PRODUCT GUIDES

Fixed-Lens Cameras

Fixed-lens cameras have a lens that is fixed to the body. These types include point-and-shoot cameras, compact cameras and long-zoom cameras. Basic point-and-shoot cameras are great for snapshots, social media and short video clips.

• Designed for automatic and some manual operation; some point-and-shoot cameras may not have manual controls
• Lens fixed to the body
• Point-and-shoot and compact cameras are sized to fit in your pocket or purse

Interchangeable-Lens Camera

Interchangeable-lens cameras (ILC) deliver better quality images and videos than compact cameras.

• Designed for automatic and some manual operation; some point-and-shoot cameras may not have manual controls
• Lens fixed to the body
• Point-and-shoot and compact cameras are sized to fit in your pocket or purse

DSLR

Digital SLR (DSLR) cameras deliver excellent quality images and videos, even in low-light shooting situations.

• Designed for manual and some automatic operation
• Feature large sensor, top-quality lens, high ISO sensitivity and fast shutter response
• Larger sized
• TTL (through the lens) optical viewfinder
• Manual controls for focus and exposure

Here are some key specifications you should be aware of when choosing the model that best fits your needs.

Megapixels
Megapixels (MP) are a camera's image sensor resolution measured in millions of tiny dots (pixels). The number of megapixels a camera has determines the amount of resolution you have in your pictures and how large or small you can display or print photos. Most digital cameras have plenty of high resolution, so you generally don't need to worry about having enough megapixels.

Image Sensor
The camera's image sensor converts light into a digital image. The most common types are CCD (charge-coupled device), CMOS (complementary metal-oxide semiconductor) and BSI (backside illuminated) CMOS. Cameras with CMOS sensors produce the best image quality in varying light conditions and are typically more expensive. The size of the image sensor is usually measured in fractions of an inch. In most cases, the larger the sensor, the better the picture quality.

ISO Sensitivity
ISO sensitivity is a camera's sensitivity to light. A higher ISO sensitivity gives the camera better ability to shoot in low-light situations.

Zoom
Optical zoom uses the lens (optics) of a camera to bring a subject closer.

Digital zoom is a digital enlarging of an image that "simulates" optical zoom. With optical zoom, you won't see any image quality tradeoffs. With digital zoom, since you're enlarging pixels already present, the quality of an image will decrease as the image gets larger.

Image Stabilization
Also known as "anti-shake," image stabilization (IS) helps prevent blurred images. It reduces the vibration caused when you shake, quickly move the camera or use slow shutter speeds.

Memory
Memory is the storage capacity within your camera or on the memory cards you insert into your camera. High megapixel cameras can take wonderful shots, but they also use a lot of memory. When purchasing your camera, consider the type of memory card it uses; sometimes it will be the same type used on an MP3 player or other device you own, so there could be some added convenience there. It's also a good idea to buy extra memory cards for yourself, so you'll always be able to take shots. For more information, see Camera Memory Options below.

Video and Sound
Almost all digital cameras let you capture short videos with sound in addition to still shots. Some let you capture video in HD (720p) or Full HD (1080p) resolution for viewing on a compatible HDTV or computer display. High-resolution images take up more memory than low-res images, and video captures use more memory than photo captures.

Display
On the back of digital cameras you'll find an LCD display (or monitor) that is your guide to taking digital shots. It frames your photos like a viewfinder and lets you see images after you capture them. The display also lets you view the camera's menu and setting options. Some displays tilt and swivel, making it easier to view and operate. There are also touch screen displays for added convenience.

Viewfinder
Look at each camera's viewfinder and choose the style you'll be most comfortable with. Point-and-shoot and compact cameras typically give you a direct view of the scene. An electronic viewfinder (EVF) is ideal for shooting videos. A TTL (through the lens) viewfinder is used in DSLR cameras.

Focus
Auto focus is a key feature in most cameras, automatically focusing on a subject in your viewfinder or display. Macro focus is ideal for close-ups.

Flash
Flash modes vary by camera. Compare each camera's flash capability and get the type of flash that will work best for the majority of shots you'll take.

Self Timer
A self timer allows the camera to shoot a photo automatically after a delay. This gives you time to frame a group shot, then shoot the image with you in it.

Wi-Fi
Digital cameras with built-in Wi-Fi let you wirelessly transfer photos and videos to social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter. Some models may back up your images to a cloud service or computer and connect to a mobile device for viewing, editing and uploading to sharing sites.

Charging Mode
Most digital cameras have a built-in rechargeable battery. Some require disposable batteries. When choosing your digital camera, you should consider the various options for batteries, the battery life of a rechargeable battery when fully charged, and what best fits your needs.

Waterproof/Shockproof/Dustproof
For shooting in extreme conditions and near water, a camera that is waterproof, shockproof and dustproof is a great option. There are also underwater cameras, which are rated to a maximum number of feet. For instance, an underwater camera rated to 10 feet would be great for shooting photos in a pool. For scuba diving or snorkeling, an underwater camera would require a higher feet rating.

A digital camera's memory card is like a roll of film. The most popular types of memory cards used in digital cameras are SD and microSD cards. A memory card stores your images until you're ready to view them on your computer or print them. Once your memory card is full, you can take it out of the camera and replace it with a new one, or you can transfer your photos from the card and use the card again.

Memory cards are measured in megabytes. The more megabytes you have, the more pictures you can fit on the card. You can also fit more pictures on a card by reducing the quality of the images that you're shooting.

