Our articles dedicated to the world of kitchen and the products of the best European brands.

Tag Archive for: Kitchen

How to Import Appliances from Italy

Voltage, Plugs, Sizes, Shipping, Taxes, and Warranty – Everything You Need to Know for a Perfect Fit!

Importing appliances from Italy is an excellent choice if you’re seeking top-tier quality and exceptional design. However, to ensure a smooth and successful process, it’s crucial to be well-prepared. If you’re contemplating this exciting opportunity, there are six key factors you must consider before moving forward. So, let’s dive in together and explore these important details!

Voltage

Household appliances for the Italian market are designed to operate at 220/240V with a frequency of 50Hz. Typically, the wattage—meaning the maximum power consumption—can be found on the bottom, back, or ‘nameplate’ of the appliance. If you haven’t yet purchased the appliance, this information can be obtained directly from the manufacturer. It’s important to note that appliances in the United States operate at 115 volts. In fact, most of North and South America, the Caribbean, and Japan use 110-volt electricity, while Europe and many other regions rely on 220-volt electrical outlets. Specifically, in the U.S., standard household voltage is 110-120 V AC (Alternating Current), whereas much of the rest of the world, including Australia, uses 220-240 V AC. So, what should you do if the appliance you’ve purchased or are planning to buy operates at a different voltage than what’s available in your country? The solution is simple: you’ll need to use a voltage converter or transformer to prevent any damage to your new appliance. When it comes to appliances purchased from Salbini, it’s important to know that all of our products are designed to operate within the 220v-240v 50Hz range according to European standards. This means they will function perfectly in Europe, Australia, and any other country using the 220-240v range. For countries with lower voltage, just make the necessary adjustments with a converter, and your appliance will work flawlessly.

Plugs

When importing a household appliance, it’s crucial not to overlook the importance of plug types. Appliances purchased from Italy typically come with one of three types of plugs. First, there’s the Type C plug, commonly used across Europe, except in the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Type C plugs are generally suited for appliances that require 2.5 A or less. Next, the Type F plug, also known as the Schuko plug, is primarily used in countries like Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, and Spain. These plugs have a power rating of 16 A, making them suitable for a wide range of appliances. Lastly, Italy uses the L-type plug, available in two versions: a 10 A and a 16 A plug. If you purchase an appliance from Italy and find that the plug doesn’t match your socket, you may need an adapter to ensure it functions properly.

Taxes

When importing products, it’s essential to understand that each country has its own regulations regarding taxes and customs duties. To avoid any unexpected costs when your goods arrive, we highly recommend checking the applicable tariffs in advance. In some instances, you may also need to pay VAT or other local taxes. For example, in Australia, goods valued at AUD 1,000 or less are generally exempt from duties and taxes. However, for items exceeding this value, you’ll be required to pay a 10% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on the taxable import value upon arrival, in addition to a 5% customs duty. As these requirements differ from country to country, the Salbini team is here to assist you by providing all the necessary information. Our experts are always ready to give you a comprehensive overview of the costs before you confirm your order. It’s important to note that the taxes you pay go directly to your country, not to Salbini. Our prices do not include GST or customs duties, ensuring complete transparency.

Shipping

Our tailor-made crates for shipping goods. Find out more.

When shipping household appliances from Italy, which are often bulky and heavy, it’s essential to carefully consider your transportation options and the possibility of insuring your goods during transit. Typically, you have three options: sea and air transport for long distances, and land transport for shorter ones. Your decision will depend on the volume, weight, and urgency of your shipment. Sea freight is ideal for large volumes or heavy loads but tends to be slower. On the other hand, air freight is more suitable for lighter and urgent shipments, ensuring faster delivery. However, in today’s world, it’s also crucial to consider the environmental impact of your choice. Air transport, while quicker, emits significantly more carbon, which has a greater environmental impact. In contrast, shipping by sea is more eco-friendly, producing fewer emissions per tonne of cargo. Given these factors, we strongly recommend planning your shipment in advance to choose the option that best aligns with your needs and values.

