Better Homes and Gardens New Cook Book (Three Ring Binder Edition)
by Better Homes and Gardens
Average Customer Review:
Ring-bound (August, 1996)
list price: $26.95 -- our price: $26.95
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Discover why every kitchen worth its salt has a flour-dusted, bouillon-stained, batter-encrusted and whisk-maimed copy. ... Read more

Reviews (85)

One of the best general cookbooks available
I have to admit that the most beat-up, stained, and abused book that I have in my house has always been a Better Homes and Gardens Cook Book. The 12th Edition of this wonderful cookbook will be no exception. The newest version has hundreds of new recipes and an entire chapter on crockery cooking.

For those of you who are frustrated with cookbooks that only have sections for appetizers, main dishes, beverages, and desserts you will be thrilled with the organization of this cookbook. It is divided into multiple sections so you can easily find an appropriate recipe. The sections include Cooking Basics, Appetizers and Snacks, Beans, Rice, and Grains, Beverages, Breads, Cakes, Candies, Canning and Freezing, Cookies, Crockery Cooking, Desserts, Eggs and Cheese, Fish and Shellfish, Grilling, Meat, Pasta, Pies and Tarts, Poultry, Salads and Dressings, Sauces and Relishes, Soups and Stews, and Vegetables and Fruits.

I particularly liked the section on cooking basics which covers such topics as equipment, appliances, tips, time tested secrets, a glossary, information on seasonings, nutrition basics, food safety and storage, meal planning, and even place settings.

Unlike other books that indicate a preparation time of an hour for a recipe and then in the recipe itself indicate that it takes another three to cook it, there is full disclosure of time to prepare the recipe. The total recipe time is divided into section such as preparation time, cook time, chill time, etc. so you know exactly how much time it will take to complete the recipe. Recipes that are quick to prepare or low fat or no fat are marked with a colored rectangle so they are easy to spot in the recipe section or the index.

As with all cookbooks, if possible get the hardcover version as it will wipe off easier and make sure it is at least spiral bound if not ring bound so that it will lay flat. The preference is for ring bound because you can take a page out if necessary and just use the page as a reference instead of trying to find a place in the kitchen for the whole book while cooking. Clear instructions, many illustrations and photographs, and just plain delicious recipes you can't go wrong with the Better Homes and Gardens New Cook Book. While I have several specialty cookbooks, this is the standard you will find in more homes than any other cookbook. A highly recommended purchase, this book should be in every home.

New to Cooking, or Prefer Traditional Meals?
You need a basic cookbook. This is it.

No frills. No essays about the enduring history of kumquats, and how they saved Milwaukee 1,000 years ago. None of that. Just a cookbook with lots of helpful tips, to be used by ordinary people.

What do you get? A good old fashioned cookbook filled recipes you'll actually use, with ingredients you've seen before.

From this cookbook, I've made yeast donuts, breads, BBQ ribs, various sauces, and more. My copy has a few stains on it; good eating makes small messes. I like to think of the stains as battle scars.

Buy if you can the ring-bound version, as it will nicely open as you cook. I have the paperback edition, and use a bag of sugar to keep it open (place the sugar at the top of the open spine).

Helpfully included are photos of meat cuts, so you know pork ribs from beef ribs. There is a similar chart of grains and pastas.

Also, there are general instructions for preparing fruit-pie fillings, methods for cooking meat, and how to can produce. There's shopping tips, nutritional charts, measuring techniques.

Ever wonder the difference between cubing and dicing is? That, and many more great tips are explained here.

I fully recommend "Better Homes and Gardens New Cook Book" for any basic kitchen cooking need you have. However, I am sorry, but detailed kumquat information will need to be found elsewhere.

Anthony Trendl

Not as good as it gets
A good basic cookbook. Not a lot of involved marth-esqe recipes but specializes in many good old fashioned delights. Need to have a page holder as the book doesn't work well open on a counter. Desserts are especially well done and represented. ... Read more

Isbn: 0696201887
Subjects:  1. Cooking    2. Cooking / Wine    3. General   

Calphalon Hard-Anodized 10-pc. Cookset
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $199.99 -- our price: $139.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Features

• Nonstick aluminum interior
• Hard-anodized exterior
• 4 tempered glass lids
• Even heat distribution
• Hand wash

Reviews (20)

Not for serious cooks...
Buyer beware. These may say "calphalon", but they are far lower quality than the real thing. The pans are relatively thin, and the nonstick surface is not nearly as durable as Calphalon Commercial Nonstick (the best nonstick on the market).

Try out the commercial line first. You can get excellent special deals on the Calphalon Commercial Nonstick 10" anniversary omelette pan, the best ever made, or on the 12" omelette.

Significantly, the commercial line has a lifetime warranty (they stand by it!) and stay-cool metal handles that are oven-safe.

These cheaper lines are an attempt by Calphalon to capitalize on its name, and are only acceptable for bachelors straight out of college or families on a tight budget, in my opinion.

In addition to Calphalon Commercial, Emerilware has an excellent anodized aluminum 10-piece set on a great sale... I highly recommend it over this set.

Remember, a good set of pans will last you 20, 30, 40+ years. You will be cooking tens of thousands of dollars worth of food in that time. Isn't it worth the modest investment in high quality cookware?

Also note that these pans are made in China, while real Calphalon is made in Toledo, Ohio...

Great Cookset
I bought this cookset 1 year ago and they work great. I cook with them about 5 times a week and haven't had any problems with the teflan peeling. One thing though, the hard anodized exterior does tend to get scratched a bit. I would recommend these to anyone.

I've had mine a couple years
I like this set a lot. It's a great buy for the money. I keep them hanging on a pot rack, however, because any pots and pans you stack will eventually get chips and scratches. These are no different. They heat evenly and have a nice weight to them. They are not flimsy at all and are easy to clean. ... Read more

Asin: B00005OTWA
Sales Rank: 4,177
Subjects:  1. Cookware    2. Saucepans    3. Frying Pans    4. Omelet Pans    5. Stock Pots    6. (Calphlon)    7. (Calaphon)    8. Calphalon    9. Gifts    10. Kitchen    11. Cooksets    12. Cooking   

Sunbeam 6225 2-Slice "Optimize" Toaster
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $39.99 -- our price: $29.97
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Extra-wide slots enable this two-slot toaster to handle thickbread, bagels, waffles, and pastries, and separate buttons permit eachof these items to be toasted exactly. Other buttons make it possible todefrost and toast frozen items and to rewarm toasted items. A dialprovides seven settings for precise browning control. The slots measure1-3/8 inches wide and 5-3/8 inches long. Other notable features includea nonstick area around the slots and a nonstick, removable crumb trayfor easy cleaning; extra lift on the lever for removing small items; acool-touch plastic exterior; and a cord-wrap to reduce clutter. Thetoaster measures a compact 6-3/4 inches wide, 7 inches high, and 10-3/4deep. It comes with a 60-day, full-satisfaction, money-back guaranteeand a one-year warranty against defects. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• Two extra-wide slots for toasting thick bread, bagels, waffles, pastries
• Separate buttons for bagels, waffles, pastries, frozen items, and warm-only
• Seven browning choices; extra lift for removing small items
• Nonstick top and crumb tray; cool-touch exterior; cord wrap underneath
• 60-day, full-satisfaction, money-back guarantee

Reviews (2)

Cool Looking Toaster!
We received this toaster as a gift about a year and a half ago. So far, so good! We really like the cord storage and the crumb tray. Just recently we have had several problems with the toaster not popping up all the way. Other than that, it's been great.

