this waffle iron is easy to use.  it is also easy to clean.   the machines has a stand that keeps it at a 45 degree angle, so when pouring the batter is slides down and fill up making the waffle even.  this took a bit of practice to get the right amount of batter to fill the machine.  it also made somewhat of a mess (but was easy to wipe up) of pouring it into the slot.   that would be the only reason i did not give it 5 stars.  The stand folds up so that it stores flat and does not take up much space.   it is easy to clean as it has a non stick surface.  directions easy to follow.