Feel like sprucing up your kitchen and mealtime? Behold these cool kitchen gadgets.

The kitchen is the center of any family home: from cooking to eating together, it’s a chance for busy families to reconnect with one another and fill their hungry tummies. We’re crushing on a few new and cool kitchen gadgets that are full of whimsy, fun and convenience. Afterall, if you have to have gadgets, they should definitely be cool, right?

These cool kitchen gadgets are not only exactly what will make your kids want to help cooking and eat (fun shapes always do the trick), but they’re also a lot of fun to use. Plus, they’re all things you actually need in the kitchen. Peelers, plates, and utensils are always going to be necessities. So, we’ve gone ahead and rounded up some of the most adorable goodies for all your future meals. Scroll below to find the new object of your foodie affection.

Cat Peeler

Amazon

Not only is this little peeler adorable, but it's also easy for little hands to hold. It should come in very handy for all those potatoes you need to peel for Thanksgiving mash. The little ears help to remove potato eyes, too. Also comes in white!

Cat Peeler ($12.99)—Buy Here!

ezpz Mini Play Mat

ezpz

This dishwasher-safe silicone mat not only makes mealtime fun, but it's also perfect for those eaters who like their foods "separate" whenever possible. We also love this mat for holiday baking (you can use all the compartments for different cookie toppings) and even crafting supplies. Because it's easy to wash, there's no problem using it for a variety of things. It comes in an array of colors and sizes (some have more "mat" areas for crafting, etc.). 

ezpz Mini Play Mat ($22.99+)—Buy Here!

Nessie Ladle

Amazon

Dive deep into pots of soup and stews with this long-necked, footed ladle in the shape of the elusive Loch Ness Monster. She even comes in a jumbo size.

Nessie Ladle ($17.95+)—Buy Here!

Construction Plate and Utensils

Constructive Eating

Make mealtime extra fun with this construction-themed plate and utensil set. Now all those noises you make to get the food down the hatch might sound so out of place! 

Construction Plate and Utensils ($35.95)—Buy Here!

Bear Hands Oven Mitts

Amazon

Protect hands from burns and amuse your guests with these silly-sweet oven mitts that look exactly like bear paws, made with insulated cotton with heat-resistant silicone pads. They also come in polar bear hands if that's more your taste.

Bear Hands Oven Mitts ($20.27)—Buy Here!

The Gratiator

Peleg Design

Get your knights to gather around the table with this adorable but functional cheese grater that looks like a dagger. Enough said, right? You will never buy the pre-shredded cheese again. We’re pretty sure you’ll have a few volunteers to pitch in with meal prep with this one.

The Gratiator ($14.90)—Buy Here!

Emoji Cookie Cutters

Etsy

With cookie baking season right around the corner, you and your kids will love whipping up a batch of sugar cookies (or really any solid dough designed for cutters) in the shape of emojis! 

Emoji Cookie Cutters ($5.49+)—Buy Here!

Lemoniere Lemon Juicer

Amazon

It’s a juicer, it’s a miniature watering can, and it’s a ton of fun! Perfect for your favorite salad dressing, just squeeze the lemon juice directly in, add whatever seasonings and oil you might want and then sprinkle directly onto your greens. This just might get them to eat those veggies! 

Lemoniere Lemon Juicer ($9.90)—Buy Here!

The Brain Drain

Amazon

Kids love playing in soapy water, so take advantage of that and get them to do a few dishes (non-breakables are fine). Even the most reluctant rinser will perk up when they see the Brain Drain, a clever little sponge holder that looks like a skull. And as a bonus, you can use it to hold a body scrubber in the bath, too. 

The Brain Drain ($11.99)—Buy Here!

Veggie Pops

Amazon

Whether you’re introducing carrots to a wee one’s diet or making fancy popsicles for a playdate, this adorable popsicle maker will bring on squeals of delight. How can you go wrong? 

Veggie Pops ($14.99)—Buy Here!