Great toaster - many super features!
I have this same toaster, except in the 4-slice model. I am very happy with it. It is very easy to keep clean - and the crumb tray is SO easy to clean. No more opening little metal doors on the bottom of your toaster and dumping it upside down over the sink to get the crumbs out. The crumb tray on this Sunbeam model just slides out and because it's non-stick, you just wipe it with a damp paper towel and it's good-as-new!

I like all the temperature options. Choices for frozen bread, pastry, degree of doneness, etc. The slots are wide enough for thick homemade bread or bagels and the extra lift feature is really nice.

The only reason I'm giving it 4 stars is that I find that it's much slower to toast than my old crummy chrome toaster. I don't really see that as a problem - I just allow more time.

This would be a great bridal shower gift!

Please check out my other reviews of kitchen products and cookbooks. ... Read more

Asin: B00005QEZQ
Subjects:  1. Small Appliances    2. Electrics    3. Toasters   

Hamilton Beach 52204 Blender/Food Processor
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $59.99 -- our price: $14.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Talk about multitasking! You'll save precious counter space and cut down on clutter as this appliance performs double duty. The Hamilton Beach BlenderChef comprises a blender and a food processor that share a single base with a powerful motor and 12 settings. The food processor features a 3-cup plastic bowl with food chute and oil dispenser, a stainless-steel "S" blade for chopping and mixing, and a reversible disc blade for slicing and shredding. The 40-ounce glass blender jar has a wide mouth for easy pouring. For all it's capable of, this unit is both handy and compact. --Alison Golder ... Read more

Features

• 12-speed blender with 40-ounce glass jar; food processor with 3-cup capacity
• Powerful 350-watt motor covers heavy duty blending jobs
• 2 food-processor blades for shredding and chopping
• Oil dispenser for easily adding liquids during use
• Measures 8 by 6 by 14 inches; 2-year warranty

Reviews (50)

Hamilton Beach 52204 Blender/Food Processor
I've found this to be a very good blender with some helpful food processing features. It is not a substitute for a Food Processor but does perform some handy "light duty" functions. It has a reversible blade for grating and slicing. It does not have a dough mixing blade, several kinds of slicing and grating blades and a large bowl, which is typical of a full size food processor. If your food processing requirements don't extend beyond some grated carrots or cheese for your salad, sliced onions, or chopped vegetatables, this might be enough for you. The bowl is not that large, so sometimes you might need to do your processing in two batches. The blender itself is useful for a lot more than just making mixed drinks and smoothies. You can make bread crumbs for a topping, grind spices and coffee beans, beat pancake batter, make pesto or lightly whip cream. And nothing beats the blender for making a smooth pureed soup. I use the blender daily and frequently use the food processing attachments. For "heavy duty" food processing chores, I still use my full-size food processor, but the Hamilton Beach Blender-Processor is very handy and a good value ... You could buy a similar, more expensive product, but I feel this a good buy. I would recommend it even if you already have a food processor. It's easy to clean and less bother than a large processor when you need just a small amount of food chopped, grated, or sliced.

Great Purchase and Gift Idea!
I recently replaced my old Hamilton Beach blender with this. My old blender was fine, which says a lot about the manufacturer, Hamilton Beach, because the blender I replaced was 15 years old and plastic, and worked perfectly.

I was intriqued by the dual function that this blender has with the capability to blend and also having food processor functions. How clever!

What I enjoy is the sturdy, glass pitcher. As I mentioned above, my other was plastic and after all those years of use, the pitcher was scratched and the plastic turned a milky color. This won't happen with a glass pitcher. Also, when pouring, the heavy glass feels so much better in your hand.

If you are shopping for a food processor, this might not be right for you. It doesn't have the features nor the abilities that a true food processor has. Rather, think of this as a blender (a GOOD blender!) that has some food processing functions.

I have a few choppers, two electric and one hand crank model, in addition to one food processor. Despite having them, I don't use any of them often. They work well but are a real bother to assemble, disassemble, and clean.

Not the case with the food processing attachments that come with this blender. It's easy to assemble and much easier to clean. Because it's a blender, I'm able to dump out any food bits, rinse out the pitcher and clean it by adding warm water, dish soap and BLEND. I soak the attachments in the warm, soapy water right inside the pitcher itself. Then finally, I pour the warm soapy blended water over the blades and voila! It's washed! Then just wipe and rinse, and all are clean!

This would make a nice family holiday gift, a perfect gift for the cook or chef, a wonderful wedding or housewarming gift and it's a great addition for your own kitchen.

Great tool for the price
The motor is strong enough to make a good smoothie or salsa, and the space saving aspect of two tops for one bottom is great. It's not the best in the world, but for [the price], I can't think of a better buy in the kitchen. ... Read more

Asin: B00004RDAZ
Subjects:  1. Small Appliances    2. Electrics    3. Blenders    4. (Osterizers)    5. Full-Size Food Processors    6. (Foodprocessors)   

OXO Good Grips Paring and Mini Chef Knife Set
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $10.99 -- our price: $10.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

The blade size and excellent handle make the paring knife by Oxo the premiere small tool for the kitchen. Designed for small jobs but useful for big ones, too, the sharp, tapered blade slices through fruits and vegetables easily while the tension-absorbing rubber handle takes strain off the hands, even with repetitive motions. Pairing the sharpness of a larger knife with the agility of a smaller one, the mini chef's knife is the perfect invention for smaller tasks.

The Good Grips line features durable, nonslip flexible handles on every product. Ergonomically designed to fit the palm comfortably and softly, the pressure-absorbing processed rubber handle puts less tension on the hands, while providing an outstanding grip. Made from the same material dishwasher gaskets are constructed of, the handles are slip-proof, wet or dry, as well as dishwasher-safe. Good Grips products are moderately priced and have won the Tylenol/Arthritis Foundation Design Award. --Laurie Notaro ... Read more

Features

• Ergonomic, Good Grips handles
• Nonslip rubber grips, wet or dry
• Paring knife has sharp, tapered blade; great for small jobs
• Mini chef's knife is sharp, easy to handle
• Dishwasher-safe

Reviews (9)

Shape of mini-chef is a pleasure.
I have used the mini-chef for cutting garlic and spices and mincing small quantities of tomatoes and onions. The shape is excellent. It handles like a parer, but allows me to pick up the minced veggies with the side of the blade, something one just can't do with a parer. I can't speak to the quality of the steel (yet), but I had to sharpen the knives before use, which says something about the workmanship--not up to Oxo standards.

room for improvement
For the most part, I've enjoyed my Good Grips utensils. The mini chef knife was easy to handle and very sharp at first. However the blade became dull after a short period of very light use. Now it's even showing rust spots! I can only think OXO used poor quality steel in this knife for it to have deteriorated so quickly.

