With so many uses, scissors are an essential tool to have around your home. It doesn’t matter if you need something to use around the kitchen or to cut down twigs in the garden, finding a pair of hard-wearing scissor will make a big difference to your day to day life.

The better products should be comfortable to hold, be sharp enough to fit your purpose and last a long time. Finding scissors that fit this isn’t as easy as you might think which is why we have compiled our list of the best scissors available. Each product is made from quality materials and comes with a proven reputation.

List of the Best Scissors

Best Value: Fiskars 12-94518697WJ The Original Orange Handled Scissors

Buy on Amazon

For a multipurpose scissor that is great value, Fiskars offers this 8-inch bright orange colored product. They are the sort of scissors that everyone should have as they make light work of getting through fabric, silk, paper, you name it! The stainless steel blades stay sharp for a long time thanks to the precision ground edge but can be easily sharpened.

With a comfortable handle that has been tailored to fit the hand and give it full control, it helps to improve accuracy and straight lines. What a lot of people will find most appealing is the lifetime warranty – just one of the reasons they have sold over a billion units.

What we liked about it

• Great value
• Stays sharp for a long time
• Cuts through a variety of materials

Best Affordable: Scotch Precision Scissor, 8-Inches

Buy on Amazon

It is likely that you or someone you know has had a pair of Scotch brand scissors at some point. They are great for cutting different types of paper, photos, fabrics, and beyond and are made from stainless steel.

The blades stay sharp for longer than you might expect for a product in the price bracket but they can be a little harder to sharpen than other brands. They come with a lifetime warranty and have a cutting action that is best described as smooth. It doesn’t matter if you are left or right-handed as they are designed for anyone to use

What we liked about it

• Reliable scissors for everyday use
• Good for right and left handed people
• Lifetime warranty
• Good value

Best Multipack: AmazonBasics Multipurpose Office Scissors

Buy on Amazon

These are ideal for anyone who needs to kit out their home with a few pairs of scissors to keep in different rooms. Not only do you get 3 pairs at a reasonable price, but the quality is good as well. They’re not going to be good for cutting tough fabrics or denim but you will find that for cutting photos, paper, cardboard and other materials around the house, they are an excellent option.

The soft grip handles are comfortable for both left and right-handers because the blades are fused with titanium they should stay sharp for around 100,000 cuts.

What we liked about it

• Good value multipack
• Comfortable to use
• Stays sharp for 100,000 cuts

Best All-round Scissors: Kai 5210 8-inch Dressmaking Shears

Buy on Amazon

Not for everyone but certainly a sharp and useful tool, these dressmaking shears are great for cutting through a variety of materials without a problem, leaving them tear-free. One of the best all-round scissors that are made from stainless steel and vanadium. You can change the tension and the comfortable handles feel strong.

They are the sort of scissors that lasts a long time, partly because of the quality build but also because the blades can be removed for easy sharpening. Despite being 8-inch scissors they are not heavy or bulky so are fine for using on any task making them the sort of product that every home should have.

What we liked about it

• Quality materials used
• Can be sharpened easily
• Very sharp

Best Kitchen Scissors: OXO Good Grips Multi-Purpose Kitchen & Herbs Scissors

Buy on Amazon

These quality scissors are marketed towards being used in the kitchen but are good for getting through cardboard and twine as well as meat. Great for fine cutting herbs the grips feature a cushioned pad to increase the users’ comfort and absorbs pressure when cutting.

The blades actually come far apart to make them easy to clean individually which makes them good for using with food. With a herb stripper for removing tough stems, they make a neat addition to any budding chef or someone who just wants to make certain parts of cooking a little easier. The micro-serrated blades stay sharp for a long time so you can use them to prepare thousands of dishes.

What we liked about it

• Cushioned grips for extra comfort
• Great for removing stems from herbs
• Easy to clean

Best For Cutting Meat: Mitsumoto Sakari Japanese Kitchen Scissors

Buy on Amazon

Another contender for the best kitchen scissors, these are impressive from their simple yet comfortable design and quality materials. The stainless steel blades stay sharp for a long time and the large handles that have a square type shape but make it easy to cut through tough meats.

After using them you can throw them in the dishwasher so clean up is easy and a lot of people comment on their durability. They feel sturdy and for many households, they are a reliable pair of kitchen shears.

What we liked about it

• Quality materials
• Comfortable handles

Scissors Guide

A pair of scissors is the kind of everyday tool we take for granted. The problem is, a lot of people buy a cheap pair and wonder why it takes so long to cut through plastic, or that they break before you would expect them to.

This is why we have created the following buyer’s guide, to make sure your new purchase is a good one that lasts a long time.

What To Look For In A Pair Of Scissors

Quality Blades

The first thing anyone should check for are quality blades. The stainless steel types are great for multiple purposes and clean well so they can be used with food. Others will be titanium coated and stay sharp for a long time.

