I received this waffle maker for Christmas. I followed the instructions carefully. Cleaned and oiled for first use, even threw away first waffle as per instructions. I used it on four occassions making 4 waffles each time. Using same technique each time, the waffles don't always turn out the same. Some are more done than others, so don't look for perfect waffle every time here. There is a crevice between the handle and the hot plate, the batter always finds its way in there and there is no easy way to clean that. My biggest complaint with this waffle maker is the plastic hinges broke off on both sides. If I weren't a mechanical engineer I would have thrown the thing away, but I used some unsused bolts from a toilet seat hinge and I'm still making waffles. BTW I'm not sure if the handles come off, they used what appears to be some kind of H shaped head screw or fastener. If it stops making waffles I will investigate further.