10 Best Cotton Candy Machines in 2023 (Chef-Reviewed)

But if you’re just looking to make cotton candy at home for a small group, then smaller machines that take up less storage and counter space will probably be enough. These can also be great for kids who want to take part in the cotton candy making! Just note that smaller machines are often lower quality than big commercial machines and may be more prone to breaking.

In addition to size, you'll want to consider the power of your machine. If you'll need cotton candy for a large amount of people fast, you'll want a machine that can meet those demands. For commercial use, consider using a higher-powered machine of up to 1,080 watts, which equates to about three cones per minute. 

On the other hand, if you only need a machine to provide for a smaller group, you might want a machine at a lower wattage. These will take longer to heat up and produce cotton candy, but are usually more compact and easy to store.

There are two main types of cotton candy machines. Countertop models and cart models have most of the same functions, but differ in a few important ways. 

As can be guessed from the name, countertop machines can be placed on a countertop or any flat surface. This model usually offers lower wattage, and you usually aren't able to store sugar, sticks, or any of your other cotton candy-making supplies in them. However, they are easier to stow away, and perfect if you're trying to provide candy for a small group.

Cart models, on the other hand, are machines that have legs or wheels attached. They typically have higher wattage and therefore faster performance. These are large and heavy, so they require a lot of storage room. However, the wheels help you move the cart from one place to another easily. Cart models also sometimes have more options and controls.

Basic cotton candy machines can only turn sugar into cotton candy. But, not just any sugar will do for a good, fluffy cone of fair-style cotton candy. Smaller cotton candy machines that are designed for home use can often only use certain kinds of sugar. Most come with formulated sugars specific to the machine, called floss sugar.

Floss sugar is a mix of granulated sugar and flossine, a finely-colored mix of dried dye and flavor. While it is possible to make your own floss sugar at home, a pre-bought mix already has the granule size and consistency needed for a perfect cone of cotton candy. 

Some sugars won't work with cotton candy machines. These include brown sugar, confectioner sugar, and caster sugar. The consistency or amount of moisture in these sugars simply doesn't produce good cotton candy. 

Aside from sugar granules, some machines can also turn certain types of hard candy into cotton candy. Big favorites are Jolly Ranchers, broken-up lollipops and candy canes, and Lifesavers. However, it's important to remember that not every candy is good for your cotton candy machine. 

One of the first things you realize when eating cotton candy is how sticky your hands and mouth get. Imagine how gooey the machine that makes it can be! To save yourself from long, difficult cleanups after your cotton candy party, we recommend you look for machines that are easy to disassemble and wash. 

As far as ease of cleanup is concerned, reviewers have found that cotton candy machines with stainless steel bowls are far easier to wash than those made of plastic. If you do choose a cotton candy machine with a plastic bowl, be sure to use warm, soapy water and get every bit of dried candy from the walls. 

Another thing to consider when thinking about cleanup is whether the machine comes with a shield. This refers to a plastic dome or rim that keeps sugar and cotton candy floss from flying away from the machine and making a mess. 

It can be helpful to keep an eye out for machines that come with extra accessories. For example, some sets will come with sugar and reusable cones.

Reusable cones or sticks are especially convenient for personal use, since you would be able to wash them and use them over and over. However, if you need a machine for commercial reasons or to feed a large group, this might not be as useful to you. 

Some cart-style machines come with holders for cotton candy cones, so as you finish making them you can keep them upright for people to take. This is an accessory that would be especially beneficial to those looking to use their cotton candy machine at large events.