CATA Header
Inspiring moments in every kitchen
The Cata Journal

Guides, know-how and news from the Cata team

How-to guides and fault-finding for ovens, hobs, hoods, refrigeration, laundry and dishwashers — plus the specification detail that decides which model belongs in a kitchen, and what is happening at Cata UK.

How-to guides Troubleshooting Specification Company news
The Cata Appliances stand at KBB Birmingham
Our stand — KBB Birmingham
Why Is the Bottom of My Cake Burning but the Top Raw?
Bottom burning, top raw? Your cake’s base is getting too much heat too fast. Here are the causes and the simple fixes, from shelf height to tin choice.
Cool-down times by oven type
Find out how long an oven takes to cool down, why it stays hot, and safe cooling tips. Read our oven safety guide for practical advice and expert tips today.
Repair or Replace? When a Kitchen Appliance Is Worth Fixing
Repair or replace a kitchen appliance? Use the 50 percent rule, lifespan and running costs to decide what is worth fixing, with a clear decision checklist.
Can a Wine Cooler Be Set Too Cold for Wine?
Setting your wine cooler too cold mutes flavour and, in extreme cases, freezes the bottle. Here is what happens, and the temperatures to set instead.
Which Kitchen Appliances Use the Most Electricity? (Ranked)
The biggest electricity users in your kitchen are not always the obvious ones. See the ranking, why they cost so much, and calculate your own running cost.
How Long Can You Keep Food in the Freezer? Storage Chart
How long can you keep food in the freezer? Use our storage chart for meat, fish, leftovers and more, and learn why frozen food stays safe far longer.
Air Fryer vs Oven for Chips: Taste, Cost and Time Compared
Air fryer or oven for chips? The air fryer wins for small portions, the oven for batches. Compare taste, cost and time and see the full verdict.
How Much Laundry Detergent Should You Actually Use
Filling the cap? You are likely using twice the detergent you need. Find the right dose for your load and water, and stop residue, smells and waste.
Can You Put Wooden Boards and Knives in a Dishwasher
Why wooden boards and good knives should never go in the dishwasher, plus what is safe to load, and the simple hand washing routine that protects them.