BEST TOASTERS FOR YOUR KITCHEN

HOW TO CHOOSE = When choosing which of the best toasters is for you, consider what you want to toast. Long, wide slots will accommodate artisan bread or bagels.

For English muffins, look for a high lift, so you don’t have to fish out smaller items. If you plan to toast frozen waffles, look for slots that are at least 5 ½” long.

Compare your need for a 4-slice toaster to your counter space. Think about your needs. Which is more important to you?

Four-slice toasters will save time for most families with children. Chrome or polished stainless steel is more likely to show scratches and fingerprints. Colored toasters will cost more than white.

Experts say that most new models of the best toasters need to be used at least six times before their heating elements work properly, so don’t judge a toaster on its first few attempts.

Look for automatic centering, or your toast will brown more on one side than the other. Look for removable crumb trays that are dishwasher safe. This makes cleaning very easy. Some models have defrost features for toasting items right from the freezer.

THE REVIEW = The Best 2-slice Toaster is the KitchenAid KMTT200. Reviewers say is gives the best combination of style and performance. It has extra-wide, self-centering slots, along with a lever that lifts toast and pastries out of the toaster.

It received praise for the sturdy metal housing and cord wrap. The crumb tray is both convenient and dishwasher-safe. The 9-setting dial gives users a lot of control.

This unit comes in blue, red, cinnamon or black, with a stainless steel control panel, and sells for about $70.

Other Top Performers Include:

Best 4-slice Toaster = Krups FEM4B for around $75.

Best Basic 2-slice Toaster = Proctor-Silex 22605 at $15.

Best Designer Toaster = DeLonghi DTT980 Esclusivo at about $100.

Best Price found in Nov. ’09 and again in May, '10 = For all models, Amazon.com Marketplace.

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