Easy To Sharpen

Cheaper scissors might not be so easy to sharpen which is a problem since they are also the scissors that tend to go blunt a lot faster. The better products will be easy to loosen the blades to separate them which makes sharpening safer and more convenient.

Size

The most common sizes for household scissors tend to be 7 to 9 inches. This gives you plenty of room for most standard hand sizes so you can hold them in comfort. Then, there is the blade length. If you want it to get through cardboard with ease, they need to have the scope to get through without having to make small cuts all the way through.

Comfortable Handles

If you are using them for longer periods or have a particularly tough material to cut through, you need to make sure you have a comfortable handle. Some are just grippy whilst others are made from softer materials but above all, they need to be sturdy to ensure you are safe when using the scissors.

Value

This will depend on how much. your budget stretches to but also how often you will use the scissors. If you think you will use them regularly, but only for random household needs then you might not need such an expensive pair. Those who want a pair of kitchen scissors that can also be used on other materials will want to invest in a higher quality pair.

Whatever your budget or use, there are plenty of options.

Rust Resistant

Some products come with a special coating on the blades and all metal parts to ensure they are protected from rusting. This is more important if you wash them in the dishwasher frequently and for anyone who uses them in the kitchen.

Warranty

Some of the best scissors on the market come with a warranty and others a lifetime guarantee. This is impressive since scissors should last a long time but of course, aren’t indestructible. If you are spending money on a more expensive pair then this can be a sensible thing to look out for but since most pairs will last for years, it shouldn’t be a deal-breaker.

Suitable For Right/Left-Handed

A lot of scissors are fine to be used by both left and right-handed people so if you are one of the (approximately) 10% of people who are left-handed, then this is certainly something to look out for. Most products will tell you this in their description so check before buying.

Common Types of Scissors

Not all scissors are built the same, and sometimes that’s for a good reason. The following are some of the common types of scissors and their uses.

Safety – As the name suggests, these scissors are safe for young hands to use and are usually smaller to fit them right. The blades are not as sharp as other types and the tips are coated with plastic. Expect bright colors to please young minds and you might even find them made of plastic.

Office Scissors – A basic pair that are common in workplaces and homes around the world. Known for being a multipurpose product with a straight blade that does require regular sharpening because they are used so often.

Fabric Scissors – It isn’t just dressmakers that like to use these sharp and often relatively long scissors. They are popular in homes because they tend to have sharper blades so make light work of random materials and uses. A good pair to have around.

Nurse Scissors – As you may have guessed, these are common in the medical world and give you a long handle but a short blade. One blade will have a pointed tab at the bottom to help it lift a bandage or clothing to cut through in an emergency.

Kitchen Shears – These are made a little different and are designed to be able to get through slippery meats but also trim herbs at the same time.

Do I Have To Choose Between Sharpness and Precision?

In most cases, the two go hand in hand. This means the sharper the blade is, the easier it will stay precise. When you can’t cut in one motion without having to readjust because it catches on the fabric or tears, it can lead to errors and makes it hard to cut in a straight line.

The main take out here – the sharper the better.

How To Prevent Scissors From Rusting

To prolong the lifespan of a quality pair of scissors, apply a little machine oil to prevent rusting. Rub it over the blades with a cloth. The same can be done on the pivot point if the scissors are starting to become bothersome to open and close as a little oil can help to loosen things up a bit.

Wipe your scissors after every use, especially if you are cutting materials that leave a residue on the blade.

It doesn’t matter what type of knife you need to sharpen – a quality sharpening stone is convenient and can be used on just about any blade. The uses don’t stop there so it can be an important tool to have around. The better products are so convenient they can be taken on a camping trip without weighing you down.

However, some are just made to be a bit higher in quality than others which is why it is difficult to know what the best sharpening stones should look like. To help clear a few things up, and make this purchase a simple one, we have created our list of the best available products. Any of these will help you take your blades from dull to as good as new.

List of the Best Sharpening Stones

Editor’s Choice: Sharp Pebble Premium Whetstone Knife Sharpening Stone

Buy on Amazon

This is not only one of the best sharpening stones available, but it seems to be one of the most popular products around. It is hard to find anyone who has anything bad to say about it which is a testament to the build quality and materials. Not only does it come with a dual-sided whetstone that has different grit ratings of 1,000 and 6,000 to help you to sharpen then polish the blade, but it also has a bamboo base.

This is what helps to keep it in place thanks to the non-slip material. With an angle guide included, it is durable and known for lasting a long time so use it on your hunting knife, pocket knife, cleaver knife, sushi knife, steak knife, and just about any other type of blade.

