Kitchen Deals -> Cookware

The EnergyGuide label on new refrigerators will tell you how much electricity in kilowatt-hours (kWh) a particular model uses in one year. The smaller the number, the less energy the refrigerator uses and the less it will cost you to operate. In addition to the EnergyGuide label, don't forget to look for the Energy Star label. A new refrigerator with an Energy Star label will save you between $35 and $70 a year compared to the models designed 15 years ago. This adds up to between $525 and $1,050 during the average 15-year life of the unit.

The importance of high quality knives can't be stressed enough! Buy the best you can and expect to spend some serious money. It is better to buy a couple of excellent knives and slowly add to your collection rather than buying an entire set of low quality knives. Start with a chef knife and paring knife. You will also want to buy a sharpening steel.

Store measuring cups, mixing bowls and other items used together in the same place. Duplicate frequently used items like cutting boards, knives and dish towels in each work area. Keep two containers - one at the baking center, the other at the range - for wooden spoons, spatulas and other cooking basics. And try to store every item at its first point of use. Keep the saute pan near the range, and stow pasta pots near the sink.