Top 7 Electrical Safety Tips If You Have Children in Your Home

By Tanya Michelle Carrington

There are over 290 accidents a year involving electricity here in the UK; most of them are in the home.

If you have children in your house then you are at greater risk of having an accident with electricity due to the inquisitive nature of children. They are going to try to stick things in the sockets and are going to try to stick things in the DVD player. What we have to do as parent is to minimize any electrical risks in our homes.

1. Firstly the Institute Of Electrical Engineers recommends having your domestic electrics checked every 10 years, when you first move into your home, if you are in rented accommodation then this frequency is every 5 years.

2. Make sure that all of you sockets are protected with an RCD unit, this unit is there to provide you with supplementary protection against electric shock, basically it's a safety device that has saved many lives in the UK.

3. Cover all unused sockets with socket covers to stop baby poking things into them, better still put a piece of furniture in the way if possible to stop them getting to the socket in the first place.

4. If you need to use extension leads then make sure that they are safe i.e. no damage to the cable insulation and also do not run them under carpets and keep well out of the way of children, children have been known to chew the cable.

5. Never run extension leads off extension leads, if you are short of sockets then get a qualified electrician in to add more for you as opposed to putting your home at risk from fire

6. Do not allow children to play with electrical appliances under any circumstances.

7. Do not allow electrical cables to dangle down so that children can pull on them and thus pull the equipment on top of themselves, mainly table lamps and Televisions

It is important to follow these simple safety tips to keep your home safe, particularly this time of year when we are thinking of getting our Christmas Lights down from the loft. Every year there are fires that have been started by badly maintained Christmas lights. Our suggestion with Christmas lighting is to buy low voltage lights and that way you reduce the risk from electric shock as most low voltage lights are 24 volts DC. Just be sure to take the transformer out of the socket every night, do not rely on just turning them off from the switch. When you buy Christmas lights be sure to buy the ones that have the CE safety mark on them to ensure the quality.

If you are looking to make your home safer then you will find a large number of Baby Safety Products on the market. There are an increasing number of electrical accidents and purchasing Baby Safety Products can help make your home safer.

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Best Coffee Machines For Home

By Yakov Rossman

These days, almost every household in least possesses one coffee machine in their home. Following the high demand, several manufacturers claim that their own product is one of the best coffee machines on the market. If one is thinking about purchasing one for your home, it is better for him to evaluate every product objectively and not becoming influenced by the industrial hype. Moreover, there are some guidelines to help choosing the best product for your home. At the beginning, you have to know your individual needs from your product because it will change for each person. Your way of life and habit may affect your decision. For fast paced individuals, a device that can brew espresso in a short amount of time will be right. Therefore, capsule type machine is highly suitable for these people. However, if you wish to benefit from the experience of brewing coffee inside a singular or traditional practice, you can select a manual device or vacuum device. Each different device will likely provide the taste in a different way derived from one of another. Thereby, it should also be one of your criteria.

Next, you need to take into account the size of your machine. If you are residing single or just being the only person that drinks espresso in your home, then a single supply device is going to be enough. Whenever there are other's coffee enthusiasts in your home, you are able to choose a machine along with capacity from 4 to twelve cups. Additionally, there is the commercial coffee maker who may act as a large volume coffee simultaneously, that is most ideal for large workplace. On the market, you can find several other features that can be seriously trying. However, you should keep in mind that machines with increased progress function are available at a higher price. One of the most well-liked functions is energy function, which supports keeping your drink comfortable all night. There's also cooking timer function that will assist your drink at the exact time every day once you've set them up.

Color and design are also essential considerations, especially when you would like the device to blend using the entire interior look. You can find many options from different brands like Senseo, Krups, Cuisinart and many more. Still, a deep research about the items will guarantee that your option is the best coffee machines for your home.

It will be wise to complete some research first via the web to get the best coffee makers with satisfactory performance, quality, value, as well as delivery support for you. Although it is just a little task, but you could get a large benefit from this. You'll find more details about coffee makers and its accessories in http://www.bestcoffeemachinesforhome.com, website which is focusing on the coffee maker reviews, as well as related information about this.

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11 Ways to Keep Your Oven Stain-Free

By Mirna Khoury

But even if you have only a regular range and oven, there are ways by which you can keep grease and stain from accumulating on them. Here are 11 ways to keep your oven stain-free:

• Before using an electric element, line the tray beneath with aluminum foil. The foil should be able to effectively catch whatever boils over, and all you have to do is change the foil.

• When using the oven, you can prevent food from splattering by covering the dish with foil. For broiling purposes, you can also line the bottom of the broiler pan with foil.

• Clean as you go along. Spatters turn into stains if you leave them there for a long time. So, to keep the range free from stain and marks, wipe up spatters as soon as they occur. Use a damp cloth or sponge.

• After every major cooking session, give your cooktop a thorough cleaning. Dislodge all removable parts of the cooktop, such as burners and metal liner trays, and wash them in hot sudsy water. Then use a nonabrasive cleaner to give the entire surface of the range a good wipe-down. Remove stubborn stains with a nylon scouring pad. Don't scrape with a sharp object, or you damage the surface of the range.

• Use hot water and liquid detergent to clean enamel surfaces. If there are stubborn stains, rub gently with a very fine steel wool. You may scratch the enamel if you rub more strongly.

• If there are burned-on marks on nondetachable electric elements, clean them with a stiff wire brush.

• Remedy burned-on grease in an electric oven with ammonia. Pour full-strength ammonia in a bowl and leave it inside the oven overnight. The fumes of the ammonia will penetrate the grease and soften it, so that the next day, you need only to spray on more ammonia and wipe the burned-on grease away.

• Another way to clean burned-on grease in the oven is to sprinkle baking soda on the walls and floor of a warm oven. Let it stay that way for an hour, then wipe clean.

• To remove baked-on grease in gas ovens, scrub with an abrasive cleaner.

• Give your oven a complete cleaning every once in a while. Use new commercial oven cleaners which are non-toxic and are easily sprayed on. You can also use traditional oven cleaners but, since they are caustic, make sure you wear rubber gloves when you use them. You also need to protect the floor by lining it with newspaper, and then cover the light bulbs, heating elements and thermostats with aluminum foil.

• To clean the doors of the oven, use a damp cloth dipped in dry baking soda. Give it a wipe-down. If there are stubborn marks on the oven door, rub them gently with a fine steel wool.

Mirna Khoury is editor at Cleaning Jobs London an online resource that covers all aspects of cleaning jobs with hints and tips and ideas. Visitors to London Cleaning Jobs will be met with invaluable information, guides and tips for finding or applying for related jobs.

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Buying Major Kitchen Appliances

By Mark Etinger

New home, new kitchen, old appliances. That just will not do. Even if you have owned your home for a while, it is time to say goodbye to old faithful, the fridge that just throws tantrums now, and start looking for a cooperative replacement.

The top appliances you are going to need are refrigerators, ovens, and stove tops. You can worry about that super cool coffee maker and the blender once you get the necessities. You never put the cool gadgets before the major kitchen appliances.

When hunting for the fridge, think about both cubic feet and style. These details will end up saving you a lot of trouble. How much space does your current model take up? Does the cabinetry leave room for the same size, more space, or less space? Refrigerators can stick out from cabinets and look awkward. If you take measurements before you purchase then you will find an ideal match.

