Hard Brown Sugar? The Best Airtight Keepers with Terra Cotta Discs

Author

It’s a familiar feeling, right? You’re all set to whip up some chocolate chip cookies, you grab the brown sugar, and bam! It’s a rock.

You know when you’ve got something and you’re just like, “Ugh, I’ll try to stab it with a knife, maybe I’ll even microwave it,” just because it’s so annoying.

The simple fact is, it’s just chemistry. Brown sugar has molasses in it, and that’s why this happens. When the water leaves the molasses, the sugar crystals sort of stick together. To put a stop to this, you’ll need a couple of things:

First, grab an airtight container to keep any air out.
You need something that adds moisture, just enough to keep the humidity from dropping.

This is where the Terra Cotta Disc comes in. This clay stone soaks up water and then slowly lets that moisture go back into your sugar, which keeps it soft for months.

We looked at the market closely to find the top solutions out there. It doesn’t matter if you need a fresh new container or just want to quickly fix up your current jar; we’ve got you covered. Here are your top 3 winners.

ProKeeper+ Airtight Food Storage Container Set – Clear Plastic Fl…

Airtight Seal for Long-Lasting Freshness – Each container is equipped with a silicone seal and stainless steel latch to …
Custom-Fit Design for Essential Baking Ingredients – Includes 5 specialized containers to hold standard ingredient bag s…
Accessory-Rich for Smart Storage – Comes with built-in magnetic tools like a leveling bar, measuring/dusting spoon, and …

$69.99

Buy on Amazon

1. The Best All-in-One System: Progressive Prepworks ProKeeper

Rating: 4.8/5

The Progressive Prepworks ProKeeper is awesome; it’s definitely the best all-in-one system out there. This is great for folks who just want one perfect thing that does exactly what they need.

The Design: This is the container you need if you’re looking for one just for brown sugar. Other jars just didn’t cut it, but we made the Progressive ProKeeper right from the start to fix that common problem where things turn into a brick. This smart design fits a standard 2lb bag of brown sugar just right.
The Integrated Disc: That’s the really smart bit about it. The little terra cotta disk isn’t just chilling in the sugar, where it could easily get scooped out by accident. It just clicks right into its own spot under the lid.
The Seal: The seal is made with a silicone gasket and a stainless steel latch. When you lock it, you can actually hear the air being sealed out.
Performance: Soak the stone for 15 minutes, then just snap it into the lid and close it up. Folks are saying that even really hard sugar gets soft in just a day.

OXO Good Grips POP Container – 4.4 Qt/4.2 L, Airtight Food Storag…

Keep Dry Foods Fresh: Airtight, stackable, space-efficient and completely dishwasher safe, OXO POP food storage containe…
Maximize Pantry Storage: The 4.4 Qt/4.2 L canister is perfect for around 5 pounds of pasta, flour or sugar. Every kitche…
Easily Open With One Hand: Each airtight container has a push-button lid that creates an airtight seal—and doubles as a …

$21.95

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2. The Modular Choice: OXO Good Grips POP Container

Rating: 4.6/5

The OXO Good Grips POP Container is a solid choice because of its modular design. It’s really easy to get organized with these. This is perfect for pantry organizers who are really into that “POP” look for their kitchen.

If you’ve already got a pantry filled to the brim with those OXO containers, it probably makes sense to stick with that system.

The Setup: You use the classic 1.1-quart POP container, but you add the Brown Sugar Keeper accessory to it. This little terra cotta disk sticks right under the POP lid.
The Seal: It’s got that famous push-button airtight seal. Yeah, it’s handy and all, but some folks in the know reckon the old-school mechanical latch on the Progressive (you know, the one up top) just feels a bit sturdier for keeping things from drying out over time.
Aesthetics: It really is a beauty. If you really want your pantry to look all neat and tidy, with everything matching, OXO is a solid choice.

Terracotta Brown Sugar Saver- Brown Sugar Keeper Disc to Maintain…

Keep Brown Sugar Soft: Tired of rock-hard brown sugar? Our Terra Cotta Brown Sugar Saver Disk keeps sugar moisture and i…
Food-Safe Natural Moisture Control: Our Brown Sugar Saver is made of natural food-grade terra cotta. Clay stones release…
Multiple Uses: Not only brown sugar, but terracotta brown sugar saver can also maintain softness when storing cookies, b…

$6.90

Buy on Amazon

3. The Best Budget Hack: ENOLVO Terra Cotta Disc

Rating: 4.7/5 (5,000+ bought last month)

The ENOLVO Terra Cotta Disc is a good budget hack. Over 5,000 of these were snapped up just last month. You know, this is perfect if you want to save some cash and just fix up that jar you’ve already got.

What if you’re not into buying another plastic container? What if you’re trying to soften hard sugar in the jar you already have?

Enter the ENOLVO Terra Cotta Sugar Saver. Coming in at under $7, this is easily the cheapest option we’ve got.

How It Works: It’s just a simple disc made from food-grade clay. Just soak it in water for about 15 minutes, then give it a pat to dry it off, and you can toss it into any container that seals tight or even a Ziploc bag.
The “Resurrection” Power: Does it work on sugar that is already hard? Allie Julius, like many of us, had a common experience: “I had a container packed with a brick of hard brown sugar… The sugar was all soft the next morning. This really changed my life for the better!”
Versatility: This one is really versatile; you can carry it around, which is different from the attached lids.

Comparison: Which One Should You Buy?

Feature	Progressive ProKeeper	OXO POP System	ENOLVO Disc Only
Type	Full Container	Container + Accessory	Accessory Only
Terra Cotta	Integrated in Lid	Attached to Lid	Sits in Sugar
Best Feature	Secure Latch Seal	Stackable Design	Universal Fit
Price	$$	$$$	$ (Under $7)
Installation	Ready to go	Assembly required	Toss in jar

The Bottom Line

Buy the Progressive ProKeeper if you want the “Ferrari” of sugar storage. The latch seal plus the lid-mounted stone makes it the most effective system for keeping sugar fluffy.
Buy the ENOLVO Disc if you are on a budget or already love your current jars. For less than the price of a coffee, it turns a rock-hard brick back into soft sugar overnight.

