Best Cotton Candy Machines Reviewed
There aren’t many sweets that make us instantly think about summer, barbecues or garden parties and that is why cotton candy is perhaps one of the most loved sweets in the whole world.
And thanks to the rising availability of cotton candy makers, you too can add a touch of sunshine and magic to your get-togethers or other events, no matter what time of the year it is.
And we have good news for you just in case you were wondering where to begin: We have compiled a list of the best cotton candy machines available today and have listed their main features and price range which you can check out to find out which one suits you best.
Our Top 3 Picks
- Nostalgia Retro Series
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Our rating - Easy to operate
- Price: See Here
- Great Northern Machine
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Our rating - Commercial Motor
- Price: See Here
- Nostalgia PCM805
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Our rating - Incredible Versatility
- Price: See Here
The current cotton candy device was devised by a dentist for the 1906 World’s Fair, and it was an instantaneous triumph. Many cotton candy machines dissolve sugar into a liquid fashion, then swirl the liquid in a filter while driving it out of extremely slim holes, making threads.
The worker of the cotton candy machine catches the sticky cotton candy by twirling a cone around the interior of the bowl, capturing the threads of twirled sugar and folding them around the cone in anticipation of an agreeable puffy cloud of cotton candy is prepared to eat.
Numerous colors and flavors for cotton candy are currently offered merely by the addition of food coloring.
Cotton candy machines are capable of making sugar free cotton candy, which is an immense pleasure for those who are on a diet or have diabetes.
10 Best Cotton Candy Machines
1. Nostalgia PCM805RETRORED
This cotton candy maker provides you with a wide range of choice when it comes to cotton candy. In addition to being able to able to use flossing sugar, you can also use a wide variety of hard candies too.
Features and Specifications
• Manufacturer: Emgee
• Product Dimensions : 11 x 11 x 12 inches
• Weight: 5.3 pounds
• Colour: Red and white
Price/Value
This cotton candy maker is both compact, easy to operate with a charming retro style. It is also rather competitively priced and sits at the lower end of the price scale, making it a must have for anyone who wants to enjoy a lovely treat in the comfort of their home, with friends or family.
Decision Time
The Retro Series Hard & Sugar Free Candy Cotton Candy Maker does come with all the necessary features for producing small amounts of cotton candy as well as a vintage design that will add a touch of brightness to your home. And best of all it comes at an amazing price making it a must have for fans of one of the world’s most loved sweets.
Average output
A variety of great tasting cotton candy
Easy to operate and clean
Plastic bubble not provided
2. Great Northern 6303 Commercial Cotton Candy Machine
Thanks to its exceptionally robust motor, this candy floss maker is capable of producing commercial quantities. That means it is excellent for ensuring the fun never stops as it produces fluffy, tempting delights for as long as you need it to.
Limited One Year Warranty
The manufacturer also covers this appliance with a limited one year warranty. However, it is worth noting that the floss kettle and motor bearings are not covered.
Features and Specifications
Manufacturer: Great Northern Popcorn
Product Dimensions : 19.8 x 20.5 x 20.5 inches
Weight: 30 pounds
Colour: Silver and Pink
Price/Value
This candy floss maker does cost a lot more than your average one. However, it is worth noting that it has been designed for commercial use ensuring it is perfect for throwing children’s parties, neighborhood barbecues or any other fun get-togethers.
It also works really fast and makes high quality cotton candy which does weigh strongly in its favor.
Decision Time
If you are looking for a charming cotton candy machine which will remind you of your favorite times of the year, this appliance is certainly worth considering. Especially since it has been proven to make cotton candy with that authentic taste. The fact that it is really easy to clean and can be washed with just water is certainly another plus since that makes it quite convenient to use.
Really easy to clean
Produces candy really quickly
Easy to operate
Can only make one cone at a time
May vibrate on the surface it is placed on
3. Nostalgia PCM-805
This is one cotton candy maker which gives you all the options you need to make sugary delights in a wide range of varieties. In addition to using flossing sugar, you can also use any hard candies of your choice and even plain sugar too, to create uniquely flavored confections.
Clear Rim
This appliance also comes with a clear rim which prevents your entire kitchen from getting covered with tufts of fluffy sweetness. What’s more, you can also get to watch as your favorite sweets combine to create the most unique variations of cotton candy.
Features and Specifications
• Manufacturer: Emgee
• Product Dimensions : 11 x 12 x 11 inches
• Weight: 5.5 pounds
• Colour: Pink and White
Price/Value
In terms of price, this appliance is pretty cheap and is the ideal option for making enough cotton candy for family or a few friends.