Digital cameras generally come with minimal internal memory. It's a good idea to have memory cards on hand so you can take more pictures. Just as you wouldn't go on vacation with just one roll of film, you shouldn't pack just one memory card.

Your choices for HDTV screen type include LCD, LED, plasma and 3D. Here are some key features for each type:

LCD HDTVs

• LCD (liquid-crystal display) TVs emit fluorescent light
• Ideal for watching TV in well-lit rooms
• Good contrast ratio and black level
• Available in a wide range of screen sizes
• Good to very good wide viewing angles
• Generally brighter than plasma TVs and hold contrast better in bright lighting

Tips: Weigh less than plasma TVs. Picture slightly less natural than plasma TVs.

LED HDTVs

• LED TVs are LCD TVs that use LED (light-emitting diode) backlighting
• Perfect for watching TV in all lighting conditions
• Better contrast ratio and black level than LCD
• Available in a wide range of screen sizes
• Good to very good wide viewing angles
• Generally brighter than plasma TVs and hold contrast better in bright lighting
• Energy efficient LED backlit TVs use less power than LCDs and plasma TVs to save you energy and money

Tips: Weigh less than plasma TVs. Picture slightly less natural than plasma TVs.

Plasma HDTVs

• Plasma TVs have phosphor coating to create lifelike colors
• Great for watching TV in dark or dimly lit rooms
• Better contrast ratio and black level than LCD or LED
• Great for viewing fast motion with no blurring
• Excellent wide viewing angles

Tips: Weigh more than LCD and LED TVs.

3D HDTVs

• 3D TVs let you view standard and high-definition 2D content (just like a regular HDTV) as well as 3D content
• Available on LED and plasma TVs
• Require a 3D source device (such as a 3D Blu-ray Disc player), 3D content (such as 3D Blu-ray Disc, 3D cable/satellite, 3D internet streaming and 3D games) and 3D glasses

Tips: 3D TVs require active or passive 3D glasses (depending on manufacturer and model) to view 3D content; active glasses use LCD shutters that run on batteries while passive glasses use polarizing lenses similar to what is used in movie theaters.

Most people prefer a bigger screen when buying an HDTV, but you should also consider the size of the room the HDTV will be in, as well as how close you plan to sit and at what angles.

Room size and viewing distance
The bigger the screen, the farther away you should sit from it. Recommendations for optimal viewing distances range from 1-1/2 to 3 times the diagonal screen size of the TV. For example, the ideal viewing range for a 42" TV would be between 5-1/4 and 10-1/2 feet.

Viewing angles
Viewing angles tell you the maximum angle you can watch the TV from. Viewing angles are measured horizontally and vertically. Look for high viewing angles for the most flexibility in placement and seating.

A digital television picture is made up of hundreds of lines of visual information. The maximum resolution is the amount of detail in an image measured in pixels. HDTVs with higher resolution have greater picture definition.

HD (720p) resolution
HD (720p) HDTVs have 720 lines of resolution scanned progressively for a very smooth, film-like image.

Full HD (1080p) resolution
Full HD (1080p) HDTVs have 1,080 lines of resolution scanned progressively. Full HD resolution is required to view 1080p content such as Blu-ray Disc movies.

4K resolution
4K HDTVs have twice as many vertical and horizontal lines as a Full HD HDTV, resulting in a picture 4x the total resolution of 1080p.

Learn about key terms related to picture quality.

Screen Refresh Rate
The screen refresh rate is the number of times per second that the picture is redrawn. 60Hz is the standard refresh rate. Many HDTVs now offer 120Hz and 240Hz refresh rates to eliminate motion blur.

Response Time
Measures the picture quality of a TV in milliseconds (ms). A lower number means less distortion or blurring of an image.

Contrast Ratio
Contrast ratio is the difference between brightest white and darkest black the TV can display. The higher the contrast ratio, the more color detail you will see.

Aspect Ratio
16:9 is the widescreen aspect ratio. Because high-definition content uses the 16:9 aspect ratio, HDTVs have the 16:9 aspect ratio and often offer a 4:3 mode for optimal viewing of standard content.

Progressive Scan
Progressive-scan technology displays the entire picture in a single sweep, while interlaced scans every other image line and displays the picture in two fields. If you have a progressive-scan DVD player, you must also have a progressive-scan TV to take advantage of that feature.

Comb Filter
Comb filters correct detail and color loss to enhance picture quality when your TV is hooked up using composite video connections. A comb filter is not used when your TV is hooked up via S-video or component video connections. The most common types of comb filter available today in order of increasing quality are 2-line digital, 3-line digital and 3-D digital.

Familiarize yourself with these convenience options to help you decide which features are important to you.

Portability
HDTVs with smaller screen sizes can easily be moved from room to room to prevent you from having to buy a separate TV for every room. For maximum portability, look for screen sizes 20" and under.

Built-in DVD Player or Blu-ray player
A built-in DVD player or Blu-ray player saves you from having to buy a separate video player and is easier to carry to other rooms than a TV plus another component.

ENERGY STAR Qualified
ENERGY STAR qualified products meet strict standards for energy efficiency, so you save money on your bills.

Picture-in-Picture
Picture-in-picture provides two or more viewing windows. In order to watch two TV programs at once, the TV needs to have two tuners. If it only has one tuner, the second picture will have to come from another source, such as a DVD player or video camera.

Alarm and Sleep Timers
Alarm and sleep timers let you set the TV to turn on or off after a certain amount of time, so you can wake to TV or watch as you doze off.

