Kitchen Deals -> Kitchen tools

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.

When shopping for a new washer, look for a front loading (horizontal-axis) machine. This machine may cost more to buy but uses about a third of the energy and less water than a top-loading machine. With a front loader, you'll also save more on clothes drying, because they remove more water from your clothes during the spin cycle. Look for the Energy Star label.

Is the top or bottom element going to perform the self-cleaning cycle? Some ovens only use the top element and others only use the bottom one. Better designed ovens use the bottom element. The reason for this is that most grease spills and splatters (soil) will accumulate on the sides and the floor of the cavity - not on the ceiling (where the broiler is located) and therefore, the element that is the closest to these soiled areas should be the one to work the strongest in order to bake off the soil.