toasters and can openers

[jodi]

Suggestions? My mother goes through at least one of each every year - and she does not buy the cheapest ones either. We fianlly found a decent toaster (4 slot, wide enough for bagels, Kenmore) about a year ago, but half of the slots stopped working this week.
As for can openers, her record is even worse (and being a lefty, I struggle with the manual ones, so we really need an electric!). We got a cordless one at Christmas (Black and decker gizmo), but it won't hold a charge. So if anyone has a recommendation for either appliance that they have had for a long time and are really pleased with, do share! We are not looking strictly for the cheapest, only the best value overall.
Thanks.

[tgavin71]

Re: toasters and can openers

How about buying second hand older models. I had an electric kettle that worked wonderfully for nearly 15 years. When it finally died I went and put the exact same brand and it only lasted trouble free for 14 months. We live in a disposal society and electrical items are just another item to throw away.

[MoneyHoney]

Re: toasters and can openers

You might consider the OXO brand manual can opener. My neighbor, who has arthritis in both hands, swears by it. She loves its user friendly design. She's had hers for several years - and it's still going strong.

[cschin4]

Re: toasters and can openers

I have a cheap toaster and can opener that I purchased at Dollar General. I think they are Procter and Silex Brand. Works fine and never had any problems with either.

[PrincessPerky]

Re: toasters and can openers

I have a pampered chef can opener I use it and my left handed husband uses it. not electric, but it is the 'no edge' kind.

my toaster was an ultra cheap model we bought when we first got together, 7 years go, works fine.

maybe you should look for strictly cheap, might last longer!

[scrava]

Re: toasters and can openers

I have always had really good luck w/ black&decker can openers.
I have a mount-under-the-counter model now that has been there for
2 years and been fine. Does you Mom actually "do" anything to
the appliances that makes them wear out to so fast? Just curious...
I have a gf who swears by her $60 Kitchenaid toaster.

[jodi]

Re: toasters and can openers

No, we can't figure out why these appliances won't last. It seems to have always been this way...I remember going through many toasters and can openers growing up. On the other hand, microwaves, coffee makers, blenders, etc. last forever. Sigh. Thanks for the suggestions!

[Ima saver]

Re: toasters and can openers

We have never had a good toaster, none that work well. Our opener is really old and still works fine.

[meenah]

Re: toasters and can openers

i love my gizmo but also wont hold a charge for long, i got it used for $3 and i have had it for 4 years. i just keep it on the charger. it works for all the cans i would need at each meal.
my toaster is hamilton beach, no complaints, but i might not toast as much as your mom. are those appliances plugged in to the same outlet? maybe an electric problem?