Kitchen Deals -> Kitchen tools

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.

Dual-flow mixers provide independent hot, cold or mixed water after leaving the end of the spout. They can be deck-mounted on the sink or pillar/bridge-mounted for a more traditional look. Alternatively, choose a monobloc tap, which is a single-hole fitting that usually has two handles for hot and cold water supply.

Choose a good quality sink to avoid problems later. Buy cheap and you will discover that stainless steel can stain and even rust! Mild acids such as vinegar will promote rust in stainless steel where the nickel content is low. Stronger acids such as those used by photo processors will have a detrimental effect on all stainless steels.