V-Chip
All TVs with a 13" or larger screen have a V-Chip that allows parents to block access to TV programs based on the rating, such as TV-PG, TV-14 and TV-MA.

Simulated Surround Sound
Simulated surround sound or virtual surround sound creates a surround sound effect using the TV's built-in speakers.

Sound Leveler
A sound leveler keeps the volume of your TV within a certain range regardless of how loud the source volume is, so you won't get a big volume spike when a commercial comes on.

Learn about key terms related to TV connections.

HDMI
HDMI (high-definition multimedia interface) provides the best quality audio and video transmission along one cable for a clutter-free connection and supports the transmission of copy-protected high-definition content.

USB
Allows you to connect a variety of USB-enabled devices, such as MP3 players, camcorders and digital cameras.

Memory Card Slots
Memory card slots allow you to insert memory cards to play content, such as digital audio, video and still images on your TV.

Component Video
Improves picture quality by splitting the video signal into three parts. Component video connections deliver better picture quality than composite video and S-video connections and are the only analog connections that can support high-definition signals.

Composite Video
Standard video connection that uses an RCA-type connector.

S-video
Delivers separate color and black-and-white video signals to provide better picture quality than composite video connections.

Stereo Audio
Standard left and right audio connections that use RCA-type connectors.

Digital Audio
Optical (fiber optic) and coaxial digital audio connections offer better sound quality than stereo audio connections and support multichannel audio.

PC Inputs
VGA (standard analog) and DVI (digital video interface) inputs let you use your TV as a monitor for your computer.

Ethernet
An Ethernet connection allows you to access available internet content directly on your HDTV.

Front/Side Inputs
Front and side A/V inputs allow easy connection to devices that you don't intend to leave hooked up permanently, such as video game consoles and camcorders.

Bring the theater home

If you are creating your own personal theater, you'll want to consider a stand that is designed to accommodate large screen sizes and has a high weight capacity for your big-screen TV. Also, look for additional storage for A/V components and media.

Save space

If you want to maximize space in your home, consider a wall mount to place your TV on the wall for a sleek look that is also a practical space saver. Wall-mounted storage units provide additional space for your media. A space-saving corner unit will let you display your TV in style without commanding a large portion of the room.

Keep your style

You love the style of your living room and don't want the centerpiece to be a large TV and A/V components. By selecting A/V cabinets with doors and an armoire style TV stand, you can enclose your components behind doors for a sleek look that removes the TV from always being the main focus of the room.

TV stands and entertainment centers

Size of TV supported in inches and weight. The recommended capacity is the largest size and weight of TV that the stand can safely support. Your TV should be at or under the maximum weight and screen size recommended by the manufacturer.

Media storage cabinets and wall units

If you are just looking for a place to store your DVDs or CDs or are looking to add an additional storage unit to an existing entertainment center, then a media storage cabinet or wall unit can provide a solution for your storage needs.

Wall mounts

For a sleek look in your living room or media room, another option for placing your TV is to purchase a wall mount. Wall mounts allow you to eliminate the need for an additional piece of furniture. They also let you place your TV at a convenient height and angle for viewing throughout the room. While CRT TVs use shelf-style mounts, flat-panel TVs use VESA-compatible mounts that attach via a pattern of holes.

TV size and weight. Wall mounts for both CRT and flat-panel TVs have a maximum supported TV size and weight. You will need to select a mount that will fit the size and weight of your TV.

TV stands

Corner. These TV stands are designed to fit into the corner of a room to save space. Most have minimal additional storage for components and media.

Console. These stands are designed to be placed against any wall and generally provide some storage for components and shelves for media.

Flat-panel stands. These stands are designed with an attached mount that lets you mount the TV to the back of the stand rather than placing it on top of the stand.

Entertainment centers

Wall units. Wall units combine an entertainment center console with additional storage towers for added storage of A/V components plus display space for decorative items.

Console. Console units are designed to be placed against any wall and have additional storage for components and shelves for media.

Media Storage

Wall-mounted units. These media shelves mount to the wall to provide additional storage for CDs, DVDs and other media without taking up additional floor space.

Storage towers. These freestanding storage shelves provide space for a large number of CDs, DVDs and/or other media. Some storage towers are designed to combine with entertainment center consoles to create a large media wall unit.

Media cabinets. Media cabinets provide storage for CDs, DVDs and other media while adding a stylish look to your décor. Some media cabinets have doors that conceal media for a streamlined look, while other media cabinets feature glass doors for easy visibility.

CRT TVs

Tilt. Tilt mounts allow you to angle the TV up or down up to 15 degrees and some can be locked at certain settings. Tilt wall mounts need to extend further out from the wall to accommodate the tilting mechanism. A tilting mount is recommended when reflections from windows or lighting interfere with TV viewing or when multiple viewing angles are desired.

Fixed/low-profile. This is your basic TV wall mount consisting of a girder that attaches to the wall and two upright posts or a plate to connect to your flat-panel TV. The thinnest mounts only extend about an inch from the wall. This mount does not pan, tilt or rotate; it just hangs your flat-screen TV on the wall like a painting.

Swivel. With a swivel feature, you can change the tilt and angle to get the best view of your TV.

TV stands and entertainment centers

Material and finish. TV stands and entertainment centers are constructed of a variety of materials including solid wood, wood products (MDF, fiberboard) and metal. You should select the type of material based on durability and how the material of the stand complements your existing furniture. The stands also come in a variety of finishes, including black, cherry, maple and more.