Ninja Express Chop Review: Is It Overkill for Just Onions?

Author

Crying over chopped onions is a rite of passage for home cooks, but it doesn’t have to be. Usually, you have two choices to solve this: drag out a massive, heavy food processor that takes 10 minutes to clean, or buy a cheap manual pull-chopper that requires an arm workout.

The Ninja Food Chopper Express Chop (NJ110GR) sits comfortably in the middle.

Ninja Food Chopper Express Chop with 200-Watt, 16-Ounce Bowl for …

200 watt power pod.
Effortlessly mince, chop, grind and blend a variety of ingredients for easy meal preparation or final touches
Perfect for garlic, onion, zest, spices, herbs, cheese, bacon crumbles, nut chopping, chocolate, dressings, sauces and s…

$49.44

Buy on Amazon

It’s an electric “power pod” that claims to mince, chop, and blend in seconds. With over 15,000 positive ratings and 1,000+ sold last month, people clearly love this gray little gadget. But at around $50, is it worth the investment if you just want a glorified ninja onion cutter?

We analyzed the specs and real user experiences to see if this 200-watt machine is a kitchen essential or just an expensive luxury.

Design: The “Power Pod” Difference

Most food processors have the motor at the bottom, making them heavy and bulky. The Ninja flips the script.

Top-Mounted Motor: The 200-watt engine sits on top of the bowl like a lid. This is brilliant for two reasons: it keeps the footprint tiny (perfect for small counters), and you can remove the motor to wash the bowl without worrying about getting electrical parts wet.
Capacity: It holds 16 ounces (about 2 cups). This is the “Goldilocks” size big enough for a whole onion or a batch of salsa, but small enough to rinse in the sink in 30 seconds.
Manual Control: There are no complex buttons. You press the large gray button on top to pulse. As the ninja food processor manual suggests, short pulses give you chunky salsa; holding it down gives you a smooth puree.

Performance: More Than Just Veggies

We asked the big question: Is it overkill for onions?

If you only chop one onion a month, yes. Use a knife.

But user feedback shows this tool does significantly more than just basic chopping.

1. The Onion & Garlic Test

User Orlayda praises it for daily cooking, specifically for chopping onions and garlic quickly. The stacked blade design prevents that annoying issue where the bottom turns to mush while the top chunks stay whole.

2. The “Oat Flour” Surprise

This is where the 200 watts matter. A manual pull-chopper can’t grind grains. However, user Micaela Coco De Marco bought this specifically to “refine oats to make oat flour for cookies.”

Analyst Note: The ability to grind dry ingredients puts this in a league above standard mini-choppers.

3. Small Batch Salsa

User Coop noted it’s perfect for making a “small amount of salsa.” If you use a giant blender for salsa, you often end up with a pink soup. The Ninja’s pulse control lets you keep the texture chunky.

Is It Better Than a Manual Chopper?

We often review manual pull-choppers (like Zyliss). Here is how the electric Ninja compares:

Speed: The Ninja is faster. 3 pulses vs 10 pulls.
Consistency: The electric motor provides constant torque, meaning hard carrots don’t get stuck.
Effort: This is key for anyone with arthritis or tired hands. You just press a button.
The Downside: It has a cord. You need an outlet.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Power: 200 Watts handles nuts, oats, and ice.	Corded: Tethered to an outlet (unlike manual ones).
Hygiene: Motor pod never touches the food.	Capacity: 16oz is too small for big meal prep.
Versatility: Chops, minces, grinds, and blends.	Price: More expensive than manual alternatives.
Easy Clean: Bowl and blades are dishwasher safe.

The Bottom Line

So, is the Ninja Express Chop overkill?

YES, if you literally only slice one onion a week. Save your money and buy a manual pull-chopper or a nice knife.
NO, if you cook daily and want a “sous chef” that can handle garlic, nuts, oat flour, and dressings without taking up space.

It bridges the gap perfectly. It has the power of a big blender but the convenience of a mini chopper. For small households or quick “daily” tasks (as Orlayda mentioned), it is indispensable.

Press vs. Chopper: The Best Way to Mince Garlic Without Sticky Hands

Author

February 9, 2026

Everyone’s a fan of garlic, right? But really, we all know how much of a drag the prep can be.

The skin comes right off, and yeah, it gets all over your fingers. When you chop it, the juices stick to your fingers. You can scrub your hands all you want with lemon, stainless steel soap, and even prayer, but that smell just sticks around for a couple of days.

For years, if you didn’t want to use a knife, your only option for garlic was a metal press. But lately, everyone seems to want a manual garlic chopper.

These little gadgets promise to chop whole bulbs in seconds without you messing with the cloves at all. So, are you thinking of retiring your heavy metal press? We looked at both ways to find out which one would keep your hands cleaner and make your dinner taste better.

Kitessensu High Effective Garlic Press With Studs, Heavy Duty Gar…

Maximal Amount & Minimal Pressure – The garlic press has 37 small spikes that match up with the holes in the chamber ide…
Ease of Use – Avoid the stress by selecting a garlic mincer with an ergonomic, streamlined design that’s easy to clamp a…
Built to Last – Zinc is an ideal material for garlic presses, it is strong enough to easily press through garlic, withst…

$11.39

Buy on Amazon

The Old School: The Garlic Press

This is the tool your grandmother used. It’s like a simple lever. Just pop in a clove, really squeeze it, and crushed garlic just comes right out.

The Good:

Flavor: The best part? You get so much flavor. When you press garlic, it really breaks down those cell walls, letting out all the oils and giving you that strong, awesome taste.
Speed: For just one clove, you can’t get any quicker. Just squeeze and that’s it.

The “Sticky” Reality: Here’s the problem. After you squeeze it, you’re left with this odd film of garlic skin hanging out in the chamber. Yeah, you really gotta just scratch it out with your nail. Afterward, you’ll need to spoon the mashed garlic from the press.

You still touch the garlic. Your hands still have that smell.

