Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

I was a little concerned as some reviews had said the stainless steel Whilypop was cheap, had plastic gears, or too heavy. I believe that some may be referring to the silver colored aluminum version which does have plastic gears. I previously owned that model and it didn't have any issues and it was still working but the aluminum residue itself was a concern. And pretty banged up. It was used every week for over 13 years! It was time to replace and the stainless steel one arrived and it was perfect! It has metal gears, NOT plastic. The bottom of the pan is cladded with an extra layer of metal which yes, makes it heavier which keeps it steady as you turn the crank - a plus to the lightweight aluminum which moves all over the place. The popcorn was perfect, no grey aluminum residue, wiped clean. So happy I didn't let the negative reviews deter me. And if you do have a problem it has a 25-year warranty. Just register it on their website. It is made in USA and some parts are made in China and I'm fine with that. Homemade popcorn is healthy and tastes so good. I hate the processed taste of microwave popcorn! I never cook at higher than medium. Yes it takes longer to heat up because it's thick stainless. If you use a higher heat, too little oil or Pam type of spray - it will scald a thin layer of burnt oil that seems impossible to remove. See bottom of the page on how to remove. POPPING CORN! (Have your butter melted and ready). On MEDIUM HEAT (for gas stove) melt about 1-2 Tablespoons coconut or vegetable oil, don't skimp or you may scorch pan. Toss in a few 'test' kernels and once they pop, toss in a half cup or a little more and start cranking. (I only use Orville Redenbacher Original Yellow popcorn kernels). It produces big, fluffy popcorn but go ahead and experiment! When popping slows I immediately open flaps and shake out popcorn into a large bowl, you don't want it to steam in the pan or it gets chewy. Pour on melted butter and salt, toss and enjoy! I use 100% clarified butter aka Ghee. It gives that distinct movie popcorn taste without using hydrogenated or vegetable oils. Yes, you may have to play with the clips that hold the lid but it's personal choice. I adjusted it so the lid stays on firmly but the flaps are both very easy to open. Popcorn needs to be emptied into a large bowl immediately after popping to release steam, prevent chewiness and keeps popcorn fluffy and crispy. SCORCHED YOUR POPPER? If you scorched the inside of your stainless steel popper, the burnt oil will not come off with typical cleanser. Do not use super abrasive scrubbers or comet. Only one thing works for me: BARKEEPERS FRIEND cleanser and a non scratch scrubbie. Add a generous amount of Barkeepers Friend inside a DRY popper. Add a few drops of water and use the scrubbie and elbow grease in the direction of the grain to remove scorched oil. You'll have to repeat. If it still won't budge, use a more abrasive scrubbie. (Don't use too much water with the cleanser, it needs to be a a thick paste.) It will come off! Then use dish soap to wash off all cleanser, rinse and dry. And unless you want to do this again - don't skimp on oil or use higher than medium heat! Have fun, best popcorn ever!