Sizes

Example of oven size

Household appliances generally come in standard dimensions, particularly built-in models. However, some appliances, especially those with unique designer elements, may differ from the standard sizes in your country. Therefore, it’s crucial to carefully measure the space where you plan to place these appliances, including considering access through your home’s entrances. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We are always happy to provide you with precise dimensions for any appliances you’re considering purchasing. Additionally, if you’re importing multiple appliances at once, think about whether they can be stacked or grouped to optimize space in the shipping vehicles.

After-Sales Warranty

When you purchase and import a household appliance from Salbini, you gain the significant advantage of having direct access to our support in case of any issues. Typically, when you buy appliances directly from Europe, local service providers may not honor the manufacturer’s warranty because the item was purchased abroad. However, when you buy from us at Salbini, you can rest easy. If you encounter any problems with your appliance, all you need to do is contact our Customer Service—no need to deal with anyone else. We have established agreements with local service agents, ensuring that if a breakdown occurs, our Customer Care team will promptly connect you with a local expert who can resolve the issue as quickly as possible.

So, are you ready to experience the joy of your new Italian appliances? Contact Us Now!

Formitalia: A Global Vision with Italian Heart

Crafting Unique, Sophisticated Spaces with a Legacy of Excellence

Founded in Florence in 1968, Formitalia stands as a true embodiment of Italian craftsmanship and contemporary design. As an icon in the world of luxury furniture, Formitalia has set the standard in the industry, seamlessly blending timeless elegance with modern functionality. Every piece, whether furniture or accessory, reflects a commitment to excellence, transforming spaces into sophisticated and exclusive environments. With a rich heritage and a forward-looking vision, Formitalia continues to inspire and lead in the realm of high-end interior design.

Artistry in Every Detail

Every piece created by Formitalia is distinguished by its quality and refinement, crafted from the finest materials such as premium leathers, solid woods, and meticulously worked metals. Each item is brought to life with the utmost attention to detail by Italy’s most skilled artisans. The result is a furniture collection that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation, delivering design solutions that elevate and enrich any space.

Prestige in Partnership

Formitalia’s strength lies in its prestigious collaborations with internationally renowned brands.

Through these exclusive partnerships, Formitalia crafts furniture collections that perfectly capture the aesthetics and prestige of each brand, catering to a discerning and sophisticated clientele. These collaborations not only enhance the brand’s portfolio but also offer unique design experiences for those who seek nothing but the best.

‘Formitalia Glamour’: Elevating Simplicity

Charm and luxury converge in a minimalist and contemporary design. This modern style elevates simplicity through the use of refined materials and exceptional finishes, all proudly embodying the essence of Italian craftsmanship. Satin-finished metals, natural stones, and exquisite leathers and fabrics highlight the impeccable workmanship that has long set Formitalia apart. Every piece is a testament to the meticulous artistry and sophistication that define its commitment to luxury.

‘Aston Martin’: Automotive Elegance

The elegance of automotive design seamlessly merges with the excellence of high-end furniture, creating pieces that echo the luxury of high-performance cars. This fusion brings a meticulous attention to detail and the use of premium materials to every item. By combining the precision and quality found in automotive craftsmanship with superior furniture-making techniques, we ensure products that are not only visually stunning but also durable and functional. This unique approach guarantees that each piece is a masterpiece of both beauty and practicality.

‘John Richmond’: Rock ‘n’ Roll Reimagined

An innovative homeware line inspired by the rebellious spirit of Rock ‘n’ Roll, the John Richmond Home collection is a seamless blend of Richmond’s iconic aesthetic and Formitalia’s renowned craftsmanship. This collaboration reimagines contemporary design, offering a fresh take on modern luxury. From sofas with vintage patent leather finishes to vibrant lounge chairs adorned with tribal tattoo prints, each piece radiates sophistication. The collection is a testament to Italian craftsmanship at its finest, delivering a unique expression of modern style that effortlessly captures the essence of luxury living.

‘Wayne Enterprises’ & ‘DC’: Legendary Elegance

Inspired by the iconic aesthetic of Bruce Wayne, this remarkable collaboration marks Formitalia’s official status as a partner and licensee of Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products (WBDGCP). An exclusive furniture collection dedicated to the legendary Batman for the first time.

This partnership not only highlights Formitalia’s commitment to crafting high-quality home collections but also brings a touch of legendary elegance to your living spaces.