Low Quality, OXO Knives Generally Poor Quality
This two piece knife set is one of the first knive sets I ever purchased. At first I thought the mini chef was great and the parer so so. In time, the handles came off both and I tossed them because the handles kepts slipping off and that's not safe.

Now, I love knives and have the finest forged German and French knives. I've come to appreciate knive quality and this is not it. These knives do not have a full tang or a bolster. They are pressed junk in an ergonomic rubber grib. It's like they stuck a cheap knife in a kitchen utensil handle.

Instead of this junk, look at a low end set of Farberware knives. Be sure and get the "FORGED" set. Most Farberware is not forged but the forged stuff seems to always win best buy in Consumer Reports. If you don't want to spend the 50-70 bucks for the Farberware Forged line go for some low end Sabatier pressed or drop forged knives (all made in China not France at this price range)or Henkels Eversharp (pressed but dishwasher safe) for probaby fifty to under twenty monetary units. ... Read more

Asin: B00004OCJS
Subjects:  1. Knives    2. (Knife)    3. Chef's Knives    4. (Cooks)    5. Kitchen Knives    6. Cutlery    7. Paring Knives    8. Knife Sets    9. Chef Sets   

OXO Good Grips Measuring Cups, Stainless Steel
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $19.99 -- our price: $19.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Doesn't it often seem that you can only find the measuring cups you're not looking for? Oxo solves that dilemma by including a ring that easily organizes cups and keeps them in one place. Easy to hang for simple storage, the cups are also equipped with easy-to-read labels of common measurements (1-, 1/2-, 1/4-, and 1/8-cup sizes) and color coding for little helpers who haven't mastered that skill yet. Each cup has wide handles that are comfortable to hold, and the set is dishwasher-safe. --Laurie Notaro ... Read more

Features

• Set of four stainless-steel measuring cups
• Easy-to-read measurement markings
• Color-coded
• Attached to one removable stainless-steel ring
• Dishwasher-safe

Reviews (8)

Incomplete
Have you ever had a recipe with 1/3 or 2/3 cup ingredients? You're SOL.

Cute but cute doesn't cut it in a busy kitchen
Usually OXO produces well designed items that have you thinking "They *really* thought about how this thing was going to be used (and abused)!" Unfortunately the other reviewers are spot on -- very bendy handles. It's a shame, but you should pass on these.

A little tipsy
I bought these for my sister for Christmas as she loves to bake. She complained that they tip over because of the weight and length of the handle, so she returned them for some others. She loves the matching measuring spoons though. ... Read more

Asin: B00004OCO9
Subjects:  1. Measuring Cups    2. Measures    3. Measurers   

OXO Good Grips Measuring Spoons, Stainless Steel
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $9.99 -- our price: $9.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Doesn't it often seem that you can only find the measuring spoons you're not looking for? Oxo solves that dilemma by including a ring that easily organizes spoons and keeps them in one place. Easy to hang for simple storage, the spoons are also equipped with easy-to-read labels of common measurements (1 tablespoon, 1 teaspoon, 1/2 teaspoon, and 1/4 teaspoon) and color coding for little helpers that haven't mastered that skill yet. Each spoon has a nonslip rubber handle that is comfortable to hold, and the set is dishwasher-safe.--Laurie Notaro ... Read more

Features

• Set of four stainless-steel measuring spoons
• Easy-to-read measurement markings
• Color-coded
• Attached to one removable stainless-steel ring
• Dishwasher-safe

Reviews (4)

Overall, a good product
I bought these because they are made of metal - I was tired of my plastic measuring spoons flying around in the dishwasher. But since they are metal, when I'm measuring oil or anything else light in color, it's hard to see the amount of liquid in the spoon.

Super Spoons
I have other measuring spoons that are plastic, but I always reach for these OXO stainless steel spoons first. The spoons are rounded instead of oblong-shaped, so it's easier to measure and level off sugar and flour exactly. Another great feature is that they're easy to get on and off the ring, so you don't have to juggle all four spoons at once when you're trying to add ingredients to your mixing bowl. Rubber handles keep the spoons from slipping, and the spoons are really easy to clean. These are a great buy!

Good Tool.
Solid piece of cooking gear. Cleans up very well after sticky, gooey syrup. I like this and the measuring scoops.

I believe in spending a little bit more on good kitchen gear, and I would not hesitate to buy this again, and look forward to giving it as a gift, too. ... Read more

Asin: B00004OCO8
Subjects:  1. Measuring Spoons    2. Measures    3. Measurers   

Pyrex Prepware 3-Piece Measure Set
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $9.99 -- our price: $4.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Safe in the oven, microwave, refrigerator, freezer, and dishwasher, Pyrex is a special glass that withstands the shock of going from hot to cold, or vice versa, without breaking. That's important even with this set of liquid measuring cups, which can go into the oven to, say, warm a sauce and then be plunged into dishwater. The set consists of three measuring cups: a 1-cup, a 2-cup, and a 4-cup, all essential to a well-equipped kitchen. Large, dark blue markings in both U.S. and metric measurements make the cups easy to read. The cups are nonreactive (useful for acidic salad dressings) as well as stain- and odor-proof, and come with a two-year warranty against breakage from oven heat. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• Basic set for measuring liquids
• Set consists of 1-cup, 2-cup, 4-cup measuring cups
• Safe in oven, microwave, refrigerator, freezer, dishwasher
• Large, clear calibrations in dark blue make reading easy
• 2-year warranty against breakage from oven heat

Reviews (2)

Indispensable
Here's a really important piece of food prep equipment. I spend a lot of time winging it when I cook, but when I do have to measure my ingredients, I love these clear Pyrex cups in three tremendously useful sizes. They're heavy, but they're safe for boiling liquids, ice cold food and everything in between. Pyrex is crystal clear and cleans up beautifully. You can't ask for more.

Best Glass Measuring Set!
The glass measuring cups are perfect for melting butter or heating water to boiling in the microwave. You can also use them to mix up a small batch of salad dressing.

They are really indispensable in any kitchen. While I tend to measure even some liquids in my metal measuring cups, I reach for these when the quantity of liquid goes over one cup. You do have to raise them to eye level to see if you have poured in just the right amount.

