Kitchen Deals -> Cook's Tools

If you enjoy eastern cuisine, you can buy a speciality hob with a wok burner. Similarly if you are a BBQ fan, choose a BBQ grill. If you are left handed, go for front rather than right hand side controls as this eliminates the risk of reaching across the heat. If you cook for a large family, more than four rings may be useful, and if you have young children it may be worth considering paying a little extra for a hob guard or in the case of gas, choosing an automatic re-ignition or cut off device should the flame blow out.

Look for models with adjustable baskets and flexible internal layouts for varying load requirements. For example, a tilting upper basket allows large 30cm diameter plates in the lower basket and extra flaps can be raised or lowered to cater for small items or large pans.

Hobs are becoming a style point in modern kitchens, and accordingly available in all colours, stainless steel and interesting designs. Wide hobs, multi-fuels (electric and gas) and five or six ring burners offer flexibility but consider your usage before choosing - If your kitchen accommodates more than one cook at once, position the hob away from the oven, that way you don't get in each other's way.