Decision Time
Pretty, light, compact and versatile, this cotton candy maker is one appliance which will not break the bank since it comes at the lower end of the price scale in this regard. Although it is incapable of producing large amounts like its more expensive counterparts, it certainly does function efficiently and is worth considering if you are interested in producing small amounts of everyone’s favorite confectionary delight.
Plastic reusable cones provided
Clear, plastic shield provided
Easy to operate and clean
Incapable of processing large amounts of candy within a short period of time
4. Classic Floss 7105100
With an impressive 1.5 horsepower motor, you can be certain that this is one highly efficient cotton candy maker which is certainly ideal for catering to large numbers of individuals. As a result it is the perfect choice for fairs, parties and barbecues or any other fun themed gatherings you can think of.
A minimum of 100 cones per hour
Due to the impressive size of its engine, it should come as no surprise that this cotton candy machine is capable of producing sweets really fast. Expect a minimum of 100 cones per hour and even double that number too.
Features and Specifications
• Manufacturer: Paragon
• Product Dimensions : 19 x 12 x 21 inches
• Weight: 48 pounds
• Colour: Silver
Price/Value
This machine belongs at the upper end of the scale in terms of price. However it is worth noting that it comes with several handy features such as professional controls as well as an aluminized cabinet which ensure it stands out from other similar appliances.
Decision Time
If you are interested in a powerful cotton candy maker which is suitable for long term and extensive use, this appliance is certainly worth considering as an option. Its special features make it a highly preferable option for providing large quantities of cotton candy within the shortest periods of time.
Extremely powerful and efficient
High performance head
3 year warranty
Slight sugar loss
5. Waring Pro CC150
Waring, the manufacturer of this appliance certainly takes their responsibility to their consumer base really seriously. Hence every surface which comes into contact with your cotton candy is BPA free including the plastic cones, ensuring every treat created using this product is perfectly safe for consumption.
Easily Obtainable Ingredients
This cotton candy maker is suitable for using a wide range of ingredients which are all easily obtainable.
Feel free to use your favorite hard candies, sugar, flavor and coloring combinations as well as various varieties of Kool Aid.
Features and Specifications
• Manufacturer: Waring
• Product Dimensions : 7 x 14.5 x 14.8 inches
• Weight: 5 pounds
• Colour: Red and Silver
Additional feature: 350 watts halogen heater system
Price/Value
In terms of price, this appliance is pretty cheap and is the ideal option for making enough cotton candy for family or a few friends.
Decision Time
If you are interested in enjoying a cinema night in with a few friends or just hosting a small party for little children, this appliance will come in handy for adding to the fun. It is relatively cheap and more importantly has BPA free surfaces which are an added bonus. Overall it is a great value for anyone interested in enjoying great cotton candy at any time of their choosing.
Plastic reusable cones provided
BPA free surfaces
A wide range of ingredients
Easy to operate and clean
Size of cotton candy
6. VIVO CANDY-V001
In keeping with its suitability for commercial or domestic use, this cotton candy machine provides 2 to 3 cones per minute of delicious, high quality candy which tastes as though you purchased it from your favorite stand at a fair.
20 Inch Stainless Steel Bowl
The one essential for a machine with a large output, this large bowl comes in particularly handy for enabling you to create your cotton candy with a minimum of fuss by keeping the silky strands right where they are meant to be.
Features and Specifications
• Manufacturer: VIVO
• Product Dimensions : 21 x 21 x 14 inches
• Weight: 22.1 pounds
• Colour: Pink and Silver
Additional feature: Spare parts kit
Price/Value
In spite of this cotton candy maker’s impressive capabilities, its price is actually on the lower end of the scale. As a result it represents excellent value for money since it provides an authentic, commercial product at a highly competitive price.
Decision Time
This appliance is quite powerful and is suitable for commercial and domestic use. What’s more it also comes with its own manual and spare parts kit, although the clear plastic bubble is not included. It certainly provides a wide range of options at an amazing price.
Fast output
Authentic tasting cotton candy
Large stainless steel bowl
Easy to operate and clean
Plastic bubble not provided
7. Great Northern 6310
This cotton candy maker is rather quite efficient and is capable of producing one cone every thirty seconds. What’s more the candy it produces is also of excellent quality and will keep your guests coming back for more.
Large Stainless Steel Bowl
The one essential for a machine with a large output, this large bowl comes in particularly handy for enabling you to create your cotton candy effortlessly since it will ensure the silky strands remain right where they are meant to be.