I seem to reach for these everytime I cook! They are also handy for measuring chopped vegetables or fruit. ... Read more

Asin: B00005B8KF
Subjects:  1. Measuring Cups    2. Measures    3. Measurers   

Tupperware 3-Piece Wonderlier Bowl Set
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $21.99 -- our price: $21.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Equipped with Tupperware's legendary seals--virtually airtightand moisture-proof--this set's three bowls are ideal for food storageas well as preparation. The set consists of a 12-cup bowl, an 8-3/4-cupbowl, and a 6-cup bowl, all with pretty, pastel, True Blue seals. Theseals snap onto the bowls by pressing in the center with fingers orthumb and remove with the aid of extra-large tabs. The bowls havetextured interiors to resist scratching, stack for compact storage incabinet and refrigerator, and nest when empty. Virtually unbreakableand dishwasher-safe, Tupperware carries a lifetime warranty againstchipping, cracking, breaking, and peeling. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• 6- , 8-3/4- , 12-cup bowls for mixing, serving, and storing food
• Virtually airtight, moisture-proof seals preserve freshness, flavor
• Made of rugged plastic, with pastel, True Blue seals
• Stack for compact storage; nest when empty; dishwasher-safe
• Lifetime warranty against chipping, cracking, breaking, peeling

Reviews (1)

The best bowls ever
I have owned these bowls for years and use them for absolutely everthing. They are so durable -- best thing I ever purchased.
Thanks Tupperware for making such great products! ... Read more

Asin: B00005S6IN
Subjects:  1. Mixing Bowls    2. Baking    3. Plastic    4. Storage    5. Kitchen    6. Specialty Tools   

Tupperware One Touch Reminder Canisters, Set of 4, Bold 'N Blue
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $35.99 -- our price: $35.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Ideal for storing staples on the countertop, the four canistersin this set have clear windows near their bottoms that serve asreminders when the canisters' contents run low. Otherwise, thecanisters are opaque to protect food from direct light. Tupperware'slegendary seals--virtually airtight and moisture-proof--ensure foodremains fresh and flavorful. The seals open and close with one hand andone touch: pressing the center with fingers or thumb is all it takes tosnap them tight. Made of rigid, rugged, glossy plastic, the canistersgraduate in size, from 5 cups (5-1/8-inch diameter, 6 inches high), to8 cups (6-inch diameter, 6-7/8 inches high), to 12 cups (6-3/4-inchdiameter, 7-1/4 inches high), to 17 cups (7-1/2-inch diameter, 8-3/8inches high). They stack for compact storage and nest when empty.Virtually unbreakable and dishwasher-safe, Tupperware carries alifetime warranty against chipping, cracking, breaking, and peeling.This set's seals are Bold 'N Blue. Others have Hunter Green or Blackseals, offering color-coordination choices for a kitchen and acolor-coding system for storage and complementing Tupperware's ModularMates and Cereal Storer seals. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• Four canisters in graduated sizes: 5, 8, 12, and 17 cups
• Keep staples fresh under virtually airtight, moisture-proof seals
• Opaque to protect food against light; stackable; nest when empty
• Clear windows near bottoms remind when contents run low
• Lifetime warranty against chipping, cracking, breaking, peeling

Reviews (3)

1 year and no bugs
I've had this for 1 year now, and not had a single bug invade the goods contained therein. I don't use much flour, sugar, and whatnot, but the sugar is as dry and granular as the day I bought it, and no flour bugs whatsoever.

You can't get much better than that.

Impossible to open
They seal well and I can close them (some force), however opening them is nearly impossible. We have all tried and have come to the decision that this must be a design flaw. The small lip is painful on your fingers. They really should have put a little finger lip that you could get your finger under or a slightly larger lip. Right now the lip just is painful.
I have purchased some Rubbermaid serving savers which are much nicer to open and close.

very handy - I want TWO sets
These canisters are great. I intend to buy a second set. They keep food fresh, convenient, and much tidier than the packages you buy it in. The lids are secure and easy to use, and they stack well. I also like the fact that they're opaque because I use the smallest one for coffee, which keeps better if stored away from light. ... Read more

Asin: B00005S6IS
Subjects:  1. Storage    2. Kitchen   

Pyrex Digital Probe Oven Thermomenter/ Timer
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $30.00 -- our price: $19.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

This Pyrex Accessories 2-in-1 thermometer/timer allows you to measure the temperature (in Celsius or Fahrenheit) of your food as it cooks--without opening the oven door. A thin cord attaches the commercial-quality probe to a digital display screen that sits on your countertop. The true beauty of this gadget is that a timer sounds once the preset temperature of the food is reached, allowing you to read in the other room without having to continually check the temperature reading. This gadget works equally well on the stovetop, and also functions as a simple digital kitchen timer.

An adjustable display stand lets you swivel the screen to the angle of your liking, while a magnet on the back of the stand gives you the convenient option to place or store the display on your refrigerator. Too bad the ensemble doesn't have a neat contraption to store the timer and probe together; the nature of the probe makes it difficult to coil, so you end up with a cumbersome mess in the kitchen drawer. --Marcela Broussard ... Read more

Features

• Stainless steel probe
• AAA Battery included
• 24 hour timer
• Hand wash probe in hot soapy water
• Lifetime warranty

Reviews (45)

Good kitchen tool, but learn from my mistakes
Easy to use (read other reviews for feature details). A previous probe thermo of another brand flaked out on me at Thanksgiving, so I bought this one and noticed on the package: "Do not use in ovens over 400 degrees." Ah. Methinks I know what happened at Thanksgiving -- I use Alton Brown's technique of starting the roast off at a high temp to crust the meat and then lowering the temperature (see Alton Brown's I'm Just Here for the Food). Since high heats are not something I need to sustain for the entire cooking time, this thermometer will work fine after the crusting phase is over. Live and learn!

Love it Love it Love it!!
I have not botched a roast or turkey since I started using this thing! Even my husband, who poo-poos kitchen gadgets as a waste of money, thinks this thermometer is fabulous and worth every penny. I haven't had any problems with it, and have used in ovens with a temperature up to 400 degrees. I love the fact that you can get an accurate temperature read out without opening the oven. The probe is plenty long, and not so wide that you have to fret about whether you're going to lose precious juice through the point it's inserted. This is truly one kitchen gadget worth owning!!

Probe Failure
When it works, this unit is great. This is the second unit I have gone through. I now have 2 timer units and no working probes. I just tried to contact the company that handles Pyrex sales. It doesn't hurt to try. http://www.robinsonknife.com/contact/index.html ... Read more

Asin: B00004RC4R
Subjects:  1. Oven & Refrigerator Thermometers    2. Timers   

Blessed with OXO's famous Good Grips, the nylon tools in this setfurnish a kitchen with six sturdy, durable essentials. Those oversized, soft,Santoprene (processed rubber) grips win awards for easing fatigue and providingslip-resistant safety when wet. They feature "fins" that flex under pressure,conforming to finger grips. The tools have long handles and oversized heads, areheat-resistant to 400 degrees F, and are safe for use with nonstick cookware.The set comprises a 14-inch slotted turner with a 4-inch square head, a 12-inchslotted lasagna turner with a 4-1/2-by-3-1/2-inch head, a 14-inch solid servingspoon, a 14-inch slotted serving spoon, and a 14-inch spaghetti server. Eachtool has a large hanging hole. The entire set is dishwasher-safe and carries alifetime warranty against defects. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• Set comprises six rugged, nylon kitchen tools
• Square turner, lasagne turner, spoon, slotted spoon, spaghetti server
• Soft, comfortable, Santoprene grips, long handles, oversized heads
• Safe for nonstick cookware; heat-resistant to 400 degrees F
• Dishwasher-safe