 

Their First Kitchen Utensil Set

kitchen utensils, kitchen tools for kids
Q.D. Foodie

Whether they're into banging on pots and pans or have graduated to helping in the kitchen, set your little chefs up for success with this seven-piece utensil set from Q.D. Foodie. The utensils feature sensory-friendly, easy-to-grip handles, have braille on the measuring pieces and mimic real fruits and veggies. 

Their First Kitchen Utensil Set ($50.50)—Buy Here!

Karoto Original + Karoto Julienne

Amazon

They look like giant pencil sharpeners, but they produce julienne-style results that can easily be formed into garnishes, thereby making your food look 10x fancier. 

Karoto Original + Karoto Julienne ($15.90)—Buy Here!

Bloom Rose Napkin Holders

Amazon

From birthday parties to everyday eats, these napkin holders make mealtime more like story time. Easy to use, you just grab any napkin (cloth, paper) and fold it in half, give Bloom a twist and bam! Your napkin just became petals. Whimsy with a side of good manners? Yes, please. 

Bloom Rose Napkin Holders ($15.90)—Buy Here!

OXO Tot Stick & Stay Suction Divided Plate

OXO

You want kiddo to learn to eat from a real plate but don't want said plate tossed on the floor. Your solution: OXO Tot's new stick and stay divided plate. The curved side walls encourage your babe to feed herself, and it suctions to any surface—it's easy for mom and dad to remove, not so easy for the baby. 

OXO Tot Stick & Stay Suction Divided Plate ($10.99)—Buy Here!

Splatypus Jar Scraper Spatula

Amazon

Never miss out on the last little bits of jam or peanut butter thanks to the Splatypus jar scraper. This little spatula is just $17; you'll save that much in jam in a year alone. 

Splatypus Jar Scraper Spatula ($7.10)—Buy Here!

 

—Amber Guetebier, Erin Lem, Gabby Cullen, Kate Cartia

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

 

Waffle irons: they aren’t just for waffles! The versatile kitchen gadget is here for your savory and sweet cravings, too. From excellent egg dishes and crispy cauliflower to crave-able cookies, these easy waffle maker recipes will take your breakfast, lunch and dinner to the next level.

Breakfast

Tater Tot Waffle Grilled Cheese

Kirbie Cravings

Why settle for a simple tater tot waffle when you can make a tater tot waffle grilled cheese instead? This easier than easy recipe involves adding frozen tots to a waffle maker and smushing into a crispy waffle before adding your cheese and other fixings. Get the recipe at Kirbie Cravings.

Hash Browns

Averie Cooks

You don't have to settle for soggy or greasy hash browns when you use your waffle iron. Simply pour them on and let the magic happen! They make the perfect side or add-in for your breakfast burrito. Get all the details at Averie Cooks.

Omelet

Growing Up Gabel

You don't have to worry about perfecting your omelet flipping skills when you make it in a waffle iron! Premix your eggs, cheese and other toppings before pouring it in the waffle maker and cooking to perfection. Breakfast is done! Get the recipe at Growing Up Gabel.

Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks

Savory Nothings

French toast and waffles meet in this delightful breakfast treat. Bread is dipped in egg custard, breadcrumbs and cooked to delightful crispiness. Head to Savory Nothings to get all the instructions and ideas for dipping sauce!

Dinner

Cornbread Waffles with Bacon & Cheddar

My Gorgeous Recipes

Great for cool autumn nights, these cornbread waffles are a nice twist on the traditional treat. Add in your fave savory sides like bacon and cheese to make this entree-worthy recipe a complete meal. Get the recipe at My Gorgeous Recipes.

Crispy Mac & Cheese Waffles

Kevin is Cooking

Oh, hello mac and cheese! This perfect for adults (kids, too) recipe involves chipotle mac and cheese, bacon and panko crumbs to get this to-die-for toasty treat. Get the full recipe at Kevin Is Cooking.

Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi

Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi is already a hit, but take it for a spin in the waffle maker, and it's unstoppable! Microwave the tiny pillows before adding to the iron and heat for four minutes before completely enjoying. Get the easy recipe by @bellshappyfood.

