I cannot begin to tell you all that I've learned over the last few months about kitchen appliances — both large and small. My husband is remodeling our kitchen. Wouldn't you assume that selecting appliances would be the easy part in the planning process? Oh, what I have learned — and do intend on sharing with you in the very near future — is epic. Let me just say I'm more convinced than ever that determining the Best Inexpensive option in every category is the way to go. The most expensive does not mean better longevity, or even superior performance.
For today, and due to popular demand, let's tackle basic countertop appliances that toast, bake and broil.
TOASTER. The goal here is to find the Best Inexpensive traditional toaster, where you put in slices of bread and, a few minutes later, up pops toast that is perfectly toasted on both sides. Sounds simple enough, right? Well, not really, because there are so many options. That's why you need me to test, research, review and narrow this down to the best, which in this case is also the most inexpensive. My pick is the Cuisinart Compact Plastic Toaster, which comes in a two-slice option and four-slice option. The slots are wide enough to accommodate bagels, English muffins, Texas toast and regular-width slices of bread. This toaster is just the right size; it toasts easily; and it looks nice with any decor. Don't let the plastic part scare you. The toaster remains cool to the touch and is super easy to clean. The two-slice model costs about $30; the four-slice model costs about $40.
TOASTER OVEN. If you need a toaster that will turn out great toast and handle pizza, frozen foods and quick reheats, my pick for a basic toaster oven is the Panasonic Flash Xpress Toaster Oven. Granted, there are less expensive toaster ovens out there, but my goal here is for you to not end up buying junk. You want the lowest price for a quality appliance that will serve you well for at least as long as a much more expensive option. In my opinion, this toaster oven fits that requirement very well. It is compact and attractive. It costs about $110.
ALL-IN-ONE COUNTERTOP OVEN. If you need an oven that will do everything — toast, bake, roast, broil, warm, slow-cook, convection, air fry (high heat and super convection), dehydrate, reheat and even proof bread dough — because you either need a second oven or have no oven at all, you need to consider the new Breville Smart Oven Air. This was is a tough decision for me because, again, there are so many choices out there. But I have to tell you that most of them are junk. The doors don't close right. They do not heat to the set temperature. Basically, they just don't perform to the standard we're looking for. This latest model is sweet. And it's the only countertop oven many of us will ever need because it's spacious and does everything. It will even accommodate a small turkey and roast it to perfection. It costs about $400.
Resources: For more information on the resources mentioned above, go to EverydayCheapskate.com/toasters .
Mary invites questions, comments and tips at [email protected], or c/o Everyday Cheapskate, 12340 Seal Beach Blvd., Suite B-416, Seal Beach, CA 90740. This column will answer questions of general interest, but letters cannot be answered individually. Mary Hunt is the founder of www.DebtProofLiving.com, a personal finance member website and the author of "Debt-Proof Living," released in 2014. To find out more about Mary and read her past columns, please visit the Creators Syndicate webpage at www.creators.com.
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