My 20-Year-Old Hand Blender
Yesterday, I had to bid a sad farewell to my trusty cooking partner of 20 years. I was about to hand blend a bunch of ingredients for a sauce after braising a chuck roast for pot roast, so I pulled out my Braun hand blender, plugged it in and alas, it didn’t have the strength to do the job.
The blade turned vigilantly but just barely. You could hear the mini motor trying its very best to spin the little propeller at the end of the wand but to no avail. It was tired after 20 years of blending soups and sauces and anything else I could find for its use.
I have been waiting for this day, knowing it would come, and for the past several years, I’ve been preparing myself for this eventual outcome. In fact, I’m surprised that my hand blender has lasted this long.
Not many small appliances do. The other day, I saw one of the new fancy hand blender models on Amazon and thought I might pick one up but quickly realized I already owned a perfectly good hand blender, so why bother? It must have been a premonition of what was to come.
Now as I sit here writing about the end of a truly great kitchen helper, I don’t want to run out and purchase a new one. Isn’t there some period of bereavement for a faithful gadget?
I can’t tell you how many times my faithful hand blender helped me out of a jam, especially when my regular blender was on the fritz.
When I do go out and purchase a new hand blender, I’ll look for one as clean and simple as this one, and it will probably be another Braun, but I’ll be sure to do my research to find the best-rated model. With my 59th birthday coming up next month, I may be looking at a kitchen tool that will last me until I’m 80. Now that’s a thought.
I’d like to know what I’ll be blending at that age. According to my wife, “Everything.”
Buying a Hand Blender
Why a Hand Blender: A hand blender (immersion blender) is a compact, versatile tool for blending soups, sauces, smoothies, and purees directly in the pot or container. It saves time, reduces cleanup, and keeps your workflow smooth and uninterrupted.
Check Quality: Look for a powerful motor (typically 200–500 watts), durable stainless steel shaft, and sharp, well-designed blades. A comfortable grip and solid construction help with control and longevity. Detachable shafts make cleaning easier.
Speed & Attachments: Variable speed settings give you better control over texture. Some models include attachments like a whisk, chopper, or blending cup—handy extras if you want more functionality without extra appliances.
Where to Shop: Kitchenware stores, appliance retailers, and online marketplaces carry a wide range of hand blenders, from basic models to multi-function sets.
Amazon Convenience: Amazon offers a broad selection with detailed reviews, letting you compare power, attachments, build quality, and price points to find the right fit for your needs.
Storage Tip: Store in a drawer or utensil holder for easy access. If it has multiple attachments, keep them together in a container or bag so nothing wanders off into the kitchen abyss.
🛒 Check Prices for Hand Blenders on AmazonAvailable on Amazon
6 Responses
I am so sorry for your loss. I too have this model (it seems) and I love it dearly. And I am around your age so I may be making the same decision in the near future. Your wife is right, we will probably be blending most everything. May you find peace.
I like my Cuisinart stick blender, but I have never used any of the fiddly attachments that came with it.
I had a hard time finding YOU again I had some of your recipes but your site name was not on them OMG Your recipes are outstanding – way above average. I always liked your extra touch that made everything taste better. I will not lose you again.
Hi Brandy, thanks for reaching out and clad you found me again.
I had a Taurus that I basically grew up with; I can’t remember when exactly was it that my Mom bought it, but yeah, it must’ve lasted anywhere between 10-20 years. So when that one died, I naturally bought another Taurus… only to have it last 2-3 years. Then I was gifted a Chefman bullet blender, and that one just died on me after 1-2 years. I’m frustrated that even quality brands are disposable nowadays. I grew up in the 90s and already have nostalgia for a world where things stood the test of time.
ZM, they don’t make them like they used to. Think water heaters, air conditions and so on. I just received my bullet blender so I hope it lasts longer than 2 years.