OXO Good Grips Vegetable Chopper

Chops veggies, herbs, nuts and more into uniform pieces
Sharp, stainless steel blade rotates as you pump the handle
Comfortable knob designed for minimal effort on your part

$22.58

Buy on Amazon

The New School: The Manual Garlic Chopper

For folks who use a ton of garlic in their cooking (like, at least 4-5 cloves every time), the usual press just doesn’t cut it.

Just pop in the manual garlic chopper. Yeah, these are typically little containers that have blades inside that spin around. You either pull a cord, kinda like a Zyliss, or push down on a pump, like the OXO ones, to get them going.

The Good:

Volume: You can throw in 5, 8, or even 10 cloves all at the same time.
Consistency: You get to decide how smooth or chunky you want it. For chunks, give it two pulls. If you want a really fine mince, pull it about ten times.

The “Clean Hands” Victory? That right there is what changes everything. You just peel the garlic, or get the kind that’s already peeled, toss the cloves in the cup, pop the lid on, and give it a whirl. Once you’re finished, just pop out the blade and tip the garlic right into your pan.

The Reality Check: We have more to clean up. A press is a single thing, but a chopper has three parts: a bowl, a blade, and a lid. Most of them are safe to put in the dishwasher, though, so if you’ve got one, that’s not really a problem.

Which One Should You Choose?

So, you’re trying to figure out which garlic tool is right for you, huh? Let’s break it down.

Stick with the Press If:

You just want to use a little bit of garlic. If a recipe only asks for one clove, it just isn’t worth making a mess with the whole chopper.
You want immediate satisfaction. It gives you a nice paste or crushed texture instantly. However, cleaning it can be annoying because the garlic skin gets stuck, and you end up touching the garlic a lot trying to scrape it out.

Go for a Manual Chopper If:

You measure garlic with your heart. If you’re cooking for a crowd and using a good amount of garlic, like half a head for one dish, a garlic press just slows things down.
You absolutely despise the odor. The chopper is a sealed system. The natural oils end up in the cup, not on your body.
You want texture. Sometimes you just want those little pieces of garlic sizzling in oil, not some watery garlic paste that’s going to burn up right away.

The Bottom Line

If you’re really aiming for no more sticky hands, the manual garlic chopper is definitely the top pick.

It’s real simple: the cup traps all the mess, so you can just drop the garlic right into your pot without getting those sticky, smelly bits on your fingers. Your family and your nose will be pretty happy about this.

Ourokhome Mandoline Slicer Review: The 6-in-1 Mess Killer?

Author

Slicing vegetables usually involves a lot of chasing. You slice a cucumber, the rounds roll off the cutting board, fall onto the floor, and now you are washing them off while your dog looks disappointed.

Ourokhome Mandolin Slicer for Kitchen Food, Hand Safe Vegetable S…

An innovative mandolin slicer that will make you addicted to chopping: It is equipped with 6 interchangeable razor-sharp…
The vegetable shredder significantly enhances your efficiency in daily life: The 6 interchangeable blades of the veggie …
Multifunctional vegetable slicer & shredder: The potato slicer is equipped with a 2 mm slicing blade and a 4 mm slicing …

$19.99

Buy on Amazon

If you hate the mess of prep work as much as the slicing itself, the Ourokhome 6-in-1 Mandoline Slicer might be the smartest $20 you spend this year.

Unlike the handheld OXO or the heavy-duty Gramercy, this unit is designed as a complete “system.” It slices, grates, shreds, and—crucially—catches everything in a tidy box.

With a 4.5-star rating and over 3,000 units sold recently, it’s clearly hitting a sweet spot for home cooks. But is a plastic box with six different blades actually useful, or is it just clutter waiting to happen?

The “No-Mess” Container Design

The biggest selling point here isn’t just the blade; it’s the box.

The Catch Tray: The slicer snaps onto a clear food container. As you slice, every piece falls directly into the box. No stray carrots on the counter.
The Scale: A nice hidden detail is that the container has measurement markings on the side. If a recipe calls for “2 cups of shredded zucchini,” you don’t need a separate measuring cup. You just slice until you hit the line.
Stability: Because the slicer is locked onto the box, and the box has non-slip feet, it feels much safer than balancing a handheld slicer over a wobbling bowl.

6 Blades: A Jack of All Trades?

Most mandolines just slice. This one tries to do everything. It comes with 6 interchangeable stainless steel blades:

Slicers (2mm & 4mm): For your standard cucumbers and potatoes.
Waffle Blade: This is the fun one. It makes those textured waffle fries that kids love.
Graters & Shredders: Coarse grating for cheese, shredding for hash browns, and a mashing blade for garlic/ginger.

Real User Experience:

Users love the versatility. Being able to switch from slicing onions for a burger to grating cheese for the topping without dirtying another tool is a huge win. The waffle cutter specifically gets a lot of praise for making homemade chips look store-bought.

Safety and Cleaning

The Ourokhome takes safety seriously, which makes sense since it appeals to beginners.

The Guard: It comes with an “expanded” hand protector. You spike your veggie onto it and slide. It keeps your fingers far away from the action.
Storage: Dealing with 6 loose, razor-sharp blades sounds like a nightmare, but Ourokhome includes a blade storage box. Everything tucks away neatly so you don’t accidentally cut yourself reaching into a drawer.
Cleanup: The blades are top-rack dishwasher safe. However, the waffle blade can trap food bits. The kit includes a little cleaning brush to scrub those crevices—definitely use it.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Mess-Free: Catch container keeps counters clean.	Plastic Build: Feels less “pro” than steel models.
Variety: 6 blades (including Waffle cut).	Manual Swapping: You have to physically change blades.
Safety: Stable base + good hand guard.	Storage: More parts to keep track of than a simple slicer.
Price: Excellent value (often under $20).

Is It Worth It?

If you are a professional chef, you might find the plastic construction a bit light. You would probably prefer the steel Gramercy.

But for a busy parent or a home cook who just wants to make a salad without destroying the kitchen, the Ourokhome 6-in-1 Slicer is fantastic. It replaces a grater, a shredder, and a slicer, all while keeping your counters spotless.

Buy It If:

You have kids who love waffle fries.
You hate cleaning up vegetable scraps from the floor.
You want one tool that does grating and slicing together.