What we liked about it

• Two grit ratings of 1,000 and 6,000
• Sturdy bamboo base
• Includes angle guide
• Easy to use
• Non-slip base

Best Affordable: Lansky Puck – Dual Grit Multi-Purpose Sharpener

Buy on Amazon

The contoured shape of this puck design sharpening stone makes it easy to get a dull knife back to a former glory and is a favorite of many. It can be used on a variety of blades, even ax’s despite being small in size. This is actually one of the major benefits of using this sharpening stone – it fits into your pocket nicely and is easy to grip in your palm so you can stay safe when using it.

The design is great because it offers both a coarse grit of 120 for sharpening tools and blades, then a medium grot of 280 to polish so you’ll only need this one neat sharpening stone for all your needs. If you had to pick a downside then it would be that it doesn’t come with a base but there is little else to fault here.

What we liked about it

• Dual grit for shaping and polish
• Can sharpen a variety of blades
• Easy to hold

Best For Versatility: DMT W6EFC Three 6-Inch Diamond Whetstone Models

Buy on Amazon

In a way, this neatly packaged product looks so good it would make a great gift but if you need a quality sharpening stone for yourself, then it is worth looking at. There are three different stones included which have their own uses so you can move between the coarse whetstone to restore a dull blade and make it sharper, a fine whetstone to keep the blade extra sharp or the extra-fine whetstone that will help to polish the blade.

The quality is in the mono-crystalline diamond surfaces making them durable so you know they will last a long time. You don’t have to use water to get the benefits and never need to keep oil around and make a mess.

What we liked about it

• Quality whetstone material
• 3 sharpening options
• Makes a great gift
• Can be used dry
• Grit rating of 325, 600, & 100

Best For Convenience: Dan’s Whetstone Company (Ultra Fine) Pocket Knife Sharpening Stone

Buy on Amazon

Being able to take your sharpening stone anywhere is a big plus so when you see the quality as well as the convenient size of this ultra-fine product, it’s hard to not be impressed. It is the go-to sharpening stone of many professionals including chefs and woodworkers because of its quality and are quarried in central Arkansas, in the Ouachita Mountains.

With an incredibly hard surface and a grit range of 5,000 – 8,000, it comes with an eye-catching leather pouch that makes it easy to keep in your pocket and prevents any mess. The best way to use them is alongside a honing oil to prevent clogging only using light pressure.

What we liked about it

• Quality whetstone
• Leather pouch is well made
• Grit range of 5,000 – 8,000

Best With Pouch: Fallkniven CC4 Ceramic Whetstone Sharpener W/Leather Pouch

Buy on Amazon

The slick design of this whetstone sharpener is what first catches the eye and the leather pouch only adds to the appeal. Anyone looking for an easy to use sharpening stone will appreciate the fact that you do not need to apply lubrication before using this product.

Made from synthetic materials it has a dual-sided sharpening surface that includes one white side of 2,000 grit ceramic stone that is super fine for a smooth finish after you have sharpened on the darker 1,000 grit side made of synthetic sapphires. Although you don’t need to use oil or water to use this stone sharpener, it is never a bad idea to give them a clean now and then after using this neat whetstone.

What we liked about it

• No lubrication required
• Dual grit sides of 1,000 & 2,000
• Compact and comes with leather pouch

Best Tri-Hone: Smith’s TRI-6 Arkansas TRI-HONE Sharpening Stones System

Buy on Amazon

When you need to sharpen different blades you need a variety of stone options and this is exactly what you get with this product. You can choose from any of the rotating sides that range from 400, 600, 1,000 & 1,200 grit and because it comes with a mini bench it is one of the most convenient ways of sharpening a blade.

The non-slip base makes it safe by keeping it sturdy and it is easy to switch between the stones because of the different colors. There is a sharpening angle guide to make sure you get the exact angle you need as well as an oil trough that is built into the device to make sure clean up is as easy as sharpening.

What we liked about it

• Wide grit range
• Easy to use
• Sharpening angle guide

Sharpening Stone Guide

No matter what type of blade you own, there will come a point where you can no longer work with it until you have a sharpening stone. They are simple so you would imagine that it is easy to find a quality product right? Well, this isn’t always the case which is why it is important to make sure you know what to expect from a sharpening stone.

The better products tick certain boxes and to help you make a sensible decision, we have created the following buyer’s guide to keep your mind and your blades sharp.

What To Look For In Sharpening Stones

Natural Materials

These are better wearing and of a higher quality but do come at a price. Most people tend to think it is worth the investment as they allow you to create a sharper edge in your blades. One of the most common and popular natural stones is Arkansas stone. Otherwise known as novaculite it is one of the toughest stones and well suited to particularly dull blades.

Dual Grits

If you don’t buy a sharpening stone with dual grits you might need to buy more than one. This is because the dual sides often come with a low grit level and a high one. These are used to sharpen then polish the blade so having everything you need in one stone is preferrable.