‘Mirabili Arte D’Abitare’: Transcending Functionality into Art

Everyday objects that transcend functionality to become art—abstract, poetic, and full of life. These creations are designed not just to be admired, but to engage with the rhythms of daily life and resonate with personal desires. They don’t just decorate spaces; they bring them to life, adding depth and meaning to every moment they inhabit.

‘Didi Collection’: Florentine Craftsmanship Refined

Accessories that exemplify the pinnacle of Florentine craftsmanship, crafted from precious materials and using sophisticated techniques rooted in centuries-old traditions. From delicately mouth-blown and hand-ground crystal to bronzes meticulously shaped through chiselling and lostwax casting, each piece radiates a timeless allure. Semi-precious stones and exquisite marbles are masterfully worked by artisans who have preserved the art of Florentine mosaic for generations.

Balancing modernity with tradition, the designs in this collection seamlessly integrate into today’s dynamic world, where each item stands as a testament to enduring elegance. Whether gracing the most exclusive penthouses, luxury yachts, or prestigious institutional spaces, these home accessories capture the essence of Florentine elegance, elevating every environment they inhabit.

The True Essence of Made in Italy

Formitalia’s connection to Italy goes beyond its origins; it embodies the essence of ‘Made in Italy’ with a commitment to quality, creativity, and meticulous attention to detail. Every aspect of its manufacturing process, from conceptual design to final execution, takes place in Italy. This dedication ensures that each piece not only reflects the highest standards of craftsmanship but also showcases the unparalleled quality and design that define the brand.

From Italy to the World

While deeply rooted in its Italian origins, Formitalia has successfully expanded its reach to an international clientele. Its products grace exclusive residences, luxury yachts, high-end hotels, and prestigious commercial spaces around the globe. This achievement highlights its ability to meet the diverse demands of a global market while staying true to the distinctive design that defines the brand. Formitalia combines local craftsmanship with a global vision, ensuring that each piece
remains unique and relevant across different cultures and settings.

Beyond Furniture

Formitalia is more than a furniture brand; it embodies the essence of Italian luxury, elegance, and craftsmanship. Each creation masterfully blends tradition with innovation, seamlessly merging the past with the future. Its designs offer distinctive furnishing solutions that transform living spaces into unique and captivating environments. Formitalia’s commitment to excellence ensures that every piece not only enhances your home but also stands as a testament to refined sophistication.

Milan Design Week 2024

The quickening heartbeat, the palpable excitement in the air, and the scent of creativity that filled every corner of the city – that was our adventure at Milan Design Week 2024. A journey beyond the ordinary, where design and friendship intertwined in an unforgettable embrace, turning each moment into a profoundly meaningful and inspiring experience. 

A Global Union of Friendship and Collaboration 

In the bustling heart of Milan, the world came together in a warm and universal embrace. Beyond borders and linguistic barriers, a part of our Italian team, comprised of Filippo Salbini, Francesco Ferrara, Roberta Apuleo, and Alfonso Mellone, welcomed, gathered, and guided over 20 friends from every corner of the globe under the banner of friendship. Clients, designers, developers, and other industry professionals from the United States, Sweden, Australia, South Korea, Malaysia, and China: an extraordinary map of friendship drawn in the colors of diversity. And then, on an enchanted evening, the frenetic rhythm of daily life paused, making room for a dinner illuminated by laughter, sharing, and genuine joy. A moment of pure connection that made tangible the universal power of friendship and collaboration. 

Salone del Mobile.Milano: Epicenter of Global Design 

Among the stands that dotted the Salone del Mobile.Milano, we embarked on a journey through the peaks of global design. Guided by passion and curiosity, we explored the extraordinary creations of industry-leading companies, each a precious gem in the vast crown of design. Every booth, a story to be told, an emotion to be experienced, and a heartfelt thank you for contributing to the beauty of the world around us. Accompanying our friends, we offered them an exclusive preview of the latest creations at the stands of our top High-Quality suppliers

  • MisuraEmme
  • Baxter
  • Lema
  • Exteta
  • Paolo Castelli
  • Francesco Molon
  • Vismara
  • Impatia
  • Rugiano
  • Longhi
  • Carpanelli
  • Boca Do Lobo
  • Tacchini
  • Miniforms
  • Molteni
  • Fiam
  • De Sede
  • Desalto

