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StumbleUponNo longer reserved for college dorm rooms, these downsized models fit the needs of empty nesters, condo owners, apartment dwellers and an increasing number of cooks who realize they don't need behemoth ranges and other appliances to get the job done.
"The need for portable, space-saving appliances is becoming more prominent," notes Jason R. vice president of marketing for CompactAppliance.com, an Internet shopping site. "Today, even big-box chains are carrying them."
And with good reason, says Lori W., a cooking appliance buyer for Sears. "We sell 24-inch, 27-inch and 30-inch wall ovens. Most weeks, 10 of our top 20 best-sellers are the 24-inch models."
Simply having smaller-sized appliances isn't enough for today's consumers, however. "Even those who are crammed for space don't want low-end appliances," Wood says. "They don't want to walk away from features and innovations."
The new space-saving appliances have just as many bells and whistles as their larger counterparts and come in a greater variety of styles, trims and colors. They're also available in a wide price range (from about $100 to $4,700) to fit every budget.
Don't think these appliances will work for you? You might reconsider after a glance at the options described below.
And what innovations lie ahead? "Energy-efficient appliances will become even bigger as fuel prices rise," Jason R., predicts.
Beyond that, who knows? Maybe appliances that plan dinner and prepare it, too!
Stylish Noise Control
The 18-inch dishwasher (left) has an integrated look that blends into cabinetry and it runs whisper-quiet.
Trendy Styles
Downsized kitchen appliances are also keeping up with trends. In addition to the popular stainless steel models and integrated looks, you'll find hip retro models like the savvy 24-inch double oven (right). It features a convection/conventional oven and four gas burners and comes in 15 colors (it's shown in pistachio).
Even Smaller Options
If you're really tight on space, look for 20-inch, industrial-style ranges, two-burner 15-inch cooktops, and 18-inch portable or built-in dishwashers. At just under 23 inches wide, the countertop dishwasher above holds four place settings, so it's perfect for a two-person home.
More Combos
Several small-space appliances perform multiple tasks in one. In addition to smaller-sized oven/cooktop combinations, there are models like the microwave (pictured), which features a built-in, two-slice toaster with nine browning levels. It comes in stainless steel, white or black in .9 or 1.2 cubic feet. Other microwaves come with built-in coffee makers.
Or consider a 30-inch, 3-in-1 model with a glass cooktop, conventional/convection oven and microwave drawer in white, black or stainless steel.
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