Sturdy Base

Not all sharpening stones come with a sturdy base but it can make sharpening safe and easier for some people. The alternative is to hold the stone in your hand whilst sharpening and although an experienced might use this method, it is not for everyone. A sharpening stone that fits into a non-slip base will help to make the process easier.

Multiple Uses

Because a lot of people want to sharpen multiple knives, the sharpening stone needs to be versatile. There is no point in buying a compact product that can’t be used on your kitchen knives or other blades after you’ve used it to sharpen your pocket knife.

Size

When it comes to a sharpening stone, size matters. You need it to be wide enough to accommodate your blade with ample room. Check the size of the blade you are looking to sharpen or consider the other tools you might want to use it for before purchasing. After you have the right one, use long, slow motions to pass the blade over and let the stone do all the hard work.

Value

The best thing about a sharpening stone is that because they are simple devices, it doesn’t cost a lot of money to get a quality product. However, a sharpening stone is only worth buying if it has the quality to sharpen a blade in just a few strokes, and lasts a long time.

What Grit Is Best For A Sharpening Stone?

This depends on the stage you are at as those who want to sharpen a blunt or dull blade will need to use a coarser stone which means a lower grit. When it comes to polishing, the higher grit levels help you to create the perfect finish. Use a grit level of around 300 – 400 to sharpen and 1,000 and above to polish.

Oil Vs Water

To stop particles from building up on the blade and getting in the way of where the stone needs to sharpen, a lot of people use a lubricant. Various oils are popular and some people even use household items such as baby oil to keep the area clear from debris.

Water is also commonly used and some stones make it a requirement. This means soaking the stone for a while (usually no more than 10 minutes) before using but this variety of sharpening stones tends to wear a lot faster. Still, they will often be cheaper than other types and when looking for a sharpening stone you can use in the field, it is a lot easier to get your hands on some water than oil.

Ceramic Sharpening Stones

These are becoming more and more common in kitchens and other professional places because they are convenient to use. Because they do not require water they are good for those who need to sharpen on the go so a chef can get back to their meal prep with a razor sharp knife.

You’ll find them in a variety of grits and made with aluminum oxide.

Bench Stone Vs Pocket Stone

As you might expect, a bench stone has a larger surface and is better suited to bigger blades. They’re not as convenient as a pocket stone but because of the added weight, they tend to be sturdier.

The benefit of using a pocket stone is that it is easily portable so is great for taking into the field but it is hard to maintain a constant angle compared to a bench stone.

What Is The Best Sharpening Stone For A Beginner?

When it comes to handling knives, a beginner should use a sharpening stone that keeps things simple. This means you will want a stone that is easy to handle and doesn’t require lubrication.

If you have to constantly stay on top of flattening or soaking the stone you might lose patience with it and use it less often than you should. When you know what you are doing, it can be a good time to change to a more advanced stone that requires some maintenance, but it isn’t necessary.

What Is A Whetstone?

Whetstone or water stone is just another name for a sharpening stone. They can sharpen a variety of blades and tools so anything from a pair of scissors to razors can benefit from a whetstone.

Whatever you want to call it, if you have tools and blades that you use often, you can preserve their lifespan by keeping them sharp. With an effective whetstone or sharpening stone, you can keep them in great condition for some time.

If you’re looking for a pocket knife sharpener then check out my reviews and tips on this article.

It doesn’t matter what the weather is doing outside, there is always a need for an ice cube in a drink. Even when the weather is cold, you never know when you might need to out ice on a child’s wound or in a cocktail when entertaining. The best ice cube trays are not made the same as the cheaper options and it is important to find one that is easy to get the cubes out of.

This is easier said than done and many of the better products have other conveniences. Still, to make sure you find a product that ticks all the right boxes, and make life a little easier, we have created the following list of the best ice cube trays.

List of the Best Ice Cube Trays

Editor’s Choice: OXO Good Grips Covered Ice Cube Tray

Buy on Amazon

A favorite in many freezers around the world, OXO are known for making quality products which means this should come as no surprise. Their covered ice cube trays are great for stacking multiple trays at one time so you can save space and not affect the water before it freezes. The covers also keeps everything fresh so if you are freezing meats or anything with a strong odor, the ice will not absorb any of it.

The rounded shape of the ice cubes are important as this makes them easier to remove and the quality materials are also dishwasher safe to keep everything hygienic. You get two in a pack to add to the value and when you are transferring the tray with fresh water, you’ll be thankful for the lids as they stop you from spilling the contents.

What we liked about it

• Good value
• Lid keeps everything hygienic
• Rounded shape
• Stackable

Best Flexible: Tovolo Perfect Cube Ice Mold Trays

Buy on Amazon

These BPA-free silicon ice cube trays not only look great but are easy to use. A lot of people comment on the perfect cube design as it is something you don’t always get from an ice mold and the super flexible silicon makes it easy to push the cubes out without worrying about breaking any plastics.