FuoriSalone 2024: Exploring Excellence in the Heart of Milan 

In the lively streets of Milan, we discovered the pulsating heart of design: sacred places where aesthetics and functionality merge in perfect harmony. We breathed in the very essence of Italian design, letting inspiration guide us on a timeless journey. Among the lights of the most prestigious showrooms, we visited the iconic venues of the most prestigious brands such as: 

  • Agape
  • Valcucine
  • Modulnova
  • Giorgetti
  • Amura
  • Rugiano
  • Boffi
  • Roche Bobois
  • Gallotti&Radice

The Grand Tour of Design: Discovering Excellence 

The pinnacle of our experience was The Grand Tour of Design, an epic journey organized with Atlas Concorde. On April 19th, we moved to Emilia Romagna for a guided tour of this extraordinary globally significant company. In Atlas Concorde’s grand showroom, we had the opportunity to explore their exclusive collections, admiring the greatness, professionalism, and enthusiasm that characterize this extraordinary company.

And as we all dined together, we strengthened the bonds of friendship and respect that unite us indissolubly.

But it didn’t end there: we then moved to Maranello for a tour of the Ferrari Museum. Here, we had an extraordinary experience, being able to admire not only Ferrari’s iconic cars but also trophies, Formula One cars, engines, and other breathtaking design gems.

Thank You for an Unforgettable Edition and a Preview of Milan Design Week 2025 

We sincerely thank everyone who made this magical adventure possible: friends, clients, and partners. Your support, companionship, and passion are the lifeblood that fuels our commitment to design.

With hearts full of gratitude, we eagerly await the next chapter of our story at Milan Design Week 2025. A new chapter of emotions, inspirations, and friendship, ready to be written with the same fervent passion as always.

Choose the perfect oven for your kitchen

The oven is an essential appliance in any kitchen. If you’re looking for a new oven, this guide will help you choose the right one! There are many options available in the market and the choice can be confusing.

Here are our recommendations for you!

Popular types of kitchen ovens

There are different types of kitchen ovens. The most common is the electric oven. Furthermore, there are also microwave ovens, steam ovens and gas ovens, which offer specific cooking modes.

Electric oven

Gaggenau Oven Series 400 BO451112
Gaggenau: Oven Series 400 BO451112

The electric oven converts electricity into heat, distributing it evenly until it reaches the temperature set on the thermostat. It is ideal for those who prefer dry cooking.

Microwave oven

Bosch Microwave oven BFL634GB1
Bosch: Microwave oven BFL634GB1

A microwave works by emitting electromagnetic waves that generate heat by causing water molecules in food to vibrate rapidly.

Steam oven

NEFF: Steam oven B47FS22G0
NEFF: Steam oven B47FS22G0

The steam oven works by using steam to cook food, providing a gentle and moist cooking environment that helps retain nutrients and flavors.

Gas oven

A gas oven uses gas to produce heat for cooking, providing precise temperature control and faster heat-up times.

Combi oven

There are also combi ovens, which offer the versatility of dry, microwave and steam cooking functions all in one appliance for convenience.

Size

Beko CDFY22309X Built In Electric Double Oven
Beko: CDFY22309X Built In Double Oven

If you’re an avid cook, have a large family, or enjoy hosting dinner parties with many guests, you may want to consider
purchasing a larger oven or a double oven.

Extra functions and features

Siemens Home Connect
Siemens: Home Connect

Some ovens have defrost, core temperature probe, wi-fi connectivity, pre-loadaed recipes, smartphone App and voice commands.

Cleaning

Gaggenau Series 400 self-wash function
Gaggenau: Series 400 self-wash

Pyrolytic ovens have a thermal cleaning process that burns all food residues.

Some steam ovens, on the other hand, have a self-wash function, which can be very useful for internal cleaning.

Price and budget

The price of the oven varies according to the model and the extra functions. Consider your budget and look for an oven that meets your needs without exceeding your spending limit.

Brands

Make sure you buy a quality oven from a reputable manufacturer.

At Salbini we select the best household appliances manufacturers, known for their high quality and durability. Furthermore, the security of buying an oven that includes all the guarantees is very important.