Furniture style (contemporary, traditional, mission, rustic). Similar to other pieces of furniture, TV stands and entertainment furniture are designed in a variety of styles, including rustic, traditional, mission and contemporary. With a wide variety of styles, you can match your entertainment center or TV stands to your existing home décor.

Hardware and assembly. Most TV stands and entertainment centers require some level of assembly using the included directions from the manufacturer and the included hardware. Stands also include anti-tip brackets or other safety brackets to make sure your flat-panel TV is securely attached to the stand.

Cable management

Create an organized way to bundle cables from various components that you place on or in your TV stand or entertainment center.

Built-in component shelving and media storage

Add flexibility and versatility to your entertainment furniture, giving you the ability to place additional components, media or decorative items on the stand.

Casters

If you want to be able to move the TV stand from room to room, built-in casters make it simple to roll the stand from place to place.

Media storage

Material and finish. Media storage components are constructed of a variety of materials including solid wood, wood products (MDF, fiberboard) and metal. You should select the type of material based on durability and how the material of the stand complements your existing furniture. Media storage also comes in a variety of finishes, including black, cherry, maple and more.

Capacity. When choosing a media storage piece, consider how many CDs, DVDs and/or VHS tapes you have and match to the storage capacity of the media cabinet.

Hardware and assembly. Most media storage pieces require some level of assembly using the included instructions from the manufacturer and the included hardware. Most entertainment centers also include anti-tip brackets or other safety brackets to make sure your flat-panel TV is securely attached to the stand.

Wall mounts

Material and finish. Wall mounts are constructed of metal for added strength and durability. They are usually black or silver so you can choose one that matches the color of your TV.

Hardware and installation Installing a wall mount requires locating a stud in the wall where you want to place your wall mount. Once you have chosen a location and located a stud, you can install your wall mount according to the manufacturer's directions.

Cable management. Wall mounts with cable management hide A/V cables connecting your TV to a cable box or other components and eliminate unsightly cables hanging down the wall.

Antitheft TV lock. Locks are designed to secure your TV onto the mount to prevent theft by using bolts and/or padlocks.

Complement both your home décor and your TV with the addition of an entertainment center, TV stand, media storage or wall mount as part of your home theater setup.

When choosing your entertainment center, wall mount or media storage, remember the following:

• Size and weight capacity of the stand

• Whether you are looking to build a home theater, keep your style or conserve space

• There are various types of entertainment furniture and storage units

• There are various wall mount types

Outdoor is usually better than indoor

Outdoor antennas have a better view of the transmitting station, with no signal loss caused by building interference. Outdoor antennas are not affected by interference from other household electronic/electrical appliances, and they are less likely to receive reflected ghost signals from your building.

Locate your antenna up high

You will want to place your TV antenna in the highest location possible so that it can receive the most direct signal from the TV transmitter. A higher location also reduces the interference of signals from other electronic and electric appliances in your home.

Size matters

The larger an antenna, the more signal it is able to receive. Most larger antennas also are directional, which reduces ghosting caused by reflected signals from the side and rear of the receiving antenna.

One of the first decisions you will need to make is where the antenna is going to be placed. Antennas are available in indoor, outdoor and indoor/outdoor versions. Whether you choose indoor or outdoor may affect your ability to receive a strong enough signal from your local broadcast stations.

Indoor antennas

Indoor antennas are designed to be connected to your HDTV. Indoor antennas are placed indoors near the TV set. The antenna can be either a flat digital antenna or a more traditional style antenna with dipoles. While indoor antennas provide a quick connection to your HDTV without the outdoor installation, the signal reception can be weak because of the interference from walls, cordless phones and other household objects.

Outdoor antennas

Outdoor antennas are often significantly larger than indoor antennas and are intended for mounting on a roof or in an attic. The antenna can be either a flat digital antenna or a more traditional style antenna with dipoles. Outdoor antennas usually perform better than indoor antennas because they are not affected by interference from household objects and do not have the height disadvantage of indoor antennas.

Indoor/outdoor antennas

Indoor/outdoor antennas can be placed either indoors or outdoors to provide added installation flexibility.

Directional or multidirectional

Indoor and outdoor antennas can be directional or multidirectional. Directional antennas are designed to receive signals from one direction, while multidirectional or omnidirectional antennas are able to receive signals from all directions. Directional antennas are able to pull in signals from a greater distance because they focus in one direction, whereas multidirectional antennas are more likely to pick up noise, interference and distortion because they pull signals from multiple directions.

Deciding which type of antenna you need

The type of antenna you need depends on the distance your home is located from the broadcasting towers and on the environment in which you are installing the antenna. If you are located close to the broadcasting towers, you can usually receive signals with an indoor antenna. If you want to pick up more distant TV stations, an outdoor antenna will be required. The greater the distance, the more powerful the antenna you will need.

To determine the type of antenna to purchase, you need to determine which broadcasts are available in your area and which antenna will work based on your area. In determining the type of antenna, it is important to take into consideration your distance from the transmitting tower, whether there are large buildings around and the terrain.

ATSC/digital tuner built in

Most TVs are now manufactured with a built-in ATSC or digital tuner. This tuner allows you to receive high-definition over-the-air signals with the addition of an external antenna.

NTSC/analog tuner built in - converter box or external ATSC tuner required

Older analog TV sets that were built prior to the conversion to digital TV have NTSC tuners built in. These tuners are not capable of receiving over-the-air high-definition TV signals. In addition to an antenna, a digital converter box or an external HDTV tuner is required for these TVs to receive over-the-air high-definition signals.