The quality of the multiple colors is great and they won’t fade over time, instead, they maintain their vibrancy and are dishwasher safe. They come in a set of two and make 15 perfect cubes in each one. The food-grade silicon is durable and will never crack or shard so are considered safer to use than a lot of the alternatives.

What we liked about it

• Great color options
• Big cubes
• Easy to remove cubes

Best Affordable: Airabc Ice Cube Trays 4 Pack

Buy on Amazon

known for being easy to release, this 4-pack of ice cube trays represents great value. They allow you to stockpile the ice in your freezer so when you are entertaining, you aren’t caught short. The lid is easy to attach and remove which makes it easy to transport the fresh water from the tap to the freezer without worrying about spillages.

The silicon material moves easily so you can push out the ice without worrying about breaking the ice cube tray in half. They don’t stick to the surface of the freezer and can be put in the dishwasher to make them easy to clean. The lids make them stackable which is ideal when you are using all 4 and with 14 cubes in a tray you are getting a good amount for when the summer months kick in.

What we liked about it

• Good value
• Easy to remove the cubes
• Don’t stick to the freezer

Best Novelty: Ice Cube Trays Diamond Ice Cube Molds

Buy on Amazon

Putting the fun into entertaining these unique diamond shaped ice molds are great for breaking the ice at a party! The BPA-free molds come with a funnel to make it easy to pour the water in and once they have frozen, they are easy to remove thanks to the flexible silicone.

They look great and dilute slowly and can be put through the dishwasher and with a removable lid, they keep out doors and prevent spills. The diamonds are small but look great, an excellent novelty ice cube tray.

What we liked about it

• Unique diamond shape
• Easy to remove
• Comes with funnel

Best Ice Ball Mold: Silicone Ice Sphere Molds

Buy on Amazon

These silicone molds might look like a novelty, with their perfect sphere ice but they are built to last and have a unique design. The large ball shapes keep drinks cooler for longer and are ideal for whiskey drinkers, making it an excellent gift. It comes with inverts to make it easy to remove the ball once the water has frozen and the two you get in a pack are stackable to create more space.

The BPA-free materials feel quality and once you see the sphere in a cup, you’ll see why so many people say it impresses their guests. The 2 inch balls create less dilution and the eye-catching red design of the mold are dishwasher safe making them easy to clean.

What we liked about it

• Unique design
• Easy to clean
• Good value compared to the competition

Best Variety: Ice Cube Trays Silicone Set of 2

Buy on Amazon

The appeal with this purchase is being able to choose from a sphere ice ball and a perfect cube. Both are reliable and easy to remove from the food-grade silicone trays and the slick black design looks good. The molds are BPA-free making them safe to use and make large pieces of ice every time which means they don’t dilute so quickly.

The soft design of the trays makes it easy for you to remove the ice once it has frozen and you don’t have to worry about brittle plastic because of the flexible material. They have a wide range of uses with everything from popsicles to fruit jellies and offer you a way of creating unique ice that will turn a few heads when entertaining.

What we liked about it

• Cubed and spherical ice
• Easy to remove
• BPA-free silicone

Ice Cube Tray Guide

They might seem like something that is hard to get wrong but ice cube trays have come a long way. Now, you can get them in sorts of shapes and sizes, differing materials and added features. A lot of people just want volume, but it is not always easy to find a product that will last a long time.

To help clarify some of the things you should consider when buying ice cube trays, we have created the following guide to make this purchase an easy one.

What To Look For In Ice Cube Trays

Capacity

This will be less important to those who want to pick up a novelty ice cube tray but if you are thinking about that party you have lined up, the more ice cubes you can make the better. There are some products with a capacity of over 50 per tray whilst some people prefer bigger cubes. That brings us to…

Cube Size

Larger ice cubes have many advantages. Not only do they dilute slower, keeping your drink stronger and tasting better but you don’t need to remove as many at a time. The larger cubes often mean you only need one per drink.

Easy Removal

When it comes to ice cube trays, the biggest convenience is in how easy they are to remove. Silicone ice cube trays are often best for this although some plastic options have silicone bases to help you push the ice out easily. Be careful when using a plastic ice cube tray as they can be brittle and will often crack or break when bent.

Lids

Not everyone will have used an ice cube tray with a lid before but the benefits are what make them so popular. Not only does it make it easier to transport the tray from the sink to the freezer without spilling but once sealed, they prevent odors from getting into the ice. This means it doesn’t matter what you put in the freezer, they will keep the ice fresh.

On top of this, ice cube trays with lids are stackable so you can save on space and fit more into your freezer.

Fun

This isn’t for everyone although they do make great gifts, a novelty ice cube tray adds a bit of fun to a drink. You can get them in a variety of designs from perfect spheres to diamonds. The main compromise with these is volume as you usually only get 4 – 6 shapes per pack.

