Breadmaker - yay or nay?

[SpaceOP]

I am toying with a bread maker. I'm not entirely sure I have space in my kitchen but if I can figure out a way, I'm thinking about it. The reason being that I'm so tired of bad bread in this country - I can get lovely white or sourdough bread (at great expense but whatever) but a good seed loaf or wholemeal loaf seems impossible. Just back from a trip to Germany where needless to say, bread was all amazing which is what has inspired me.

BUT... how much work is it? is it really super easy? Can I just toss a whole lot of ingredients in while I'm tidying up after dinner and then pop out a lovely loaf at breakfast?

Practical tips please. Anything that involves me spending more than 5-10 minutes prepping is pointless so is it really going to help me?

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Much better IMO.

I make two loaves a week using fresh milk (so not the powder) and they're glorious.

I've only got a shelf for the freezer unfortunately.

I also couldn't guarantee having two slices a day...

We got one recently and I LOVE it. I've done all sorts and we haven't bought bread since. It's not cheaper as I used to buy the cheap loaves, but I was trying to eat less UPF rather than save money.

The 2 main faffs are size; a bigger loaf is just taller not longer, which is no good when you want more slices as opposed to a bigger slice, and just slicing in general...I now understand the "best thing since sliced bread" expression!

Also made lovely jam in it.

I think it's better than bought bread but not as good as "proper" home made.

Absolutely love mine and DP and kids do too. I have very little time to cook etc but I just stick a loaf on every other day (every day if DP is around!) and it's so easy. Also made pizza dough in it which is great. We're trying to reduce UPFs and feel it has helped loads. It also gives instructions on making a sourdough starter but I haven't delved into that yet.

For anyone thinking of taking the plunge. I just bought a Panasonic on Facebook Marketplace for £30! It's nearly new and is pretty much top of the range.