Cheers — you've finally found your perfect home on Apartments.com! It's in an ideal location, the price is within your budget, the community is pet friendly, and it even has the amenities you've always wanted. However, it's missing a few things that you've never lived without—some major appliances. Accepting that you are now having to find a way around missing appliances can be an adjustment, especially when you're used to having them on hand. Try to keep an open mind and positive attitude; you can live just fine without them, not to mention, you could be saving on your utility bill. Here are some substitutions to use if your new digs are missing these common household appliances.
Washer and Dryer
So, your new place doesn't have a washer and dryer, and you're not looking to spend upwards of $500 or more apiece to buy a new or used one. While it can be a bit of an inconvenience, not having a washer and dryer shouldn't necessarily be a deal-breaker when it comes to renting an apartment. There are ways around not having them in your unit.
Portable washing machines
Portable washing machines are a recycled trend that has regained popularity on social media. This gadget can wash and dry small loads of your laundry without going to a local laundromat. They're conveniently portable, only needing access to a water supply and a way to drain the water after washing. The ideal place to use these is in the bathroom in order to dump the water in the tub or sink after washing. Some portable washing machines come with a dual dryer attached, perfect for drying small loads. This handy appliance can average between $70 to upwards of $350.
Dryer rack
There are other ways to go about drying your clothes. Try using a dryer rack that you can easily place on your balcony or inside the tub. Simply fold them up after use and stow it away in your laundry closet or another storage area. Dryer racks average between $20 to $30 online.
Community laundromat
Most complexes that don't offer the option of washer-dryer connections have a community laundromat on site. In that case, it may be beneficial to have an apartment that's as close to the laundromat as possible to avoid long trips. Keep in mind that some laundry baskets have wheels, which will make the trip back and forth a lot easier if you are some distance from the facility. Also, consider washing clothes weekly. That way, you're making fewer trips back and forth to the laundromat. Some community laundromats can range between $1.40 to $2.00 per load depending on the area.
Dishwasher
Not having a dishwasher may be daunting at first, but there are other items to use to make your life a lot easier when it comes to washing dishes. While the dishwasher saved you time over the sink, these other household items are just as efficient. The average cost of a dishwasher can range from $300 to upwards of $1,000.
A portable tub
Some plates and pots require extra soaking time to get all the crud and gunk off. A portable tub may come in handy in cases like this. This versatile item can be placed on the counter out of the way while you wash other dishes. Portable tubs can average anywhere from $10 to $20, depending on the size.
Dish drying rack and rubber gloves
A dish drying rack is essential when you don't have a dishwasher. After all, you have to put your wet dishes somewhere. Make sure you find the right size for your counter space. Be mindful that you can easily put the drying rack away when not in use. Rubber gloves are a popular choice for preventing pruney fingers while washing dishes. If you're not a fan of gloves, be sure to find a good dish soap as an alternative that's easy on your hands. Dish drying racks can easily average $15 to $30 and are available at most big box stores.
Dish drying mat
A dish drying mat is also lovely to have when your drying rack is full, or you happen to be drying pots and pans. Make sure the mat is durable and can easily be cleaned afterward. You can find a dish drying mat for less than $15 at your local discount store. You may want to avoid cloth mats because they will need to be washed frequently. Silicone mats can be easily cleaned with dish soap and other cleaning products.
Oven and Stove
While not having an oven is rare, there might not be enough space for it in some smaller units. If you're not big on cooking or baking, this may not be a major problem, but it still may be nice to have some substitutes. An oven can easily range from $700 to upwards of $3,000.
Crockpot
Crockpots are portable and don't take up too much counter space. Typically, they take a bit longer to cook meals, depending on the setting you put it on — high, medium, or low. The misconception is that crockpots are a one-note item, mainly used for soups and stews, but you can cook various meals from these functional devices. Before you know it, you'll be fixing all the things you’ve once made in an oven. This cost-efficient appliance can range from $40 to $120.
Portable burner/cooktop
Portable burners are a great substitute if your apartment lacks a stovetop. If you've ever cooked up chemicals in biology, you've probably used this type of burner before. Simply plug it in and adjust the dial to the preferred temperature. Most are easy to clean and can easily be stowed away after they cool down. Portable burners can range from $15 to $40 depending on if it has single or double burners.