With unique shapes, it is often good to make sure they come with a funnel as there will be a small hole to pour into.

Scent-Free

Some ice cube trays look appealing on paper but when it comes to using them, they can leave a nasty taste in the mouth. Sometimes, it is best to avoid disreputable brands because the materials they use aren’t food grade or safe.

Even the safer materials can need a good cleaning before they are used for the first time to make sure you don’t experience a strong taste in your drink.

Safe Materials

Because most ice cube trays tend to be made from some form of plastic of silicone, it is important to make sure they are BPA-free and food-grade. This will stop you from absorbing harmful chemicals and is especially important when preparing drinks for younger members of your household.

Some products are known for being cheaply made which will often mean you will have to buy new ones before to long. Both plastic and silicone tend to be durable if you use them properly although some companies tend to scrimp on quality materials – avoid these!

Big Ice Vs Small Ice

When it comes to drinks, the bigger the ice cube the better. This is why you will often see some of the hip bars in town using spherical shapes and large ones at that. Not only do they dilute slower but they keep your drink cooler for longer.

This is the main benefit with larger ice cubes but it does mean you need a lot more trays when entertaining. There is something to be said for smaller cubes and getting lots of them when you have guests.

Plastic Vs Silicone Ice Cube Trays

This is one of the main decisions you will have to make but they both have their benefits. A lot of people like the easy of silicone as they are more flexible, often making it easier to remove the ice.

Plastic tends to be cheaper meaning you can get better value although the risk of breaking them is higher so try to avoid twisting a plastic ice cube tray. However, you don’t often get a lid with silicone options which can make it harder to avoid spillages.

Different Uses For Ice Cube Trays

One of the best things about buying a new ice cube tray is the number of options you get. They have many uses beyond ice and can be used to freeze stock, popsicles, alcoholic drinks, juice, smoothies, fresh herbs, baby food, caramelized onions, and loads more.

With so many shapes and sizes, quantities and materials, it can be hard to find a quality product. Stick to the above and you’ll get your hands on an ice cube tray that lasts for many years.

Sometimes described as a nifty blade, a paring knife is a convenient tool to have around the kitchen. Using a large blade to peel a piece of fruit can be awkward but these knives allow you to cut with accuracy and are a common inclusion in many a kitchen drawer of cooking enthusiasts and chefs.

Whether you are removing seeds or peeling vegetables, a paring knife should be sharp and made from quality materials. You might realize that this is a bigger task than it should be, with too many products falling short of what you would expect. This is why we created our list of the top paring knives, so anyone looking to de-shell shrimp or peel an apple doesn’t have to struggle.

List of the Best Paring Knives

Paring Knife Guide

It doesn’t matter if you are a budding chef or someone who takes their cooking seriously at home, a paring knife can be one of the most important blades in your kitchen drawer. Whether you are de-shelling shrimp or deseeding peppers, you’ll want a product that performs well on some of the more laborious tasks.

The best paring knives differ greatly from the cheaply made imitators. Because of this, we have created the following guide. It details everything you need to know before you purchase so you can enjoy the benefits for a long time.

What To Look For In A Paring Knife

Comfortable Handle

Because it is used for close up tasks such as de-shelling and peeling, you want to know the handle is reliable. Not only should the grip give you the confidence to work your way around an apple without it slipping but the materials need to be comfortable to hold. Depending on what your preference is, some people like the feel of a wooden handle whilst others prefer the grip of a rubber or plastic handle.

Weight

Sometimes you can find yourself using a paring knife for long periods which is why you will want it to be a sensible weight. A product that weighs too much is usually one with an oversized handle. When it looks on the thick side, be sure to check the weight before buying.

Easy To Clean

The better the quality of the blade, the less susceptible it is to staining. Some products are dishwasher safe which can make them easy to clean although this can impact how long the blade stays sharp.

If you do wash the paring knife in a dishwasher, be sure to remove it when the cycle has finished and dry it so it is not left in the steam for a long time which can corrode the knife over time.

Sharp Blade

Some paring knives are known for having razor-sharp blades from the first use and to stop yourself from having to get the sharpening kit out before you even use the knife, make sure the company is known for producing sharp blades that stay that way for a long time.

Warranty

Anything in the way of a warranty or money-back guarantee is important when you are spending money on a paring knife. The more expensive knives certainly feel like an investment and when they come with a lifetime warranty or money-back guarantee, it can make it a risk-free purchase.

Rust Resistant

More important with this type of product since you are working with food but also because you want it to last as long as possible. A lot of products on our best paring knives list are made from stainless steel and are resistant to rust. This will also make them easy to clean without worrying about compromising the quality.

