Top 10 New Tools
The best innovations, picked from thousands of choices at the Chicago Housewares Show.
1 Microwave Plus
LG Electronics combines a microwave with a toaster—high tech and low—to save counter space ($130; 866-473-5554).
2 Heatproof Spatula
Rubber spatulas can melt in a hot pot; SiliconeZone's can withstand up to 900 degrees ($7; 212-997-9591).
3 Bread Slicer
Fiskars' Vivante knife uses an adjustable metal guide to create uniformly thick pieces ($30; 800-289-8288).
4 Thermometer
Oxo's thermometer has a needle-thin probe, so less juice leaks out when meat is tested ($15; 800-545-4411).
5 Splash Guard
Circulon's splatter shield— a pot lid with an open center—keeps stovetops clean ($20; 800-326-3933).
6 Child-safe Toaster
T-Fal's Avanté Elite toaster has a lock-out button adults can press to prevent little hands from being burned ($80; 800-395-8325).
7 Fast Oven
Sharp's microwave—toaster oven cooks a pizza—with a crispy crust— in 4 1/2 minutes ($130; 800-BE-SHARP).
8 Preseasoned Pans
Lodge Logic cast-iron pans are preseasoned, so they already have a nonstick patina (from $11 for an 8-inch skillet; 423-837-7181).
9 Coffeemaker
BonJour's Maximus French press separates the grounds from the brewed coffee more effectively ($40; 800-2-BONJOUR).
10 Ergonomic Tools
Leifheit's Feel It potato masher has an indentation for the thumb for efficiency and comfort ($15; 866-695-3434).