We have 3 gardens in our backyard and I’m always harvesting fresh fruits and vegetables throughout the summer growing season. On top of that, I shop at our local Farmer’s Market every 2 weeks. One thing that I’ve learned is that you need to store your fresh produce properly to get it to last longer! No one likes wasting food and money.

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Two years ago I started using VeggieZips Premium Produce Bags made by BluApple. What’s really nice about these fresh produce bags is that they’re reusable and they help to keep your produce fresher for a longer period of time. Each bag is lined with U-Vents that allow gas to escape and fresh air to come into the bag. Each bag has a hydroliner that you can dampen with water to add moisture and when it’s dry…it helps to absorb excess moisture. It’s like a “SMART” produce bag!

One of the BEST things is this…the bags and liners are washable and reusable! I wash mine out….let them air dry and then I reuse them again. Several times before I retire that bag and liner. How do I wash them? I do it in my (clean) kitchen sink using a little bit of liquid dish soap. Rinse them out thoroughly with clean water. I have empty flower vases on a cotton towel laid out on my kitchen counter. Place one bag over the vase so the water runs out and the air gets up in there to dry. Easy!!

I absolutely love using my VeggieZips Premium Produce Bags and recommend them to all of my friends and family. I’ve been a faithful user for the past 2 years. They really work!!! You can buy them directly from Amazon for a great price.

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Disclosure: The writer personally purchased the produce being featured in this post. He/She is sharing his/her 100% unbiased and honest opnion with the readers of the TCC blog. Your opinion may differ. Please read the blog’s full disclosure policy located on the homepage.

If you’re a coffee lover, you know that a good cup of coffee can make or break your day. But what happens when you’re on the go? Enter the portable coffee maker – your new best friend. Whether you’re a frequent traveler, a busy professional, or just someone who loves a fresh brew anywhere and anytime, a portable coffee maker is a game-changer. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right one? Let’s dive into the top features you should look for when picking the perfect portable coffee maker.

Compact and Lightweight Design

One of the first things you’ll want to consider is the size and weight of the coffee maker. The whole point of a portable coffee maker is, well, portability! Look for something that’s compact enough to fit into your backpack, suitcase, or even your car’s cup holder. A lightweight model is crucial, especially if you’re carrying it around on hiking trips or long commutes.

Brewing Speed

Time is of the essence, especially in the morning. You don’t want to be waiting forever for your coffee to brew when you’re in a rush. Check the brewing speed of the coffee maker. Some models, like a French press, can whip up a fresh cup in just a few minutes. Quick brewing doesn’t mean you have to compromise on flavor. There are plenty of portable coffee makers that can deliver a rich, full-bodied cup in no time.  Some models can whip up a fresh cup in just a few minutes. Quick brewing doesn’t mean you have to compromise on flavor. There are plenty of portable coffee makers that can deliver a rich, full-bodied cup in no time.

Ease of Use

Nobody wants to deal with a complicated coffee maker, especially before they’ve had their caffeine fix. Look for a model that’s straightforward and easy to use. Simple controls, minimal assembly, and clear instructions are key. Some portable coffee makers are even designed to work with pre-packaged pods or capsules, which can make the process even more hassle-free.

Power Source

Consider where and how you’ll be using your portable coffee maker. Some models require electricity, while others might run on batteries, USB power, or even a manual hand pump. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you might prefer a model that doesn’t rely on electricity. On the other hand, if you’re using it in the office or at home, an electric model could be more convenient.

Durability and Quality

Your portable coffee maker is going to be subjected to a lot of travel and potentially rough handling. Make sure it’s built to last. Look for models made from sturdy materials like stainless steel or high-quality plastic. Check out user reviews to see how well the coffee maker holds up over time. A good warranty is also a plus.

Versatility

Some portable coffee makers are designed to brew only one type of coffee, like espresso, while others offer more versatility. If you like to switch up your coffee routine, look for a model that can brew multiple types of coffee, such as drip, French press, or cold brew. This way, you can enjoy a variety of coffee styles no matter where you are.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Let’s be real – nobody enjoys cleaning their coffee maker. But regular maintenance is essential for keeping your coffee tasting great. Look for a model that’s easy to clean. Removable parts, dishwasher-safe components, and simple cleaning instructions can make a world of difference. Some portable coffee makers even have self-cleaning features, which can save you a lot of time and effort.

Water Capacity

The water capacity of a portable coffee maker is another important factor. If you only need one cup at a time, a smaller capacity might be fine. But if you’re brewing for multiple people or you need a larger amount of coffee to get you through the day, look for a model with a bigger water reservoir. Just remember that larger capacity can sometimes mean a bigger and heavier unit.

Heat Retention

There’s nothing worse than a lukewarm cup of coffee. Some portable coffee makers come with insulated mugs or thermal carafes to keep your coffee hot for longer. This feature is especially useful if you’re brewing your coffee and then heading out the door. Good heat retention ensures that your coffee stays at the perfect temperature until you’re ready to drink it.

Price

Of course, budget is always a consideration. Portable coffee makers come in a wide range of prices, from budget-friendly options to high-end models. Decide how much you’re willing to spend and what features are most important to you. Sometimes, it’s worth investing a bit more for a coffee maker that’s durable, versatile, and offers great performance.

Additional Features

Some portable coffee makers come with extra features that can enhance your coffee experience. For example:

* Built-in grinders: If you love freshly ground coffee, a model with a built-in grinder can be a great option.
* Programmable settings: Set your coffee maker to start brewing at a specific time, so your coffee is ready when you are.
* Travel mugs: Some models come with a travel mug that fits perfectly with the coffee maker, making it even more convenient to take your coffee on the go.

Sustainability

If you’re environmentally conscious, you might want to consider the sustainability of your portable coffee maker. Look for models that use reusable filters instead of disposable ones, or those made from eco-friendly materials. Some coffee makers are designed to work with compostable coffee pods, which can be a great way to reduce your environmental footprint.

Conclusion

Choosing the right portable coffee maker can make your coffee-drinking experience so much better, no matter where you are. By considering factors like size, brewing speed, ease of use, power source, and additional features, you can find a coffee maker that fits your lifestyle perfectly. Remember, the best coffee maker for you is the one that meets your specific needs and preferences.