Kitchen Deals -> Cookware

Pretty much the same thoughts as the food processor. High quality mixers are great for making bread or other tough jobs. Every kitchen should have one. Be sure that any mixer has all three attachments: paddle, dough hook, and whip. Also, find a spot on the counter where it can be easily accessed at a moment's notice.

Choose a dishwasher with sturdy compression springs in the door. Also look for tough, lightweight nylon or graphite racks with cushioned tips that protect glassware and cookware. Weimer recommends choosing a model with a rack design that provides the largest, most flexible interior space and is configured for your belongings, including odd-shaped pieces.

A concealed heating element reduces the risk of lightweight plastic items such as children's drinking cups melting onto it after becoming dislodged mid-cycle. Limescale build-up is also prevented. Some manufacturers now produce models with the concealed heating element coiled around the water inlet pipe for further energy efficiency.