Blender Buying Guide

A blender is a highly versatile appliance that enables you to make a variety of soups, smoothies, sauces and other foods quickly and easily.

Here are some useful hints and tips to help you choose a blender from the wide range available from online retailers.

How to Choose a Blender

Blenders fall into the following categories, and each type is suitable for a range of different uses:

Hand blender: This is a small handheld blender, and is perfect for quick and easy use. Hand blenders may come with a plug-in lead, or can be cordless models that are powered either by battery or by rechargeable units.
Electric jug blender: This type of appliance has a base with a jug that sits on the top.

Blenders within these two categories come in different styles and offer different functions at a range of prices to suit any budget.

Other types of blender include:

Multi-function appliances: These are usually food processors that include blenders.

Features To Look For When You Buy A Blender

When choosing a blender, it's important to consider which specifications and features you'll need. It's helpful to consider how often you think you'll use the blender, and the types of job you intend to do with it.

Useful features to look out for when buying a blender include:

Capacity: Keep in mind the capacity you will require when choosing a blender. You can choose a blender with a jug that will hold a large amount or a blender with a smaller jug which will be perfect for serving one or two people.
Cleaning: Look for a model that has dishwasher-safe parts or one that comes apart, for easy access and cleaning.
Function and features: There are many other features to look out for, including variable speeds, pulse actions, turbo functions and multi-function accessories. Other selling points are safety features such as non-slip feet and a safety lock. Look for non-slip grips on handheld blenders, anti-splash systems and a quiet action.

Some blenders have convenient extra features such as a window in the lid, which allows you to add ingredients easily, or preset function buttons on simple touch pad controls.

Storage: Some hand blenders come with a wall bracket, which makes storage simple. If you're buying a jug blender, you may want to look for a model with cord storage as well as one that can store all the accessories together. These features are ideal if you don't have much free space. You could also choose a smaller blender, as long as it suits your requirements.
Wattage: More powerful appliances offer a better performance, making all food preparation tasks easier to complete.

What To Look For When Choosing Blender Accessories

Blenders often come with some accessories to make the appliance more versatile or convenient.

Accessories to look out for when choosing a blender include:

Attachments: These can include items such as whisks, blades and ice crushing or chopping attachments, making your blender more versatile.
Wall brackets: To charge or store your hand blender.
Mills: A mill is perfect for crushing coffee beans or nuts.
Mixing cups and beakers: Extremely handy and they often come with lids so you can store your mixture easily in the fridge.
Recipe booklets: Get some extra ideas from these guides.

Should I Buy An Extended Blender Warranty?

A warranty will cover the cost of repairing or replacing your blender if necessary (providing certain conditions are met). The terms will vary between manufacturers, so it is worth checking to see exactly what the warranty covers before buying.

Remember to compare prices between online retailers when you're choosing your new blender, and look out for special offers or discounts, as you might be able to buy a better model of blender than your budget would normally allow for.