Asin: B00005RKOC

Rival 6-Quart Cool Touch Crock Pot with Removable Pot
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $53.99 -- our price: $49.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Features

• Slow-cooks a wide variety of meats, vegetables, soups, and stews
• Stoneware pot cooks evenly, cleans easily
• Sturdy glass lid prevents natural juices from evaporating
• Good-sized: 6-quart capacity
• 9-1/5 inches high, base measures 16-9/10 by 12-1/4 inches; one-year limited warranty

Reviews (10)

Why an OVAL pot?
Chicken, roasts and other longer-than-wide foods fit nicely into this pot. It holds one quart more than the 5 quart cylindrical Rival pot. For large crowds, this may be an added advantage,yet it is still a good size for the average family. So it is more flexible than the cylindrical 5 quart pot in how much it holds and what kinds of foods you can cook in it.

The removable liner is a MUST! Normally to clean a crockpot, you must be careful not to wet the electrical socket or you run the risk of shorting it out the next time it is used. Here, you can remove the liner and clean it separately. A great advantage.

This pot also has an optional insulated carrier. I recommend this option highly. You'll appreciate it the first time you want to take your crockpot to a covered dish dinner or barbecue.

This has everything you'd need in a crock pot. That's why I give it 5 stars.

Dissapointed
We used this crock pot fot the first time yesterday. We cooked a 3 pound chuck shoulder pot roast with carrots, onions and potatoes FOLLOWING EXACTLY THE RECIPE THAT CAME WITH THE INSTRUCTION BOOKLET. It said to slice the potatoes THIN which is a must because after 9 hours cooking on low, they were STILL not done! We sliced the spuds 1/8 inch thick! The carrots, onion and beef were ok. The beef was slightly overdone. I found the pot to cook unevenly. Since you only add 1 cup of liquid, it is not enough to cover everything, so some things cook faster than others. Next time we will try cooking on high and see if it improves.

Wonderful!!
I bought this crock pot as a replacement for a 4 qt crock that was centuries old. Clean up is a BREEZE! Being able to remove the pot to soak is wonderful. The exterior stays cool to the touch. What more could one ask for? ... Read more

Asin: B00004S9HT
Sales Rank: 758
Subjects:  1. Small Appliances    2. Electrics    3. Slow Cookers    4. (Crock Pots)    5. (Crockpots)   

Calphalon Commercial Bakeware Collector's Edition Large Cookie Sheets, Set of 2
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $49.95 -- our price: $29.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Coated with two layers of durable nonstick specially formulatedfor easily releasing high-sugar foods, the two 14-by-17-inch,commercial-grade sheets in this set are ideal for baking cookies,turnovers, scones, and breadsticks. They're also useful for placingunder pies to catch drips. Made of durable, heavy-gauge aluminum anddesigned with a lip on each end for easy gripping, the sheets resistwarping and conduct heat quickly and uniformly. You can safely usenylon and wood utensils with these cookie sheets and they should behand washed to preserve the nonstick coating. The sheets carry alifetime warranty against defects. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• Two 14-by-17-inch sheets for cookies, turnovers, scones, breadsticks
• Durable, heavy-gauge aluminum for exceptional heat conductivity
• Two-ply nonstick coating for easy release of food and easy cleanup
• Nonstick formulated for releasing high-sugar foods
• Lifetime warranty against defects

Reviews (21)

Perfect Cookies All the Time
I have never owned cookie sheets like these. It is impossible to have something stick to it--even burned chocolate chips wipe off with a paper towel. I even bought a set for my mother who couldn't believe how easy they were to cleanup.

Very high quality, but I couldn't adjust to the dark finish
My wife and I received a set of these cookie sheets as a wedding present. My first impression of them was that they were very nicely manufactured. They present as a sheet of heavy guage aluminum coated with a very slippery non-stick finish, each end being bent up a bit to make it easier to grab.

My disappointment with these cookie sheets came not with their construction, but with their use. The combination of a solid sheet and a dark-dark finish wreaked havoc with cookie recipes that I have been making for over a decade on my shiny aluminum cookie sheets.

I played around with the recipes several times, trying shorter cooking times and even a lower temperature oven, but I just could not make cookies the way I can on my old reliables.

Sure, you can clean up a burnt chocolate-chip cookie off of these sheets easily, and you will have to, because using these sheets you are MORE likely to burn the cookies in the first place!

(If you already are comfortable with dark cookie sheets, I would give these a 5. They are very well made.)

I love these cookie sheets!
These are the best cookie sheets I've ever bought. The ones I used to have were thin and less expensive and are now rusting. The Caphalon is easy to wash, you don't need to put any oil or grease on them. Cookies and fries slide off. They seem indestructible. ... Read more

Asin: B00005M1U8
Subjects:  1. Bakeware Sets    2. (Bake Ware)    3. Baking    4. Cookie Sheets    5. Bakeware    6. (Calphlon)    7. (Calaphon)   

KitchenAid K45SS Classic 250-Watt 4-1/2-Quart Stand Mixer, White
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $239.99 -- our price: $159.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

KitchenAid's stand mixer is a substantial piece of equipment: 250 watts of mixing power make child's play of creaming butter, kneading dough, and whipping cream. The kid in you will appreciate how quick and easy it is to mix up a batch of cookie dough; the 4-1/2-quart bowl can hold up to 8 cups of flour, which translates into as many as 192 sweet treats.

This model comes with three attachments: a flat beater for making batter, meat loaf, and all textures in-between; a wire whip for egg whites, mayonnaise, and more air-infused creations; and a hook for mixing and kneading yeast doughs. All three are solid in construction and easily secured to the beater shaft with a simple twist; untwisting them is a bit trickier because the attachment stems are short and can be hard to grasp, especially if they get the least bit greasy. The bowl itself locks tight to the base.

Standing 14 inches high, jutting out a foot, and weighing more than a grown woman's bowling ball, this stand mixer isn't the sort of appliance you'll wipe down and put away. Better to find a square foot of free counter space for easy access; besides, this machine is as pretty as it is rugged--you'll want to show it off.

To complete the package, KitchenAid includes a spiral-bound guide with instructions, mixing tips, and 67 recipes, from crispy waffles to a caramel walnut banana torte. --Betsy Danheim ... Read more

Features

• 250-watt, 10-speed mixer with tilt-up head
• 4-1/2-quart bowl holds dough for 2 loaves of bread
• Three handy accessories: flat beater, wire whip, and dough hook
• Includes a guide with instructions, mixing tips, and 67 recipes
• Measures 13-8/9 by 8-2/3 by 14 inches; 1-year warranty

Reviews (67)

This mixer will change the way you cook
Unlike many of the reviewers, I've only had this mixer for about a year, and it's this specific model, the 250W 4.5 quart mixer (the bottom of the Kitchenaid line). It was a real splurge at the time we purchased it, but it has turned out to be well worth it.

