Instructions

1. Make sure you have enough storage space for a bread maker.

2. Choose the capacity of the bread maker based on the amount of bread your family eats. Most produce 1-, 1 1/2- or 2-lb. loaves.

3. Select a bread maker with a delay timer if you want bread ready for dinner or fresh for breakfast.

4. If you just want to make dough (as for pizza or cinnamon rolls), choose a bread maker that will make dough but not cook it.

5. Choose a bread maker that signals you to add ingredients during the bread making process. This is a good feature if you need to add fruits or nuts.

6. Pick a bread maker with a "keep warm" function if you're not likely to be around when the bread is done.

7. Check for other special features, such as crust control, French bread or whole wheat bread cycles, or cycles for fruit or nut breads.

8. Study the warranty and service options.