Soda makers are a huge trend right now. They save money on soda purchases and they also reduce the amount of plastic waste that gets added to the environment, a win win! The sheer amount of drinks you can make with these machines is staggering – and there are tons of new recipes and ideas being released all the time. While the soda maker is fun and exciting, it also needs to be cleaned occasionally.

Soda makers are simple kitchen appliances that allow you to carbonate your water. They are broadly divided in two categories, soda maker machines (as the name implies, bigger appliances that you attach bottles to) and soda siphons (bottles with a special cap that allows you to carbonate the water inside). They range in price from $15 all the way up to $250 with differences in terms of quality, effectiveness, brand and special features despite the fact that they all serve the same basic purpose.

Cuisinart has released 3 different soda maker models: 2 machines (SMS-201, SMS-216) and one siphon (CSS-100). There are sometimes letters at the end of these product codes to indicate the product color. They are all currently discontinued but can still be seen on Cuisinart’s website in the discontinued section. However, some models are still available online at very discounted prices.

If you’re like me, you love soda. Wouldn’t it be great if you could make it at home instead of having to go to the store and buy it each time? Here’s how in 3 easy steps. A key component of all sodas is their fizz that makes them so much more interesting to drink. This fizz can be added through store bought sparkling water, bottles of which can be bought at pretty much any grocery/convenience store near you. You can go with generic store brands or buy the premium stuff such as Perrier.

Even though it beats going to the grocery and lugging back bottles of soda, using SodaStream’s exchange system is still expensive. Here’s 3 ways you could save money by refilling your carbonators by yourself. However, be warned, some of these methods can cause injuries if not done correctly so make sure to take proper precautions. Use these methods at your own risk.

If you are using a SodaStream soda maker or the KitchenAid Sparkling Beverage Maker, you will have to use SodaStream’s refill system. While this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, it does make you dependent on them and restrict’s your freedom of choice. The exchange process is straightforward. Simply head to a participating retailer with your empty carbonator and exchange it for a full one at the cost of $14.99 for the 60L carbonator or $29.99 for the 130L carbonator.