, effortless, hands-off cook.

This smart piece of kit is one-of-a-kind and offers not just fully digital flame control, but high-heat grilling that a smoker cannot reach, paired with hands-off control thanks to AI.

Availability

You'll be able to purchase the new Brisk It gas grill from selected retailers sometime in 2026.

As for the Neoma Countertop Oven, this will be offered through a Kickstarter campaign, starting in February 2026. Later, after the first round of Kickstarter customers have had an opportunity to enjoy the Neoma, it will be offered via a subscription service, expected in late 2026.

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Smoothies are one of the best ways you can hit your nutrition goals: they're fast, portable and you can determine exactly what goes into them. I've been drinking them off and on for years, but I finally decided that 2026 was the year I'd take it more seriously.

Like most of us trying to keep up with life's frenetic pace I'd often use smoothies as a stand-in for a meal. But this presented a few problems: I'd have to remember to both shop the necessary ingredients and prep the smoothies ahead of time. More often than not, this led to one week of smoothies followed by several weeks of no smoothies.

After speaking to some of my Tom's Guide colleagues about their experiences testing the best blenders, I decided the Nutribullet Ultra 1200 could be the silver...er...bullet to finally get my smoothie game on point. And yes, it's the one with the McLaren Formula 1 team's papaya colorway.

I'm not just looking to replace the odd breakfast with a smoothie (I recommend oatmeal, peanut butter and banana with a dash of honey) but use them to increase my protein intake between meals and stop snacking late at night.

I'd much rather slurp a delicious smoothie than throw some whey into one of the best protein shakers and drink chocolate-flavored water with lumps floating in it.

The upgrade

I wish I could tell you that some careful research and planning went into my OG blender purchase, but the truth is, it was about thirty bucks and a spontaneous purchase from a budget store months ago.

I've long since thrown away the box, but I managed to track down the model online. It's a "Blaupunkt Stainless Steel 1.5 litre Glass Jug Blender". It's got a 4-point stainless steel blade and five variable speed settings, including a pulse option. There's 600W of power and a 1.5 litre (52oz) capacity.

The Nutribullet Ultra 1200, by comparison, has a 32oz capacity and double the power at 1,200W. It's also quite a lot more expensive at £129/$129. But after just a few days of use, it became clear to me that extra hundred makes a world of difference.

A big difference

The biggest, and perhaps least scientific benefit I've found to using the Nutribullet over my old blender was how much easier it is to clean. There are only two parts to the Nutribullet: the blades and the cup. My other blender is bigger, heavier and splits into more pieces — all of which adds up to more cleaning. And yes, I know I could put them into the dishwasher but that's not the point.

With the Nutribullet, I can spin up one type of smoothie and pour it into another container, rinse and wash the components and be ready to make a second type in about half the time of my older blender. When you're (constantly) in a hurry, any time saved is a benefit.

In fact, everything about this blender is faster. It's got a 6-point titanium-coated extractor blade rather than a 4-point one and while it doesn't have multiple speed settings, it has a pulse button that I can use if I need to. Which, most of the time, I don't. Nutribullet's blades come with a 5-year limited warranty, which is not something you get with a $30 no-brand purchase.

It's also quieter. The Nutribullet Ultra 1200 is the most powerful in the brand's range, and the noise level is measured at 87dB which is loud — you can't stand next to it in action and have a conversation — but quieter than my Blaupunkt that measured 94dB when I tested it.

Finally, the plastic Nutribullet cup doubles up as a shaker, too. So I can just pull it off the top of the blender, slap the lid on and go. If I'm not making anything else and just need to blend and go, I don't need to pour out into something else. If you're anything like me, you'll appreciate this too. It's a bit of a bummer I don't have a handle but this one came with a 32oz cup and a 24oz cup. If you're in the U.S., you'll get a 24oz handled cup so you won't have to worry about that.

Should you bite the (Nutri)bullet?

Part of the reason I wanted to start using the Nutribullet was to make smoothies a part of my nutrition plan, rather than just as an afterthought. It shouldn't take a luxury purchase to do this but in my case it's worked. When I see the Nutribullet sitting there on the kitchen counter every day, it makes me want to use it. I want to find new recipes and put the tech through its paces.

And every time I do use it, I come away feeling like the extra $100 is giving me value. It's quicker, quieter, cleaner and better than the $30 machine I'd been getting along with. I understand that for a lot of people, $100 is big investment and I'd caution it's only worth making such a payment if you plan to use it regularly. For context, the Nutribullet 600 (which Tom's Guide hasn't tested) is $79 / £69, and the Nutribullet 900, which we gave a 4.5-star review, is $109 / £89.

If a blender upgrade is on your list of purchases for 2026 then let me know in the comments below what you plan to go for. And, more importantly, any good smoothie recipes that you swear by.

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