MomSkoop
It feels like every week, there’s a new kitchen gadget promising to change your life—and most of them end up collecting dust next to your waffle maker from 2014.
We’ve all fallen for the hype: the influencer ads, the “must-have” lists, the glowing reviews that make you think this one tool will turn you into a five-star chef. But let’s be real—most of the time, the magic fades after one use.
That’s why we decided to put some of the most talked-about kitchen tools to the test—everyday cooking, real messes, no shortcuts. After weeks of chopping, frying, and washing (lots of washing), only a few truly earned their spot on the counter.
1. Always Pan 2.0 by Our Place
It’s rare for a trendy kitchen product to actually deliver on its promise, but this one does. The Always Pan 2.0 feels like the stylish cousin of your trusty cast iron—except it’s lightweight, easy to clean, and can handle just about any cooking task. We fried, sautéed, simmered, and even steamed with it, and it passed every test with flying colors.
The best part? The nonstick coating truly lives up to its reputation. Even after months of use, eggs slide out like butter, and clean-up takes seconds. Plus, the updated design now allows metal utensils (a lifesaver for impatient cooks who forget to switch tools mid-stir).
While it might seem like a splurge at first, the versatility justifies the price. It’s a beautiful, functional piece that will make you excited to cook again—and that’s something few pans can do.
2. Ninja Foodi DualZone Air Fryer
Let’s be honest: air fryers are everywhere, and most of them feel the same. But the Ninja Foodi DualZone actually redefines convenience. With two baskets that can cook at different temperatures, you can roast veggies in one and crisp chicken in the other—then magically have both finish at the same time.
It’s not just about saving time, though. The food comes out genuinely good—crispy, evenly cooked, and without that slightly rubbery texture some air fryers leave behind. Even reheating leftovers feels like giving them a second chance at life.
This machine isn’t small, but it earns its counter space. For busy families or anyone who hates juggling oven racks, it’s a kitchen sidekick that quietly makes every meal a little easier (and a lot tastier).
3. Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro
Some appliances promise to replace everything—and this one actually can. The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro bakes, toasts, air fries, and even dehydrates with consistent results every time. It preheats faster than a standard oven and distributes heat so evenly that burnt edges become a thing of the past.
We tested everything from cookies to roasted veggies, and the results were impressive. The intuitive digital controls make it surprisingly beginner-friendly, and it’s spacious enough to handle a whole chicken. The “super convection” setting? Absolute game changer.
It’s not cheap, but if you want an appliance that genuinely multitasks and lasts for years, it’s worth every dollar. For anyone tired of mediocre toaster ovens or inconsistent air fryers, this is the grown-up version that actually delivers.
4. Fellow Stagg EKG Electric Kettle
Who knew boiling water could feel so fancy? The Fellow Stagg EKG proves that form and function can coexist beautifully. It’s sleek, quiet, and fast—like the Tesla of kettles. Whether you’re a coffee purist or just someone who wants tea ready in seconds, this kettle turns a mundane task into a moment of joy.
Temperature precision is its secret weapon. You can dial in the exact degree for your brew—no more scalded coffee grounds or lukewarm tea. And the “hold” function keeps your water hot for up to an hour, so you’re not rushing between chores.
Beyond the looks, it’s built like a tank and pours with absolute control. It might seem indulgent at first, but after using it, you’ll wonder how you ever tolerated a basic kettle.
5. Dreamfarm Garject Garlic Press
Garlic lovers, rejoice—this one’s a small miracle. The Dreamfarm Garject doesn’t just crush garlic; it launches it out like a tiny culinary cannon. The built-in scraper automatically pushes the minced garlic through, and when you open it, the peel literally pops out on its own. No sticky fingers, no mess.
It’s also surprisingly comfortable to use, even if you’re prepping for a big family dinner. The handle design gives you real leverage, and it feels sturdy enough to last a lifetime. The cleanup process? Practically effortless.
After using this, you’ll wonder how you ever put up with traditional garlic presses. It turns one of the most annoying kitchen tasks into something oddly satisfying—and that alone makes it a keeper.
6. OXO Good Grips Salad Spinner
You know a tool is great when it’s been around forever and still beats the competition. The OXO Good Grips Salad Spinner might look simple, but it’s a masterpiece of practicality. That one-handed pump is smooth, fast, and oddly fun to use—like your daily stress relief in kitchen form.
It does more than just dry lettuce, too. You can rinse berries, herbs, or even use the bowl for storage. Everything feels well-made, from the sturdy base to the easy brake button that instantly stops the spin.
In a world full of overdesigned gadgets, this one stays refreshingly simple. It doesn’t need Wi-Fi or Bluetooth—it just works, beautifully.
7. KitchenAid Ice Cream Maker Attachment
Homemade ice cream sounds complicated until you try this. The KitchenAid Ice Cream Maker Attachment clicks right onto your stand mixer and transforms it into a dessert powerhouse. In less than 30 minutes, you can churn out creamy, perfectly textured ice cream that tastes like it came from a fancy parlor.
It’s also incredibly versatile—you can make sorbet, frozen yogurt, or even soft-serve-style treats. Cleanup is surprisingly painless, and since it doesn’t take up extra counter space, it’s perfect for small kitchens.
Once you taste your first batch of homemade ice cream, you’ll never look at store-bought the same way again. It’s one of those rare tools that delivers joy as much as flavor—and honestly, that’s worth every scoop.