No tuner built in - external ATSC tuner required

These TVs have no tuner built in and are sometimes referred to as monitors. In addition to an antenna, an external HDTV tuner is required for these TVs to receive over-the-air high-definition signals.

Digital signals can be broadcast over two different frequency ranges: VHF (very high frequency) and UHF (ultra high frequency). Most of the high-definition TV broadcasts are currently in the UHF band which makes UHF coverage a must for any antenna purchase. However, a dual-band UHF/VHF antenna will let you receive both bands for added convenience.

The difference between UHF and VHF antennas is mainly size because antenna elements are built based on the size of the waves they receive. VHF frequencies are lower so a large antenna surface is needed to receive them.

Hardware and installation

Large outdoor antennas can be installed on a roof, a freestanding pole or in an attic. For best results, your antenna should have the clearest possible view of the transmitter tower. When aiming the antenna, use a compass to ensure your antenna is accurately and precisely oriented toward the signal source. Indoor antennas can be connected to your TV through a coaxial cable.

Signal amplifier

A signal amplifier can help to overcome size or height issues or to enhance the overall signal gain of an antenna. The amplifier can be built in, which is common with indoor antennas, or can be a separate device that installs in-line between the antenna and TV.  An amplifier that installs on an outdoor antenna is often called a preamplifier.

• Indoor versus outdoor placement?

• Is your TV compatible with high-definition signals?

• Signal strength at your location will help to determine the type and location of antenna

• Outdoors is usually better than indoors

• Higher placement is better

• Size matters

Saucepan.  The perfect pan for making sauces, cooking or heating up veggies, making rice and soups and more. Probably the most used pan in any chef's kitchen.

Sauté pan/Deep-fry skillet.  You can use this type of pan for many different things, such as searing and browning foods over higher temps. The straight sides help reduce spattering.

Open French skillet.  The slanted, more open sides make this a versatile pan for everything from sautéing and searing to frying, browning and simmering.

Griddle.  Sausages, pancakes, burgers and veggies all cook up nicely on a griddle's flat, even-heating surface. Also great for roasting chilies, and making tortillas and crepes.

Chef's pan/saucier.  This pan features sloped sides, which draw foods to the center of the pan and the flat bottom, making it perfect for reducing liquids, braising meats, making risotto and more.

Grill pan.  The ridged grill surface separates the drippings from the meat and other foods so they absorb less oil, making this a healthy cooking option.

Stockpot.  The deep container keeps ingredients submerged in the cooking liquid, and reduces liquid evaporation which is ideal when making stews and soups.

Roaster with rack.  The elevated sides on a roasting pan help keep spatters down while the rack holds the food (meat, veggies, whatever you like) up and out of the drippings, which crisps the food. Sometimes it comes with a lid.

Stir-fry pan/Wok.  This rounded pan heats food evenly and quickly, so it's ideal for flash-cooking meats and veggies over higher heat. Also allows off-heat placement on sides of pan for classic stir-fry cooking.

Egg poacher.  These nifty devices cook eggs in individual cups so they can be removed separately and at different times, according to each person's taste.

Pressure cooker.  An ultra-efficient way to prepare foods, the pressure cooker features a lid that locks and a valve that keeps the steam inside, reducing cooking times up to 70%. This keeps more nutrients-and flavor-intact.

Double boiler.  It's a two-chamber setup, featuring a water boiler in the bottom half, providing indirect heat to foods in the top half. This is the ideal way to melt chocolate or prepare delicate sauces. It usually comes with a lid.

You'll find almost as many materials in pans as there are types of pans themselves. Different cooks like different materials, and different materials have different strengths and weaknesses. This handy chart from the kitchen experts at Fingerhut will help you make the right choice when purchasing your pans.

By now you have a good idea about all the different types of pans, what they do, what they're made of, and some of the plusses and minuses for each. Now here's the final criterion to help you choose the best pans for your needs: how to care and clean for them.

Every cook wants to have his or her pans last a long time, and the proper care and cleaning can help you accomplish that. Here's a care-and-cleaning checklist to consider, both when buying your cookware, and once you've got it in your kitchen.

Proper care:

• AVOID OVERHEATING. The general rule for keeping your cookware in good shape is to avoid overheating. It can cause discoloring and warping.
  
  
• WATCH THE HEAT. Once you've reached the peak cooking temperature for the food you're cooking, reduce the heat right away. Many of today's pans are made to heat quickly and evenly anyway, so you shouldn't need too high a heat in most cases.
  
  
• USE SOFTER UTENSILS. Today's non-stick surfaces are handy to cook with but scratch easily, so it's best not to use metal and hard plastic utensils on them. Use wood, rubber or nylon for best care.
  
  
• DON'T BOIL DRY. Letting a pan boil down until it's dry can discolor and warp the pan.
  
  
• CHECK THE FLAME. When using a gas flame burner make sure the flame doesn't reach up over the sides of the pan. This can discolor the pan and cause damage to interior and exterior surfaces, including handles.

Proper cleaning:

• Even though many pots and pans come as "dishwasher-safe", it's a good idea to hand-wash them anyway. Dishwashers can dull the finish and harsh detergents can pit surfaces.
  
  
• Non-stick pans should never be cleaned with harsh scouring pads. Use dishcloths, soft sponges or plastic scrapers instead.
  
  
• For pans with rivets in the handles and elsewhere, be sure to clean around the rivet heads where small particles of food can gather and stick.
  
