Cookworks Toaster

An In-Depth Review of the Cookworks Toaster and Its Features

Toasting bread is one of life’s simple pleasures. Whether it’s to start your day with toast and jam or make a quick snack, having a reliable toaster on your countertop is essential. If you’re looking to upgrade your old toaster, the Cookworks toaster deserves a close look.

Cookworks is a popular brand known for its wide range of quality and affordable kitchen appliances. The Cookworks toaster line offers excellent performance and useful features that make breakfast toast and quick snacks easier than ever. In this in-depth Cookworks toaster review, we’ll explore what makes these toasters stand out from the competition and highlight the key details to help you determine if a Cookworks toaster should earn a permanent spot in your kitchen.

What Is a Cookworks Toaster?

A Cookworks toaster is a 2 or 4 slice toaster manufactured by the Cookworks brand. Cookworks offers several toaster models in a range of colors and designs to match any kitchen décor. The key components of a Cookworks toaster include:

• Stainless steel body for durability and easy cleaning
• Slots wide enough to accommodate thick bread slices and bagels
• Browning control to adjust toasting level from light to dark
• Removable crumb tray to clean up crumbs easily
• Fruit label ensure bread comes out to perfection
• Defrost setting to gently thaw and toast frozen items
• Reheat function to warm up toast without browning it further
• High lift lever for safely removing smaller items
• Cool touch exterior and auto shut-off for safety
• Cord storage and compact footprint for tidy countertops

Cookworks toasters come in sleek and modern styling that adds a touch of elegance to any kitchen. The combination of useful features and affordable price points makes these toasters appealing for homes and offices alike.

Where Can I Buy a Cookworks Toaster?

Cookworks toasters are primarily sold in the United Kingdom at several major retailers:

• Argos – Stocks the full range of Cookworks 2 and 4 slice toasters both in-store and online. Frequent sales and special offers available.
• Amazon UK – Carries most Cookworks toaster models with free shipping for Prime members. Check product listings for availability.
• eBay – New and used Cookworks toasters can be found at discounted prices in eBay stores and auctions. Models may vary.
• Robert Dyas – Select Cookworks toasters sold both online and in-store. Free home delivery on orders over £50.
• Very – Stocks most popular Cookworks toaster colors and designs. Spread cost with monthly payment plans.
• Cookworks – Purchase directly from the official Cookworks website. Limited models available.
• AO – Large appliance retailer selling top-rated Cookworks toasters with next day delivery.
• Currys – Top Currys locations offer the Cookworks toaster range. In-store browsing recommended.

Check retailer websites for current product availability and pricing. Special deals and sales make these toasters very affordable.

How Much Does a Cookworks Toaster Cost?

Cookworks toasters offer great value with most models ranging from £20 to £40. The exact price depends on features, dimensions, and retailers.

• Basic 2-slice Cookworks toasters start around £20-£25.
• Larger 4-slice toasters range from £30-£40.
• Special edition colors and finishes may cost £5-£10 more.
• Models with extra functions like digital displays can cost up to £50.
• Sale prices can go as low as £15-£20 for older models.

For the quality and features, Cookworks toasters are very competitively priced compared to similar brands. Watch for money-saving promotions from leading retailers to grab the lowest deal.

Key Features of the Cookworks Toaster

Cookworks toasters provide the essential functions you need for morning toast and quick snacks with some added versatility:

Adjustable Browning Control

Dial in the perfect shade from light golden brown to dark crisp with multiple browning settings.

Defrost Function

Toast frozen bread, waffles, and pastries with a handy defrost mode that thaws and toasts gently.

Reheat Function

Warm up already toasted bread without browning more with an innovative reheat option.

Fruit Labels

A smart sensor reads light and dark shades of bread to ensure even toasting on every item.

Removable Crumb Tray

The crumb tray slides out effortlessly to contain crumbs and allow quick cleanup.

High Lift Lever

Safely lift out smaller pieces of bread, English muffins, and bagels with ease.

Cool Touch Exterior

Plastic outer housing stays cool to the touch for safety.

Cord Storage

Keep countertops neat by winding excess cord underneath the toaster.

Compact Design

The space-saving footprint takes up minimal space for small kitchens.

With the right blend of helpful features and intuitive design, the Cookworks toaster truly simplifies breakfast.

Available Sizes of Cookworks Toasters

Cookworks offers both 2-slice and 4-slice toaster options to meet different needs:

• 2-Slice Toasters – Ideal for individuals or couples. Compact size takes up minimal counter space.
• 4-Slice Toasters – Perfect for larger households and families. Lets you toast multiple pieces at once.
• Long Slot Toasters – Accommodate longer pieces of bread and bagels. Extra width for thick artisanal slices.
• 2 and 4-Slice Combos – Choose from a model with 2 long slots or 4 regular slots in one toaster. Versatility for all your toasting needs.

The right size comes down to how much you toast at once and the available space in your kitchen. Measure your counter area before deciding on 2-slice vs 4-slice.