Next is the style. Do you want French doors, top mount refrigerators, or side-by-side swinging doors? These should all be considered based on the dimensions of the kitchen as well as the rest of the décor. Also, keep in mind the consistency. Wood panels and stainless steel appliances look very different. Take a look at different series. You will notice brand traits with Wolf, Viking, and Sub Zero appliances.

When buying the oven and stove top, make some of the same considerations. Obviously space and design are important. With ovens you can get single, double, and convection constructed models. Single ovens are good for cramped spaces, whereas double ovens are more versatile for those who like more cooking options. Convection ovens circulate air for a consistent temperature throughout. You also want to decide between gas or electric. This has a lot to do with precision cooking and personal preference.

Stove tops are also gas and electric. You can choose the amount of ranges and mix-n-match the styles based on your cooking habits. Gas ranges are easier to control because you can see the flame. They don't retain heat as much once you shut it, so there's the immediate cooling down. However, they are not always as efficient as the electric. Electric ranges are now more precision-based then they once were, many with easy control panels. They are also easy to clean. However, they will not be as immediate with bringing the heat.

These concerns are standard, from luxury to discount kitchen appliances. You can find traits in each price range that suit your home.

Looking for discount kitchen appliances? http://www.Drimmers.com offers deals on Wolf and Viking gas ranges, Sub Zero appliances, and other top brands.

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Belgian Waffle Maker - How To Use A Waffle Maker

By Tony Newton

Waffles are a very popular meal to have at breakfast time. A Belgian waffle maker can be used to create them quickly and easily. There are a wide variety of waffle makers to choose from including Cuisinart, Black & Decker, Waring and Presto. Each of them have their own unique features including being able to make more than one waffle at a time, different shaped waffles and ones that are thick in depth.

They can be topped with lots of different things too including strawberries, butter or the main favourite of honey. Once they are ready and nice and warm, just add your choice of topping and enjoy the fantastic tasting breakfast. So how do you actually use a Belgian waffle maker? Well let's take a look.

Using a Waffle Maker

Most modern waffle irons are very easy to use indeed. Each of them has their instructions that you must follow but in the most part they are the same. Just plug them into a mains socket, turn them on and wait for them to warm up. Most modern ones will tell you when they are ready and warm enough. Once they are warm, just pour in your batter mix. This can be home made or out of a packet. Then close the lid and wait for just a few minutes. An audible tone is often made when the waffle is ready on most modern waffle makers. Either that or an LED light will tell you when it's ready too.

Now all you need to do is remove the waffle and add your choice of topping. Most waffles are best eaten when they are still warm. So don't take too long in getting them to the table. If you need more, just repeat the process and make more of them. Once you have finished with your waffle iron, be sure to clean it thoroughly before you put it away. This means it will be ready whenever you need to use it next and of course means it is hygienically clean.

So that is how to use a waffle maker. As we have mentioned above, each brand of waffle iron has its own instructions so be sure to follow them correctly. Some take longer than others to make the waffle and you need to make sure they are properly cooked before you eat them. Enjoy your waffles and we hope our information has helped!

We'll help you choose the best belgian waffle maker to suit your needs. Just read our reviews including the Presto waffle maker.

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Toaster Ovens Like The Cuisinart TOB-195 Are Great For A Quick Meal

By Gregory Fish

The Cuisinart TOB-195 is the type of toaster oven that most people dream of owning; particularly because it has several modern features such as the good size digital display, which will let you know the cooking time and what temperature you are cooking at, among other things. For this reason, you no longer have to guess what temperature you are cooking a specific meal at, because the LCD screen provides you with all that information; furthermore, all the controls that are used on the Cuisinart TOB-195 are completely digital. These digital controls are quite easy to use, and you should have no problems figuring them out; however, if you do, the manual provides a straight forward explanation of the functions of the controls.

One of the great functions of the Cuisinart TOB-195 is its toasting capabilities, which works rather well. This toaster oven is equipped with different preset options for toasting, and you will have to play around with each option in order to find out which one you prefer. The toaster ovens comes with a default setting that works quite well for some persons; however, if you want your toast to be lighter or darker, you will have to adjust the settings accordingly. Keep in mind that if you want your toast to be darker, the Cuisinart TOB-195 will take a little longer than the traditional oven; however, it does do bagels really well.

The Cuisinart TOB-195 cooking functions are also very great, and customers that already own this toaster oven have no complaints about these functions. This particular oven is a convection type oven; however, without it the cooking is done very well that you might not even use it. Another one of the great things about this oven is that it is large enough to cook a wide range of food such as hams, frozen vegetables, chicken, and even a full pizza that measures 12-inches.

The Cuisinart TOB-195 stands out among other toaster ovens on the market, because it comes with broiling and baking pans that are made using high quality materials. Not only does this innovative oven allow you to be able to cook larger food items, but the interior of the Cuisinart TOB-195 is large enough to provide you with easy access to clean all the crevices and corners of the oven.

The only flaw that the Cuisinart TOB-195 has is that the chrome trim that is placed on the inside and around the oven, makes it hot on the exterior when the oven heats up. Even though this toaster oven has this flaw, it is still one of the best toaster ovens currently available for purchase.

Susan Bravero is a power house when it comes to writing about her favorite subjects. If it can be used in your home, and give more help and fun to your life, then Susan will research it and write about it. From appliances to sewing machines and anything else domestic oriented, Susan Bravero will be finding out what its about. The Cuisinart TOB-195. toaster oven is no exception. All I can say is, Susan must cook up some wonderful meals while researching appliances like this toaster oven. So if you want to learn more about the Cuisinart TOB-195. toaster oven then go to the website.

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How Does an LED TV Work?

By Jake Reacher

Simply put, an LED television and an LCD television are one and the same thing. The difference between a standard LCD television and an LED model lies in the method of backlighting. Normal LCD screens are built by sealing a layer of liquid crystal in between two glass panels. Behind this are a series of Cold Cathode Fluorescent Lamps - CCFL - that project light through the crystal polymer. When a controlled current is run through the crystals, they either add colour to the light, or block it out completely. In LED televisions, the CCFL lighting is replaced by a sequence of LEDs. As they are much smaller than CCFL lights, televisions that are LED-backlit can be made much thinner and lighter than regular LCD models. Some are even under an inch thick! LED televisions are also capable of greatly increased dynamic contrast - the ratio of difference between black and white - use less power, and are more environmentally friendly when disposed of.

However, the differences don't end here. Currently there are two commonly used methods of LED backlighting, known as Edge LEDs and RGB Dynamic. Each has advantages and drawbacks, so if you're thinking of buying an LCD television, it's good to know what each method has to offer. In RGB Dynamic models, a sequence of red, green and blue LED lights are positioned behind the screen. When an image is displayed featuring dark colours, the LEDs in that area are dimmed while the intensity of the colour is increased. As a result, televisions with RGB Dynamic backlighting have higher Dynamic Contrast ratios than any other LCD model, although they are still second to plasma technology when it comes to 'true' blacks. The downside of this method is a loss of fine detail on small, bright objects that appear against a dark background - an image of a night sky is a good example.