  
• Boilovers happen, and when they do, it's important clean the entire pan, inside and out, with warm soapy water by hand. Particles of food that get lodged in the pan can become unsanitary (not to mention unsightly!), so be sure to give pans that have boiled over a good scrubbing.
  
  
• Hard water, acidic foods and salt can discolor a pan's surface. Use a cleanser recommended for your type of pan to clean t6hese spots.
  
  
• If your pans have been overheated to the point of becoming discolored, there are high-quality stainless steel cleaners available to remove this type of stain.

Here are some helpful tips that can steer you in the right direction for all your cookware purchases at Fingerhut.

1. First, review the information in this Cookware Buying Guide on types of pans, types of materials, and how each is used. This is the best starting point for understanding what you need and what you should get.
   
   
2. Review the pans you already own, and decide what your real needs are. Do you want to complement the shapes and sizes you already have with ones you don't? Are you replacing old or worn-out pans?
   
   
3. Once you know what you're missing and needing, you can compile a list of the pans you can start shopping for. Decide if a complete set makes sense, or an individual pan. Also, what is your budget? Can you get more expensive pieces, or will you need to economize?
   
   
4. Once you've compiled your list, look for the types of pans and materials that will work best for your needs. For example, cast iron might be a great choice to fill a current need, but do you have storage for such a heavy pan?
   
   
5. Think about sizes of pans; it's a good idea to err on the high side-you can always boil 8 quarts of water in a 12-quart pan, but not the other way around!
   
   
6. Consider handles. If a pan seems heavy when it's empty, it's going to be even heavier when it's full of food. Get the type of handles you're most comfortable with.
   
   
7. Look at sets if you want a better bargain. Sets can often save you up to 30% or more compared to buying individual pieces.
   
   
8. If you're not buying a new set, and already have individual pieces you're going to keep, remember: Most home cooks mix and match their cookware, with different styles and brands for different uses and needs.
   
   
9. Once you have your new cookware, treat it with care and you'll enjoy long-lasting use for each and every piece.

Bedding made from down is a popular choice, but for many people, it's frequently misunderstood. Here is some helpful information to guide you in making the right choice about down bedding, especially compared to other materials like feathers.

What is down?
Down is nature's insulation, it's the undercoat found on waterfowl that traps warm air next to the bird's skin. It keeps our feathery friends warm in winter and cool in summer-just how humans happen to like it, too. Each down cluster contains thousands of plumules-soft fibers going in all directions from a central point. Feathers, on the other hand, cover the body of a duck or goose and, unlike down, contain a hollow quill shaft that radiates filaments on a flat plane.

What's the main difference between down and feathers?
Feathers protect the outside of the birds so they're stronger and withstand exposure to the elements. So feathers are stiffer and more durable than down. Down, on the other hand, is softer and more lightweight. Goose down plumules are generally larger, loftier and stronger than duck down plumules.

What are the main uses of down?
Down is used as filler in pillows, throws, blankets, and most often in comforters. (It can be used in these applications in combination with feathers, too.) Sometimes, down is used in featherbeds, which are placed on top of mattresses.

What are the main benefits of down?
Down is one of the best natural insulators and can keep you toasty warm on even the coldest nights. Plus it's very light, so you don't need to smother yourself under multiple layers of heavy covers. In pillow form, down offers the plushest, cushiest comfort and flexibility. Many people believe down bedding is the most comfortable bedding you can buy.

How do I care for my down bedding?
Down is relatively easy to care for. Just follow these simple guidelines for long-lasting use and comfort:

• Fluff your down bedding daily to give it air flow, which helps down keep its loft.
• If using down only for winter, store it during the off-season in something that "breathes", like a mesh laundry bag. If it can't breathe, it might mildew.
• Protect your down during use with a duvet or comforter cover-like a big pillowcase for your down. A down pillow should be covered like any other pillow with a pillow protector and pillowcase.
• Have your down professionally laundered every 3 to 5 years. You can machine launder most down, but be careful to follow the instructions on the label of the down bedding. But it's easier and safer to have it done by a pro.
• Just like people, down enjoys a good breath of fresh air, so once in a while air out your down bedding out of doors. A clear, sunny day brings freshness to down.

What makes a pillow right for you? And how do you know when to replace an old pillow? These are just a few of the handy tips we're providing for you here, to help you make the right pillow purchase at Fingerhut.

When is it time to retire my pillow?

• If your current pillow is uncomfortable in any way or doesn't feel like it did when you bought it
• If your pillow is lumpy, flat, lost its shape or stained
• If your poor old pillow has "sprung a leak" and is losing its stuffing through holes or seams

What are pillows made of?

Natural Fills:

• Cotton. One of the most popular fills, it feels firmer and appears flatter than other fills
• Down. See our Down section for details about this remarkable natural fill. It's exceptionally soft and fluffy. Fill power (number of ounces of down) matters; the higher the number, the better the quality
• Feathers. These are more durable than down and provide more support, but are flatter and don't provide as much softness.
• Wool. It's a great insulator and keeps you at a comfortable temperature, plus it wicks moisture away.

Synthetic Fills:

• Down-type synthetics. They may not be the real thing, but down-style synthetics are pretty nice and fluffy and imitate the softness of down without the cost...or potential allergens.
• Polyester. Three reasons polyester is so popular: It's light, strong and durable. Five more reasons: It's inexpensive, versatile, wrinkle-resistant, hypo-allergenic and washable.
• Foam. Great for supporting the neck, back and spine, foam is also synthetic so it's a good choice for people with allergies. Foam pillows are designed to be ergonomic: shaped to evenly distribute pressure. Made of heat-sensitive foam that's breathable, foam pillows mold to your body and keep your body temperature even for cozy, comfy sleeping. Look for our foam mattress pads, too, for a sleeping experience beyond compare.

