If you have never seen a smoothie maker in operation, you could be forgiven for thinking that they are an unnecessary expense for the domestic kitchen. In reality, the standard domestic blender will simply not perform as well as a purpose-designed smoothie machine when it comes to making smoothies. Another problem is that machines that are not up to the job will prove to be more expensive as they will need replacing after a relatively short time.
This is the list that I have compiled of what I think are the most important features to look for when you are considering the purchase of a smoothie maker. Inevitably, there will be some things in my selection will not be as important for you. For your own requirements, there may be a point or two that you wish to factor in. In any event, my top seven features will help you to compile your own list and get the best possible model at the best price.
1. Power. Choose a model with a top rated motor. About 500W is the minimum for a 1.25 litre jug size, to ensure that your machine is up to the job and will last you a good long while. If you are looking for a machine with a large capacity mixing jug (around 1 1/2 litres), a motor of 700 watts or bigger is recommended. Choosing a model that features cord storage might not be essential but it is a neat feature, especially if you have a limited amount of worktop space in your kitchen.
2. Speed. It is probably a false economy to choose a smoothie blender that only has a single speed for mixing. Up to five speeds is about enough and a pulse setting to give that extra burst of power when dealing with larger chunks of fruit, or to crush ice.
3. Non-slip feet. This really isn't 'rocket science'! If you do not want the machine moving about whilst in use, this feature is vital.
4. A glass jug. Plastic scratches, so glass or very hard polycarbonate is much better. Bacteria can develop within the scratches with the potential for health problems so a glass jug that can be popped into the dishwasher may be preferrable for this reason alone.
5. Removable parts for cleaning. Taps and blades should be removable for ease of cleaning. In an ideal world, the model you choose should have entirely dishwasher-safe components.
6. A filter or strainer. This is the sort of feature that is so simple and yet lifts a smoothie from the ordinary to the superb by removing those pips or seeds that will not blend.
7. A stirring stick attachment. Choosing a model with this feature means that you can stir your smoothie or tamp down the contents for better blending without having to remove the lid first. Obviously, this process is done with the motor switched OFF!
When choosing your smoothie maker, a few moments noting down the key features to look for will ensure you get the right model for your requirements. Knowing exactly what you are looking for in terms of performance and specifications will enable you to take advantage of 'on sale' offers. Not only will this save you a lot of time but could also help to find you the right model at the best possible price.
This is the list that I have compiled of what I think are the most important features to look for when you are considering the purchase of a smoothie maker. Inevitably, there will be some things in my selection will not be as important for you. For your own requirements, there may be a point or two that you wish to factor in. In any event, my top seven features will help you to compile your own list and get the best possible model at the best price.
1. Power. Choose a model with a top rated motor. About 500W is the minimum for a 1.25 litre jug size, to ensure that your machine is up to the job and will last you a good long while. If you are looking for a machine with a large capacity mixing jug (around 1 1/2 litres), a motor of 700 watts or bigger is recommended. Choosing a model that features cord storage might not be essential but it is a neat feature, especially if you have a limited amount of worktop space in your kitchen.
2. Speed. It is probably a false economy to choose a smoothie blender that only has a single speed for mixing. Up to five speeds is about enough and a pulse setting to give that extra burst of power when dealing with larger chunks of fruit, or to crush ice.
3. Non-slip feet. This really isn't 'rocket science'! If you do not want the machine moving about whilst in use, this feature is vital.
4. A glass jug. Plastic scratches, so glass or very hard polycarbonate is much better. Bacteria can develop within the scratches with the potential for health problems so a glass jug that can be popped into the dishwasher may be preferrable for this reason alone.
5. Removable parts for cleaning. Taps and blades should be removable for ease of cleaning. In an ideal world, the model you choose should have entirely dishwasher-safe components.
6. A filter or strainer. This is the sort of feature that is so simple and yet lifts a smoothie from the ordinary to the superb by removing those pips or seeds that will not blend.
7. A stirring stick attachment. Choosing a model with this feature means that you can stir your smoothie or tamp down the contents for better blending without having to remove the lid first. Obviously, this process is done with the motor switched OFF!
When choosing your smoothie maker, a few moments noting down the key features to look for will ensure you get the right model for your requirements. Knowing exactly what you are looking for in terms of performance and specifications will enable you to take advantage of 'on sale' offers. Not only will this save you a lot of time but could also help to find you the right model at the best possible price.
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