How to Buy The Right Toaster

No matter how hi-tech your kitchen is, a toaster will always be one of those things that's needed. When it comes to making your purchase there are only a few things to keep in mind.


toaster 1. Decide what you will use it for. Regular slices of bread? Thick slices of bread like Texas Toast? Bagels? English Muffins? Depending on what you will be eating, you must decide on the width of the slots.

I recommend getting wide slots just in case you decide to eat something like a bagel later on.

2. How many are in your household? If you're single than getting a 4-slice unit over a 2-slice unit may be a bit much. However if you have a family, it would be best to get a 4-slice unit.

3. Decide where your new small appliance will go. If you have a lot of counter space, than getting a traditional, square shaped unit will be fine. However, if you're limited on space, getting a "tandem" unit would be best. These are long and thin where slices go beside one another.

4. Decide what features you need. Some units have a bagel button, or a muffin button, and they're supposed to have a sensor that browns perfectly. In my experience none of them actually do their job, so I would pass on paying extra for that feature.

The most important features to look for are removable crumb trays, a cancel button, and get a color that compliments your other appliances.


Cost: $35 - 65 for a good one. Although prices can get up to $200!



Here are a few I'd recommend from Best Buy:


Hamilton Beach Smart Toast 2-Slice Wide-Slot Toaster - Black Hamilton Beach Smart Toast 2-Slice Wide-Slot - Black ($24)

Oster 4-Slice Toaster - Black Oster 4-Slice - Black ($34)

Hamilton Beach 2-Slice Extra-Wide-Slot Toaster - Chrome Hamilton Beach 2-Slice Extra-Wide-Slot - Chrome ($39)

Hamilton Beach 4-Slice Extra-Wide-Slot Toaster - Chrome Hamilton Beach 4-Slice Extra-Wide-Slot - Chrome ($47)



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