By contrast, the Edge LED method is a completely different kettle of fish. This type of backlighting involves the placement of white LED lights around the outside edge of the screen. A light-diffusing panel is then placed behind the screen, which compensates for the lack of light coming from the centre. Edge LED backlighting is not capable of the same Dynamic Contrast ratios offered by the RGB Dynamic method, because it can't dim the backlight as precisely in a localised area. However, it is the cheaper of the two methods, and televisions carrying this technology are some of the thinnest and lightest on the market, making them extremely easy to wall mount.

So there you have it - there are pros and cons to LED backlighting, just as there are pros and cons to LCD and plasma flat screen TVs

Written by Jake Reacher, he is a great fan of flat screen TVs, and judging by his massive Blu-ray disc collection, likes his TV HD -style! There's not much this man doesn't know about flat screen technology.

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The Beauty of Mini Tumble Dryers

By Katherine J Owen

Modern houses and apartments tend to be fairly compact in the kitchen and utility room area and if this is the case in your household you could benefit hugely from a mini tumble dryer.

Mini tumble dryers do exactly as you would expect - they are just smaller versions of the normal tumble dryer. Don't expect that just because these appliances are smaller in stature they will do a lesser job, mini tumble dryers are often equipped with a several drying programmes to ensure you get the best results.

Situations in which you might require a smaller dryer are if you live in an inner city apartment with little or no outdoor space for a washing line. If you do have a small garden area but are stuck for space indoors you may also wish to consider a mini tumble dryer for use during the winter months when the weather eliminates the possibility of line drying.

Investing in mini tumble dryers also stops you having to use radiators to dry clothes which can cause several problems, namely; peeling wallpaper, stiff clothes with un-ironable ridges in them and reduced effectiveness of your heating system. Basically, putting clothes to dry on the radiator stops the convection of warm air, meaning you have to turn the thermostat up to warm the house - which can cause your heating bills to rocket.

Bear in mind with these machines that you will not be able to dry large loads of washing. They usually cater for a 3kg load of laundry which is the equivalent of about 15 men's shirts. This volume will not be enough for a large family but it would suit a single person or couple brilliantly.

Zanussi TC180W

Zanussi TC180W mini tumble dryers have two drying temperatures which you can choose depending on the fabric in your laundry load. Like most mini tumble dryers they have a capacity of 3kg. This model also uses reverse action techniques which means less creases in your laundry and therefore less ironing is necessary. The cycle works by tumbling clothes in opposite directions so fabric isn't forced to the sides of the drum. This prevents deep creases from forming.

The Zanussi TC180W measures in at just (H)68.6 x (W)59.5 x (D)42.0 and so it can be placed in any corner of the home. As it's a condenser dryer this appliance doesn't need to be placed near a waste pipe, but you do need to ensure you empty the condenser tank regularly.

This machine can be placed anywhere, from a storage cupboard, to a table top. It can even be mounted on a wall to save on floor space. The Zanussi TC180W consistently ranks highly for quietness, ease of use and build quality.

Kate Owen works at Appliances Online. View Zanussi TC180W mini tumble dryers here

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Electric Grills

By Cookie Maxwell

Today's indoor electric grills cook meals in half the time and can make cooking faster and easier than traditional methods of cooking. They offer consumers the opportunity and convenience to grill indoors year round. Electric grills are available in a wide variety of styles for indoor use.

Many indoor grills are compact and fit on the countertop for use. Certain grills are small and perfect for just two people and others are large enough for a family. Various electric indoor grills allow for open cooking and other models close and cook on both sides at the same time. Cooking areas on electric grills vary in size ranging anywhere from 37 to 240 square inches or more and some open to double the cooking surface.

Indoor electric grills have evolved and changed kitchens because they are a convenient alternative to cooking on an outdoor grill. There are so many styles available today like the George Foreman grill, which started it all. The George Forman Grill was the groundbreaker of the indoor electric grill that was introduced in 1994. The clamshell design eliminated the necessity to flip food being grilled and has been a popular kitchen appliance since it was introduced. The Forman grill has patented grooves that proclaim to carry the grease into a tray away from the foods removing the unnecessary fat out of the food. Appropriately, the grill is nicknamed as a fat reducing grilling machine. Indoor grills can deliver great taste and healthier foods in minutes.

The Express Ready Set Go Grill emerged as an indoor electric grill that states it can bake, steam, fry and grill quality meals in microwave time. This grill features removable pans with non-stick cooking surfaces that make cooking healthier meals easy because no added fat is necessary to cook foods.

Then the Big Boss Grill better known as the all in one countertop appliance appeared on the market that claims to replace several kitchen appliances and simplifying the kitchen. This grill can make waffles, donuts, along with going from being a grill to a griddle. Each plate is removable and interchangeable. Dual cooking surfaces allow meals to cook in half the time.

Ever since, the indoor grill was promoted and made popular by the famous George Foremen, they have become a very common item in the kitchen. They continue to get more popular for those with limited space as well as for those who want a healthier alternative cooking alternative. Indoor grills allow for simple grilling due to their compact and portable sizes. Every year indoor grills evolve and get better than the year before and make advancements in features and versatility.

Today, indoor grills appear to be more popular than ever changing cooking to a more simple efficient way. The indoor electric grill is versatile and can cook all types of different foods in a very short period making them particularly convenient for busy cooks. Indoor electric grills have changed eating habits because they present a healthier alternative in relation to other cooking methods. The electric grill has changed the way people cook and how they eat. The indoor electric grill provides a way to prepare healthy low fat meals in minutes that help make cooking fast and easy.

People are always looking for new methods to make cooking their favorite foods easier, quicker and more convenient. Indoor grills have evolved into appliances that have changed kitchens forever making it possible to prepare quick healthy meals.

For further information regarding electric grills, please visit MyReviewsNow Online Shopping.

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Preserve Wine At Its Best In A Wine Fridge

By Jill Kaestner

If wine is something that you use regularly, purchasing a wine fridge will be a good investment so that you can store and serve wine at its very best. This is a much more efficient, economical and effective way of storing wine than the traditional cellar as most people in our modern world do not have the space or money to build a walk-in cellar in their basement.

Optimum conditions

Wine needs to be stored in certain constant condition to be enjoyed at its finest. The three states which ruin wine are dryness, heat and light. Humidity levels need to be regulated as low humidity causes cork shrinkage which can let air into the bottles and also evaporation, and high humidity can lead to mold and mildew. High temperatures of over 77F (25C) change the chemical balance of the wine and give it a stewed taste. Proteins in wine also react to excessive light and this spoils the flavour. The flavour, colour and consistency are preserved at fairly low temperatures, particularly in the case of white and sparkling wines, with reduced light and a good amount of moisture. This is why using a wine fridge provides the optimum environment for the storage of wines as these factors can all be controlled.

Wine fridge better than a kitchen fridge

A wine cooler is not the same as a normal kitchen fridge. Fridges are not ideal for storing wine and can actually ruin it. The temperature in a fridge is too low for most wines and with the door being frequently opened the temperature fluctuates so the bottles are not kept at a constant temperature. A fridge also slightly vibrates while it is running which can shift the sediments within the bottles and this destroys the flavours. From a practical standpoint, wine fridges also have specially designed racks for holding wine bottles and specially treated glass to block ultraviolet light.

Choosing the right fridge

There are a wide variety of fridges to choose from according to capacity, dimensions, style and cooling methods. Deciding on the cooling method is actually the first point that needs to be considered when buying a cooler as it is directly impacted by the type of wine you use. All the other features can be considered after this once you have decided on the technology that best suits your needs.

