How to Choose the Best Popcorn Machine

There are several types of popcorn machines to choose from. We'll explain the benefits of each.

Tabletop
Tabletop popcorn machines work well for smaller kitchens or if you prefer to store your small appliances when they're not in use. Place on a kitchen countertop or bar. These popcorn maker machines often have hidden cords or they wrap around the bottom of the unit for easy storage.

Cart
If you have a man cave, basement or a large space where you like to entertain, a nostalgic popcorn cart is a fun addition. They operate similarly to the machines you see at movie theaters, serving up to 3 gallons of popcorn in just a few minutes.

Campfire
If you're going camping or hanging out around the firepit, this popcorn maker is a must. They're made of metal and often have a non-stick coating. The extra-long handle ensures that you can safely pop your favorite snack without getting burned.

There are several features and considerations when selecting a popcorn machine. We'll explain what they are, so you can make the best choice for your household.

Cooking Type
There are two types of popcorn machines: oil and hot air. Save calories with a hot air popcorn machine. They're the healthier option because they use hot air instead of oil to prepare your favorite snack.

Oil popcorn machines have long been a favorite in households and movie theaters. You'll need to use an oil that has a high smoke point. Recommended oils include coconut, avocado, canola, sunflower or peanut.

Butter Melting Feature
Recreate movie popcorn at home with a built-in butter melting tray.

Dishwasher-Safe Parts
Make cleanup a breeze by using a popcorn machine that has dishwasher-safe parts. Check the manual for your particular model.

Select a popcorn machine that suits your needs. If you live alone, have a small family or infrequently eat popcorn, a small machine can dispense up to 4 quarts at a time.

Do you plan on entertaining a lot or have a big family full of popcorn lovers? Select a larger popcorn cart that can produce up to 3 gallons of popcorn in minutes.

In order to maintain your popcorn machine, it needs to be cleaned regularly. This is especially true for machines that use hot oil where grease buildup can also affect the taste of your popcorn.

Hot Air Popcorn Machines
Most hot air popcorn machines aren't dishwasher safe, but they're easy to clean. Wipe the base down with a dry cloth. Soak the cover and butter melter (if there is one), in warm soapy water. Rinse and dry with a clean cloth.

Oil Popcorn Machine
Due to the grease build-up that occurs with an oil popcorn machine, it requires more cleanup than a hot air machine. But some of the parts are often dishwasher safe, which saves time and elbow grease. Make sure to follow the cleaning instructions for your particular model.

Larger oil popcorn machines have two parts: a kettle and a cabinet. To clean the machine, add the cleaner and water to the kettle. You'll need a cleaner that's specially formulated for popcorn machines. Bring the mixture to a boil. Then turn it off and unplug the unit, letting it completely cool down. Safely dispose of the cleaner solution. Rinse the kettle.

Next, you'll want to use a non-ammonia based cleaner to wipe down the glass. Use a cleaning cloth and stainless steel cleaner to wipe down the metal parts. Then add the kettle back to the cabinet and it's ready to use again.