Quesadilla

Lovely Indeed

If you're looking for a quick quesadilla that offers crispiness the microwave can't offer, look no further than you waffle iron! The easy process is speedy and perfect for little ones to master in the kitchen. Find the recipe on Lovely Indeed.

Dessert

Brownies

Rachel Cooks

Just when you thought brownies couldn't get any better! Perfect for those who love the crispy edges, this recipe involves boxed brownies and whips up in a flash. Get the recipe at Rachel Cooks.

Chocolate Chip Cookies

Sprinkles for Breakfast

This delightful dessert recipe doesn't require an oven! You'll use a traditional dough recipe, but cook the cookies in your waffle iron before dipping them in a homemade glaze. Get the full recipe from Sprinkles for Breakfast, then enjoy with a cup of coffee!

 

––Karly Wood

Feature photo: Izabelle Acheson via Unsplash

 

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Retailer Bed, Bath & Beyond recently announced it will close, or has already closed, 40 stores in 19 states in 2020.

So why is the popular home goods retailer shuttering dozens of locations? The stores, “No longer meet the standards our customers expect from us, ” according to a company statement provided to Today.

photo: Mike Mozart via Flickr

Don’t worry about how you’ll get your bed linens, towels or kitchen gadgets. The chain still has more than 900 stores and a website for shoppers to browse and buy from.

A spokesperson for Bed, Bath & Beyond said, in an emailed statement to Red Tricycle, “We’ve just given over 150 of our most popular stores a multi-million dollar update and are continually investing in our stores and digital platform to give customers an even better experience however they choose to shop with us.”

If you’re wondering whether your local store will close in 2020, the current list includes:

California

Chino Hills: 13021 Peyton Drive

Encino: 17401 Ventura Blvd.

Hemet: 1165 S. Sanderson Ave.

Santa Clarita: 19211 Golden Valley Road

Tracy: 2886 West Grant Line Road

 

Connecticut

Shelton: 862 Bridgeport Ave.

 

District of Columbia

Washington D.C.: 709 7th Street NW

 

Florida

Tampa: 12803 Citrus Plaza Drive

 

Hawaii

Honolulu: 1200 Ala Moana Blvd.

 

Iowa

Council Bluffs: 3706 Metro Drive

West Des Moines: 6805 Mills Civic Parkway

 

Illinois

Chicago: 530 N. State Street

McHenry: 3340 Shoppers Drive

Mount Prospect: 1057 N. Elmshurst Rd.

 

Louisiana

Baton Rouge: 9001 Florida Blvd.

 

Maryland

Owings Mills: 10300 Reisterstown Road

 

New Jersey

Parsippany: 790 Route 46

Newton: 17 Hampton House Road

Sewell: 141 Tuckahoe Road Suite 190

 

New Mexico

Rio Rancho: 3575 NM Highway 528 NE

 

New York

Bronx: 610 Exterior Street

Cheektowaga: 3781 Union Road

West Nyack: 1406 Palisades Center Drive

—Erica Loop

 

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Gift-giving is one of those things that challenge me every time it comes up. What to give, how much to spend, do we even need a gift for that? Well, I’m here to tell you that things don’t have to be so tough. Here are 6 ways that I like to keep gift giving simple.

1. Gift Experiences. Everyone likes to open something, but the best gifts (in my opinion) are those that make memories. I like to gift experiences when I can. One of the best experiential gifts I ever gifted (if I do say so myself) was to a pair of twin boys who were turning 4 or 5 years old. The gift was an outing to a pet store to get their first fish tank. Not only did we get to take the train, go to lunch and pick out fish and a tank, but they got to keep the fish as a reminder of the day. Not expensive, but one they still talk about 6 or 7 years later. For adults, some of the best experiences include offering up babysitting (and really following through), taking someone to your favorite place in the city, spending time doing their favorite hobby or if you have a bigger budget, treating them to something they would never do for themselves (cleaning lady, spa day, theatre tickets etc)

2. Set a budget and stick to it. Budgets are meant to be kept. It keeps things simple, guides you to what gifts you can afford and helps you stay on track.