Wine temperatures

This is an issue because different types of wine have a particular temperature in which they are best stored. Rich red wines are best at 59-66F (15-19C) and light red wines at 55F (13C). Rose and dry white wines taste good between 46-57F (8-14C). Sparkling wines and champagne are normally chilled at 43-47F (6-8C).

Dual temperature cooler

If you have a wide range of tastes in wines and like to drink different red and white wines, a dual temperature cooler is ideal. It provides separate compartments, each one having its own electric thermostat control, which enables you to keep both red and white wines at their optimum temperatures. Dual temperature coolers will cost more than single temperature ones so expect to pay at the higher end of your wine fridge price bracket. Smaller units cost about $300, medium sized ones are priced at around $800 and larger coolers will be around $1500.

Single temperature cooler

However, if you have a preference for a particular type of wine then a single temperature cooler will be fine. Many claim that they are suitable for storing both types of wine at a uniform cellar temperature and then you can chill a bottle of white wine in the kitchen fridge just before serving.

Multi-temperature wine fridge

There is a further option of having a multi-temperature fridge if you are a wine connoisseur and have a lot of varieties to store and serve. This wine cooler enables you to age wines in one compartment and then to keep red and white wine bottles and champagne in different compartments at their best tasting temperature, ready to serve. This type of wine chiller will be a more expensive investment.

Thermoelectric cooler

A different type of wine fridge that is gaining in popularity is a thermoelectric cooler. Its main selling features are that they are energy efficient, environmentally friendly, silent and vibration-free. This technology uses fans to push out warm air and circulate cold air inside the cooler. These fridges also come with the option of different temperature zones. The one thing to remember is that the positioning of thermoelectric wine coolers is important as room temperatures over 77F and below 50F make it difficult to maintain the correct temperature inside the cooler. Therefore, the room temperature needs to be carefully controlled by using heating in the winter and air conditioning in the summer to avoid temperature extremes which affect the taste of the wine.

Whatever type you choose, a wine fridge will ensure that you and your guests enjoy the finest tasting wines. Now is the time to get a Edgestar wine cooler for your home!

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Things To Consider When Choosing Kitchen Appliances

By Chris Vasey

There are few things in life more exciting in life than knowing that you've got the money and the resources to create a brand new kitchen design that you'll be able to enjoy and take advantage of for years to come. One of the most important factors in kitchen design is choosing the right kitchen appliances that will accentuate the image and the décor that you're choosing to create. Because of this, we've come up with these tips to help you choose the right kitchen appliances to contribute to your wonderful new room.

Size: There is absolutely no way of getting around this one! Whilst the whole 'bigger is better' thing is a long way from being true when it comes to kitchen appliances, getting the size right is incredibly important! The amount of disasters that occur as a result of people not taking size of appliances into consideration are many and varied, and all result in a massive waste of money! Always - and we mean always - carefully measure any kitchen appliances that you want to install to ensure they'll fit perfectly into your design.

Colours: Kitchen design in general has many varied factors to consider in itself to ensure that all of the décor and features that you choose to integrate into your perfect room all accentuate each other and make the perfect combination. If there's a factor more important than colour in this list, we don't know what it is! Typically, appliances will usually come in a set amount of different colours (generally based around greys, blues, whites, etc) so it's important to make sure that whatever you have planned for your kitchen design, the colours of the appliances will still fit in.

Functionality: One of the main reasons that people typically want to have a redesign of their kitchen done is that their current model is simply not serving their needs in the right way. Well, if this is you then it's a very good idea to spend time considering what you need from your new appliances. If you're a host or hostess who loves to have people around for drinks, then the chances are that you'll want a really good dishwasher (as well as a good cocktail mixer!), whereas if you've got a large family who you love to cook for then a large range oven might be the ideal choice. If you're looking to invest in new kitchen appliances, then you might as well do it properly!

Compatibility: Without doubt also a very important factor in choosing the right kitchen appliances, there are plenty of compatibility problems and energy efficiency things to think about. Aside from the obvious thing to consider such as the amount of plugs that you'll need to get the job done, there's also the fact that many appliances such as washing machines and tumble dryers may need a necessary outlet pipe as well as the input of water necessary to do their job to the required level.

If you've got the budget and the knack for creativity, then you'll doubtless be incredibly excited at the prospect of a whole new kitchen design. However, it's worth remembering that there are a lot of different things to consider when designing your perfect kitchen. That's why the experts at My Next Kitchen are here to help you with these tips on choosing the right Kitchen Appliances.

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Kitchen Appliances - Some Great Gift Ideas For Christmas

By P Wadhwani

With Christmas around the corner, there is great excitement about buying gifts for loved ones. From a luxurious coffee maker to a matching toaster and kettle set or even a simple sandwich maker, these items make for a great gift. Read on for more gift ideas.

As winter is approaching, Christmas also comes closer with a festive atmosphere all around. It is that time of the year you eagerly await for. The markets are full of new products, big bargains and people are busy shopping for gifts for their friends and family. There is as much joy in giving as receiving gifts and thus every bit of this tradition is enjoyable. However, it may be difficult deciding what gift you should give this time. When it is an individual, you can get a good idea about what to give if you are well acquainted with the person and get them something that might be of use to him/her. But when it comes to a gift for a couple or a family for Christmas, it can be a difficult job since the gift must be of use to everyone.

Kitchen appliances are often a great gift idea for this purpose. Not only do they have good use, but serve as a gift for the entire family. That makes kitchen appliances a popular choice for a gift. Who wouldn't love a new set of shining cutlery or a new grill for preparing mouthwatering food? Since, Christmas is in the middle of chilly winters, the idea of a roaster is definitely pleasing. The pleasure of baking and roasting yourself a hot meal of beef rib cuts, pork loins, legs of lamb or whole poultry in the shivering winters is awesome. The receiver will love a good stainless steel roaster as a gift.

There are other great ideas, say a beautifully designed electric kettle. It doesn't make you stand in the kitchen for long in the winters and you can also keep it on your bedside table and enjoy a great cup of tea. It serves as a great gift item. There are some amazing designs to choose from that also make it lovely to look at. For someone who loves his kitchen and experimenting with new dishes, a mixer and blender or a food processor would be perfect. They will make all the mixing, blending, chopping, slicing and grating a piece of cake. A toaster can also be a pleasant gift too. You can choose to opt for a matching kettle and toaster set. For a health freak that is conscious of his diet, a juice extractor is perfectly suited to get fresh juice at home instantly. You can find great, unique designs of juice makers from some of the best brands in the world.

When you are thinking about gifting kitchen appliances as a gift, make sure that you get quality appliances from renowned brands because durability is an essential feature in appliances. You can check online stores on the internet that offer a great variety in terms of appliances and brands. So, you can get to see all the available options at one place and do not have to flip through multiple sites. Moreover, it is easy to place an order and get quick delivery than to shop from store to store and lug those bags from one place to another.