Gramercy Adjustable Mandoline Review: Is Stainless Steel Worth the Upgrade?

Author

If you have ever used a cheap, plastic vegetable slicer, you know that “wobbly” feeling. You push a potato through, the plastic flexes, the blade catches, and suddenly your heart skips a beat because you almost sliced your thumb.

Gramercy Adjustable Mandoline Food Slicer, Mandoline Slicer for K…

ADJUSTABLE PRO SLICER – MANDOLINE PRECISION MADE SIMPLE: An adjustable mandoline slicer (aka mandolin) with a built-in d…
ROTATING BLADE SYSTEM – SMOOTH AND EFFICIENT: The rotating blade cylinder shifts seamlessly between thickness settings. …
NON-SLIP BASE – BUILT FOR STABILITY AND CONTROL: This mandoline slicer for kitchen use stays firmly in place with anti-s…

$42.95

Buy on Amazon

That is exactly why people upgrade to the Gramercy Adjustable Mandoline Slicer.

It looks like something ripped straight out of a professional restaurant kitchen. It’s shiny, it’s metal, and it promises to be the last slicer you ever buy. But does a stainless steel body actually make slicing easier, or is it just for show?

We looked at how it holds up against piles of onions and potatoes to see if it earns its spot on your counter.

Built Like a Tank (Mostly)

The first thing you notice is that it doesn’t look like a toy. Most mandolines under $50 are flimsy plastic. The Gramercy is built with a stainless steel deck.

Why this matters: When you are slicing hard root vegetables like sweet potatoes or carrots, you need rigidity. If the slicer bends, your slices come out uneven. This metal deck stays flat.
The Dial System: This is the best design feature. On old-school mandolines, you had to physically pull out the sharp blade and swap it for a different one. With Gramercy, you just turn a black dial on the side. It switches from paper-thin slices to thick cuts (up to 9mm) or pops up the julienne teeth for fries. You never touch the blade.

Safety: They Actually Included Gloves

We have to give Gramercy massive credit here. Mandolines are statistically one of the most dangerous tools in a home kitchen.

Usually, you have to buy safety gear separately. This box comes with a pair of cut-resistant gloves right inside.

The Food Holder: It also comes with a plastic guard to hold the veggie, but let’s be honest sometimes those guards slip. Having the gloves as a backup is the difference between a quick dinner and a hospital trip.

Performance: The “8 Onion” Challenge

Does it actually save time?

User Boo left a review that sums it up perfectly. They compared it to a deli meat slicer and claimed they “cut 8 onions in about 3 minutes.”

That is the power of a wide, sharp blade. If you are prepping for a big holiday dinner or making a massive batch of French Onion Soup, this speed is unbeatable.

However, it is not magic.

The Stick Point: User Brady noted that sometimes “it just gets stuck or decides not to cut something.” This usually happens with softer produce, like overripe tomatoes or soft peppers. The blade is sharp, but manual slicing always requires a bit of momentum.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Since it’s stainless steel, you might worry about rust or cleanup.

The Good: It is listed as dishwasher safe. The blade cylinder pops out so you can rinse it separately.
The Bad: As one user pointed out, the blade itself isn’t easily removable for sharpening. It’s a fixed unit. While the steel is high quality (4CR15 grade), if it eventually goes dull after years of use, you can’t just whetstone it like a knife.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Safety: Includes cut-resistant gloves (huge value).	Size: It’s bulky and takes up drawer space.
Speed: Flies through hard veggies like potatoes/onions.	Soft Veggies: Can struggle with squishy produce.
Durability: Stainless steel frame doesn’t flex.	Sharpening: Blades are not designed to be sharpened.
Convenience: Adjustable dial means no loose blades.

The Bottom Line

If you are just slicing one cucumber for a salad, this might be overkill. It’s big and takes a minute to set up.

But if you are a meal prepper, a canning enthusiast, or just have a large family to feed, the Gramercy Adjustable Mandoline is a fantastic investment. The fact that it comes with gloves makes it the safest “heavy-duty” option in this price range. It’s sturdy, fast, and feels professional.

OXO Good Grips Handheld Mandoline Review: The Simple Slicer

Author

Most home cooks really feel a mix of love and hate when it comes to mandolines. We’re really into those super thin cucumber slices and awesome potato gratins, but honestly, we’re totally scared of accidentally cutting our fingers.

OXO Good Grips Handheld Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Adjustable …

Get Just the Right Slice: The handheld mandoline slicer for kitchen easily adjusts to 1 mm, 2.5 mm, or 4 mm so you can p…
Slice Securely: The large non-slip handle and stable foot are designed for comfort and security while slicing potatoes, …
Fits Your Routine: Slice directly onto a plate, on a cutting board or hook over a bowl so never have to make awkward mov…

$17.64

Buy on Amazon

That kind of fear often makes people buy these huge, pricey safety slicers, but then they just sit there gathering dust. Why? Because they’re a pain to set up and use.

The OXO Good Grips Handheld Mandoline Slicer does things a little differently.

It’s a tiny, simple thing, and it just hangs out in your utensil drawer, right there with your spatula. This slicer is wildly popular, with over 19,000 positive ratings and more than 8,000 sold just last month.

But can a basic plastic paddle actually take the place of knowing how to use a knife? We really dug into why this tool has been a bestseller for so long.

Design: Why “Simple” Wins

The really good thing about this tool isn’t about adding more stuff; it’s about taking things away. It doesn’t have a place to sit, a heavy bottom, or extra blades scattered everywhere that you could misplace.

It’s shaped like a paddle, you know? You grab it by its comfy, non-slip handle (you know, the “Good Grips” rubber kind) and just slice right into a bowl, on a plate, or onto a cutting board. The rubber foot on the bottom lets it hook onto a bowl’s rim, so it stays put while you’re doing your thing.

The Window: The body is made of clear plastic. It’s a tiny thing, but it lets you see just how much you’ve cut without having to pick up the tool. No more having food spill everywhere.

Performance: The “Cabbage Test”

You might think this little gadget is just for dinky stuff like radishes, right? Think about that once more.

