Others say...

"The design makes this a love it or hate it product"
I've given the pitcher four stars because it meets my needs as far as capacity, durability and appearance. It would have gotten five stars if the instructions gave clear directions on how to use the lid and if the handle, as other reviewers have pointed out - wasn't so close to the pitcher, making it awkward to pour. Contrary to some reviewer's comments, I haven't had any problem with spillage when beverages are poured.

I purchased the pitcher even though there were some very critical reviewer comments about the lid. At the time, I discounted them, figuring the reviewer's weren't following instructions. After spending an hour or more fruitlessly trying to get the lid to work, I was angry and frustrated. The next day, I took the lid apart and studied how the lid/pitcher seal was supposed to be made, and that was when I discovered, more or less by accident, the secret to making the lid work. Since then the lid has worked just fine (by the way, the lid must be removed prior to pouring).

Here's the technique: With the center piece screwed into the outer piece and in the open position (that is, the center piece bar is resting against the "open" tab on the top of the outer piece), pull the rubber ring over the bottom edge ridge so it rides in the groove formed where the ridge meets the bottom of the outer piece. The next step is crucial (yet isn't described in the instructions - an unforgivable omission given the complaints about the lid failing to seal properly). Holding the outer piece of the lid by its serrated edge, place the lid on to the top of the pitcher so the rubber ring is in full contact with the top of the pitcher rim, then rotate it clockwise while gently but firmly pushing down on it until the bottom of the outer lid piece is in complete contact with the pitcher's rim. The rubber ring is now deep enough into the pitcher to form a tight seal with the side of the pitcher when the center is rotated clockwise a half turn to the closed position (to the "closed" tab), causing the rubber ring to expand outward and create a strong seal. You'll find that at room temperature, the rubber ring will encounter some resistance as it is pushed into position prior to closing; however, when cold (after sitting in the refrigerator) there is no resistance. You'll be amazed at how easy the lid works when the ring and glass are cold.

"Fits in Fridge door"
I bought this for storing soup - so that I wouldn't have to keep the big stockpot in the fridge - and it's great how this pitcher fits in the fridge door. The top doesn't seal perfectly but it's tight enough. I felt the unit was good for the money.

"GREAT multiuse pitcher! I have TONS!"
These pitchers are great for all things...juice, sauces, dressings, salsa. They easily seal to keep things fresh, and save TONS of space with the tall skinny shape. I use them for my homemade salsa, and the spout makes for easy pouring. I also love the heavy weight glass! These are great in all sizes! A TRUE MUST HAVE!

"Great little pitcher!"
When my pitcher arrived, it did seem smaller than what I anticipated. However, I have had no problems with spilling, and its smaller size is actually what I now LOVE about it. It hardly takes up any refrigerator space - yet holds 2 quarts and then some. You do have to remove the lid for pouring and mixing, but I have had no problems when making instant iced tea and shaking it a bit to mix. You can turn the middle part of the lid to loosen or tighten it. I'm very happy with this pitcher!

"bad purchase"
Smaller than I thought it would be - short and squatty. Pitcher spills EVERYTIME you pour when over half full, and top will not seal, just sits on top and won't even let you pour around it, you have to remove it to pour from the pitcher.