Conclusions

Choosing the right oven for your kitchen can be a big and expensive decision. Make sure you consider the size, extra features, price, and brand. By following these tips, you will be able to find the perfect oven for your kitchen and satisfy all your cooking needs.

Cover image: NEFF Ovens

Perfect hob Guide to choosing between gas, electric and induction for your kitchen

Cooking is an art that requires passion and dedication. Modern technology has simplified many daily tasks, but cooking still requires a certain degree of attention and knowledge. In particular, the choice of hob is essential to obtain the desired result.

There are three main hob types to choose from: gas, electric and induction. In this how-to article, we’ll explore the differences between these three types of hobs and provide useful tips to help you choose the one that’s right for you.

Gas hob

Bosch: Series 6 PPS9A6B90

The gas hob has long been the undisputed king of home kitchens. Its ability to precisely control the flame makes it an ideal choice for professional cooks and experienced homemakers alike. An open flame is also the best way to get the perfect crust on a steak or to toast peppers.

However, gas hobs require maintenance and attention. Stove cleaning is important to prevent food residue from burning, and setting the flame perfectly can be difficult for beginners.

Electric hob

Siemens: iQ300 ET875FCP1D

Thanks to their flat and smooth surface, electric hobs are easy to clean and handle. Also, electric hobs are generally cheaper than gas and induction hobs.

However, they are not very popular and there are few models available on the market. Also, only the newer and more expensive electric hobs take less time to reach the desired temperature and allow for more precise temperature control.

Electric hobs require the use of special pans.

Induction hob

Gaggenau: Series 400 VI492105

The induction hob is the most innovative and modern choice for your kitchen. Its advanced technology allows the pan to be heated quickly without heating up the hob surface, making it safe and energy efficient.

Furthermore, the temperature control is highly precise and the hob cools down quickly when switched off, making it ideal for busy kitchens or where children are present.

However, induction cooktops may require special induction-compatible cookware and are generally more expensive than gas and electric cooktops.

Tips for choosing the right hob

Choosing the right hob depends on your specific needs. However, there are a few factors to consider when choosing the perfect hob for your kitchen. Here are some useful tips:

  • Consider your cooking style: if you are an avid cook who likes to control the flame, the gas hob may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a cheaper and easier to use option, an electric hob could be ideal.
  • Evaluate energy efficiency: if you’re concerned about energy usage, an induction cooktop may be your best choice. Thanks to its advanced technology, it heats the pot directly, avoiding heat dispersion and making it very energy efficient.
  • Consider your budget: the cost of cooktops varies widely, so it’s important to consider your budget when making your choice. Gas cooktops are generally more expensive than electric cooktops, but less expensive than induction cooktops.
  • Evaluate the space available: if you have a small kitchen, an induction hob may be the best choice. Thanks to its advanced technology, it cools down quickly when turned off, making it ideal for small, busy kitchens.

Conclusion

Choosing the right hob for your kitchen can seem like a difficult decision, but by assessing your specific needs and considering the factors mentioned above, you can make an informed choice. Whether you prefer the flame control of a gas hob or the energy efficiency of an induction hob, you’re sure to find the ideal solution for your kitchen.

Now you can buy your new hob. If you need more information, ask our team for advice. We are always happy to help!

Cover image: Bosch induction hob

The Floating Kitchen: between lightness and design

The kitchen is where your day begins.

Where you meet your family and talk about each other. It’s the place where you host friends for dinner; sometimes it’s where anniversaries are celebrated.

A contemporary way to furnish it is the floating kitchen.

A floating kitchen is highly advisable if you wish to create a light and coordinated setting in your open space.

Modulnova: Twenty Resina

If you want to install a floating kitchen, you should consider the services running through the walls and the solidity of the weight-bearing wall, since you’ll need L-shaped steel support profiles. On the other hand, if you aren’t working on a bearing wall, some kitchen models will require extra feet, as additional weight support.

A kitchen can be wholly or just partially floating, ‘cause it’s possible to mix suspended base and columns: that means that all or just some bases do not touch the floor, guaranteeing maximum customization.

Cesar: Unit

In any way, take note that designing your floating kitchen will be much easier during a renovation.

A floating kitchen is not for everyone yet. So let’s go and see the main pros and cons of this choice.

Among the disadvantages is a small storage space, so if you are looking for practicality and capacity, we suggest a traditional kitchen.