User Jones Sheckler told a story that really stuck with us. They gave up on a fancy food processor that took them an hour and a half just to shred cabbage, and just got an OXO.

“I managed to get through a whole head of cabbage in about ten minutes using this. It’s super user-friendly.”

The Adjustment Knob

With the adjustment knob, you just give the handle’s knob a simple roll to change things up. No need to swap out those dangerous blades. It has three settings you can lock it into:

1mm: Great for a translucent cucumber salad or radish garnish.
2.5mm: That’s the right size for zucchini and peppers.
4mm: Really thin slices, like for apple tart or potatoes when you’re making a gratin.

The Truth About Safety

Here is the truth: That blade is super sharp stainless steel. There’s no room for error.

OXO throws in a food holder it’s like a guard that grabs onto your veggie and keeps your fingers safe. It slides nicely on the tracks and fully covers the blade for storage.

The Downside: Just like with any mandoline, it’s a bit clunky trying to hold onto the very end of a carrot.

Our Advice: Even though the guard is good, for complete peace of mind, grab some cut-resistant gloves to go with it. It makes a scary task mindless.

The Good and Bad of It All

Pros	Cons
Convenient: Grabs from the drawer in seconds.	No Julienne: Can’t make french fries; just regular slices.
Cleaning: Easy dishwasher safe; no rusting.	Guard Limits: Always leaves a little veggie untouched.
Consistent: Uniform slices every time.	Manual: Tough veggies (sweet potato) need muscle.
Storage: No counter space needed.

The Bottom Line

Okay, so if you’re looking for something that makes french fries, this isn’t going to be the tool you want. It just doesn’t have the right kind of blades for that.

But if you just want to get your cucumbers, onions, potatoes, or cabbage perfectly even, and you don’t feel like pulling out some big machine, the OXO Good Grips Handheld Mandoline is probably the best twenty bucks you’ll spend for your kitchen.

You know, it’s the go-to in the industry for a simple reason: it just works. Cleanup is a breeze, and it doesn’t get in your way.

Safe Slicing: The Best Mandoline Slicers with Hand Guards (Rated & Reviewed)

Author

February 6, 2026

Mandoline slicers are the secret weapon of professional chefs. They turn a pile of potatoes into a gratin in minutes and create cucumber salads so thin they look translucent.

But let’s be honest: they are terrifying.

One slip, and your dinner prep turns into a trip to the ER. That is why we scoured the market for the safest options. We didn’t just look for sharp blades; we prioritized superior hand guards, non-slip feet, and cut-resistant gloves.

Whether you need a simple handheld tool or a full countertop station, here are the top 3 safest mandoline slicers that protect your fingers without sacrificing speed.

OXO Good Grips Handheld Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Adjustable …

Get Just the Right Slice: The handheld mandoline slicer for kitchen easily adjusts to 1 mm, 2.5 mm, or 4 mm so you can p…
Slice Securely: The large non-slip handle and stable foot are designed for comfort and security while slicing potatoes, …
Fits Your Routine: Slice directly onto a plate, on a cutting board or hook over a bowl so never have to make awkward mov…

$17.64

Buy on Amazon

1. The Everyday Hero: OXO Good Grips Handheld Slicer

Best For: Everyday quick tasks and small kitchens.

Safety Feature: Large food holder & Non-slip handle.

If you read any Wirecutter review, you will likely see OXO at the top. With over 8,000 units sold last month, it has become the standard for home cooks.

Why It’s Safe: The beauty is in the simplicity. It doesn’t have a confusing setup. You just grab the large, non-slip handle and slice directly onto a plate or over a bowl. The included food holder caps your veggie securely, keeping your fingers far from the blade.
Performance: It features an adjustable knob for 3 thickness settings. As user Jones Sheckler noted, “I was able to tackle a head of cabbage with this in maybe 10 minutes.”
The Bottom Line: Perfect for cucumbers, radishes, and quick prep. It’s dishwasher safe and fits in a drawer.

Gramercy Adjustable Mandoline Food Slicer, Mandoline Slicer for K…

ADJUSTABLE PRO SLICER – MANDOLINE PRECISION MADE SIMPLE: An adjustable mandoline slicer (aka mandolin) with a built-in d…
ROTATING BLADE SYSTEM – SMOOTH AND EFFICIENT: The rotating blade cylinder shifts seamlessly between thickness settings. …
NON-SLIP BASE – BUILT FOR STABILITY AND CONTROL: This mandoline slicer for kitchen use stays firmly in place with anti-s…

$42.95

Buy on Amazon

2. The Heavy-Duty Choice: Gramercy Adjustable Mandoline

Best For: Bulk meal prep and large families.

Safety Feature: Includes Cut-Resistant Gloves & No-Touch Blade Dial.

If you are cooking for a crowd, holding a slicer by hand gets tiring. The Gramercy Kitchen Company offers a stainless steel option that sits firmly on your counter.

Why It’s Safe: This is one of the few models that includes a pair of cut-resistant gloves in the box. This is huge for peace of mind. Plus, it uses a “Rotating Blade System.” You never have to touch or swap out sharp blades manually; you just turn a dial to change thickness.
Performance: It’s built like a tank. User Boo mentioned it “works better than my deli meat slicer” and cut 8 onions in just 3 minutes.
The Bottom Line: If you are terrified of changing blades, get this. The no-touch dial + gloves combo makes it the safest heavy-duty option.

Ourokhome Mandolin Slicer for Kitchen Food, Hand Safe Vegetable S…

An innovative mandolin slicer that will make you addicted to chopping: It is equipped with 6 interchangeable razor-sharp…
The vegetable shredder significantly enhances your efficiency in daily life: The 6 interchangeable blades of the veggie …
Multifunctional vegetable slicer & shredder: The potato slicer is equipped with a 2 mm slicing blade and a 4 mm slicing …

$19.99

Buy on Amazon

3. The Mess-Free System: Ourokhome 6-in-1 Slicer

Best For: Beginners who want a clean counter.

Safety Feature: Expanded hand guard & Catch Container.

If you hate mess as much as you hate cuts, the Ourokhome is your solution. Unlike the others, this sits on top of its own food container.