Before the Kitchenaid, I didn't do much baking. I tend towards more "manly" cooking techniques: the hotter the fire, the spicier the recipe, the better as far as I'm concerned. But this machine is as satisfying to use as any power tool in the garage -- there is something about using the *right* tool for the job, and I've found no tasks that one might consider using a mixer for that the Kitchenaid doesn't excel at. But it's especially good for baking, and once you start using it, you'll have your oven running a lot more than you used to.

The big difference between this mixer and the standard "two beater" models you may be familiar with is that it uses a single mixing attachment that rotates in two motions- it not only spins on its own axis, it also is rotated around the edge of the bowl. This does an extremely effective job of mixing ingredients without need for the bowl rotating, since the mixing motion covers the entire bowl. For most mixing jobs, it also requires no scraping of the sides with the spatula. IE: when it's mixing, you can ignore it and work on other stuff.

The first attachment I'll mention is the dough hook, which is a godsend for kneading. In the last day, I've made pizza dough, bagels, and whole wheat bread. Although this is the least powerful machine Kitchenaid makes, it kneads stiff dough (like the aforementioned bagels made with high-gluten flour) that would turn your mother's mixmaster into a smoking, stinking heap of fried motor components. Machine kneading takes a *lot* of the effort and variability out of making bread... you never "knead in" too much flour to keep it from sticking to your hands, and the 20 minutes you normally spend working the dough turns into 10 minutes you can use to clean up the kitchen.

The other two attachments are the paddle and the whisk. The paddle is the all-purpose "workhorse" beater, and works extremely well for creaming sugar and butter together, mixing cookie dough or cake batter, or any other general-purpose mixing job. With the orbital motion, it comes right up to the edge of the bowl, so it is effectively scraping as it goes. The whisk is great for egg whites and making whipped cream. I'm sure it's good for something else, but that's what I've used it for.

As for capacity, the 4.5 quart model is suitable for pretty much any "normal" home recipes. It's a "standard mixer". It will easily knead enough dough at once for two loaves of bread, or mix a double-batch of cookies.

As for downsides: this thing is HEAVY. You won't be moving it once it's in place. If you knead very stiff dough, the bowl sometimes will get tightened to the extent that it is very difficult to remove from the base. It's OK if you remember to leave it a little loose beforehand, but I always forget and I end up wrestling with the machine to twist it out. The metal trim band on the mixer right above the bowl has come a little loose on my model- the machine got a bit hot after some heavy kneading, and I think some adhesive got soft. It's held in place well by something else, but sometimes it will slip when I'm wiping the machine off. It's purely cosmetic from what I can tell, and it's the only thing that feels cheap in any way about this machine. Other than that, I honestly haven't had a single complaint.

In summary: this is an expensive mixer, but it is very well worth it. Even novice cooks will find it's use enjoyable, and it will inspire you to explore new things that you probably didn't do before because of the time and effort involved.

I'm in love and his name is KitchenAid!
I received a white one for an early christmas gift and just used it for the first time on he christmas cookies that are a tradition in my family. In the past years, I've used my mother's old stand-mixer, and I've also used a hand mixer, which is near impossible to do with this recipe. This year, I used my new mixer and I am blown away! These cookies, that usually take forever, were done in no time! And even though I didn't think the 4 1/2 quart bowl would be big enough for the whole recipe, I had no problem and room to spare! It's surprisingly deep. It also stayed relatively cool through the three batches of cookies I made (I'm used to beginning to smell smoke from my mothers!)

I only used the flat beater yesterday, but have some bread recpies that I'm dying to use the dough hook on.

Just a few concerns...The dough sticks to the side of the bowl, so I did have to stop from time to time and scrape it off, but that was nothing that I wasn't used to. And you cannot attach a larger bowl to this mixer...the only other bowl you can attach is one of the same size with a handle.

And definately invest in a splash guard. You only get lemon extract in your eyes once to make that decision.

I Never Realized Until I Got One.
For years I had been cooking by using a great big bowl and a sturdy silver spoon to mix everything. I never realized the wonder of these KitchenAid mixers until I got one for myself. No longer do I have to struggle through thick doughs whether it be for bread, cookies, and pie crusts. My arms can have a rest while cooking and the KitchenAid does the work for me. It also helps conserve time, because while it is mixing, you can move to another spot of the kitchen and work on something else such as; getting the pie filling ready while the dough is mixing.
Anyone who finds themself using a spoon and a big bowl often to stir should round up some money to get one of these.

They come in different sizes, and many different colors such as black, white, and red. That way if you get one, you can get it to match your kitchen. It's easy to use as putting the ingredients in, plugging it in, and pressing a button.

You see these used on cooking shows time and time and again. Why not have a KitchenAid for yourself? If you cook a lot, or even just a little, you owe it to yourself.

It is costly, but really helps in the kitchen. The name practically says it all: it's a Kitchen Aid. ... Read more

Asin: B00004SGFW
Subjects:  1. Small Appliances    2. Electrics    3. Stand Mixers    4. (Standmixers)    5. (Kitchen Aid)    6. Gifts    7. Wedding Gifts    8. Cooking    9. Kitchen    10. Mixers    11. Anniversary   

Brita Magnum Deluxe 3-Quart Water Filtration Pitcher
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $29.99 -- our price: $24.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Eliminate 99% of the lead and reduce chlorine, mercury, and sediment in drinking water with Brita's Magnum II Filtration Pitcher. Larger than the standard Brita pitcher, it holds up to 3 quarts of clean, filtered water. Just pop the filter cylinder in the white plastic water reservoir, fill with cold tap water, and in just minutes the pitcher's brimming with healthy, great tasting water. Each filter--one comes with the pitcher and you can order others--lasts for 40 gallons of water. As an added feature, a filter replacement indicator relays when it's time for a new one. The sleek, clear plastic pitcher sports an easy-grip handle, while the white plastic lid features two openings: one for filling the pitcher and one for pouring. --Marianne Painter ... Read more

Features

• Large 3-quart capacity
• Virtually eliminates lead
• Reduces copper
• Softens water and reduces scale build-up in appliances
• Flip top lid for easy refilling

Reviews (16)

Best water I've ever had
Brita water is so good I won't drink tap water anymore anywhere! I've bought one for myself (I also have the small water bottle by brita) one for my mom in Toronto (for when i visit) and one for my mom in law in New York for when I visit there! It is really great and the fact that I can see the difference in the water and in the color of my teas and coffee is the real clincher. I would reccomend this or any Brita pitcher to everyone.

I personally have this model and it is so easy to fill with the flip top. Also the rubber grip makes holding the pitcher comfortable and effortless. It gets a little heavy when it is full but maybe I'm just weak. Since we've bought it I drink so much more water (which is a good thing) and I love the taste.