3. What will make your gift recipient smile? When you think about giving gifts, don’t think about you, but rather think about what will make the other person smile. Do they love the outdoors? Maybe get them a flashlight and some camping cookware are perfect. Are they a bookworm? Time to head to the bookstore and get them the hottest new book, some cozy socks and a cool bookmark. Keep this in mind and get creative. Don’t know much about the person you are gifting? Get creative with something that would make anyone smile. Think chia pets, yummy snacks, or something useful to everyone.

4. More sometimes really is more. Sometimes a trip to the local Dollar Tree can solve all of your gifting needs. This is a great place to pick a theme, pick a budget, pick a basket and go crazy. For themes, I like to think about colors, letters, or specific topics for the gift (kitchen gadgets, outdoor fun, movie night). Like if you pick the color RED, you could grab a red plastic tub and fill it up with $15 red things. The recipient will think they hit the jackpot with so many little gifts, you’ll look super creative and everyone will be happy!

5. The internet is your friend. We have all been there, so much to do, so little time. We want to go from store to store picking out just the right thing for everyone on our list. But is that really possible? I think not. I like to keep it simple by making my list of gifts I need for the upcoming month, whether its holiday season, housewarming season, or birthday party season. Write down your gift needs, and then hop online, and buy everything in one fell swoop. You’ll not only feel super accomplished and organized, but you’ll have time to be more thoughtful about the gifts you are purchasing.

6. Buy in bulk. There is no shame in gifting many people the same thing. This year for Hanukkah all the nieces and nephews are getting slippers (shhh, don’t tell them). Yep, that’s right funny slippers for all. Purchased a while back when I saw a great sale. There is nothing wrong with this. It keeps life simple for you and allows you to stick to that budget you set for yourself. Some other times that I use this trick are birthday parties. Everyone turning 4 gets the same thing, a fun play-doh kit. Turning 8, you’ll bet you’ll get a great book, etc.

Remember these tips for a simple holiday season and gifting throughout the year and make sure that life is as simple as your favorite gray t-shirt.

 

The quick story is that I'm a Detroiter, living in Chicago, married to a guy from Louisville.  We have two hilarious munchkins who are nonstop.  I'm an reformed MSW, former camp director turned full time blogger, I'm all about helping people keep life simple!

Get ready for pumpkin spice everything! It’s that time of year again and PSL’s aren’t the only slice of autumn awesomeness that you need ASAP. The Dash Mini Waffle Maker makes pumpkin-shaped goodies and your kiddos are going to thank you.

The waffle maker, which retails on Amazon for $14.99, is compact, lightweight and easy to use—even if you’re not exactly a Top Chef-worthy kitchen whiz.

photo: Amazon

Not only can you make perfect little pumpkin-shaped waffles in this handy kitchen gadget, but you can also press paninis, hash browns or biscuit pizzas. If you’re still not sold, the pumpkin-shaped waffle maker also comes with a recipe book and online recipe access!

This isn’t the only shape waffle maker Dash has to offer. Whether you want to show your love or you need a Valentine’s Day treat, the company also sells a heart-shaped version on Amazon too.

—Erica Loop

 

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Congratulations to the below Los Angeles businesses who are the local winners of the 2011 Totally Awesome Awards!