What's my best choice of pillow for the way I sleep?
A good night's sleep has everything to do with keeping your neck and spine aligned. Your sleeping position tells you the most about what type of pillow you should use. Most people move around in their sleep, but you probably have a favorite position-usually stomach, back or side. Here's how you can choose:

• Stomach: This is not the position that's best for your neck's comfort and health, but many people do tend to sleep on their stomachs. If you're one of them, you can lessen the strain on your neck by choosing a flat pillow, with less fill, so it's softer and lighter.
• Back: The best pillow for those who sleep on their backs is a medium-firm, average-fill pillow. It provides correct neck support and gives your head the right amount of softness.
• Side: A firm, extra-fill pillow is ideal for those who sleep on their sides. You get enough support so that your neck is correctly lined up with your spine, which is important for side-sleepers.
• Not sure or frequently change positions: If you're unsure, it's best to choose a pillow that's soft enough to be fluffed/adjusted to give the comfort you want in various positions. Natural fill pillows do this well since they are very flexible.

How about the size of the pillow?
One factor in determining the size of the pillow that's best is the size of your bed and/or current bedding. If your coordinated bedding has standard-sized pillowcases, for instance, you probably don't want king-sized pillows-unless you also plan on replacing the bedding. However, you do have options: You don't have to keep the pillow on the bed or dressed in a matching sheet set, for example. A new pillow that doesn't fit your current set can be stored elsewhere, hidden behind other pillows, or you can go ahead and buy added pillowcases/shams that match or blend with your current bedding.

A twin bed doesn't necessarily mean you can't have a king pillow. Just keep your pillows in mind when working with your bedding.

Pillow sizes:

• Standard:  20" x 26"
• Jumbo:  20" x 28"
• Queen:  20" x 30"
• King:  20" x 36"

How should I treat my new pillow?

• Pamper your new pillow by using a pillow protector as well as a pillowcase outside the protector.
• Wash the pillow frequently (unless instructions tell you otherwise). This helps prevent dust mites, mildew, perspiration, etc.
• Make sure you keep your pillow dry, after washing, and any other time it might get wet.
• Fluff your pillow by hand often, especially if you have natural fill in your pillows like down or cotton. You can also fluff most pillows in the dryer, which keeps "loft" in the fill.

Some things to remember about memory foam...
Memory foam is a squishy, soft, super-comfortable material that comes from super-secret NASA laboratories. Actually, that's only partly true. NASA originally developed the space-age material, which is technically "visco-elastic" foam, for the astronauts. The idea was to make a material that would "know" the body temperature and weight of the person and then gently conform to his or her shape, providing perfect support for long periods of time, and particularly during lift-off and re-entry.

It worked so well that hospitals began ordering memory foam mattresses for patients who were bedridden, as well as burn victims who needed special comfort and support. Soon people realized memory foam would be ideal for home users, and shortly thereafter a Swedish company marketed the first models to consumers at large.

Check out our memory foam items throughout our bedding category.

What gets walked on all the time and yet gets a lot of respect and attention? Rugs, of course. The benefits rugs provide are many. They add cushion and comfort underfoot. They protect your floors from wear and tear. They make a home more inviting and colorful. They're easy to install and can be moved from room to room, or even home to home. Best of all, a rug is an amazing decorator tool-you can change the look and feel of any room in a snap.

Here's a list of rug fibers and the kind of performance you can expect from each:

Cotton: Smooth and soft finish, affordable, easy to clean and blots up spills well

Wool: Soft and durable, warms in winter and cools in summer, good for dirt-prone areas, needs occasional professional cleaning

Sisal: Natural coarse fiber ideal for high-traffic areas, works over wall-to-wall carpets, sensitive to moisture (don't use liquid cleaners)

Jute: Strong East Indian fiber is softer than sisal, easy to vacuum and shake out, also sensitive to moisture

Bamboo: Hollow tropical grass lies flat, provides smooth texture, affordable

Synthetics: These include olefin, polyester, acrylic, nylon, or blends of these; mimics the look of natural fibers at a fraction of their cost; stain-resistant, durable, easy to clean

The first thing you should consider when buying rugs is where it will be used. Here are some helpful suggestions according to the area you're considering:

• High traffic areas. Be sure to get one of the more durable-fiber rugs. (See more on fibers below.)
  
  
• Dog-lounging areas. If Fido loves to lounge in the area you'll be placing your rug, choose a color that is least likely to show the pup's fur.
  
  
• Game rooms and other areas where spills might occur. Look for something stain resistant and easy to clean.
  
  
• Baby areas. If your infant or toddler is likely to be crawling in the area of your rug, get a rug that's softer to the touch (for baby's sensitive skin) and easy to clean.
  
  
• High-traffic NON-stain areas. Look for rugs made of hemp, jute, sisal or polyester.
  
  
• Stain-prone areas. Cotton, nylon, olefin and wool rugs are best for stain control.
  
  
• Where you need softness. Cotton, silk, wool, acrylic and polyester are your best bets for soft feel.

Rugs come in many shapes and sizes. Here are some of the main rug shapes you'll find at Fingerhut:

• Rectangle (shape visual)
• Octagon (shape visual)
• Round (shape visual)
• Square (shape visual)
• Wedge (shape visual)
• Oval (shape visual)

By following a few practical tips, you can keep your rugs in good shape and help them last a long time.