Energy Efficiency of Cookworks Toasters

The Cookworks toaster line aims to produce functional appliances that don’t waste energy. Features that enhance efficiency include:

• Thermostatic auto shut-off turns the toaster off after toasting.
• Minimum standby power used when plugged in but not in active use.
• Insulated body focuses heat directly on the bread slots.
• Cool wall technology keeps exterior cool to prevent wasted heat.
• Tight-fitting crumb tray prevents heat loss through openings.

While not the most energy-efficient toasters available, Cookworks toasters perform reasonably well. Choosing a basic model without digital displays or bells and whistles can further maximize efficiency.

Adjustable Browning Settings

One of the Cookworks toaster’s best features is the adjustable browning control. Most models have six numbered settings from 1 (lightest) to 6 (darkest) to toast bread and other items to your desired shade.

Lower settings (1-2) produce lightly golden or soft tan toast perfect for those who like their toast just warmed. The mid-range settings (3-4) make classic golden brown toast. For those who enjoy darker crispier toast, dial it up to 5-6.

The browning control lets you adjust the toast shade based on personal preferences and the type of bread used. You can fine-tune the ideal setting for everything from soft sandwich bread to sturdy artisan slices.

Materials Used in Cookworks Toasters

Cookworks toasters feature a combination of metals, plastics, and other materials chosen both for durability and safety:

• Stainless steel – The main interior toasting compartment is stainless steel for even heating.
• Plastic outer body – Durable plastic polymers create a cool-touch exterior that resists stains.
• Heat-resistant plastics – Internal components like levers can withstand high toasting heats.
• Insulated electrical components – Prevents any risk of shocks.
• Chrome accents – Shiny chrome gives a sleek, elegant look.
• Ceramic surfaces – Interior walls have a smooth ceramic coating that prevents sticking.

The blend of utilizing different specialized materials allows Cookworks to produce affordable yet well-constructed appliances.

Available Colors and Designs

While many toaster brands come in just one or two colors, Cookworks sets itself apart with a rainbow of available shades and designs to brighten up any kitchen.

Standard colors include classic Red, Black, White, Grey, and Stainless Steel.

Bold bright shades like Green Apple, Purple, Orange, Sky Blue, and Cream add vibrant accents.

Patterned designs such as Granite, Leopard Print, Ditsy Floral, and Mahogany Wood give you unique styling options.

With so many choices, you can easily find a Cookworks toaster that matches your existing kitchen décor or makes a fun statement. Switch up the look from time to time with different colored toasters that fit your mood or kitchen accessories.

Defrost and Reheat Functions

The Cookworks toaster comes equipped with two convenience functions that enhance its usefulness beyond just making basic toast.

Defrost Setting – Toasting frozen items like waffles, pastries, and bread requires extra time and care to thaw and brown evenly. The defrost mode adjusts the toasting cycle to gently thaw and toast the frozen food. No need to pre-thaw items beforehand.

Reheat Setting – Popping pre-toasted bread back into a hot toaster usually burns or over-toasts it. With the reheat function, the Cookworks toaster warms the bread lightly without browning it further, saving you a step.

These functions make the toaster adaptable for cooking frozen convenience foods and reheating leftovers that save you time and effort.

Ease of Cleaning the Cookworks Toaster

To keep your toaster looking shiny and new, regular cleaning is a must. Cookworks makes the task simple with thoughtful design:

• Removable Crumb Tray – The crumb tray slides out from the bottom of the toaster with the push of a button for quick cleanup of fallen crumbs and debris.
• Non-Stick Interior – The smooth ceramic non-stick coating keeps the inside walls of the toaster clean to prevent buildup and sticking.
• Wipe-Down Exterior – The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel and plastic body easily wipes clean with just a damp cloth.
• Cord Storage – Keep your countertops crumb-free by winding up and storing excess cord underneath the toaster.
• Dishwasher-Safe Parts – The crumb tray, fruit label, and other removable pieces conveniently clean in the dishwasher.

With quick weekly wiping and emptying the crumb tray, maintaining your Cookworks toaster is hassle-free.

Toasting Speed

When you’re in a morning rush, you need a toaster that can toast fast. Cookworks toasters deliver speedy results:

• Most slices of bread toast in just 1-3 minutes, even on lighter settings.
• The wide slots and powerful heating elements quickly brown both sides evenly.
• With no pre-heating wait time, you simply insert the bread and lower the lever to start toasting immediately.
• The defrost setting adds just 1-2 minutes more for frozen breads and pastries.

While not the absolute fastest toasters available, Cookworks toasters deliver hot toast and breakfast items in a timely manner so you can eat and get on with your day. The toasting speed rivals many pricier models.

Toasting Capacity for Thick Breads and Bagels

One common toaster gripe is uneven toasting or bread getting stuck when attempting to toast thicker breads and bagels.

The Cookworks toaster was designed with ample interior space and wide slots to accommodate all kinds of breads:

• Extra-long slots – Measure up to 29cm in length, ideal for long baguettes and bagels.
• Extra-wide slots – Around 4.5cm wide to handle the thickest hand-cut artisan bread slices.
• Adjustable guides -Side wires move to grip both thin and wide slices evenly.
• High lift lever – Safely pull out small pieces or unevenly cut breads.