Surprisingly disappointing design
After 8 years with my Brita Classic pitcher, I decided to get a newer, larger model with the built-in "smart timer" feature. After using it for about 3 weeks now, I am very disappointed in the overall design, especially considering how perfect the original Brita was. The smart timer feature is handy -- it's a small digital indicator on the top of the cap that tells you when it's time for a refill; this should work better (& cleaner) than the previous "analog" mechanism used with some Brita filters. But, that's about it as far as the good goes.

If you fill up the basin nearly all the way, water sometimes leaks out the back of the unit from the top of the handle (and gets onto your refrigerator shelf). Much more annoying, though, is the little flap that rests over the spout. Presumably, this is there to keep refrigerator odors from entering the unit and affecting the taste of the water. However, most of the time when you pour, the flap doesn't properly open up (it sort of sticks shut); this causes the water to pour sloppily or even to suddenly gush out if the flap happens to come un-stuck in mid-pour (more spills). Finally, if you tilt the unit enough to pour out the last drop of water, occasionally the Brita filter itself dislodges from its slot and thumps into the cover of the unit so that you need to re-seat it.

Given the great success I had with the previous unit, I was very disappointed with the overall design of this more recent version.

Great Product
There is no doubt that Brita makes an excellent product. Water filtration system itself is excellent. However, the pitcher is cumbersome and does not pour without dripping. All in all the quality of Brita filtration outweighs the messy pours. ... Read more

Asin: B00004SU16
Subjects:  1. Water Filtration    2. Water Purifiers    3. Kitchen    4. Pantryware    5. (Pantry)   

Honeywell HWM-2030 Warm Mist Humidifier
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $44.99 -- our price: $31.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

By evaporating warm water into a room, this portable humidifier soothes dry throats, prevents dry skin, alleviates congestion due to colds or allergies, and keeps plants and furniture moist. Select a humidity level by turning the infinitely variable control dial and choosing either fast or slow humidifying, and the device will automatically maintain a room up to 700 square feet at the desired humidity level. At low speed, the humidifier is whisper-quiet. This model evaporates about 3 gallons of water in 24 hours at high speed. The 1.8-gallon plastic water tank is transparent to permit water level monitoring and removes easily for filling with cool tap water. The humidifier measures 14-1/2 by 12-1/2 by 9 inches, can be moved easily from room to room, and is simple to clean and maintain. It carries a five-year warranty against defects. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• Soothes dry throats, prevents dry skin, alleviates congestion, aids house plants
• Evaporates 3 gallons warm water in 24 hours at high-speed setting
• Infinitely variable humidity control; two speed settings
• Automatically maintains selected humidity level
• 14-1/2 by 12-1/2 by 9 inches; 5-year warranty against defects

Reviews (48)

Enjoying my honeywell immensely
From the rating I've given this humidifer you can tell I like it an awful lot... Here are my reasons why:
1. No filter - Who wants to go out and buy humidifier filters if you don't have to?
2. Ease of cleaning - I live in an area with hard water and so crud definitely does build up on my heating element which does ... but all you really need is a little bit of patience and a little bit of a calcium/lime/rust cleaner and the crud should dissolve away (just be sure to rinse thoroughly afterwards... who wants to breathe in those chemicals anywa?)... also there's a plastic pan that also becomes discolored but that's easy to clean too - just a little vinegar and you're good to go.
3. Runs quietly... Like everyone else has said just a glug here and a glug there every now and then... if it weren't for the occasional glugs i wouldn't even know it's on...
4. Does a great job of keeping my room humidified... I keep it on high all night long and I can sleep comfortably at night and not have to worry about sinus infections or about waking up with a headache...
Ok, and admittedly there is one thing I don't like about this humidifier - the start/power button - when I first got this humidifier I couldn't tell if it had clicked on or not and couldn't figure out why it wouldn't turn on... Now I can tell when I've clicked it on, but it's the sort of thing that you get a feel for the more you use it... And once it's on, you're awfully glad it's on...
I think the things that I like about this humidifier outweigh the one thing that I don't like about it... Of all of the humidifiers that I've ever owned this one is the best one so far...

Excellent so far
I bought this product because of the brand name, the reasonable price, and the overall positive customer reviews. So far I've been very pleased. Except for the glug of the water going into the tray, the humidifier is extremely quiet. At least once I've forgotten it was even on. Unlike most people on here, my sinus problems arise in the spring and summer. I've found it to work satisfactorily when the air conditioner, fan, or window is open. Obviously it isn't as effective as when the windows are closed and the fan/AC isn't on.

I pretty much only use the humidifier at night and on the settings I generally use it goes through about 75-80% of a full container of water. It takes but a few minutes to refill and I do it before I go to bed at night. The cleaning also doesn't take very long even in a household with hard water. The pamphlet suggests a 20 minute soak in a vinegar/water solution. While it was soaking I spray CLR onto the "heating element" and used a toothbrush to scrub. I've also soaked it in a solution of CLR and water or used some of the vinegar/water solution. You may need a little bit of elbow grease, but by the time I was done the 20 minutes was about up. Minimal wiping was needed for the tray. I too am busy, but I was easily able to find 20 minutes to clean the humidifier.

The pamphlet also suggests sitting the machine on a tray or something similar, however I have mine sitting right on the carpet next to my bed. I've experienced no leaking or spills whatsoever.

I do agree that something beyond little dewdrops for the humidity control would be helpful, but I've set mine in the middle and have found that be just fine in either the high or low setting. I suppose it could be problematic if someone is running the machine 24/7 or needs a room to be at a specific humidity level, however that is not an issue in my case. Also, because I only run the machine at night and it's not cranked all the way up, I have not had any experience with the automatic shutoff.

I do agree that the machine itself does not seem to be made of particularly durable plastic and the vent doesn't seem to fit quite right. I expected the parts to lock into place better, but I have not experienced any problems as a result. If you plan to set the machine on the floor I would however be sure it won't be in an area where it risks getting bumped.

My only concern is the electricity usage. It doesn't mention it anywhere on the packaging or in the pamphlet. Two reviews mention it running in excess of 300 watts. Obviously I prefer to keep my electric bill as low as possible and with the added costs of running the AC or fan during the summer, I am concerned about the additional cost of running the humidifier.

disburse out lot of water in short period.
3 gallon water dissapears in about 12 hours when it's on full blast and it's amazing where it's all gone. I would've imagined it would make floor and furniture spaces humid and wet. but no. it's almost hardly noticeable but definitely helps my sinus to breath better. I only use brita filtered water. so I don't have to clean up mineral deposit build up on the heating element. Yeah.. material used is definitely the cheapest plastic available on the planet. It probably won't last. but then it's 32 bucks to begin with so I'm not complaining. just another gadget from disaposable age.

