Should I buy a Smoothie Maker?
The first issue to consider is whether to buy a jug blender or a smoothie maker.
They are very similar machines. The main difference being that a smoothie maker has a tap to dispense the drink from. And tend to have push button controls rather than rotary dials, so they look more modern.
Jug blenders perform the job of making thick fruit smoothies almost as well as smoothie makers. However they are probably less of an attraction to encourage children to use to make healthy drinks.
I tend to find that the ingredients needed to make a home made smoothie cost around half that of a shop bought one - and with even greater savings over ones in a cafe.
A further advantage is that smoothies from shops are often pasteurised to extend their shelf life. This reduces their goodness.
What to look for in a Smoothie Maker
Some of the features to look for:
Speed settings Most will have at least two speeds. Sometimes called mix and smooth speeds. The more versatile ones have variable speeds which gives more control. And others have a pulse setting to give a burst of power. Nearly all will be able to crush ice.
Non-slip feet Useful to stop the machine moving around.
Jug material Glass is less likely to scratch than plastic.
Cleaning Taps can be removable to make clening easier. And a removable blade and a dishwasher safe model makes cleaning much easier.
Lids Most include a strainer to filter out any remaining lumps.
Stirring sticks These fit through a hole in the lid, allowing you to move the ingredients around so that they get thoroughly blended.
Check out our Best Buys of the Kenwood SB055 and the Philips HR1861 - the best value smoothie makers you can get.