Why It’s Safe: The hand guard is “expanded” to cover more surface area. Since the blade is locked onto the container, the slicer can’t slip or slide across the counter while you work.
Performance: It comes with 6 interchangeable blades, including a waffle cutter. The container catches everything, so your counter stays clean.
The Bottom Line: A fantastic value kit (often under $20). The included storage box for the sharp blades is a smart safety bonus for households with kids.

Quick Comparison

Feature	OXO Good Grips	Gramercy Adjustable	Ourokhome 6-in-1
Type	Handheld	Countertop Station	Container System
Safety	Food Holder	Gloves Included	Stable Container Base
Blade Change	Adjustable Knob	Built-in Dial (No Touch)	Swap Manually
Ideal User	The Quick Cook	The Bulk Prepper	The Tidy Cook

Which One Should You Choose?

Grab the OXO if you want something simple that fits in a utensil drawer. It handles 90% of daily tasks like slicing a cucumber or an onion.
Invest in the Gramercy if you want professional speed and maximum safety (thanks to the gloves).
Pick the Ourokhome if you want to make waffle fries or grate cheese without getting food everywhere.

Zyliss Easy Pull Food Processor Review: The Ultimate Tool for Tiny Kitchens

Author

If you live in a small apartment, own an RV, or just hate dragging out a heavy electric food processor for a single onion, you know the struggle. You want the speed of a machine but the convenience of a knife.

Enter the Zyliss Easy Pull Food Processor (3.0 Edition).

Zyliss Easy Pull Food Chopper and Manual Food Processor – Hand-He…

Versatile Food Dicer: This Zyliss food chopper simplifies prep with efficient food chopping, blending and pureeing
Kitchen Gadget with Swiss Blades: Dicer with high-grade serrated stainless steel ensures uniform dicing and slicing of t…
Food Chopper with Adjustable Slicing: This manual food chopper features an easy-to-use slide lever that allows for preci…

Buy on Amazon

With a 4.7-star rating from over 5,000 users and the coveted “Overall Pick” badge on Amazon, this Swiss-engineered gadget promises to replace your knife, blender, and electric chopper. But can a manual pull-cord device really handle tough nuts and frozen veggies without snapping?

We analyzed the design, the patented blade system, and years of long-term user feedback to see if this is the ultimate tiny kitchen hack.

The Mechanism: Swiss Engineering in Your Hand

Unlike cheap knock-offs that use a simple string, the Zyliss feels engineered.

The Pull System: It works like a lawnmower starter but smoother. One pull rotates the dual blades multiple times.
The “Sweeper” Arm: This is the secret weapon. Most manual choppers have a flaw: food gets stuck to the bottom or sides, and the blades spin in empty air. The Zyliss has a patented booster arm at the bottom that sweeps food back into the cutting zone. This ensures uniform chopping without you having to stop and shake the bowl.

What Can It Actually Chop?

We looked at real-world tests to see its limits.

1. The “Walnut Dust” Test

User ArtFirst has been using this machine for over 6 years (since 2017!) specifically to make organic walnut butter. They note: “3 pulls yields chopped nuts… 30 pulls yield a nice fine texture about like brown sugar.”

Analyst Note: If it can handle frozen walnuts for 6 years without the cord snapping, the build quality is exceptional.

2. The Ham Salad Test

User Kathleen C. Smith managed to chop a tough ham steak for salad. While you need to cut meat into chunks first, the fact that a manual plastic device can process meat without jamming is impressive.

3. The Salsa/Pesto Master

This is where it shines. For salsas, pestos, and guacamoles, it offers better texture control than an electric blender (which often turns salsa into soup). You stop pulling when you reach the chunkiness you want.

The Limitations (Read Before Buying)

It is not magic. User ArtFirst honestly pointed out a key limitation: Single-Dish Veggie Prep.

If you try to chop 6 different veggies at once for a skillet meal, the softer ones turn to mush before the harder ones are chopped.

The Fix: Use it for sauces, dips, and single ingredients (like a batch of onions). Don’t try to make a whole ratatouille in one go.

Design & Maintenance

Capacity: 25 Ounces (approx. 3 cups). Perfect for a family of 2-4.
Cleaning: The bowl and blades are dishwasher safe.
Warning: The lid contains the pull mechanism. While the manual says “dishwasher safe,” savvy users recommend hand-washing the lid with a sponge. Getting water inside the pull-cord housing can eventually cause the string to mold or weaken.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Durability: Users report 6+ years of daily use.	Lid Care: Pull mechanism shouldn’t be submerged in water.
Efficiency: Patented sweeper arm prevents stuck food.	Uneven Mix: Can’t chop hard & soft veggies together perfectly.
Portability: No electricity needed (Great for Camping/RVs).	Manual Effort: Requires arm strength for tough items.
Versatility: Handles nuts, meat, bread, and veggies.

Final Verdict

The Zyliss Easy Pull Food Chopper is not just a gadget; it’s a serious tool.

It bridges the gap between a chef’s knife (too slow) and a Magimix (too big). For chopping onions without tears, making quick guacamole, or processing nuts, it is unbeaten in its class.

Buy It If:

You have a tiny kitchen or go camping often.
You want a durable tool that won’t break after a month (proven 6-year lifespan).
You hate the noise and cleanup of electric processors.

Skip It If:

You want to slice cucumbers (get a mandoline instead).
You need to puree large batches of soup (get an immersion blender).

Salad Sling vs. Salad Spinner: Do You Really Need to Swing Your Greens?

Author

February 5, 2026

Everyone experiences this. So, you wash your lettuce, throw it in a bowl, and then you’re stuck with this sad, watery salad where the dressing just won’t stick to the wet leaves.

Bestseller #1

Salad Spinner Large,Vegetables Fruits Wash Bowl, Lettuce Spinner …

$35.99

Buy on Amazon

Bestseller #2

EDELHAUS Salad Spinner Stainless Steel 5.3Qt | Lettuce Spinner BP…

$34.95

Buy on Amazon

For years, people have reached for the Salad Spinner. “Yeah, it gets the job done, but it’s seriously the size of a basketball, and there goes half your cabinet space.”

Here’s the Salad Sling.

