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We test fridges for food freshness, temperature stability and much more in our certified lab.
Fridges
In our review of more than 90 fridges, these models were the standout performers in the 'large' category (451–525 litres).
But if you're considering other models, do exercise caution – our experts have tested plenty of mediocre models on the market, including one with a CHOICE Expert Rating of just 39%!
Highest-rated large fridges
These models are all recommended by our experts:
These models didn't score quite well enough across all our tests to be recommended, but they're still worth considering:
Mattresses
If you're looking for a better night's sleep, these are the mattresses that topped our tests.
We rate key factors like firmness, comfort (both now and after eight years' simulated use), sagging, sweat resistance and more to ensure you'll always wake up on the right side of the bed.
More than half of the queen-sized mattresses we test fall in a 'mid' price range of about $1000–2000. This is because when we select mattresses for testing, we check current market figures to see what's selling well and focus on the highest-selling big-brand models.
We try to include products that fit within the budget of average consumers.
"Mattresses aren't exactly cheap, but we found that models around this price point often strike a good balance between price, quality and performance," CHOICE mattress expert Peter Zaluzny says.
"However, mattresses that cost less than $1000 do earn a mention from time to time."
And regardless of the price tag, always haggle when buying a mattress – we regularly see that you can knock a huge percentage off the retail price, particularly at sale time.
Highest rated mattresses
Our experts recommend a total of 17 mattresses. These are the top-rated recommended mattresses; to see the full list, check our full mattresses review.
Weber dominated our barbecue tests, with the Q3100 taking top honours.
Barbecues
Looking to beef up your barbecue game this summer? When our food experts aren't testing wall ovens, they're turning up the heat on barbecue units to find the best burners for your next sausage sizzle.
In this category, cult favourite Weber grilled all rivals, impressively taking seven of the spots in our top 10 in our test of more than 40 popular models.
Highest rated models
These are the top of the top: the highest-scoring of all the BBQs recommended by CHOICE. There are plenty of other great models that we recommend, however, so check our full BBQ reviews to see which others made the cut.
King of the cuppas: The Profitec Pro 300.
Coffee machines
We know coffee lovers are a passionate bunch, which is why our espresso machine tests are judged by coffee industry veterans and our in-house experts.
In their quest for the perfect cuppa, they assess key criteria including taste, temperature consistency, milk frothing, ease of use and cleaning.
We test a variety of coffee machines, including manual, semi-automatic, automatic and capsule machines, all which offer different ways to help you get that all-important caffeine hit.
If you're after a manual or semi-automatic machine, here are the ones that topped our tests. Also see our full review of manual/semi-automatic machines and automatic machines.
Highest rated manual and semi-automatic espresso machines
This Lavazza pod machine is the best in its category.
Highest rated capsule and pod machines
The DeLonghi Rivelia has good looks and good performance to match.
Highest rated automatic espresso machines
Dyson took out the three top spots in our stick vacuum tests.
Stick vacuums
A good stick vac makes quick cleans a breeze. But they're not cheap, so it's important to make sure you're spending your money wisely.
Dyson takes out the top two positions in our stick vacuum review, followed closely by Samsung and LG, but there are other brands worth considering too.
Check our review to find the best stick vacuum before you buy.
Highest rated stick vacuums:
Some multi-cookers like this Ninja Foodi now come with an air fryer function.
Air fryers
The kitchen appliance du jour, air fryers are hot products year-round, but will be on many people's shopping lists this sales season.
Some of the more expensive models have multiple functions, so you can air fry, cook rice, sous vide and more to your heart's content. There's also now twin air fryers and super sized options to cater to more families' cooking needs.
If you're not keen on spending $500+ though, there are plenty of excellent options at lower price points: here are the best air fryers under $250.
Highest rated models
Front-loading washing machines generally cost more to buy than top loaders, but perform better and use less water and energy.
Washing machines
Facing a mountain of endless laundry and need a machine you can count on?
Our lab experts are tougher on washers than you'll ever be, testing them on key factors including dirt removal, rinse performance, gentleness, energy and water use, and more.
And what are some hot-fire tips from our experts to keep in mind while you shop?
Don't pay for features you're not going to use, and don't worry too much about capacity. You probably only wash about 3.5kg at a time, so don't stress about paying more for a 10kg machine over a 9kg.
Front loaders generally perform better than top loaders and are more energy- and water-efficient, but they do cost more upfront, and remember you'll have to bend down to use them.
If you're hitting the sales, these are the frontrunners to look out for. Want more results? See our full washing machines test reviews.
Highest rated front loaders
Highest rated top loaders
Stock images: Getty, unless otherwise stated.
