Shown from left to right:

Le Creuset Silicone Spatula Spoon, $25

Part wooden spoon, part rubber scraper, this do-it-all "spoonula" is strong enough to maneuver heavy doughs and flexible enough to get into jar corners. The round handle is comfortable in your hand.
To Buy: www.surlatable.com.

Lamsonsharp Mini Masher, $25

This gadget's blade-like tines slide through even firm, waxy potatoes. The curved head lets you mash with an efficient rocking motion and prevents clumping. And because the tool is small, it fits in two-quart pots.
To Buy: www.lamsonsharp.com.

Cuisinart Smart Stick Hand Blender, $50

Why transfer hot soup to the blender when you can bring the blender to the pot? This powerful wand (cord not shown) also comes with attachments perfect for whipping cream and chopping onions in a flash.
To Buy: www.amazon.com.

Joyce Chen Unlimited Scissors, $25

These classic shears will cut through anything, including chicken bones and lobster shells. The flexible plastic handle won't hurt hands — even when maximum pressure is applied — and works for lefties and righties.
To Buy: www.cooking.com.

Taylor's Instant Read 1-Inch Dial Thermometer, $10

This easy-to-read, shatterproof thermometer doesn't require batteries, unlike digital models. And when it needs to be recalibrated (as all thermometers do over time), making the adjustments is simple.
To Buy: www.lnt.com.