Bestseller #1

Farberware Easy to use pro Pump Spinner with Bowl, Colander and B…

$21.47

Buy on Amazon

Bestseller #2

50 Pack 16 oz Plastic Dessert Cups with Lids, Clear Disposable Sn…

$18.99

Buy on Amazon

Bestseller #3

64oz Stainless Steel Salad Bowl Kit & 3Pcs Bamboo Cutlery Set wit…

$34.99

Buy on Amazon

Everybody’s talking about this gadget on social media; it’s just a microfiber towel with handles, but it’s gone absolutely viral. You can dry your greens in a snap, just using your own arm strength and a bit of spin.

Is swinging a bag of wet kale around your kitchen really something you’d do, or is it just a silly idea?

We tried out the extremely popular Salad Sling vs. the traditional Salad Spinner to figure out which one belongs in your kitchen.

What Exactly is a Salad Sling?

Ever wonder what a “salad sling” is? It’s basically a fancy term for a big, absorbent fabric that you use to dry your greens after washing them. You might have already seen it on TikTok, but the Salad Sling is surprisingly simple. It’s like a waterproof bag, but on the inside, it’s all soft, really absorbent microfiber.

The Concept:

So, the idea is you just put your wet greens right in the middle.
You grab the handles.
Just give it a good whirl in a big circle, kinda like a cowboy twirling a lasso, for about 10 to 15 seconds.

The spinning motion just throws the water right off the leaves and into the towel. It’s got no gears, no plastic bowls, and no noise.

Round 1: Storage Space

Winner: Salad Sling (By a Mile)

The clear winner here is the Salad Sling. It’s really the whole point of why it was made.

The Spinner: Even the “collapsible” ones are clunky. If you’re living in a tiny apartment or a van, a salad spinner is probably too much of a space hog to keep around.
The Sling: It actually folds up smaller than a dish towel. Stick it in a drawer, hang it on a hook, or just chuck it into a picnic bag. If you’re into minimalism, this is the clear winner.

Round 2: Drying Power

Winner: Salad Spinner (Barely)

Okay, for the second round of drying power, the salad spinner won out, but just barely.

The Spinner: The spinning action really gives you that consistent, mechanical drying. It doesn’t matter how fast or slow you spin it, the way the basket is made means all the water goes right into the outer bowl. It takes it easy on tender herbs.
The Sling: Yeah, it actually works pretty good, but you gotta know how to use it right. You gotta swing it quick. That microfiber really soaks up moisture from the surface, which usually means your greens end up drier than what you’d get from a basic spinner. Note: If you put too much in there, the leaves in the middle could really stay wet.

Round 3: The “Splash Zone” Risk

Winner: Salad Spinner

The Spinner: It is a closed system. The water stays in the bowl.
The Sling: While the outer layer is waterproof, user error is real. If you don’t seal it properly or if you swing too wildly, you might fling a rogue piece of spinach across the room. Also, you need clearance. Do not try this in a narrow galley kitchen unless you want to smack your hand against the fridge.

Round 4: Cleanup

Winner: Salad Sling

The Spinner: It has three parts (bowl, basket, lid mechanism). It fills up the entire top rack of your dishwasher.
The Sling: Turn it inside out and throw it in the washing machine with your kitchen towels. Done.

The Verdict: Who Needs Which?

So, do you really need to swing your greens?

Buy the Salad Sling If:

You have a tiny kitchen: Storage space is your #1 concern.
You hate washing dishes: Throwing a towel in the laundry is easier than scrubbing a plastic bowl.
You want dry greens fast: It is legitimately faster than setting up a spinner.

Stick to the Salad Spinner If:

You have a large family: You need to prep 2 heads of lettuce at once.
You have mobility issues: Swinging your arm in a circle requires shoulder mobility that a pump-action spinner does not.

The Final Word: The Salad Sling is not a gimmick; it is a legitimate space-saving tool. If you can handle the “lasso” motion without hitting your cat, it’s the best upgrade for a small kitchen.

OXO Good Grips Vegetable Chopper Review: Is It Better Than Fullstar?

Author

If you’re on TikTok or Instagram at all these days, you’ve probably noticed the Fullstar chopper that everyone’s raving about. Everyone knows it makes really perfect, uniform cubes. But here’s the kicker: cleaning that grid? It’s a real nightmare.

Check out the OXO Good Grips Vegetable Chopper.

OXO Good Grips Vegetable Chopper

Chops veggies, herbs, nuts and more into uniform pieces
Sharp, stainless steel blade rotates as you pump the handle
Comfortable knob designed for minimal effort on your part

$22.58

Buy on Amazon

This thing isn’t just a backup; it’s a real challenger for the top spot, selling over 9,000 units last month. But is a manual pump chopper really better than those popular lever dicers?

We went through all the specs, how it works, and thousands of user reviews to figure out if the OXO is the best pick for your kitchen.

The Mechanism: Pump vs. Press

To figure out if the OXO is a good fit, you just need to see how it’s different from the Fullstar.

Fullstar (The Press): You just put the vegetable on a blade grid and push the lid down.
- The Result: So, the final product ended up with perfect geometric squares.
- The Problem: The big issue here is that it needs force. If the skin on something is tough, like on a pepper, it can get stuck.
OXO Good Grips (The Pump): You just put whatever you’re cutting in a cup (or on a cutting board if you prefer) and keep pressing the soft knob on top.
- The Result: So, every time you press it, a stainless steel blade inside spins around, and that chops up your food into these small, irregular minced pieces.
- The Advantage: The big plus here is that you don’t need nearly as much force. The “Good Grips” knob is designed to absorb pressure, so you can do a lot of chopping without your hand getting tired.

Why 5,000+ People Rated This 5 Stars

So, 5,000+ people gave this product 5 stars. That’s because the Fullstar is awesome for when you’re planning meals for the week, but the OXO is your go-to when you need to get dinner on the table right away. Folks are really digging this simpler tool, and there are a lot of reasons why.

1. The “10-Second Salsa” Factor

So, the “10-Second Salsa” Factor is basically about how the blades spin on their own, so you never have to move the food around.