I'm thinking about getting another one to really feel the humid. ... Read more

Asin: B000050APZ
Subjects:  1. Humidifiers    2. Travel Accessories   

Dirt Devil 08230 Ultra Power Handheld Vacuum
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $49.99 -- our price: $29.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Whether it's pet hair, car interiors, or stairs, when the job is too tough for a broom but too small to haul out the huge vacuum cleaner, grab the Dirt Devil Ultra Power hand vac. With the power of an upright in a lightweight, compact design, the hand vac's 4 amp motor provides powerful suction, and its revolving brush aids deep carpet cleaning. For those tough-to-reach spots, such as under car seats or between couch cushions, the hand vac has a built-in stretch hose and a crevice tool (ready to use with Dirt Devil accessories). The two speeds allow you to vary your suction, but be aware that the lower speed is very gentle and the higher speed is loud. The 20-foot cord ensures a large cleaning radius, and a cord strap provides tidy storage. This hand vac is not recommended for vacuuming long strands of human hair--they tend to get caught in the revolving brush. Be sure you fill out and mail in the warranty card included in the package so you can take advantage of Dirt Devil's two-year limited warranty. --Ariel Meadow Stallings ... Read more

Features

• 4-amp motor with deep cleaning revolving brush; two-speed switch
• Lightweight, compact design
• Built-in stretch hose and crevice tool
• For cleaning stairs, upholstery, cars, and RVs
• Long 20-foot power cord; cord storage strap

Reviews (21)

Loud, Heavy & Bulky -- not a good car vac
This vacuum proved too loud, heavy and bulky. I almost never used the Devil as a normal handheld vac, instead opting to attach and use the included hose when cleaning carpet debris in my car. However, the hose is not long enough to comfortably vacuum your car without either holding the vacuum in one hand and vacuuming with the other, or placing the vacuum down inside your car as you vacuum (excruciatingly loud, and it seemed to effectively swirl/spew dust around my already dirty car interior -- disqualification, on both counts.) Running the unit for 20 minutes or so caused it to get very hot around the motor, and occasionally you could smell rubber. Also, the intake seemed to get clogged fairly easily when there was a lot of debris like cat hair, carpet fibers or string.

All in all, not a desirable unit to own... (I don't own mine, any longer, for these reasons!)

Forget it for stairs!
I bought this item for vacuuming the stairs and it doesn't pick up any visible dirt. It's noisy too.

Greatest portable vaccum
This vaccum is excellent. This is the only vaccum that has rotar brush which is not rotating by air, instead via the motor of vaccum. it uses belt for rotating the brush. i have self propel wind tunnel and the brush attachment stop if you press hard on the carpet, but his vaccum brush rotates no matter how hard you press on carpet floor. It uses bags which i love, since cleaning bagless is painful. especially watching all the dirt coming out---- what a mess. it has powerfull engine. Also very affordable. ... Read more

Asin: B000050HCV
Subjects:  1. Vacuum Cleaners    2. Handheld Vacuums    3. Floor Care    4. Hand Vacs    5. (Vaccums)    6. (Vacumes)    7. (Vacums)    8. Vacuums   

Mag Instrument S3D016Black Heavy Duty 3 D-Cell Flashlight
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $24.99 -- our price: $19.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Unless you've been hiding in the dark for the last few decades, you're sure to recognize this classic from Mag Instrument. The solid dependability of Mag flashlights is hard to top, which explains why the brand is so popular with police officers, security guards, and other people who can't afford to be left in the dark. This three-D-cell model is great for home use and an essential part of any home emergency kit. It shines as bright as most homeowners could ask for, and a simple twist of the head changes the beam from a spot to a luminous floodlight. Having a Mag flashlight on hand can keep an inconvenience, like a November blackout, from becoming a small disaster. It is also a great light for illuminating the woods and keeping the bears at bay on summer camping trips. The weighty feel of a Mag-Lite also offers a sense of security in the dark that other flashlights just don't have, enough to give you the confidence to confront any basement bogeyman or mountain monster. --Brian Trinen ... Read more

Features

• High intensity adjustable light beam
• Sealed O-rings for water and shock resistance
• Precision-machined, high strength aluminum alloy case
• Spare lamp in the tail cap
• Limited lifetime warranty

Reviews (21)

Another Mag Lite I used to Love
The Mag Instrument S3D016 Black Heavy Duty 3 D-Cell Flashlight was another of my past favorites that got a lot of use. Now a days, there is a lot going on with the technology of flashlights. LED, Lithium batteries, focus bezels, etc. The Maglight brand has fallen behind a bit technologically, but is still a great flashlight for minor emergencies NOT involving looking for criminals, terrorists or signalling for a chopper pick up. The Mag Instrument S3D016 Black Heavy Duty 3 D-Cell Flashlight is perfect for a tool box but a bit too big for a deep pocket. The product is very durable and they are proven reliable. Don't get me wrong. I've depended on Mag lites of all sizes for years. But head to head , the Surefire brands have quickly surpassed Mag lite in every important aspect of flashlights - usable light power, size, durability and weight. The Mag light brand just isn't keeping up with the new technology. And that's too bad for us who value product loyalty.
The Mag Instrument S3D016 Black Heavy Duty 3 D-Cell Flashlight is STILL a good value and I have several in the house and the vehicles. But they're being replaced by Surefires as they wear out.
John Row

" CLUNK ! "
I've bought some Mini-Mag's before, but even though Streamlight and Pelican were coming out with these new terrific lights, I realized that dealers were hard to find, and although Maglite is the older kid on the block, they are easy to find, and it's still a great light. I bought my second 3-D size at my local "Wally Mart" and went to work the next night (I do mobile security). I've owned a 3-D size before and always found it better than anything I've ever used, aside from a super Coleman 9-V lantern. Sometimes I end up in alleys, corridors, and even my favourite, fields that are growing new but under construction houses. Still, nothing makes me feel safer (super boof on the head if under aggresion by a hoodlum) and well prepared with it's great power, both in spot and flood modes.

Here comes the bad news. I almost forgot that my other light died from the same reason this one did. I have dropped both of them a few times (clumsy me), yet was reminded that these are shock resistant. Well, on a fateful day in an office building, with new batteries too, I accidently dropped my Mag and as it hit the 'carpeted' floor, it went off. I tried to turn it back on, but after a few tries and even changing the bulb just in case it was burnt out, I realized that my Mag had expired. Terrific. The other downfall is that if you drop it and it switches off while you're in the dark, good luck finding it if you're in the woods. That happened to me once, but I ALWAYS carry a backup Mini-Mag, so I found it later (it's black, and trying to find it in the woods with dark branches around isn't easy, so it's hard to find).

Take this as good advice: buy it if you are in the woods or on softer ground-two of mine died falling onto carpets. The other thing is to at least get the "silver" or "light blue" coloured versions. At least they're easier to find in moonlight. I just got the black since the black looks best. Ah, still. Hats off to Mag.

Maglites are the best!!!!
Come On!!! Many people have said that this brand is just ot heavy, and that you shouldn't by it because other brands are lighter. Well, unless ur a cop, these lights are great! Perfect for camping and blackouts, especailly the mini maglite. I would recommend the 3 Cell, its not to heavy, unlike the 4, 5 and even 6 cell ones. Also, remember to register yours at Maglite.com ... Read more

Asin: B00002N6SH
Subjects:  1. Flashlights    2. (Flash Lights)