The generous toasting cavity and smart design tweaks make the Cookworks toaster far more versatile than many budget models.

Customer Reviews of Cookworks Toasters

Judging from buyer reviews, the Cookworks Toaster line rates very well for an affordable toaster:

• Good toasting performance – Produces evenly browned toast thanks to wide slots, consistent heating, and adjustable settings.
• User-friendly design – Nice high lift lever, external controls, cord storage and other details make operation smooth.
• Reliable build quality – Durable plastics and metals stand up well to daily use without wear and tear.
• Excellent value – Comparable performance to more expensive brands at a budget-friendly price point.
• Helpful extra features – Addition of reheat and defrost functions increases convenience.

While a few reviews mention units failing after 1-2 years, most agree Cookworks toasters deliver exceptional performance and features for the low cost.

Warranty Details

Cookworks provides warranties to cover manufacturing defects and ensure customer satisfaction:

• 1-year general warranty – Covers repair or replacement for 1 year from the original purchase date.
• 2-year warranty option – Extend coverage for an extra year by registering your product online.
• 30-day money-back guarantee – Return for a full refund if dissatisfied within the first 30 days.

Be sure to register your Cookworks toaster upon purchase and save your receipt to take advantage of the warranty protection. Normal wear and tear or improper use is not covered.

How Cookworks Toasters Compare to Other Brands

Compared to leading toaster brands, Cookworks holds it own despite the lower prices:

• Cookworks toasters match the features offered by top brands like dual slots, defrosting, browning control, etc. without going overboard on complex electronics.
• The performance and durability come very close to bigger names like Morphy Richards, Breville, De’Longhi, etc.
• While the design and materials may not be premium, they’re quite good for the cost.
• Value for money is exceptional – much cheaper than big brands while keeping pace on key criteria.

For shoppers who want quality and functionality without paying for costly brand names, Cookworks is an ideal alternative. The appliances deliver where it matters most.

Safety Features

Toasters contain heating elements that reach high temperatures, so safety is a priority. Cookworks builds in these safeguards:

• Cool-touch exterior – The plastic housing remains cool during use to prevent potential burns.
• Auto shut-off – If toast gets jammed or forgotten, the toaster turns off automatically after a few minutes.
• Insulated body – Heat stays inside the unit with no hot spots externally.
• Cord storage – Reduces risk of tugging or tripping over a dangling cord.
• Safety certification – Meets the required safety standards for UK electrical products.

While supervision is still recommended, the various safety features minimize risks – especially important in homes with children.

Availability of Replacement Parts

Like any appliance, the Cookworks toaster may eventually need a part replaced after years of use. Replacement components are available:

• Manufacturer parts – Cookworks stocks common replacements like knobs, cords, trays, levers, etc. Contact their customer service for needs.
• Third party parts – Generic compatible parts can be sourced from appliance sites if models are discontinued.
• Full units – For major issues, consider purchasing new. Prices are low, especially with sales.

With replaceable parts accessible and affordable full units readily available, repairing or replacing your Cookworks toaster is quick and simple.

Sizing for Small Kitchens

For those with tiny kitchens, petite appliances are a must. Cookworks toasters come in space-saving sizes:

• Compact footprint – Able to fit in tight spaces a larger toaster couldn’t. 2-slice models take up minimal counter space.
• Multiple placement options – Short cord and flat back design allows placing nearly anywhere – countertops, cabinets, shelves, etc.
• Streamlined shape – With smooth rounded corners, fits neatly against other appliances.
• Cord storage – Keeps unused cord tucked out of way rather than hanging.
• Stackable design – Some Cookworks toasters can stack on top of each other for storage.

Thanks to smart compact styling, you can enjoy toast even in the smallest kitchen setups.

Sale Prices and Discounts

As an affordably-priced brand, Cookworks toasters already offer excellent value for money. But you can often save even more through promotions:

• Retailer sales – Special pricing at Argos, Currys, Amazon and more throughout the year.
• Holiday sales – Deep discounts offered around peak times like Christmas and Black Friday.
• Clearance deals – Older color and model stock frequently goes on clearance at discounted prices.
• Open box savings – Lightly used display units marked down 30% or more. Still covered by warranty.
• Promo codes – Retailers email discount codes to use on orders, usually 10-20% off.

With the prevalence of sales, even an inexpensive appliance like a Cookworks toaster can be bought very affordably if you time it right. Sign up for retailer mailing lists to receive all the latest deal announcements.

Conclusion

With its combination of versatility, smart design, and wallet-friendly pricing, the Cookworks Toaster makes an excellent addition to any kitchen. Its smooth performance, handy extra features like defrosting and reheating, cool-touch exterior, and compact sizing make breakfast prep safe and easy. While not a luxury brand, Cookworks delivers premium quality and functionality without the high price tag. So for delicious daily toast and quick snacks on a budget, a Cookworks toaster is a perfect match.