There are several types of soda makers, but all share one common goal: to make it easy to enjoy your favorite soft drinks at home without the hassle of having to buy them in stores. They eliminate the need to store bottles and cans in your pantry, garage, or basement and free up counter space. Using a soda maker also helps reduce the amount of carbon dioxide used in traditional beverages and cuts down on waste from disposable bottles.
Soda makers are designed to make seltzers and other soft drinks in seconds, but they can also carbonate juices and teas, too. This is a great option for families who like to entertain or those who want to try new recipes and flavors.
Most soda makers on the market use a CO2 cylinder to produce bubbles in your water, so be sure to check whether or not the machine you’re considering includes a cylinder. If not, you’ll need to purchase one separately to get started. Most cylinders last about two months, but you’ll know when it’s time to replace it by the way the gas sputters in your water or seems less forceful than usual.
A few models on the market offer a variety of settings to adjust carbonation levels, which can be helpful if you prefer more fizzy or delicate beverages. You can also check to see if the machine works with different kinds of containers, such as glass or plastic bottles.
Versatility: Many soda makers can be used to carbonate any type of liquid, including juices, teas, and cocktails. Some are even able to add bubbles back to flat soda or beer, which can be handy for people who like to add flavorings to their beverages.
Design: The best soda makers are simple and attractive, with minimal electrical needs (if any) and a small counter footprint. They’re also short enough to fit under most cabinets.
Some machines are also portable, allowing you to take them with you wherever you go. These are perfect for outdoor parties and family gatherings, as they’re small enough to tuck into your purse or backpack.
Soda makers are typically available as countertop models, handheld models, or both. Some are battery operated, while others need to be plugged in for operation.
Price: Soda makers are usually inexpensive, though they can be on sale during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, so look for those deals if you’re interested in saving money. They’re also typically sold at a discount online, and they may go on sale during Prime Day.
Ease of Use: Most soda makers require a few steps to operate, such as filling the bottle with water and pressing down on a button. This can make it tricky to use, especially if you’re not very familiar with how these machines work.
If you have trouble figuring out how to fill the machine, you can try a tutorial on YouTube or read a product manual. You can also call the company for assistance if you have questions.