Now that it is summertime, people are more often on the roads.
They’re biking to work, walking their dogs, running errands around town, but there’s one thing many people are doing this summer that they didn’t do last summer, drinking smoothies or protein shakes.
It is because, recently, personal blenders that crush ice have become popular.
They’re convenient, affordable, but they are not all created equally.
Here are the questions to ask when purchasing a personal blender for crushing ice and other frozen ingredients.
What are the Shape and Sizes?
The first thing customers should look at in a personal blender is the shape and size. It has to be small to fit in your kitchen but large enough to make a full smoothie or protein shake.
Typically, these blenders hold around 20 ounces at most, so anything larger than that will not work well if you’re making one for yourself.
It doesn’t make a huge difference as far as the shape goes. Some people like straight containers, while others prefer one that curves inwards to prevent spills and leaks.
Does It Have Multiple Speeds or Single Speeds?
Another question will vary from person to person.
Do you want a blender with multiple speeds or only one speed? While having multiple speeds gives you more control, having one speed is easier and simpler.
If you have a large family using the blender, you might want to opt for more speeds so that everyone can use it at their own pace.
However, if it’s just yourself, one speed may be enough to do everything you need.
What About Accessories?
Most personal blenders come with a few particular accessories. Some blenders come with travel lids that screw onto the top of the cup to prevent spilling.
Others have built-in metal straws, so you don’t have to worry about clean-up.
Is the Cup Dishwasher Safe?
Different blenders such as high shear mixers, shaft mixers, and double cone food blenders are used to blend different products.
It is a big question for those who hate washing dishes. However, you should know that not all blender cups are dishwasher safe.
So, if this is important to you, make sure to do your research first before buying anything!
Does It Come With a Warranty?
Warranties are essential, especially when it applies to what you’re buying. If you buy a blender with no warranty, there’s not much the company can do if something breaks in the future.
However, if your blender comes with a warranty, it will replace anything within reason.
How Much Should the Cup Weigh?
It is an essential question if you plan on drinking your smoothie immediately after making it.
If the cup is too heavy and complete, lifting and carrying around will be brutal and dangerous.
How Much Energy Does It Use?
You won’t run into this problem if you’re only blending a cup of ice or frozen fruit, but if you’re blending anything significant (like an entire glass), it may take longer than you think.
You must check the wattage of personal blenders that crush ice because some have low wattages meaning the motor won’t work as well, and others are too high, meaning they can burn out quickly.
Is It a Set, or Can You Use the Cup Separately?
If you do not mind washing the cup every time after it’s been used, then this shouldn’t be a problem for you.
However, if you want something that won’t take up so much room in your dishwasher, or you don’t want to clean it at all, you should go with a set.
Does It Have a Reusable Filter?
Not many personal blenders come with this accessory, but if you blend green smoothies or protein shakes daily, this is for you.
A reusable filter takes up less room in your kitchen and can be reused for a long time.