This article has been written by an expert, working with Kitchen Fun, a leading online retail store offering all kinds of small kitchen appliances.

www.CheapWhiteGoods.co.uk

Waffle Sandwich Maker Review

By Hamish Gillman

Waffles and sandwiches are very old food and while waffles are known to have been eaten at least since the 14 century, nobody really knows when sandwiches started being made. The earliest sandwiches were nothing more than two slices of bread that was used to hold together whatever was inside. As time passed, and cooking became more regularized, different kinds of sandwiches with different fillings were made and eaten. Until the early 17th century bread was toasted separately and then used to make the sandwich. It was at this time that the earliest sandwich maker which was nothing more than two concave, square pieces of cast iron was used to put the sandwich in and then held over coals or flames until the sandwich cooked.

In the beginning of the 20th century, the electric sandwich machine was invented. This used two coils of wire that heated a cooking plate on which the sandwich was placed. The advantage of this kind of sandwich maker was that you could put in your sandwich and start doing something else while it cooked. In the 1970s the near universal design for sandwich toasters which gave you the cut diagonally across the middle was brought out by Breville. At around the same time manufacturers started bringing out combination waffle and sandwich makers. This became an immediate hit, so much so that nowadays very rarely do you find people buying plain sandwich machines.

The waffle maker is the same as a waffle or a sandwich maker, except that the cooking plate is detachable. On one side you had the pockets to make your waffles while on the other you had the sandwich maker. You just turned them over whenever you want one or the other, and very rarely do you find anyone wanting to use both a waffle and a sandwich maker at the same time. Since the waffle maker was large it also meant that you could make two sandwiches at the same time with one of these. The price for them was also not much more than a plain waffle maker and you just had to pay $10 or $15 more for the combination.

The waffle maker has become the default in most homes now, and those who do not go for the toasters usually go for this.

To find the best sandwich maker reviews check out SandwichMakerReview.com where you will find reviews and ratings on all the leading brands and types including Krups sandwich maker, T Fal, Cuisinart, Toastmaster, Breville and more.

Get your FREE 'Ultimate Sandwich Machine Guide' full of tips and tricks on how to buy the best sandwich toaster for you.

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Toaster Oven Vs Conventional Oven

By Martin Gandhi

A conventional oven is standard in nearly every apartment and rental home, as well as in most homes. However, with the advancements made with toaster ovens in the recent years, they are often called countertop ovens, being able to take many of the same jobs as a conventional oven. There are still definite differences between them and a conventional oven, though.

Size

The biggest obvious difference between a toaster oven and a conventional oven is the size. A toaster oven can range anywhere between a foot to nearly two feet. Most models fit on your countertop, but some come with mounts to hang underneath cabinets. This is especially helpful if you have limited countertop space.

A conventional oven usually has an inside capacity of two to five feet. The most common is the freestanding oven, which features a stove. Another is the built-in oven, which are placed into kitchen walls. These help save on valuable kitchen space. They usually range between two feet to a little over two and a half feet wide.

Functions

Toaster ovens have many functions which conventional ovens do not. Toaster ovens come with three basic functions of bake, broil, and toast. These accommodate the functions of traditional ovens. More advanced toaster ovens have numerous functions, including defrost, reheat, dehydrate, brown, and roast. Some even come with options for pizza or cookie, to make baking your favorite foods even more simple. Controls can include defrost, reheat, pre-set cooking, as well as a full-range thermostat. The thermostat usually runs below 200 degrees to 450 degrees. Some toaster ovens have a warming compartment on top of it, which allows you to set food on to remain warm while the rest of your meal cooks.

Conventional ovens typically come with baking and broiling options. Some newer models have different broil settings, as well as heat-release functions. Others have time-set cooking, which allows you to leave the home and still know when you get back, your oven will have turned on and baked your meal at the right time. Some built-in ovens are even double ovens, which allow you to cook different temperatures dually.

Cooking methods

Toaster ovens are made to cook foods quickly, not only because of the smaller space they have to heat up, but because the heat is more concentrated. They are often convection, which means the heat circulates throughout the toaster oven because of a fan. This allows the food to bake on all sides, rather than creating a hot spot over one area of the food. Many argue this is one of the biggest advantage differences between a toaster and conventional oven.

Conventional ovens can come with convention, but not usually. Typically, they heat from one or two elements, but there is no fan to move the heat around. Instead, hot air rises to the top of the oven. The heating elements allow them to cook quickly as well, but the chance of burning the bottom of cookies while the top is doughy still exists.

Energy consumption

Overall, toaster ovens tend to be more energy efficient than conventional ovens. Though this is not always the case, due to whether they are run by gas or electricity and depending on what model.

Because toaster ovens are smaller, they obviously take less to heat up. Plus, because they heat faster, they are very efficient, requiring less running time. Because of their small space and less baking time, the kitchen does not heat up as much.

Conventional ovens are bigger and consequently, take more energy and time to heat. They also spread heat into the kitchen because of their size.

There's still a lot of thing to learn about toaster ovens. Please visit http://www.thebestkitchen.org to know everything about toaster oven reviews, cooking tips, and Helpful Kitchen Tips. We provide the most important info that you need to know before buying a kitchen appliance.

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Dirt Devil Featherlite Upright Vacuum Cleaner Review

Dirt Devil Featherlite Upright Vacuum Cleaner Review

The Dirt Devil Featherlite is a bagged, upright vacuum cleaner. This vacuum has a slim and tall profile and is bright red with black accents.

We found that this vacuum is very light easy to maneuver on bare floors and carpets. While the Featherlite's ability to clean carpet was impressive for such an economical vacuum, we do not recommend using it on hard surface flooring. We actually had to get a broom out to clean up the mess this vacuum left behind after attempting to clean up various sized particles from wood floors.

The vacuum comes with three on-board attachments including a crevice tool, a brush tool and an extension wand. All of the attachments are store in the tool caddy on the back of the vacuum for easy access while cleaning.

The Dirt Devil Featherlite uses a paper bag as its dirt collection and also its main filter. You can purchase MicroFresh bags for this vacuum which claim to capture up to 99% of dust and allergens. The bag was easy and very clean to change. Additionally, the vacuum has a dirt pad that filters the exhaust. This pad can be shaken out and reused. We found that some particles are released into the air while the vacuum is on which should be considered by someone suffering from allergies.

The vacuum has a water lift of 60. Water lift is the measurement used to measure the suction strength of vacuums. We are told the average vacuum's water lift is 70 meaning the Featherlite is a little below average.

Overall, the Dirt Devil Featherlite is a very economical vacuum costing between $50-$70 dollars. At this price, we were pleased with the vacuums ability to clean carpet and its low maintenance cost. We would recommend this vacuum to someone with basic cleaning needs who needs a machine to clean their carpet. This vacuum is also a good bet for someone who is not ready to make an investment in a vacuum and needs something inexpensive.

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Professional Dishwasher Repairs: Common (And Completely Unnecessary) Reasons People "Need" Them

By Anthony Attanasio

It's a sad but true: Most people these days would not be able to fix a broken appliance in their kitchen if they read the manual, researched online AND watched a home improvement television show about it.

The Dreaded Bubble Leaking - This is one of the most common reasons customers claim to need professional dishwasher repair. Most people get scared their machine will explode the minute they see that bubbles have leaked out of the sides and are now all over the kitchen floor.

But why does this happen?

More often than one would think, someone unfamiliar with a particular dishwasher will accidentally put dish soap in the dishwasher instead of dishwasher soap. While the names are very similar, these are two extremely different cleaning products. The dish soap will create a huge amount of foamy bubbles that grow so large that they expand out the dishwasher. Dish soap is meant to foam up, but dishwasher soap is meant to leave your dishes soap free by the end.

