Best For Portability: Olde Midway Commercial Quality Cotton Candy Machine Cart

Let’s talk cotton candy!

Who doesn’t like cotton candy? There are few treats that bring a smile quicker than cotton candy.

This article focuses on commercial-type cotton candy machines. Yes, there are less expensive models designed for occasional or home use, but if you want to do this as a side hustle or want to have cotton candy at a fundraiser where you serving dozens of folks at once, these machines are more appropriate.

We interviewed folks who sell cotton candy at fairs for this article and got an earful of advice for those wanting to get into the cotton candy game. Here are some quick tips:

• Stick with corn syrup-based sugars. They work best. Avoid artificial sugars or other ingredients like butter or starches, as they will burn.

• These machines don’t come with accessories like paper cones.

• Consider getting a clear plastic bubble (sold separately) for the top of the machine to keep the floss from flying around.

For the best portable machine, this cart-based machine by Olde Midway got positive marks from the professionals we interviewed. Very good for small venues.

What We Liked

• Easy to set up and use. Takes about 3-4 minutes to warm up.

• Great for parties.

• Works well and includes marshmallow scoop.

• Storage drawer is handy.

What Needs Work

• Directions could be more detailed.

• Difficult to clean.

Best For Professionals: VIVO Blue Electric Commercial Cotton Candy Machine

If you want to up your cotton candy game from the occasional community event to a bigger side hustle, we’d go for this machine by VIVO. Basically, this machine is fast and fun, with the flexibility to melt candies like Life Savers and make them into cotton candy.

What We Liked

• Easy to use.

• Affordable.

• Detailed instructions and video tutorials.

• Easy to clean, although the pros we interviewed suggest cleaning after 20 minutes of use to prevent burnt sugar buildup.

• Does 2-3 cones per minute.

What Needs Work

• Doesn’t work with brown sugars.

Best for Birthdays, Cookouts: Commercial Cotton Candy Machine Electric Floss Maker 1030W for Family and Various Party, 20.5 Inch

The large stainless bowl with this maker is perfect for birthday parties and family reunions. This model was recommended by several of the experts we interviewed for this article because it is easy to use and set up (warm up time is just 30 seconds).

What We Liked

• Easy to assemble.

• Adjustable temperature.

• Cleaning is simple.

• Affordable.

• Supply storage drawer.

What Needs Work

• Requires 20 minutes of cooling every hour. That’s why we think this model is great for birthday parties or occasional use. The required cooling would make it less useful in a professional setting like a community fair.

About the Authors

Denise & Alan Fields are consumer advocates and best-selling authors. The Fields have authored 12 books with three million copies in print, including the best-selling guide to baby gear, Baby Bargains.

The Fields have been featured and quoted in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal and Los Angeles Times.

As consumer products experts, the Fields have been guests on the NBC Today Show, Good Morning America and ABC’s 20/20.

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