Features and Specifications
• Manufacturer: Great Northern Popcorn Company
• Product Dimensions : 21 x 21 x 14 inches
• Weight: 26 pounds
• Colour: Blue and Silver
Price/Value
This cotton candy maker’s impressive capabilities and suitability for commercial use means it is slightly expensive. However it is a worthwhile investment for anyone who wishes to provide high quality cotton candy in large amounts.
Decision Time
This appliance does tick all the boxes in terms of output, quality and energy efficiency while its vintage design only adds to its appeal. All these qualities make it ideal for anyone who is interested in an appliance which combines excellent functionality with retro themed stylishness.
Fast output
Authentic tasting cotton candy
Large stainless steel bowl
Easy to operate and clean
Plastic bubble not provided
8. Cotton Candy Express - 5 Flavor Family Package
Whether you intend to use flossing sugar, or ordinary sugar to which flavored extracts have been added, this appliance is just what you need. And that is not all it is capable of making cotton candy from either. The Cotton Candy Express Cotton Candy Maker is also capable of transforming your favorite hard candies into a pillowy, silky confection.
Features and Specifications
• Manufacturer: Cotton Candy Express
• Product Dimensions: 16.5 x 7.5 x 13.5 inches
• Weight: 10.1 pounds
• Color: Pink and white
Price/Value
Although this appliance is at the lower end of the price scale, it does the job for families and parties making it a great value. It's also worth noting that it comes with all that is required to begin using it right away including the candy cones and 5 flavors of floss sugar to get your started and going for a while.
Decision Time
This cotton candy maker is pretty versatile in terms of ingredients although it can only process small amounts at a time. However it is rather efficient for producing small amounts and is the ideal option for catering to small groups of individuals as opposed to larger gatherings.
Disposable cones and a measuring scoop provided
Suction pads to stabilize device
Capable of processing a varied range of ingredients
Compact, requires minimum space
Capable of creating voluminous cotton candies from small quantities of sugar
Unsuitable for superfine sugar
9. Funtime FT1000CCP Mobile Cotton Candy Machine
This is certainly one feature which distinguishes this appliance from other similar items. Especially since it heats up really quickly. Its presence in this product also means you will be able to create a cotton candy cone in 30 seconds which is what makes it quite suitable for parties, fairs, barbecues and fundraisers.
Stainless Steel Storage Tray
In keeping with its fun, professional theme, this machine also comes with a stainless steel tray. Ideal for storing your cones, sugar, candy and just about everything else you need, it certainly will help in keeping the cotton candy production process as smooth as possible.
Features and Specifications
• Manufacturer: Funtime
• Product Dimensions: 30 x 20 x 36 inches
• Weight: 48 pounds
• Colour: Pink and Silver
Additional features: Commercial grade, 950-Watt spinner
Price/Value
When it comes to cost, this product is somewhat averagely priced. Expect to spend a little more than you would for non-commercial cotton candy makers but rather less than you would have to for commercial grade types.
Decision Time
Featuring a bright and fun design, this appliance is also quite impressive in terms of its features and has been created with providing an optimal cotton candy experience. As a result, it is rather competitively priced since similar items with equally impressive features may actually cost more. It also comes with a manufacturer’s one year warranty.
Built-in stainless steel storage drawer
1 year warranty
High quality cotton candy
No instruction booklet
10. BELLA 13572
This cotton candy machine is capable of processing granulated sugar which is rather impressive since certain manufacturers do not provide this option. It can also produce cotton candy from various varieties of hard candy providing a varied, enjoyable experience as a result.
Features and Specifications
• Manufacturer: MBlock & Sons, Inc.
• Product Dimensions : 13 x 13 x 7 inches
• Weight: 4.6 pounds
• Colour: Red, white and blue
Price/Value
This cotton candy maker is rather quite efficient, however, it does not come with features which can be found in commercial machines. As a result it is quite cheap but is a good option for anyone who wishes to make candy floss, for small gatherings rather than really large events.
Decision Time
If you want an item that lets you treat yourself and everyone around you to a wide range of flavoured cotton candy this appliance is an excellent option. The fact that it is also easy to clean and maintain is an added bonus.
Versatility of ingredients
Great tasting cotton candy
Protective cover provided
Easy to operate and clean
Slower output than commercial machines
Factors to Consider
Before you start searching for your very own cotton candy machine, it is important to take into account whether this is for home use or commercial use. If it is for your home, then it may be best to search for a straightforward machine that is in a lower cost span.
A variety of the more resilient machines contain suctioned legs to provide additional safety and also features things such as dishwasher safe bowls as well as plastic cones that are reusable.
However, if you are looking for something that is for your business, you will then want to search for a cotton candy machine with a stainless steel head as well as at least a 1.5 horsepower engine.
