This category covers toasters, waffle makers and sandwich makers for breakfasts, snacks and quick everyday meals at home. Our range includes over 290 models, among them appliances from Philips, Bosch, Tefal, Smeg and KitchenAid.
You will find plain models for daily use as well as design-led appliances that match a kitchen interior.
How to choose a toaster, waffle maker or sandwich maker
Type of appliance. A toaster browns slices of bread, a waffle maker cooks waffles from batter, and a sandwich maker presses and seals filled sandwiches. Some makers come with interchangeable plates, so one appliance can make both sandwiches and waffles. Think about what you will cook most often before you buy.
Number of slots. Most toasters in our range have two slots, so you can toast two slices at once, which is enough for one or two people. There are also single-slot and four-slot models, and the latter are more convenient when the whole family eats breakfast together. Check the slot width too: thick slices of bakery bread need wider slots.
Functions. Almost all the toasters in our range for which we hold detailed information have a defrost function, which lets you toast frozen bread without thawing it first. A browning control, a reheat button and a removable crumb tray are also worth having. On waffle and sandwich makers, look for a non-stick coating and an indicator light that shows when the plates are hot.
Power. The power of many toasters in our range falls between 810 and 970 W, so the difference between models shows more in how evenly they brown than in speed. Waffle and sandwich makers can draw more power because their plates need more heat. All of these appliances run from a standard 230 V household supply.
Housing and cleaning. A metal or stainless steel housing feels more solid, while plastic is lighter and simpler. Our range includes black, stainless steel, white, red and grey models, so it is easy to match other kitchen appliances. Cleaning is easiest when the crumb tray or cooking plates come out, or at least wipe clean quickly.
Brands in our range
- Philips: a large household appliance maker, with bun-warming racks on some of its toasters.
- Tefal: a French manufacturer known for non-stick coatings, which is why its waffle and sandwich makers often have such plates.
- Smeg: an Italian company famous for 1950s-style design and bold colours.
- KitchenAid: an American maker best known for stand mixers, and its toasters follow the same styling.
- De'Longhi and Ariete: Italian manufacturers: De'Longhi is best known for coffee machines, Ariete for small household appliances.
Also in our range: Adler, Bosch, Tristar, Esperanza, MPM and Brock.
Frequently asked questions
How many slots should a toaster have?
A two-slot toaster is enough for one or two people, and most models in our range are of this type. If four or more people eat breakfast together, a four-slot model saves you from toasting in several rounds. A single-slot toaster suits only occasional use.
Can you toast frozen bread in a toaster?
Yes, if the toaster has a defrost function. The appliance first warms the slice gently and then browns it, so you do not need to thaw the bread beforehand. Most toasters in our range have this function.
What is the difference between a sandwich maker and a waffle maker?
Sandwich maker plates press bread and filling together and seal the edges, while waffle maker plates have a grid pattern and cook liquid batter. Some makers have interchangeable plates and can do both jobs. Check whether the plates are removable before you buy.
How do you clean a toaster?
Unplug it and let it cool completely first. Then empty the crumb tray and wipe the outside with a damp cloth. Do not push sharp objects into the slots, as they can damage the heating elements.