The Broken Soap Dispenser - Another common reason people claim they need a professional repair is because they think their soap dispenser is ineffective. Oftentimes, the reason behind this is that there just isn't enough soap in their machine. Maybe sometimes the dishwasher will be able to efficiently clean dishes if they are not too dirty to begin with, but for most dinner plates, soap and water is needed to clean them. When there isn't enough soap in the dishwasher, the dishes won't get clean. This is not your dishwasher's fault!

Soap aside, many people will complain that their dishes are dirty when they come out of dishwasher. A helpful and easy solution to this is that you should always scrape the excess food the pots and pans. There is no real need to actually wash the dish before you put it in the dishwasher but when you leave leftover food on your plate it can dry, get crusty and become very difficult for just a stream of hot water to remove.

If you used the right soap and the right amount of it but your dishes still aren't clean, it may be because the detergent cap is not screwed on or isn't closed properly before a cycle starts. If this is the case, your dishwasher still isn't receiving enough cleaning product. Another possible reason could be that the dishwasher is clogged. To check this, look at the inlet filter screens and fine particle filter. If these are clogged, cleaning them out might be all you need to avoid getting unnecessary professional dishwasher repair.

Dusty Looking Dishes - If your dishes are dirty with a smoky film, it may be due to an excessive calcium buildup or mineral deposit. To remove this, you need an acid. An easy solution to this is using a store-bought dishwasher cleaner that you run with your cycle. However you can also just try running your empty dishwasher with a cup full of white vinegar, or even a cup full of the powdered drink called Tang. Try doing this first, because a professional appliance repair will be much more expensive than buying a little bottle of vinegar (or a tangy drink!).

All of the tips listed above are very simple and effective ways to pull off "repairing" your dishwasher, so definitely try these first if you don't think that your machine is working properly, before you call for a professional appliance repair technician.

This article was written by a trusted and professional appliance repair business owner who caters his services to NYC, Westchester NY and the Bronx.

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Revealed - How To Choose The Right Chest Freezer

By Kaz Thompson

One of the most important kitchen appliances nowadays is the chest freezer, as many families now rely on these to keep large amounts of food for long periods, along with giving them the opportunity to cook meals in a batch to be eaten later. However when choosing a chest freezer there are certain considerations you need to bear in mind in order to make the right decision, and this article will give some pointers to help make the decision easy.

The first thing that you will need to decide upon is the amount of space you will need. As with the standard upright models, chest freezers are available in various sizes, and in most cases the larger the freezer the more money you will have to pay. Before you make a decision it is a good idea to think about how much freezing space you will need, since it is pointless to buy a freezer too big for your needs. You also need to take into account how much space you have available, since the very bulky chest freezer may need to be stored in a challenge or storerooms.

Once you have decided on the actual size of freezer you need, you should take a look at the features that are available, especially on some of the more modern models. One thing that is worth paying attention to is whether the freezer has a quick freeze feature, which will allow you to freeze foods very rapidly. You also need to take a look at how adjustable the temperature is, since this will enable you to stock a wide range of foods and keep them at exactly the right temperature.

Once you have decided on this the only other thing you need to look at is how much money you're willing to spend. It may be better to buy a fairly small chest freezer and use this for keeping frozen food that you do not use on a regular basis, rather than buying a large one and finding that you do not use it to its full capacity. However if you have a large family, a large freezer can be one of the best things to buy, since it really will give you a lot of flexibility in how you store your food. Take a look at some of the many compact freezers on the market and you're sure to find one to suit your style.

refrigeratorstyles.com is filled with information on Small Chest Freezers and more. Visit the site for more information.

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Top or Front-Loader? The Washing Machine Conundrum

By Bill Mendel

Of all the great decisions we make as adults--who to vote for in the election, whether to send our kids to private or public school, whether to take that job offer or not--the one question that plagues more than any other is that age-old debate: front-loader or top-loader washing machine? OK, so there may be some more important decisions than which type of washing machine to buy plaguing humanity at the moment, but there's no denying that the decision is not clear-cut. Here is a presentation of the pros and cons of each model to hopefully help you choose if you're currently in washing machine limbo!

Top-Loaders

Top-loader washing machines are beneficial for a number of reasons. For one thing, they are very easy and convenient to use, especially for older people or people who suffer from poor joint mobility, as a front-loader requires crouching and bending to load and unload. Another reason that top-loaders are a popular choice is cost--they are often hundreds of dollars cheaper than their front-loading counterparts. Also, for all those people who find that whenever they put a load of washing on they'll discover one stray sock just after they've turned it on, a top-loader allows you the freedom to just lift the top and drop in that final piece, whereas a front-loader will seal up in order to keep the water from spilling all over your floor and you'll have to wait to put that sock through another wash, after which time it may never be reunited with its pair again (we all know how it is with socks).

Front-Loaders

Space is one reason why a lot of people prefer front-loaders, as (especially in apartments and smaller houses) the space above the washing machine is often utilised for a dryer, which means lifting a lid takes up valuable air-space. Also, things (such as washing powder and cleaning products) can be stacked on top of a front-loader which means that storage is made a lot easier. Although front-loaders are more expensive to purchase than top-loaders, they utilise far less energy and water, and therefore over time prove to be more economic, paying for themselves through savings they afford you. Because a front-loader will utilise gravity to do half of the work (the clothes are rotated halfway around the barrel and then dropped) they effectively utilise only half the amount of energy to complete a cycle, which is good news for your wallet and the environment.

Whether you choose a front-loader or a top-loader, there are always ways in which you can reduce your energy usage. Like refrigerators or dishwashers, the way they are used is as much a contribution to their value as the way that they are made.

By the way, do you want to learn more about Shopping and Product Reviews? If so, I suggest you check Washing Machines and refrigerators.

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How to Choose the Best Garment Steamer

By Jennifer Bright

What will help you decide on the best garment steamer will depend on what your needs are. What size unit is acceptable? Do you need it to be portable? Is price important? How much clothing do you regularly need pressed or dry cleaned?

The clothes steamer works with plain water. Do not add anything to the water because you risk clogging the machine. The portable ones will make it easy to go from bedroom for the bed skirt, to living room for upholstery, to any room for drapes. The best garment steamer will work faster than an iron to remove wrinkles from your garments.

There are the full size commercial clothing steamers and hand held, portable models. The full sized ones are usually stable and have a wide steam nozzle. They often include a pole to hang your clothing while you steam them, the ability to control the steam and a handle for the nozzle.

The portable models are less expensive with a smaller nozzle. These are easy to maneuver from room to room and some are small enough to take them with you when you travel. Being smaller, they are easy to store. On the downside, the water tank is smaller so you will get less steam per fill, the steam will not be as powerful and you may need several trips to the sink.

The large or full size steamer has a base with a boiler to heat the water. On the boiler is a tank to hold water. This tank is filled with tap water and turned upside down onto the base. The model you choose should hold a lot of water. The amount of water it holds directly corresponds to the amount of time you will have to steam your clothing. A one gallon tank can steam for about 90 minutes. The best garment steamer for you will have to capacity to handle your steaming needs.

