While my husband’s initial purchase of dehydrators left me a bit less than thrilled, I’ve since come around and been able to dehydrate chicken breast, ground beef, vegetables, fruit, and even mushrooms. I’ve spent many years trying to decide if it’s cheaper to dehydrate foods yourself, or just buy already dehydrated pantry supplies. Price and time seem to actually be the real deciding factors.
If you do not have time to sit and slice mushrooms, bananas or bell pepper, then you must purchase them already dried. If you do not have time to do that, you then have to take time to price compare whatever items you need to obtain. Sit down with the adult members in your home and discuss the possibility of electing a person to be in charge of dehydrating products for your pantry, or elect to buy them in bulk.
And if you really want a headache, try comparing views on the “best” dehydrator. Fun times!!I’ll give you a link to the dehydrators I use, including the one ranked by many dehydrators to be the King of all models. Please make sure you read all warnings and educate yourself before using a specific dehydrator.
The solar non-electric dehydrator is not for anything with meat and most likely would be unwise with many vegetables and fruit.
Nesco Square Shaped Dehydrator:
– Expands to 8 trays, electric, and has an adjustable thermostat, currently own https://amzn.to/3xI3rPV
Nesco Round Shaped Dehydrator:
– Expands to 12 trays, electric and has an adjustable thermostat, currently own https://amzn.to/3iMO7gJ
Excalibur Dehydrator:
– Holds 9 trays, electric and has an adjustable thermostat
https://amzn.to/37CykKL
Solar Dehydrator for Herbaceous Items:
– Has 6 tiers, non electric, no thermostat, can not be used with many food items due to bacterial growth
https://amzn.to/3lYbBBf
* This has affiliate links and your purchases help me be a stay at home mom. 
Suburban & Rural Homesteading Today 