Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

I bought the El Cheapo model as a test, to see whether I really wanted Belgian waffles, thinking I'd replace it later with something more substantial. There are several complaints about this waffle iron: the housing gets really hot, there is no on-off switch, the plastic lift bar is a little tricky, waffles don't brown properly. Right there on the housing, where you can't miss it, is a warning that says it will become very hot. We all know that means, Be Careful. Before pulling the plug to turn the iron off when you're done, remember to move the heat regulator from Maximum to Minimum (right to left). The plastic lift bar is a little tricky. What do you expect for under $20? My recommendations: Give the irons a quick spray of vegetable oil before plugging the appliance in, Set the heat regulator to Maximum (left to right), Add a moderate amount of batter and smooth it lightly. Close lid, wait about three minutes, until the green light is visible. If there is still steam rising from the waffle iron, heat the syrup and soften the butter. When there is no more steam, open the iron and remove your great waffles. Replace the heat regulator to minimum and unplug the device. If you were careful with the batter there won't be any cleanup. Even if there were spills, cleanup is very easy once the appliance has cooled.. I've no plans to replace this waffle iron.