Slow cookers have come in and out of vogue. But we love ours. In fact, we have more than one. We even use our Instant Pots as slow cookers sometimes.

We're cookbook authors Bruce Weinstein & Mark Scarbrough. We've written over three dozen cookbooks for several New York publishers, including THE GREAT AMERICAN SLOW COOKER BOOK (which you can find here). That tome has over 500 recipes with every one sized out for every size of slow cooker.

Join in as we discuss how to buy the best slow cooker. We've give you the things you need to look for--and some things that are add-ons you might not expect, if you want them. We love our slow cookers. But we've upped the game with better appliances.

Here are the segments to this episode of COOKING WITH BRUCE & MARK:

[02:23] Look for durability.

[06:35] Consider the best size for your needs. 

[13:17] Look for multiple settings

[14:54] Know the facts about how hot a slow cooker can get.

[18:28] A little about safety.

[20:20] The most important feature: the lid.

[21:31] Three bonus tips for getting the best slow cooker