Hello All,
I am a new member here and need some guidance in buying a new crockpot. There are so many models to chose from and I want to make sure that I make a reasonable choice. Does anybody have any recommendations on what brand/model to buy. I would like to buy an oval-shaped model (preferably 5 to 6-quart size). I cook for just two of us, but would like a larger size so that I will have leftovers or make enough for company.

I am interested in one of the Rival Smart Pot Slow Cookers, but I understand that it gets VERY hot and this might not be the best way to go. I need a crockpot that will stay on at times for at least 10 hours if possible.

I saw there is a new generation of smart pot Rival model 38651-c which claims it is programmable and you can set in 1/2 hour increments.

Does anybody know about the smart pots, how versatile they are, how easy they are to use. I know that the early smart pots were not as versatile and you were stuck with the time settings and it could not be manually changed. I need a crockpot that you can program the time you want it to cook for.

I presently own an Ultrex crockpot from Home Shopping Network. I am NOT happy with this crockpot. I used it once to make white bean soup and can't seem to get the stain off of the liner. The ULTREX company does not stand behind their product and did not offer to change the liner for me. I did own a West Bend cooker many, many years ago, and was happy with it, but I think there are more advanced-type models.

Any help would be greatly appreciated on what you feel is a good crockpot. I am willing to spend as much as necessary to get something that will last and perform well.

Thanks,

Judi