Does anyone use a food dehydrator?

[Mykittensmittens]

I’m debating getting one.

I’ve been growing herbs all summer (basil, thyme,
organo, rosemary and sage) and have tons which I could dry and use over winter.

I’m also quite crafty and was thinking I could dry some tiny flowers, plus dry some orange slices for Christmas.

after that I’m not sure what else I could do with it so thinking that’s not enough of a reason for the outlay.

I would definitely use dried strawberries and raspberries in baking but I’m not sure they come out well. If you have one, what do you use it for?

I use an air fryer on a very low heat, or the oven on defrost.

I've done orange slices (decorations), apple slices (just for snacks) and liver/kidney for dog treats.

I've not done soft fruit- I've never had a surplus!

The best dried Rosemary was just sat in a paper bag.
I've not tried other herbs. I doubt it's economical given how cheap they are to buy.

I have a dehydrator setting on my ninja foodi and used it on some plums the other day as we have a glut. They’ve come out well, but 6 hours at 60c isn’t going to be happening often with new electricity prices!

Electricity prices is a consideration, yes.

I’ll dry rosemary the old way. I guess I could bunch sage and tie that to the laundry dollymaid on the ceiling - my grandma did that for Christmas stuffing as I recall.

maybe I’ll leave it. I’m procrastinating!

I got the ninja for it's dehydrate function. It's a pain when the whole house smells of liver, and the air fryer is busy when you want something else!

Generally though I wouldn't get a dehydrator unless you have a specific and frequent need of it.

I reuse the paper bags prescriptions come in- they sit neatly upright, stuffed with herbs, then herbs can be crumpled in smaller spaces when they are totally dry. It's honestly easier than using a machine.

I’m planning on doing that with my lavender, the old ways are often best!

If only I still had an airing cupboard 🙄