Large capacity professional garment steamers usually are 1,200-2,000 watt machines. It is important to note that some machines require a warm up time, which can range anywhere from five to twenty minutes. They cost from $120-$200 on average. Some have controls for steam settings. This allows you to adjust the steam according to the fabric you are working with. There is also a press pad that may be included or purchased as an accessory. This decreases the possibility of burning your hand while steaming. Professional steamers are the best choice for high volume users.

The portable units are often made as one piece with the nozzle attached to the boiler. It will produce continuous steam, although there are a few with push button steam control. These are compact and lightweight, perfect for small household jobs. They do not hold much water and the steam generally only lasts for 10 to 20 minutes.

A hand held clothes steamer can cost from $30-$60. They normally include a travel case and accessories. The wattage varies widely from 200-1,000 watts. The higher wattage units usually provide more powerful steam. The one drawback is you can only handle three to five garments per fill.

These are your choices for the best garment steamer. If you decide on a hand held unit, it will be light and easy to carry or travel with and will provide consistent, but less powerful steam, for shorter periods of time. You will still get a smooth, wrinkle free result.

If it is the full size you want you can achieve professional looking results with the commercial clothes steamers.

To find full reviews of fabric steamers, and a large, low-priced selection, visit the Best garment steamer to find the unit right for all your needs.

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Modern Electric Range Cookers As an Energy Efficient Alternative to Gas

By Liz Morgan

Modern electric range cookers are an extremely efficient choice if you are looking for an alternative to a wood-burning or gas burning stove. They can perform a huge amount of cooking functions with very little time or effort spent. Additionally, they can cook a wide variety of food items with no loss of essential nutrients from your dishes. Electric range cookers have several burners, as well as, grill and other heating options.

These features make electric range cookers have very good choice for performing many cooking functions for a large family. The hot plates are stainless steel and quite sizable in order to accommodate several dishes simultaneously. They can be found in various other colors such as black as well.

Most options measure about 900 x 600 x 600 mm, and are freestanding. Some cooking ranges offer multiple heating choices, either gas or electric. These are commonly called dual fuel cooking ranges, and have several advantages. For instance, you may want to heat the range quickly for a quick meal, in which case you would use the gas heating option. Other times you may want your mail more evenly cooked, in which case the electric option would be best for you.

Most range cookers have an oven with a holding capacity of about 80 foreign leaders and can act as convection or conventional cookers. Additionally, electric range cookers can be used for baking, broiling and roasting. They typically feature a glass door in the front with an interior light so the chef can monitor progress.

Inside the electric range are racks that are adjustable in height, and can be positioned many different ways. The digital time display is also a convenient feature which doubles as a timer. You can also choose from several cooking speeds. Of course that depends on which kind is best suited for you, and how you best like to cook your meals.

If you're looking for an alternative to expensive gas burning stoves, and would like to enjoy the many other benefits, such as increased safety, more evenly spread cooking, and lower energy bills, electric range cookers are an excellent choice.

Learn more about electric range cookers and the vast array of benefits they offer above gas powered stoves - stop by this site where you can find out more http://www.ElectricRangeCookers.net.

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How to Iron Trousers For Faster and Better Results

By Scott Wilkins

Ironing trousers is easy if you follow my, expert step by step guide. Trousers with no creases will soon be the norm! A perfect guide to ironing your trousers.

Step 1: You will need.

* some trousers

* An iron

* An ironing board

* A spray bottle filled with water

* A Cloth/tea towel

* Some White vinegar

Step 2: Methods. There are two ways of pressing your trousers for that important date or meeting. The traditional method is with an iron. Alternatively, you could use a trouser press

Step 3: Be Prepared. Use a steam iron and a sturdy ironing board to make the task easier. Make sure the ironing board is set to a comfortable height for you. Switch the iron on. Check the label on the inside of your trousers to identify what temperature the iron should be set to, and adjust the temperature dial accordingly. Keep a spray bottle filled with water nearby to help you in the event of any stubborn creases.

Step 4: The trousers. Lay the trousers out flat along the length of the ironing board, positioning one leg over the other. You could spray a little water over the trousers to make ironing out creases easier.

HANDY HINT

To avoid getting the horrible shininess common in wool or dark fabrics, use a damp cloth or tea towel to protect the trousers: Lay the cloth or towel over the trouser leg, and iron through it. A good steam iron at the right temperature should avoid this problem.

Step 5: One leg at a time. Flip one leg back and concentrate on the leg that is left. Do not iron the entire length of the leg in one motion, but focus on small sections of the leg, slowly working down from the pockets in circular motions. This will avoid stretching the trousers. If there is a crease running down the length of the trousers from the last time you pressed them, iron it out.

Step 6: The second leg. Bring back the other leg, ensuring the inseams are still lined up. Repeat the ironing motion with this leg.

Step 7: Repeat. Turn the trousers over on the ironing board to iron the other side of the legs, careful to keep the inseams lined-up. As before, flip the top leg back, iron the 1st leg, and bring the 2nd leg back to iron that.

Step 8: Creating a crease. Not all trousers have a built in crease. If you wish to iron in a crease at the front of the trousers, make sure that you position the inseams and the side seams directly over each other as to ensure that the crease at the front of the legs will be central. To create a longer-lasting crease at the front, you must use a pressing solution. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water. Cover the crease with a thin cloth and spray it with the solution. Press a small section of the cloth at a time, lifting and lowering the iron, until the press cloth is dry. Once you have finished ironing, remove the cloth. Allow the crease to dry thoroughly before moving the trousers from the ironing board.

Step 9: Neatly Ironed. Don't forget to switch your iron off, and let it cool down for a few minutes before putting it away.

If you're not wearing the trousers straight away, place them on a hanger and they'll be ready to wear the next time you need them.

For reviews on tea length dresses

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Deep Fat Fryer Guide - 5 Tips For Healthier Fried Meals

By Harry Anderson

Over the years deep fat frying has become synonymous with obesity, high cholesterol and diabetes. Its bad reputation has made it one of the most forbidden foods for any family concerned about their health and watching their weight.

For many, the obvious solution was to just forgo deep fried foods completely. This, of course, is easier said than done. The craving for things like deep fried fish and chips is very hard to resist, both for children and adults alike. But there are things you can do to reduce the most negative health aspects of deep fat frying. It is all a matter of the right tools and a little know how.

The reason most foods that are deep fried contain unhealthy levels of fats and cholesterol is because of a combination of low quality cooking agents, poor temperature control and inaccurate cooking times. If you want to produce the healthiest deep fried dishes possible you need to tightly control all three of these factors.

Here are 5 practical tips to help you accomplish that goal:

1. Buy A Good Deep Fat Fryer

Safety is of the utmost importance in deep fat frying. Modern deep fat fryers that have been designed for home use have undergone strict safety testing and come with many safety features built in. If you plan on doing any deep fat frying at home this is the best option to maintain an adequate safety margin. The other main advantage is their ease of use. You can come close to the results of a professional chef without having to attend culinary school or spend hours cleaning up when you're done.

There are many different models available including the new mini deep fat fryers that are well suited for single servings. (You can find more details and helpful buying tips at the end of this article).

Under no circumstances should you attempt to use a saucepan filled with oil over a hob. It is inherently dangerous and unless you are a skilled chef it will not produce the desired results.

2. Use An Oil With A High Smoke Point

Since food is cooked by immersing it in hot oil, the oil used is going to have a big impact on how healthy the end result is. One important characteristic of all cooking oils is that they break down when heated above a certain temperature. This is known as the smoke point.

