People in the United States are currently spending Much of their income comes from food. More than I've earned in 30 years. And when you drop that much money on food, you probably want to get your money's worth. As a result, some people may stock up on kitchen items that make cooking easier or faster. Some kitchen appliances can definitely make your life easier. A lemon squeezer is an essential tool in my kitchen. But let's be honest, most of them just take up valuable space in drawers and countertops.
So which kitchen gadgets are actually worth it? Which one should you have in your online cart? In my opinion, these seven gadgets aren't worth the money and do little more than clutter your kitchen. Of course, everyone's cooking needs are different, and some people, especially people with disabilities, may benefit from using these products. However, if you are not already using these tools, you may want to reconsider purchasing them.
1. Kitchen timer
I'm really surprised that kitchen timers are still on the market. The only function they seem to serve at the moment is an aesthetic one. Don't most of us have timers on our phones? Most flip phones also offer timers. Many of us are busy and have our phones ringing all the time, so you might want to take a break from your devices every now and then. But why buy another piece of electronic plastic when you've already dropped hundreds (or thousands) of money on a cell phone?
2. Egg separator
Separating egg yolks and whites can be difficult, especially when you're first learning how to do it. But that doesn't really justify purchasing an egg separator in most cases. If you don't like using the shell to separate the white from the yolk, try using your hands and letting the white part of the egg drip between your fingers. You'll need to clean your egg separator anyway, so washing your hands after separating a few eggs is no big deal.
3. Avocado slicer
If you have a medical condition that makes it difficult to slice avocados, buy an avocado slicer. But for most other people, an avocado slicer just takes up space in a kitchen drawer. This gadget can't do anything a simple knife and spoon can't, and it can be difficult to clean once it's covered in green dirt.
4. Pizza oven
Some people are crazy about homemade pizza, and if you fit into that category, I applaud you (and would love an invitation to dinner at your house). A pizza oven may actually make sense in your situation. But if you only make homemade pizza a few times a year, you definitely don't need a pizza oven in your kitchen. Trust me, your standard oven will work just as well as this special product and won't take up much space on your countertop.
5. Egg fryer
Really, you don't need an egg cooker. Place the pot on the stove. Fill it with water. Add the eggs and set the timer. That's literally all you have to do. Don't let the electric egg cooker industry fool you into thinking that boiling eggs is difficult.
6. Taco stand
Your kitchen is not a Mexican restaurant. No taco stand, rack or holder required. If you buy a taco stand, you'll probably use it a couple of times when friends come over. Then it will gather dust in the back of your pantry until you move and you remember you hid it there for months. Or years ago. The worst thing that can happen if you don't buy a taco stand is sometimes end up eating a soggy taco. you will survive. If you are a regular taco customer, please continue if you wish.
7. Juicer
The appeal of freshly squeezed juice is strong, so if you drink juice frequently, you should definitely buy a juicer. But if you only drink juice once in a while, this expensive kitchen gadget isn't worth it. You have to buy a ridiculous amount of fruit to get even a small amount of juice out of the juicer, and it's a pain to clean. It is better to eat the whole fruit as a snack.
Samantha Maxwell is a food writer and editor based in Boston. Follow her on Twitter @samseating.