There are various kinds of cotton candy machines to consider, such as:
Commercial Cotton Candy Machines
These are durable machines that contain strong engines with bulky, multi-quart bowls for effective and speedy process. Commercial cotton candy machines also come with lock-down features to make it more transportable. Several are created to fit inside a cotton candy cart which aids in exhibiting the cotton candy as well as keeping it at a warm temperature.
Home Cotton Candy Machines
These cotton candy makers are considered more of a novelty to adults and children. These machines only need sugar as well as paper cones. Children are capable of fostering their own system for turning as they complete their task. Home cotton candy machines are offered in various price ranges and sizes. It is best to consider how often it will be in use before purchasing a home cotton candy maker.
Home and Commercial Machines
There are models which can serve the purpose of both home and commercial. These kinds of cotton candy models are generally resilient as well as compact and inexpensive. The most beneficial options for these machines are for use in churches, schools, and other organizations that may use their cotton candy maker for fundraisers and other special occasions.
Sugar-Free Machines
One of the newest cotton candy machines is the sugar-free cotton candy maker. This feature gives you the option to buy specifically prepared sugar-free cotton candy mix. However, there are also cotton candy makers that are available for home use. They will permit you to create cotton candy from sugar-free hard candy.
Care and Maintenance
Cotton candy machines can be very fun; however it is imperative to clean them after each use, especially if you are thinking about storing them away for a prolonged period of time. For machines that will be used for business purposes, this needs a variety of different kinds of tools as well as some time.
Home cotton candy makers will require a decent wipe-down using a clean cloth as well as hot water. In order to be certain that all spots for the sugar have been reached, consult the manufacturer’s instructions.
Size
Before you begin searching for a cotton candy machine, it is important to keep in mind the size of the aluminum bowl. This will help you determine which size is appropriate for your home or business. If you are looking to purchase a cotton candy machine for home use, then consider how much you will need to make and how often you plan on using it.
However, if you are considering a cotton candy machine for your business, you will need to consider how many customers you are projecting to sell it to and about how much would need to be produced at that specific time in your location.
Carts and Mobility
If you are looking to open a business while selling cotton candy, then mobility is definitely something worth considering. With carts, you are able to move your machine around at parks, events, fundraisers, and special occasions. By using this type of mobility, you are increasing your chances for opportunities!
How to Make Cotton Candy
In order to start preparing your cotton candy techniques, you will first need to make sure you have these three essential items:
- Your cotton candy machine (of course)
- Cone(s)
- Flavored sugar
To start off your cotton candy endeavor, you will first need to add your flavored sugar to the middle of your cotton candy maker. Then, twist the spinner head to in order to evenly distribute the sugar in the head. Your next step will be to turn the motor switch on as well as the heat switch on.
Lastly, grab the cotton candy that is being produced from the machine with a cone as it comes out. Now you have fresh cotton candy!
Alternatively, you can purchase flavored cotton candy floss sugar by packs that come in an assortment of flavors, such as grape, orange, cherry, pink vanilla, and blue raspberry. You can enjoy each flavor individually or pour all five different flavors to make a combination of flavors for one cone!
Making Cotton Candy from Scratch
However, what if you do not have the equipment mentioned above, besides your cotton candy machine? Then have no fear! Below you will find a list of ingredients that will surely help you to make some of the best cotton candy!
For this recipe, you will need:
- 4 cups of sugar
- 1 cup of corn syrup
- 1 cup of water
- ¾ teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of raspberry extract (any flavoring of your choice)
- 2 drops of food coloring (any of your choice)
If you have a cotton candy machine, then you are good to go! Simply pour everything in the middle of your cotton candy maker and twist the spinner head in order to make sure that your sugar is evenly distributed. Then turn the motor switch on as well as the heat switch on.
Lastly, grab the delicious cotton candy that is being produced from the machine with a cone as it comes out!
When it comes to flavor, you do not need to limit yourself to only raspberry extract. You can also try some of your other favorite flavors such as almond extract, vanilla extract, or orange!
No Cotton Candy Machine? No Problem!
Alternatively, if you do not have a cotton candy machine, you have other ways to make some deliciously fresh homemade cotton candy!
Step 1
Over medium heat in a heavy, large saucepan add the four cups of sugar, one cup of corn syrup, one cup of water, and ¾ teaspoon of salt. Next, stir the mixture until the sugar is caramelized.
Once the mixture is melted, discontinue stirring and clip a candy thermometer to the concoction. Allow the mixture to reach 320 degrees Fahrenheit (160 degrees Celsius). Dispense the melted liquid into a container that is shallow as well as heatproof. Next, include your desired extract and the desired food coloring (optional). Stir your new mixture extremely well.
