Some people call the kitchen the heart of the home. But if you’re living in an apartment, your kitchen might need a little extra love. Typically, apartment kitchens offer less space and the layout of the kitchen can also impact how much you can store. If you’re shopping for your first apartment, you might have a hard time deciding which kitchen accessories are worth it. Should you invest in a coffeemaker or an air fryer? Maybe you’re prone to burning food so you have no idea what appliances to purchase. This kitchen essentials list includes must-haves and tips to help you love your apartment kitchen whether you’re a chef in the making or trying to strategize more storage space.
Kitchen Items Every Renter Should Have
These kitchen essentials are great for your first apartment, but every renter should have these items in their kitchen.
A good set of knives
Invest in a sharp set of knives. Not only will quality knives make cutting veggies and meat easier, but they’ll also save you money in the long run because you won’t have to constantly replace them. Cheap, low-quality knives get duller faster, which could lead to injury (dull knives are more prone than cut people than sharp ones). You might save a few extra dollars, but it’s a great idea to avoid buying cheaper knives.
Cooking basics
You should have these basic cooking items, especially if you’re moving into your first apartment. These staples will allow you to prepare meals, snacks, and desserts.
- Large saucepan
- Stock pot
- Small and large frying pan (if you want all your bases covered get an eight-inch, 10-inch, and 12-inch pan)
- Metal and wooden spoons and serving utensils like a ladle
- Grater or vegetable peeler
- Tongs
- Hand mixer
- Rolling pin
- Silicon and metal spatulas
- Whisks
- Cutting board
- A full set of measuring cups and measuring spoons
- Baking sheet
- Casserole dish
- Mixing bowls
- Colander
- Oven mitts
- Can opener
- Blender
- Toaster
- Trash can and/or recycling bin
- Cleaning supplies and materials (bucket, mop, broom, dustpan, vacuum, etc.)
Functional Décor
You can combine practicality and style through functional décor items like coasters, placemats, and a kitchen rug.
Matching silverware, plates, bowls, cups, and glasses
Presentation is also a large part of making a great meal. Matching silverware, dishes, and cups will complement your homemade crusted salmon while also making your kitchen look clean and organized.
Silverware organizer and cooking utensil holders
Many people forget about these two underrated kitchen accessories, but they are essential. Both will help keep your items de-cluttered so they’re easy to grab.
Multi-purpose glass dishes
Although you can start with plastic storage containers, glass dishes that are dishwasher, freezer, microwave, and oven safe are a great choice. Along with cooking with these dishes, you can also use glass containers to store leftovers.
Kitchen Essentials for Anyone Who Loves to Cook
If you are an avid home chef, these essentials will help cooking and baking your favorite food so much easier.
Spoon rest
A spoon rest is another underrated kitchen item, but many veteran chefs use them. A spoon rest prevents the spoon from touching any contaminants that might be present on your countertop. A spoon rest will also prevent your countertop from being damaged by food stains so you make sure money isn’t deducted from your security deposit. Of course, you can simply place your spoon on a kitchen towel or small dish, but the spoon rest is a more stylish option.
Kitchen scale
Experienced home chefs are eye-ballers, but if you make baked goods consider a kitchen scale, which can help you achieve precision in seconds. You’ll also save on clean-up time! Kitchen scales are great for portioning meat and vegetables too.
Spice rack
A spice rack that hangs or spins makes grabbing ingredients easier, while also providing some decoration. Some brands will even send you refills for your spice bottles!
Food processor
Chopping, grating, slicing, shredding – food processors can do it all in a matter of seconds. The handy machines will save time and you can even use them to make sauces, pie crust, and filling.
Cast iron skillet and/or Dutch oven
A cast iron skillet and a Dutch oven will have your guests thinking your grandma made their meal. Both items are extremely versatile and can take flavors and texture to the next level. Roast a whole chicken in your cast iron skillet or make a hearty batch of stew in your Dutch oven. Both are also great for braises!
Kitchen Accessories for Anyone With a Small Kitchen
Renting an apartment with a small kitchen means you have to get creative. These items and tricks will help you to figure out how to get the most out of your space.
Functional dish rack
Instead of buying a drying rack that rests on the counter, opt for one that fits in the sink so you aren’t using counter space.
Hang time
Use any space possible to hang up your pots, pans, and other items. Use racks, pegboards, and magnetic strips on your walls and backsplash. Don’t forget that you can use the sides of the cabinets and the inside of cabinet doors too. Of course, before you install anything, make sure you get permission from your landlord.
Storage baskets or bins
Similar to organizing a small closet, try purchasing chic storage bins or baskets to hold items on top of your cabinets or refrigerator. Use smaller bins to organize the inside of cabinets or underneath your sink. For a clean, chic look, try storing spices and dry foods like pasta inside of acrylic or glass containers.
Shelves and/or shelf risers
Installing shelves even on the smallest portion of a wall can make all the difference. Self-risers will add even more storage space to your countertop or inside of your fridge. If you need more space, consider buying a bookcase or etagere, which can double as décor.
Mirrors
Many renters with small apartments add mirrors to make spaces appear bigger and you can do the same in your kitchen. Try hanging mirrors in areas that tend to be darker like above your sink or oven. Light will reflect off the mirrors, creating an illusion of a brighter, larger space.
Utility cart
If you still need more space, purchase a utility cart. Since the cart has wheels, it can easily be pushed into a corner, closet, or another nearby room.
Kitchen Essentials for Anyone Who Doesn't Like to Cook
These convenient, time-saving items are great if you don’t like to cook or need an easy way to prepare meals when you’re away from the kitchen.
Panini press
Depending on the model, a panini press can make much more than sandwiches. There are great multi-functional presses that can grill meat, fish, and vegetables.
Pressure cooker or slow cooker
Instead of standing in the kitchen at the stove, with pressure cookers or slow cookers you can simply dump your ingredients into the pot and go. Both appliances can prepare a plethora of meals including soups, meats, rice, and chili. With a slow cooker, you can simply turn it on low during the morning before work and have dinner ready by the time you come home. A pressure cooker achieves rich flavors like slow cookers, but they are much faster (and they don’t turn veggies into mush for the vegetarians out there!).
Air fryer
Like pressure cookers and slow cookers, air fryers are extremely versatile. Although they can make crispy fries, air fryers can also be used to reheat pizza and make homemade chips! Air fryers are a healthier alternative to deep-frying and great for meal prepping. They are extremely easy to use and clean as well.
Coffee maker or electric kettle
A coffee maker will shave minutes off your morning routine. Coffee makers come in a variety of styles and sizes so you can purchase the right one according to your preference. Instead of listening for the old-school whistle, consider buying an electric kettle that will have hot water for your tea in seconds.
The kitchen in your apartment might be smaller than one in a house, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your style or preferences. Hopefully, this list can help you fall in love with your kitchen so you can transform your apartment into a home.