Vacuum often. Regular vacuuming is good for most rugs, but be careful you don't beat it to death with your vacuum's beater bar. Either turn off the bar's rotation or raise it high enough to avoid too much pounding. Make frequent passes in areas where you have high traffic. Rugs with fringes on the edge should be vacuumed carefully so you don't rip or remove the fringes altogether. You can also sweep your rug with a broom, which not only cleans but protects as well as shines your rug.

Spills and stains. No rug is entirely stain-proof, and it's almost certain you'll spill something on a rug sometime. If your rug is washable, then cleanup is easier. Just follow the care instructions to wash away the spill or stain. If the stained rug is large, however, you'll have to spot clean the area of the spill. When an accident happens, act fast: Scoop up as much of the spilled substance as possible, then blot the area (don't rub!) with a paper towel or other clean, white cloth. Smaller spills can be cleaned more easily by adding a little water to dilute the stain, but only use a little. Food and drink stains can usually be cleaned with a mild, non-bleach detergent that's diluted a bit. But oil-based stains should be treated with dry-cleaning solvents. Ink stains are best treated with hairspray. And dog "deposits" are handled best with the following process: Scoop up what you can. Blot liquid with a clean cloth. Apply a solution of mild, non-bleach detergent. Blot again and allow to dry. Spray with a little water and blot again. Apply white vinegar solution (one tablespoon of vinegar with one cup of warm water), then blot and dry again. If that doesn't work, you may have to call a professional.

Wear and tear. Any rug exposed to sunlight will fade over time, so if it's possible to place your rugs away from the sunlight, it's a good idea to do so. Window coverings are also helpful in keeping sunlight off your rugs. Also, occasionally rotating your rugs will help spread out the effects of wear and keep it looking nicer, longer. If you can't rotate your rug 180 degrees, try repositioning it to extend its life. Heavy furniture can crush your rug, so it's wise to use those little protective discs under the legs of furniture to avoid damage. Finally, sliding a pad under a rug can help extend its life as well. Plus pads can stabilize rugs to prevent bunching and slipping. And you give your rugs a little breathing room when you use a pad, too, which helps absorb noise.

Look at a towel very closely and you'll see a zillion little loops. These are what dry you off. They work by basically brushing you off, which whisks the moisture away from your skin-sort of like a squeegee on a window. So it makes sense that the more loops the towel has per square inch, the more drying power it has to absorb moisture. And that makes you drier. Yarns that are finer mean more loops per square inch, and the longer the loop, the more absorbent as well. Sheared (velour) loops make a towel softer, but not nearly as absorbent, so they don't dry very well.

You'll find everything from Egyptian cotton to microfiber to velour in towels. But cotton is truly king when it comes to performance and feel. You see, cotton is hydrophilic. Translation: It has a strong affinity for water! So cotton absorbs and removes water from your body better than many synthetic fibers. Combed, long staple cotton fibers like Pima, Supima and Egyptian generally shed less lint. Microfiber towels are a relatively recent innovation in the textile world, and many microfiber styles provide plush softness and excellent absorption. Microfiber towels are often used in washing and drying objects that have sensitive surfaces; they're preferred when you don't want to leave streaks on the surface.

The best bet for most people is to look for towels that are 100% cotton. Purchase towels made from Pima, Supima or Egyptian cotton for long-lasting value. Also, it's best to choose towels with thick, dense loops, and the longer the better. Look for secure stitching and tight weaving on the towel's edges. You can get better quality towels that measure up to 30" wide and 50" long or even bigger. And when you're buying towels, it's usually a good rule of thumb to buy twice as many washcloths as towels. Hand towels and bath towels are usually bought in the same quantity. Here's another handy tip: When you find towels that are the style and color you like, buy a few extras, so when it starts to fade or one gets lost or worn out, you can quickly replace it with a perfect match.

For starters, it's a good idea to wash your towels once before starting to use them. Another handy tip is to add one-half cup, or a whole cup, of white vinegar to the first wash. This will help set the color dyes so your towels hold their colors longer. It's a good idea to wash towels in soft water and the proper detergent, without using bleach. And despite the popularity of fabric softeners, it's not a good idea to use them in the dryer with your towels; they reduce the towel's absorbency over time.

Pinch-pleat draperies are already pleated; these draperies have fullness built right in. A few things you need know in order to hang Pinch-pleat Draperies in your home:

1. You need a traverse rod to pull open and closed, as well as slip-in hooks to hang
   
2. For length:
   
   • 63 inches gives a more casual look and the drapes will hang above the floor.
   • 84 inches gives a more formal look and is hung approximately ½ inches off the floor.
3. Order pinch-pleat draperies at least 12 inches wider than your winder. For example, if your window is 36 inches wide, order draperies at least 48 inches wide.

Order rod-pocket winder coverings 1 ½ to 3 times the width of your window for desired fullness. For example, if your window is 60 inches wide and the panels you are buying are also 60 inches wide, you need to order 2 panels to have two times the width of your window.

Tab-top panels are generally not as shirred as rod-pocket panels. Tab-top panels look best when hung on a decorative rod, sine the rod will show between the tabs. Order panels approximately 1 - 1 ½ times the width of your window.

Top treatments, or Valances, are typically rod-pocket construction. They often have a 3 inch pocket which requires a continental curtain rod. Order items 1 - 1 ½ to 3 times the width of your window for desired fullness. Pouf or balloon valances may be hung with or without stuffing. Tissue-paper or plastic-bag stuffing creates fullness.