Safety

Although this isn’t as common as some might like, you can pick up a paring knife with a sheath to ensure it is safe when you put it away. This might save you from a nick when rummaging in your kitchen drawers, these blades can be very sharp remember.

Design

Let’s face it if you love the idea of a quality paring knife, a large part of what will sway you is in the design. Some come in elegant shapes whilst others are simple in their design. Whether you want something a little more understated or one that is just a little different, there are plenty of options.

Common Paring Knife Materials

Although high carbon stainless steel is by far the most common (so we’ll start with that first), take a moment to consider some of the other materials you will find when looking for a quality paring knife.

High Carbon Stainless Steel – They retain their sharpness for a long time and are known for being hard wearing and resistant to corrosion which makes them a popular material for paring knives.

Stainless Steel – Although they can be quick to dull, they are one of the more affordable materials but expect to have to sharpen it from time to time.

Carbon – Expect a carbon paring knife to stay sharp for a long time and never rust or corrode. The best will be resistant to staining but they can break if you try using them on hard material or food.

What Can I Use a Paring Knife For?

Because they have so many uses, a paring knife is a popular inclusion in any kitchen. Just some of the common uses including peeling fruits and vegetables, de-seeding, de-shelling, slicing, prepping, and just about any intricate kitchen task.

The convenience is in the small blade, perfect for small jobs.

What Makes A Paring Knife Safe?

First of all, to ensure your safety, do not buy a cheap product or one that seems too good to be true. There are more than enough imitators on the market so its best to not give them your money.

When you buy a quality paring knife, the handle will be held in place securely with strong rivets to make sure it is capable of being used with enough force without it breaking. This is important because they are designed to be sharp  – this is why you need a handle with a reliable grip to make sure you don’t drop it at any point.

Conclusion

With so many great products on the market, a paring knife should be high on the list of priorities for any cooking enthusiast. When you want to hone your skills, it makes peeling a lot easier. Not to mention, they can look great when you buy one from a reputable brand.

Without having to break the bank, you can pick up a reliable paring knife that lasts for many meals.

If you’re also looking for kitchen knives then, before you go, check out my kitchen knife buying guide.

One of the most overlooked tools in the kitchen has to be the oven thermometer. It’s extremely important for keeping track of oven temperature so food isn’t undercooked or overcooked, but there are still people who don’t use them in their stoves. And we feel that’s a terrible mistake, especially considering that ovens can be off by anywhere from 25 to 50-degrees. And whether you’re baking a cake or baking a casserole, that can be a significant price difference. That’s why we decided to write this guide on the subject, so everyone can realize how important this tool is and so they can buy the best oven thermometer available.

List of the Best Oven Thermometers

Best Overall: ThermoPro TP-16 Digital Oven Thermometer

Buy on Amazon

The best way to keep track of your oven’s temperature is by using a quality oven thermometer. That’s what we found when we discovered this ThermoPro thermometer. It’s a digital model so that it has a 1-degree resolution and is accurate within 1.8-degrees Fahrenheit north or south of the temperature set. This is a whole lot better than ovens internal temperature monitoring systems that can be off by 25-degrees or more.

Accurate temperature readings aren’t the only thing worth noting about this thermometer, however. It also has a host of other features that make it easy to use. One of the first features is timer mode. Timer mode that can count down or up to 99-hours and 59-minutes, although we doubt that anyone would need to cook anything for that length of time. Another key feature of this model is that it comes with a durable probe. This allows you to accurately gauge the temperature of the food, so you can know when it’s ready.

Another thing worth mentioning about this thermometer is that it comes with preset USDA approved temperatures. This saves your time looking at what temperature chicken, pork or beef should be cooked at to ensure that it’s safe to eat. This thermometer’s meat probe and wire are also extremely durable and are designed to withstand temperatures up to 716-degrees Fahrenheit. All of these reasons, and a few more that we haven’t mentioned, make this one of the easiest and best oven thermometers currently available.

What we liked about it

• Is accurate within 1.8-degrees Fahrenheit.
• Probe can withstand temperatures up to 716-degrees Fahrenheit.

 

Also Recommended: KT Thermo 3-Inch Analog Dial Thermometer

Buy on Amazon

Even though the oven thermometer we rated as our number one choice is the best oven thermometer available, we understand that not everyone may want to use it. However, for anyone who would rather have a reading of the oven’s interior temperature, we would like to recommend this model. It doesn’t cost a whole lot, is extremely accurate, and it can provide many years of use to just about any kitchen.

While many oven thermometers have small dials that are hard to read, you can easily see this one when you open the oven. Unfortunately, its size also means that it’s a bit bulkier than comparable models.

This thermometer is capable of measuring oven temperatures from 100 to 600-degrees Fahrenheit. It also has a hook that swivels, so you can read it from several different angles, if necessary. What we liked best of all about this oven thermometer, however, was that it was extremely well-made. The stainless steel construction and oven resistant glass lens means that it never clouds over. Overall, we think that this oven thermometer is a great one, especially for consumers who don’t want to spend a lot of money on a thermometer.