Step 2
This next part can become a little messy; however it is well worth the time and effort if you enjoy cotton candy. First, it is imperative that you swipe your table, or wherever you choose to work, with some wax parchment. Don’t forget to line the floors in case there are some loose bits of sugar.
Step 3
Take a whisk that you have cut the top off of and dip it into the concoction while holding it over the pot. You should allow the sugar to drip back in to the container for a few seconds by holding your whisk at least a foot above the parchment. Lastly, make sure that you move the whisk back and forth as each thin strand of sugar falls on the paper. This step is to be repeated a few times until you have a nest of spun sugar.
It is important to note that if you are not using a cotton candy machine then make sure that you have a bowl of cold water nearby because you are working with extremely hot sugar. Use the cold water on any part of the skin where this hot liquid has touched!
If you do not have a cotton candy machine, but intend on making some, you can see from the previous section there are a lot of steps as well as requiring a lot of time. A cotton candy machine for home use is inexpensive and can aid in spending this misplaced time by doing things or being with the ones you love.
While making your favorite cotton candy treat, you do not only need to use a plastic cup or cone to catch that delicious fluff! You can even use lollipop sticks!
FAQs
What are the preferred safety precautions while using a cotton candy machine?
In order to ensure safety, there should never be direct contact to the equipment by the general public while the machine is being used in service locations.
Another safety precaution to keep in mind is that only skilled workers should control the machine. It is also important to carefully read all of the machine’s instructions before starting the process of the gear.
One way to prevent injury from occurring while working, make sure to never place any body parts or objects near the floss head assembly while the motor is running because the floss head reaches great speeds throughout its procedure. In this case, also be aware that viewers are away from the machine while it is in use.
The manufacturer will not be responsible for any injuries sustained because of failure to follow safety instruction.
In order to ensure your, as well as others, safety you must never make your own modifications to the machine.
Before using one, make sure it is grounded appropriately in order to prevent electrical shock.
It is also important that you do not submerge any part of the machine in water because this can damage the cotton candy maker and prevent it from working effectively.
In order to avert electric shock, always make sure that you have unplugged the machine before cleaning or servicing the equipment.
How much will my cotton candy maker produce?
You will discover that every cotton candy maker is different because the manufacture of cotton candy is solely established on the ability of the worker. Various people have been able to create from anywhere starting at one hundred to even two hundred cones per hour. However, this is solely based upon practice.
How much spun sugar is generally used?
Approximately, one cone can hold up to one ounce of spun cotton candy sugar. An eighteen inch plastic bag can hold up to two ounces. Normally, a person could make from fifty to one hundred bags per hour, depending on the person’s skill.
How many cones can a case of floss sugar create?
Already prepared floss sugar is in a case of six containers weighing 3 ¼ lbs. Each container can produce around sixty cones of spun cotton candy. Therefore, all six already prepared floss sugar containers should create three hundred to three hundred sixty cones.
What is the best practice to use for cleaning a cotton candy maker?
First, for the safety of the operator, you must make sure the cotton candy machine is unplugged in order to prevent electrical shock. Next place your maker in a place where there is no moisture nor moisture is capable of touching the machine. Then wipe down the metal motor portion of the maker.
The aluminum bowl will need to be cleaned extremely well. Be sure that there is no sugar or netting left on the bowl. Lastly, you will want to use hot water and a soft cloth to clean all of the sugar off of the bubble of the machine. You will also want to make certain that you do not scrape the bubble.
What if my machine is not working properly?
In order to properly trouble-shoot your cotton candy maker; there are a few steps you must follow.
First you need to examine the power supply. Even though cotton candy makers are not complex machines, the power supply is capable of burning out while in use.
Another step to try is to run a diagnostics test on your cotton candy maker’s electrical circuits. This is important because something like a wire could have been accidentally been knocked loose during cleaning or rough handling could have caused a connector to break.
Investigate your machine’s motor. The engine of your machine is what takes most of the damage as it powers the whole machine.
It is also important to check that the power switch is working properly. The switch should last a lifetime, but during storage and being moved around a lot can take its toll on the machine.
Lastly, you will also want to make sure and clean the machine’s output heads. This is where the liquid sugar floss comes out and can become clogged with hardened sugar. Always make sure your machine is appropriately maintained and cleaned in order to keep everything in working order.
What is the price range of cotton candy machines?
The prices of cotton candy makers range from really cheap to really expensive. Factors which affect their price include their brand, features and purpose (commercial or domestic use).