The floating kitchen is for you, if you don’t require too much storage and love innovative design.

As for the cons, we must also say that a floating kitchen is more difficult to assemble, so rely on professionals in the industry for this service.

The appliances will have to be suspended and everything must be designed in detail. The fixing must be very careful and functional, having to support different weights.

Last but not least, the choice of dishwashers for floating kitchens is at the moment limited to few models.

Bosch: Series 6 compact built-in dishwasher

But a great advantage in choosing a floating kitchen is that it’s very easy to clean, as the bases do not touch the floor. Another pro is that any underfloor heating will be exploited to its full potential.

In summary, the main feature of floating kitchens is the sense of lightness

So, if you are tired of the classic floor-standing kitchens and want to stand out, this could easily be the right choice for you.

Special tips

Beautiful to live in and to show off, we suggest installing LEDs under the cabinets.

Furthermore, many of our Partners allow for the personalization of their collections. This means that even if a model is not represented as a floating kitchen, it is possible to make it bespoke for you.

Cover image: Twenty Resina Kitchen by Modulnova

Irinox is a leading company in the production of rapid blast chillers and high quality storage systems for the professional and domestic sectors and electrical panels in stainless steel, setting quality standards in every area.

Irinox promotes new products and ways of operating that have allowed it to introduce the concepts of rapid chilling and food freshness all over the world and to rethink the way to identify solutions for the design and construction of customized electrical panels.

Origin of Irinox

Irinox was founded in Corbanese (Treviso, Italy) in 1989, starting the production of blast chillers, shock-freezers and stainless steel electrical enclosures. In 1994 there was the opening of the new production plant in Conegliano (Treviso, Italy) for the production of stainless steel electrical enclosueres. 

First blast chiller in a built-in version

In 2002 the first blast chiller in the world was invented, in a built-in version, which is presented to the public at the Salone del Mobile in Milan.

Business units

Irinox is formed by three business units: Irinox Professional, Irinox Home and Irinox Electrical Enclosures.

Irinox Professional is the leading manufacturer of blast chillers and shock freezers. It offers professionals cutting-edge equipment to keep food fresh and optimise production processes.

Irinox Home is a line of equipment dedicated to quality household chilling systems. Equipment with innovative functions and refined design provides technology used by professionals to offer the best of industrial kitchens in the home, so food is once again delicious, healthy and nutritious.

Irinox Electrical Enclosures business unit, has been designing and manufacturing stainless steel electrical enclosures since 1989. Innovative solutions, customised production and immediate response are the cornerstones of approach at Irinox Electrical Enclosures and the staff strives tirelessly to deliver products and services that exceed customer expectations.

Certifications

Irinox management system is certified in compliance to ISO standards (specifically, regulations ISO 9001,14001 and 45001). ISO standards rule over management systems; they are voluntary-based management and organization processes.

Such regulations lay down requirements for companies/organizations to be able to:

  • Meet customers’ needs through their products and service (ISO 9001).
  • To monitor any factors in their own manufacturing and performing activities which may have an impact on the environment (ISO14001).
  • Specify the requirements for the implementation of an occupational health and safety management system (ISO 45001)

Sustainability

Irinox is willing to play its role in facing environmental challenges by embracing sustainable consumption and production patterns aiming to reduce their impact so as to preserve resources for the generations to come.

“We wish and want  to outline and make public our plan of action for Carbon Neutrality by 2030 for the Business Unit Professional and the Business Unit Home, and by 2040 for the Business Unit Electrical Enclosures.”

Irinox S.p.a.
Key Cucine

Sbabo Cucine is a Vicenza-based company among the first to bring the concept of custom-made kitchens to the market.

We visited it in December 2021, during our Salbini Experience by Tom Landy II.

Cesar Cucine

Cesar kitchens are totally Made in Italy, guaranteeing an internationally recognized level of excellence.

In September 2019 we visited the production plant in Pramaggiore, in the province of Venice, which has state-of-the-art technologies: most of the processes are concentrated here, in order to ensure direct control over each component in every single phase of the process.

Minacciolo

Our visit to the Minacciolo production factory with showroom in Borgo Verde, in the province of Treviso – Italy.

Tag Archive for: Kitchen