Since most deep fat frying occurs at temperatures between 175C and 190C we want an oil that has a smoke point over 200°C. Some good choices are corn (232°C), sunflower (232°C), safflower (266°C) and rapeseed (240°C).

3. Use Oils That Are High In Poly Or Mono Unsaturated Fats

Unsaturated fats have been shown to lower LDL cholesterol levels (the 'bad' cholesterol) and at the same time raise HDL cholesterol levels (the 'good' cholesterol). Corn, sunflower and safflower oil are all high in poly-unsaturated Rapeseed is high in mono-unsaturated fats.

4. Maintain A Consistent Cooking Temperature

Maintaining a consistent oil temperature throughout the deep frying process is probably the single most important factor in producing the healthiest result possible. Setting and maintaining the oil at the correct temperature allows a crust to form which prevents too much oil from being absorbed into the food. The end result is crunchy on the outside and moist on the inside.

Unfortunately many consumer deep fat fryers come with inaccurate thermostats. If calibrated too low, the oil fails to reach the specified temperature and you end up with greasy, soggy chips. A simple solution is to use an inexpensive deep fry thermometer that attaches to the side of your fryer. Consistent oil temperature throughout will keep oil absorption levels to a minimum and produce healthier results.

5. Timing - Don't Overcook or Under cook

Cooking times are best mastered with a little practice. Use the times listed in recipe guide as a starting point but remember that they could vary considerably depending on the fryer, the oil temperature and the food being cooked. Food at room temperature is going to cook faster then a similar item that is frozen.

As a general rule you want an even golden brown colour. As soon as this appears remove the food from the fryer and drain on paper towels. If you need to cook several batches keep the finished items warm in a 95$deg;C oven.

Fried fish and chips will never be as healthy as a salad or piece of fruit, but there are things you can do to reduce the negative health aspects of deep fat frying. As with many other things in life, moderation is the key. Maintain a varied diet with plenty of exercise and you can still enjoy that occasional deep fried treat..

Harry Anderson is your guide to all things deep fried. Discover how you can master this popular cooking technique and continue to enjoy it safely and responsibly. Get tips on deep fat fryer equipment, cooking oils, frying technique and much more at http://www.deepfatfryerguide.co.uk.

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Taking Care of Your Microwave Oven

By Jenny G Khoo

Depending on the model and the brand that you buy, microwave ovens can cost you a lot of money. Like any other kinds of appliances, they run the risk of breaking down prematurely. So, the best thing you can do for your microwave oven is to take care of it and make sure that you get what you paid for. Also, taking proper care of your oven will also lessen the risk of fires and other disasters.

The first thing that you can do to care for your microwave oven is making sure to place a cover on top of the food container when you are heating something up. This will help lessen the food splatters inside the oven. But be sure not to completely seal it. If your food container doesn't have a cover, just use a piece of wax paper.

But if food splatters still happen, then be sure to clean it up at once. Use a damp dish rag to get rid of the food particles and use a dry dish rag to dry everything up. Also, another area that you should never forget to clean is the area around the door. If you neglect to clean this up, dirt can build up there which will prevent the proper closing of the microwave oven.

However, if you did not get to the food splatters on time and some of them have dried up, then boil some water in the microwave. The steam from the water will loosen up the dried splatters. Leave it in the microwave for five minutes then, simply wipe everything dry.

Another thing is if you are having some odor problems with your microwave oven, then, get a bowl and mix in one part lemon juice and three parts water. Let for three to five minutes in the microwave and let it cool after that. Afterward, just remove and wipe everything dry.

A couple of things that you have to remember though are to never use abrasive pads or powders on your microwave oven. Also, do not use the oven for canning, deep-frying or heating baby bottles. You always have to make sure that all the utensils and containers that you are placing into your oven is microwave safe. Some melting may occur if you place containers that aren't safe for use within a microwave.

Another thing that you should never do is to dry clothing items in the microwave oven. I know it sounds silly but if you do this, you will run the risk of starting a fire. On that note, refrain from putting any flammable objects in your microwave.

The microwave could be one of the greatest conveniences that you have in your kitchen. It is easy and, most important of all, it is quick. This is why you should take all these extra measures to take care of your microwave otherwise, it might end up costing you more to pay for repairs or to buy a new microwave oven.

For more information about Microwave Ovens and Parts, please visit: best microwave oven and Black & Decker toaster oven.

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10 Benefits of Electric Ovens

By J Schweppe

Gas ovens have always been the first choice for most restaurants and other commercial food service establishments. In fact, if you were to poll consumers, you'd find that most would prefer a gas oven as well. While electric ovens are undoubtedly inferior to gas ovens in many regards, they do have a following among consumers for a number of reasons, here are 10:

1. Compared to a gas-powered oven, an electric oven provides a more even temperature. Although it seems trivial, the level temperature is especially important for baking cakes and pastries.

2. Electric ovens are energy-efficient. Gas is less environmentally friendly.

3. Most electric ovens come with a self-cleaning feature. When cooking, spills and such are obviously inevitable. Because ovens are hard to clean, having a self-cleaning option can save time.

4. The electric version has less moisture. Although for some crusts and other baked goods having a moist oven is a benefit, most foods cook better with drier heat. Plus, moisture can be added to an oven, but not taken out.

5. Because the heat is more even and comes from the top of the oven, broiling in an electric oven works better than a gas oven. Before important holiday meals or dinner parties, broiling quickly and evenly keeps you from having to waste time by constantly re-checking progress.

6. Electric ovens lose less heat. Because the heat is more controlled, it is less likely to leave the oven. The loss of heat not only costs money; the extra heat in the kitchen has to be compensated for by equally expensive air conditioning costs. Therefore, you not only lose the money from the unit, but you spend even more in A/C bills later.

7. Electric ovens require less maintenance. Gas ovens are more prone to breakage. The electric oven runs longer with fewer problems saving money on repairs.

8. Electric versions require less ventilation than gas ovens. Ventilation can not only be expensive, but the ventilation occupies a lot of room, taking up space where cabinets or other appliances could be. This is especially important in smaller kitchens.

9. For less experienced cooks, electric is much easier to use and manipulate when just starting out. The temperature is not only more precise, but the electronic scales and numbers are easier to read than the classic knobs on most gas ovens.

10. The electric oven is one of the only oven models that allow a good roast. Because of combustion, gas burns off moisture which makes even roasting virtually impossible. This is an especially important consideration for roasting meat. Because of the water, the meat loses a lot of the classic roast taste and even more of the appealing look. With chicken, the crunchy skin is also lost because of the moisture in the cooking air.

For at-home cooks, choosing an oven is a personal process that depends on preferences and cooking styles. Electric ovens do have some advantages over gas. The energy is more efficient and less heat is lost, therefore saving money. Plus, the electric oven in the end saves time and effort, two commodities that are in short supply in most households.

Jeff Schweppe is president of Schweppe, Inc. a walk-in, online, and phone order food service and restaurant supply business, with the best selection of professional-grade kitchen supplies and commercial equipment in the Chicago area. Schweppe's store, located at 376 W. North Ave. 1/2 mile east of I-355, in Lombard, Illinois, is always open to the public. Website: http://www.SchweppeInc.com.

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