Convection oven
Convection ovens are basically countertop ovens. Depending on the size, you can fit pretty large portions inside, including whole chickens and turkeys. Cleanup is a breeze as well. Simply remove the racks and disinfect and wipe down the inside. Countertop convection ovens range from about $180 to upwards of $800, all depending on the size and settings you prefer.
Air fryer
Air fryers have become more popular over the years, and rightfully so—they are amazing! Most air fryers have the option to either bake or fry your meal, so depending on how you like your food, the choice is yours. If you’d prefer an oven-like meal, simply select the bake option. There are plenty of air fryer recipes at your fingertips; just search up the meal you're looking for online. Chances are there is a way to recreate it in the air fryer. Air fryers usually range from $70 to $200 and can easily be found at online appliance shops or your local big-box stores.
Air Conditioning Unit (HVAC)
Every state doesn't require units to have central air condition units, and these can easily run a landlord $1,300 to upward of $12,000 for the unit and installation. During the hotter months, it's crucial to find alternatives to keep your living space comfortable and cool.
Window unit or portable air conditioner
Window units or portable air conditioners can easily be moved from rental to rental. These are super-fast ways to cool a room; all you need is a nearby outlet to plug it in, sit back, and let it get to work. Portable air conditioners can run between $250 to $500.
Air cooling fan
Air cooling fans are a step up from the typical fan and can vary in size and style. These sit low to the ground and, rotate, and upwards to cool off your entire space. It works by increasing the air circulation in the room. They can range from $20 upwards to $400 for the popular Dyson fans.
Small Appliances You May Want to Consider
If you’re missing these other small appliances (that aren't included in your rental), here are some great substitutions.
Vacuum
Vacuums can be a bit expensive and average about $150 to $350 (which usually aren't the higher-end vacuums). It may be tough buying a new vacuum, especially if you've just moved into a new place. In the meantime, you can use these alternatives until you get the vacuum of your dreams.
Sweepers
Sweepers can pick up small items left on the carpet or hardwood and have been around for a while. They are usually under $50 and are easy to empty afterward. Brushes inside the sweeper move the debris to a bin that you can remove and dump in the trash.
Broom and Dustpan
The old-fashioned broom and dustpan can be just as effective as a sweeper and works best on low carpets. The stiffer bristle the broom, the better; it'll help break up the dirt in the carpet, allowing it to get in the dustpan easily—these range from $15 to $25.
Microwave
Microwaves are super convenient but can be a bit pricey, ranging from $100 to upwards of $300. While microwaves quickly heat food, they usually take away some of the food's nutritional value. Don't get bummed out if you're without a microwave; these other substitutes are healthier and just as efficient.
Steamers
Steamers have been around for a while and are considered one of the healthiest ways to heat food — especially veggies. These devices keep most of the food's nutrients, whereas boiling can leave your food bland and lifeless. You can reheat an array of foods including meat, fish, eggs, and more. Steamers are very affordable, ranging from $40 to $200.
Dutch oven
Dutch ovens are thick-lined cookware made up of cast iron or ceramic materials. Reheating food with a Dutch oven is simple on the stovetop by using low to medium heat. It won't take long for Dutch ovens to get hot, so be mindful not to burn your leftovers. Dutch ovens are relatively affordable, ranging from $45 to $340.
Standard Mixer
A standard mixer is a popular household appliance for those who enjoy baking various dishes. They thoroughly mix ingredients quickly, but they can be pricey, ranging from $100 to $400.
Whisks
You can mix your cooking ingredients by hand with a whisk, although it may take a bit more effort. Whisks are available at most major grocery stores and range from $2 to $10, depending on the size and type of whisk.
Hand Mixer
Hand mixers are similar to the standard mixer, but you'll be doing most of the work, whereas the standard mixer does it for you. These mixers usually come with various settings, cutting down on time to mix ingredients. Hand mixers can range from $20 to $130.
Transitioning to a lifestyle that doesn’t include some common household appliances may take some getting used to. But once you try these great substitutes, you may realize that you don't even need those major appliances. You will not only save on money, but you may be saving on extra space in your new place as well.