— Purple Twig: Art Classes

Juvenile Shop: Baby Boutiques

— Gloria’s Cake & Candy Supplies: Birthday Party Supply Stores

— Lollipop Dream: Birthday Party Venues

— The Grilled Cheese Truck: Cheap or Free Eats for Kids

— VIP Nannies & Household Staffing: Childcare Agencies and Resources

Inch by Inch Children’s Resale: Consignment Retail Shops

— Gloria’s Cake & Candy Supplies: Cupcakes, Bakeries, and CandyShops

Gotta Dance Studio: Dance, Movement, and Theater Classes

— Derby Dolls: Date Night Spots

— VIP Nannies: Drop Off and Childcare Spots

— Dr Michelle DDS & Dr. Michelle To: Family Dentists

— Razi Wilson Photography: Family Photographers

— Menchies: Ice Cream and FroYo

— The Awesome Playground: Indoor Playspaces

— Tifa Chocolate: Kid Friendly Coffee Shops

Fresh Brothers: Kid Friendly Restaurants and Cafes

— The Green Bean: Kids Clothing Retail Stores

— Mod Mom Furniture: Furniture and Gear Stores

— The Yellow Balloon in Studio City: Kids Hair Cuts

Lango: Language Classes

— Guncles Online: Local Blogs

— 2 chix Maternity & Baby: Maternity Stores

— Ana Paula Markel of Bini Birth: Midwives and Doulas

— Caryn Antonini (Early Lingo): Mom Run Businesses

Bust It Bootcamp by Fit Happens L.A.: Mom’s Fitness Programs

— WLAPOM (West LA Parents Of Multiples): Mom’s Groups

— Discovery Science Center: Museums

— Little Movers and Shakers: Music Classes

Echo Parenting: Parent Education Programs

— Cedars-Sinai: Places to Give Birth

— The Little Preschool: Schools

— The Water Whisperer: Sports and Fitness Classes

— Scribble Press: Toy Shops and Book Stores

Totally Awesome Stuff Winners:

— Tiny Prints: Announcement, Birthday & Holiday Cards Suppliers

— Clementine Art Supplies: Art Supplies

— Manny and Simon: Au-Natural Toys

— 4Moms Mamaroo: Baby Stage Must Haves

— Yikes Twins Hooded Towels: Bath Toys

— Baby DeeDee Sleep Nest: Bedding, Accessories and Room Decors

— LEGOLAND California: Big Amusement Theme Parks

— Wishbone Bike: Bikes, Trikes, Scooters, and Movers

— Zoku Popsicle Maker: Can’t Live Without Kitchen Gadgets

— Orbit Baby: Car Seats

— City Threads: Clothing and Fashion Lines for Boys

— Nohi Kids: Clothing and Fashion Lines for Girls

— PetitNest: Coolest Cribs and Beds

— Ju-Ju-Be: Diaper Bags and Backpacks

— Eebee’s Adventures: Educational Toys

— Great Wolf Lodge: Family Resorts and Hotels

— Great Wolf Lodge: Family Water Parks

— SweetSeat: Feeding Supplies

— Itzy Ritzy Snack Happened Bags: Green Kids Products

— Ella’s Kitchen: Healthy Snacks

— Piggy Back Rider: Kid Carriers and Slings

— Alphabet Rockers: Kids Music and Artists

— Hanna Andersson: Kids Pajamas

— See Kai Run: Kids Shoes

— My True Nature: Kids Skincare Products

— Travel Tot: Kids Travel Accessories

— Playland-Not-at-the-Beach: Little Amusement Theme Parks

— Easy Lunch Boxes: Lunch Gear

— More of Me: Maternity Fashion or Products

— ThredUP: New Way to Consign, Swap and Recycle

— Yummy Spoonfuls: On The Go Prepared Meals

— MoonJar Savings Bank: Preschooler Age Must Haves

— Bow Allure: Rainwear, Hats, and Other Accessories

— Squaw Valley USA: Ski Schools and Programs

— Orbit Baby: Strollers

— Dapper Snappers: Toddler Years Must Haves

— Basic Grey Storage Barrels: Toy Storage and Organizers

— Springfree Trampoline: Toys and Gear For Backyard Fun

— Monterey Bay Aquarium: Zoo and Animal Parks

Totally Awesome Online Winners:

— LilSugar: Celebrity Baby Site

— Parents Connect: Community Posting Board Sites

— Deals4Dummies: Coupon and Saving Sites

— Mamabargains: Deal Sites

— Fooz Kids: Family and Kids Apps / Games

— A Little Yumminess: Food and Recipe Sites

— In The Know Mom: Gear and Product Review Sites

— DrGreene: Medical Advice Sites

— Chic & Cheap Nursery: Nursery and Decor Sites

— It’s a Preemie Thing: Online Shopping Sites

— Happy Healthy Mom: Parenting Advice Sites

— Guncles Online: Parenting Blogger Sites

— BabyCenter: Pregnancy Sites

— Poshbrood: Travel and Vacation Sites