For Onions: You just peel them, cut them in half, and then go for it with the pump. You know, you barely have any time, like fifteen seconds, to get those onions all minced up for the sauce.
For Garlic: This is where OXO really shines. It’s seriously like a massive garlic press, and it can crush 5 or 6 cloves all at one go. “Works reasonably well even with 3 cloves,” one user said. That’s way better than trying to cut them all manually without a machine.

2. Smell Containment

If you can’t stand the smell of onions or garlic sticking around on your hands, this discovery will totally change things for you. That cup totally seals in those pesky sulfur compounds, which are exactly what make your eyes water. You chop something up in the container, dump it into the pan, and then you rinse it out. Your hands never touch the cut onion.

3. The Cleaning Victory

The main reason people switch from Fullstar to OXO is because of how much easier it is to clean.

Fullstar: Ugh, I’ve had issues with Fullstar. Food always seems to get stuck in those tiny square grids, and it’s a real pain to clean. You need a tiny comb to poke those potato bits out.
OXO: Watch out, the blades are showing. Just give them a quick rinse under the tap, or if you’re feeling lazy, toss the whole thing in the dishwasher. You won’t find any tiny grids needing a scrub.

Comparison: Which One Should You Buy?

Alright, let’s compare these two. Which one makes more sense for you to grab? Both tools are good, and they both have a purpose, but they just solve different problems.

Feature	Fullstar Chopper	OXO Good Grips Chopper
Cut Style	Uniform Cubes (Dicing)	Irregular Pieces (Mincing)
Best For	Salads, Fries, Aesthetics	Salsas, Soups, Sauces, Mirepoix
Effort	High (Hard Slam)	Low (Soft Pump)
Cleaning	Difficult (Grid scrubbing)	Easy (Dishwasher safe)
Speed	Medium (Requires prep)	Fast (Toss and chop)

Final Verdict

So, if you’re asking, “Is the OXO Good Grips Chopper better than Fullstar?” it really comes down to what you’re trying to do.

NO, not if you’re aiming for a Cobb Salad that looks straight out of an Instagram picture, all perfect little squares and everything. Just stick with the Fullstar.
YES, if you’re all about speed, comfort, and not having to worry about cleaning up, then this is for you.

When you’re making something like bolognese, chili, or even just some quick taco meat, it really doesn’t matter if your onions are cut into perfect squares. People just want their food to get on the table quickly.

For everyday cooking, the OXO Good Grips Vegetable Chopper is a real workhorse practical, easy to use, and fast.

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ProKeeper+ Airtight Food Storage Container Set – Clear Plastic Fl…

1. The Best All-in-One System: Progressive Prepworks ProKeeper

OXO Good Grips POP Container – 4.4 Qt/4.2 L, Airtight Food Storag…

2. The Modular Choice: OXO Good Grips POP Container

Terracotta Brown Sugar Saver- Brown Sugar Keeper Disc to Maintain…

3. The Best Budget Hack: ENOLVO Terra Cotta Disc

Comparison: Which One Should You Buy?

The Bottom Line

Ninja Food Chopper Express Chop with 200-Watt, 16-Ounce Bowl for …

Design: The “Power Pod” Difference

Performance: More Than Just Veggies

Is It Better Than a Manual Chopper?

Pros and Cons

The Bottom Line

Kitessensu High Effective Garlic Press With Studs, Heavy Duty Gar…

The Old School: The Garlic Press

OXO Good Grips Vegetable Chopper

The New School: The Manual Garlic Chopper

Which One Should You Choose?

Stick with the Press If:

Go for a Manual Chopper If:

The Bottom Line

Ourokhome Mandolin Slicer for Kitchen Food, Hand Safe Vegetable S…

The “No-Mess” Container Design

6 Blades: A Jack of All Trades?

Safety and Cleaning

Pros and Cons

Is It Worth It?

Gramercy Adjustable Mandoline Food Slicer, Mandoline Slicer for K…

Built Like a Tank (Mostly)

Safety: They Actually Included Gloves

Performance: The “8 Onion” Challenge

Cleaning and Maintenance

Pros and Cons

The Bottom Line

OXO Good Grips Handheld Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Adjustable …

Design: Why “Simple” Wins

Performance: The “Cabbage Test”

The Adjustment Knob

The Truth About Safety

The Good and Bad of It All

The Bottom Line

OXO Good Grips Handheld Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Adjustable …

1. The Everyday Hero: OXO Good Grips Handheld Slicer

Gramercy Adjustable Mandoline Food Slicer, Mandoline Slicer for K…

2. The Heavy-Duty Choice: Gramercy Adjustable Mandoline

Ourokhome Mandolin Slicer for Kitchen Food, Hand Safe Vegetable S…

3. The Mess-Free System: Ourokhome 6-in-1 Slicer

Quick Comparison

Which One Should You Choose?

Zyliss Easy Pull Food Chopper and Manual Food Processor – Hand-He…

The Mechanism: Swiss Engineering in Your Hand

What Can It Actually Chop?

1. The “Walnut Dust” Test

2. The Ham Salad Test

3. The Salsa/Pesto Master

The Limitations (Read Before Buying)

Design & Maintenance

Pros and Cons

Final Verdict

Salad Spinner Large,Vegetables Fruits Wash Bowl, Lettuce Spinner …

EDELHAUS Salad Spinner Stainless Steel 5.3Qt | Lettuce Spinner BP…

Farberware Easy to use pro Pump Spinner with Bowl, Colander and B…

50 Pack 16 oz Plastic Dessert Cups with Lids, Clear Disposable Sn…

64oz Stainless Steel Salad Bowl Kit & 3Pcs Bamboo Cutlery Set wit…

What Exactly is a Salad Sling?

Round 1: Storage Space

Round 2: Drying Power

Round 3: The “Splash Zone” Risk

Round 4: Cleanup

The Verdict: Who Needs Which?

OXO Good Grips Vegetable Chopper

The Mechanism: Pump vs. Press

Why 5,000+ People Rated This 5 Stars

1. The “10-Second Salsa” Factor

2. Smell Containment

3. The Cleaning Victory

Comparison: Which One Should You Buy?

Final Verdict

Classic Meals