What we liked about it

• It’s extremely accurate.
• It has an easy-to-read dial.

 

Also Consider: Rubbermaid Commercial Products Instant-Read Thermometer

Buy on Amazon

Rubbermaid Commercial Products is a company that makes some extremely well-made devices for the kitchen. And since it had a reasonable price, we knew that we could try it out without risking too much.

In our review of this product, we’re going to start with a discussion of its construction. Even though this thermometer has a very inexpensive price tag, it’s construction isn’t a reflection of that fact. We found that this stainless steel thermometer was extremely well-made and has a shatter-proof glass lens to protect the dial. And speaking of the dial, we found that it was large enough to be easy to read no matter where we mounted it in the oven. It had nice large numbers and a contrasting red dial that worked very well with one another.

If there’s any complaint we had of this oven thermometer, it was the fact that we found its mounting swivel a little too small. This made it difficult to mount at times and we spent more than one occasion trying to get it properly onto the oven rack. Once set up, however, the thermometer worked well. And finally, this thermometer has a size of 3.75×2.5×1.5 inches, so it can fit virtually anywhere in the oven. All of this makes this a great budget thermometer for any oven.

What we liked about it

• Displays true oven temperature.
• Is a great budget oven thermometer.

A Guide To Oven Thermometers

Now that we’ve covered some of the best oven thermometers available, you might be wondering how we managed to select the models that we selected. To make our selection method more transparent and to allow consumers to apply the same standard to any thermometers they might choose to buy in the future, we wrote this handy guide on the subject. We sincerely hope that in the contents of this guide, our readers will learn everything they need to know to select a great thermometer for their oven. Below are some things to consider when purchasing a new thermometer for an oven.

Why Buy an Oven Thermometer in the First Place?

Before we get on with the tips on buying an oven thermometer, we thought it would be a good idea if we talked about the reason for buying one in the first place. One of the most frequently asked questions is: “Do I really need a thermometer for my oven?” Believe us when we say that we understand why people ask this question. People look at the temperature dial and just assume that their oven is holding the right temperature. Nine times out of 10, however, that’s not the case.

Most of the time, the oven is off—sometimes by a few degrees and sometimes by a lot more. We’ve seen some ovens that were only off by 5 to 10-degrees and we’ve seen others that were off by 50-degrees. Ovens just don’t do a good job of keeping the correct temperature, making the oven thermometer a useful tool. It a very inexpensive investment that will result in better-cooked meals.

Buying The Best Oven Thermometer

Now that we’ve talked about the necessity of buying an oven thermometer, it’s time to turn our attention to finding the right one available. Although there are dozens, if not hundreds, of different oven thermometers available, it really isn’t all that difficult to find a quality one. All the consumer has to do is take a few moments and look at a few key details.

Oven Probe or Thermometer?

The first thing to consider is whether you prefer an oven probe or an oven thermometer. After reviewing both of these devices, we tend to like the oven probe the most because it gave us the most accurate indicator of whether the food was ready or not. It does this because the probes are placed right into the food, so the user can easily see the internal temperature of the food. This is good for making sure that food has a high enough internal temperature, but it might not be suitable for determining if the temperature of the oven is suitable for browning. For those purposes, you’re probably going to want to consider an analog oven thermometer.

The Thermometer’s Display

Another important thing for consumers to consider is how the thermometer displays the temperature and whether or not it’s easy to read. Digital thermometers are extremely easy to read, and since their display rests on the outside of the oven, the consumer doesn’t have to open the oven to read it. If you choose an analog thermometer, however, you should make sure that it has a big display face that’s easy to read in a darkened oven. It’s also a good idea to choose a thermometer that has the temperature marked at 25-degree or 50-degree points on the dial. This makes identifying the temperature of the oven a lot easier.

Choose One with an NSF Rating

It’s also a good idea to make sure that the thermometer has been tested and certified by the NSF. What’s the NSF? The NSF rating lets the consumer know that the thermometer has been tested and rated to be accurate by an independent rating agency. In other words, thermometers rated by the NSF are usually more accurate than ones that haven’t been rated and certified.

How The Thermometer Attaches to the Oven

There are several different ways that oven thermometers attach to the oven. Digital model displays usually use a magnet to attach it to the outside of the oven, while the probe that’s attached to it by a wire sits inside the oven. But analog models either stand up in the oven or attach to the oven rack. If the model sits upright, the consumer should make sure its base is wide enough to sit up without falling over. This means the base should be at least 2-inches wide, if not wider. For models that attach to the rack, make sure the clamp is large enough to easily mount to the rack and that it swivels. That will ensure that the thermometer is easy to set up and can be viewed from any angle.