5 Essential Kitchen Items

The kitchen is one of the most frequently used spaces in any home. It’s the place you prepare and eat food as well as a collection point for conversations. To make sure you have a well-stocked dining area, add the following five items to your “to buy” list after moving into your home.

Top-Shelf Appliances

Even if your new home includes previously-used appliances when you take over the property, you’ll probably want to redecorate and purchase your own. Start by looking for a stove and oven that’s the right size and style for your kitchen. In general, you’ll choose between electric and gas, with a black, white or stainless silver finish. Of course, some high-end sellers do offer stoves and ovens in bright and unusual colors. You’ll pay more, but if you love having unique kitchen equipment, you might appreciate the results. Next, consider your refrigerator. Today, refrigerators come with all types of bells and whistles, from traditional ice makers to state-of-the-art computer screens. Again, think about your family’s needs in addition to the space you have to fill. Be sure to measure your kitchen areas thoroughly before buying any refrigerator. Finally, you’ll probably want a dishwasher. Again, you have tons of choices. Look for a model that will allow you to do all the dishes at once rather than having to do them piecemeal. And be sure whatever type of dishwasher you choose is quiet. Otherwise, you’ll hear every wash and rinse.

Exceptional Knives

A chef is only as good as his or her knives, so don’t hold back when buying a new knife set. Although it can be tempting to go cheap, it’s not the best idea. Instead of purchasing a knife set, consider buying each knife individually. Make sure you get several different styles of knives and that you understand how to use them. Because you’ll be paying more for top-shelf knives, invest in a good knife sharpener. That way, you’ll be able to maintain the integrity of your knives for years and years.

Matching Pots and Pans

Do you have hand-me-down pots and pans that have seen better days? It’s time for an upgrade! You can choose from pots and pans in a variety of surfaces, from copper and ceramic to stainless steel. In general, it’s best to get matching or at least compatible cookware from the same manufacturer. Many times, one brand will offer matching lid sets and other equipment that make cooking more efficient and convenient.

Solid Glassware

It can be tough if you always seem to struggle to find a clean glass because you have so few. If you’ve decided it’s time to get away from mismatched glasses and cups, splurge a little on new ones for your kitchen. You don’t have to get anything fancy. Just look for glassware that’s heavy and solid — especially if you have a family. Be wary of any glassware that feels like it could break if you squeezed it too hard!

Beautiful Dishes and Utensils

Since you’re already getting new glassware, you might as well sell your old hodgepodge of dishes and utensils. Invest in dishes that you will want to use every day and be certain to get ones that are dishwasher-compatible. That way, you can use them, rinse them and put them out of sight. Will you need other kitchen equipment, such as a blender, juicer and maybe a Keurig? Absolutely! Over time, you should expect to build your supply of food preparation, cooking and cleaning equipment and products. For now, the basics will take you from one day to the next with ease.