Expert kitchen advice: how to choose appliances

The Good Housekeeping Institute brings you seven practical tips on what matter and what doesn't when you're buying appliances for your kitchen

1) Appliances should not only perform well, but also be well designed and look great. Stainless steel is still the most popular finish but will show every finger mark unless it's been treated. If you don't fancy a lifetime of wiping and buffing, look for a matt or slightly textured finish.

 

2) A hob is the most essential piece of kit, so it's worth spending as much as you can afford. Traditionally, gas has been the most popular fuel choice because of its speed and controllability, but the new induction hobs were just as quick in the GHI's most recent tests, as well as being more streamlined and easier to clean. However, they work only with pans that have a base that contains iron - check with a magnet.

 

3)  If you cook mainly on the hob, built-in Domino or modular hob units are a good option. They're generally around 30cm wide and can be configured to suit your style of cooking - choose from a wok burner, griddle or fryer, as well as gas, ceramic or induction.

 

4) Double built-in ovens or range-style cookers offer the most flexibility for a large family or keen cook. Unlike single ovens, you can use the grill and oven at the same time or cook a selection of dishes at different temperatures.

 

6) It's worth paying extra for an oven with pyrolytic cleaning. With this option, the oven heats to around 500°C so all the grease and grime burns off (pyrolyses), leaving just a few ashes to be brushed away.

 

7) American-style fridge freezers look spacious but may not offer as much freezer space as a traditional fridge freezer. Check the ice maker or water filter doesn't take up too much space, either.

 

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