When moving into a new apartment, you might be consumed with thoughts of coming up with first and last month’s rent and/or a security deposit – but you’ll find that it pays to set aside a little money for the necessities. Here is a list of 25 must-haves to properly set up your new apartment kitchen:
Kitchen Utensils:
1. Shelf liners – As you prepare to move into your new kitchen, you’ll want to do your best to make the space as tidy and clean as possible. Shelf liner comes in a variety of styles and materials – we recommend the rubberized liners that don’t slide around. They will keep your kitchen utensils and pantry items secure and are easy to wipe down in case of a spill.
2. Organizing tools – From spice racks to shelf risers, to large plastic storage bins for items like flour, coffee, sugar, etc., check out your space, assess your needs and head to the nearest discount store. For under $100 you can easily organize your kitchen with some remarkable, space-saving items like canisters and flatware organizers.
3. Pots and pans – If you can’t afford to buy a complete set, buy individual pieces. We recommend that you have at least a larger saucepan and a decent sized frying pan. These two pieces will keep you going for quite some time and are perfect for making staple foods such as pastas, sauces, sautéed meats and eggs. Before investing in pots and pans, read up on the different kind of materials they’re made out of and how well they cook on certain surfaces.
4. A crock full of kitchen utensils – You can find these in all the discount stores. You’ll find a crock packed with essentials such as spatulas, mixing spoons, whisks, and a variety of other utensils to be invaluable in your new kitchen. The handy crock keeps them centrally located and easy to find right on your counter. If you lack counter space hang the utensils on a rack above the stove or sink.
5. Kitchen knives – You can have all the cool kitchen gadgets in the world, but you won’t get far in your new kitchen without a good set of knives. Look for a mid-priced set that contains a bread knife, butcher knife, paring knife and at least six steak knives. Finding a knife set that comes with a sharpener is a bonus and will keep your knives usable for years to come.
6. A blender – Blenders are becoming a necessity in this healthful age of smoothies and nutrition drinks. They are also handy for the less healthy but delicious milkshakes and can be used to make a variety of sauces and purees in place of a food processor.
7. A chopper – Small bullet-style choppers are the ultimate in kitchen gadgets. Small, easily cleaned and stored, these handy instruments are great for salsa and/or salad making. An extra benefit – you’ll never cry onion tears again.
8. Kitchen towels – These make a great housewarming gift, and you can never have too many. Start with a set of three or four. Many sets include dishrags or pot holders that match the towels.
9. Salt and pepper shakers – It might take you a while to build up your collection of spices, so it’s important to start with the essentials. Salt and pepper shakers can be as cheap as a few dollars or as fancy as you like. If you like fresh cracked pepper, the grinder varieties are especially fun.
10. Cleaners – Save a spot under your sink for the essentials that will keep your apartment kitchen clean. A grease-fighting antibacterial spray is a great tool to control mess and bacteria that may be left behind by raw meats. Don’t forget dish soap and dishwashing detergent if you have a dishwasher.
11. Broom and mop – You’ll want to keep your floors as clean as possible in your new apartment kitchen, so don’t forget to purchase a quality broom with a dustpan and a mop. Choose a mop with a removable head that can easily be thrown in the washing machine to keep your floor as sanitary as possible.
12. Baking pans – Even if baking is not your thing, it’s a great idea to choose a few baking pans on hand. We recommend one 9×13 pan – great for mix cakes and/or casseroles. One 8×8 pan – can’t make a batch of brownies without one. A loaf pan is also a versatile item that can handle pumpkin bread during the holidays or an easy weekday meatloaf. You might want to pick up a cookie sheet or two as well.
13. Measuring spoons – Again, even if you aren’t a whiz in the kitchen, chances are you will occasionally have need to measure out something. Many styles are available for every budget. Try to purchase a set that has a ring connecting all the spoons so you will know where they are when you need them.
14. Measuring cups – Same as the measuring spoons – whether you’re orchestrating a dinner party or making instant oatmeal, you’ll need a set. Check out the cool collapsible varieties of measuring cups that make drawer storage a snap, even for the largest cups.
15. Pyrex measuring cup – We recommend the 2 cup model. Pyrex is great because it can take the heat whether in a microwave or on the stove – this is a cook’s essential tool.
16. Storage containers – Come in a variety of styles, shapes and colors, and keep storing leftovers a breeze. You’ll be happiest if you find a set that comes with a storage unit for keeping lids and bottoms organized and easy to find.
17. Potholders – These may be the last thing you’ll think of as you organize your kitchen but sure come in handy when you get ready to pull that frozen pizza or pan of brownies out of the oven!
18. Pizza cutter – Speaking of frozen pizzas, this most essential of kitchen gadgets is a must-have for any apartment dweller.
19. Ice cream scoop – Another necessity among kitchen gadgets – check out the models that have a form of non-toxic antifreeze in the handlethat lets you scoop up hard ice cream with ease.
20. A good kitchen rug – This is a must to prevent slips and falls, especially in the sink area – choose one of the easy-to-clean foam varieties that are also easy on your feet.
21. Placemats and napkins – You might not use them everyday but a set of four matching cloth placemats and napkins will dress up any impromptu dinner party. Consider purchasing 4 matching napkins rings to make things extra special.
22. Slow cooker – Whether you are single or feeding a family of five, you’ll find this item to be invaluable in your kitchen. These cookers come in a variety of shapes and sizes, for every budget. Throw in a few frozen chicken breasts and a can of cream of mushroom soup and by the time you get home from work, you’ll have a hearty meal to greet you! The internet holds a wealth of slower cooker recipes.
23. Colander – This is another easily forgotten item among kitchen utensils. If you eat pasta in any variety, a colander is a must, and it is also necessary for washing fresh fruits and veggies.
24. Ice cube trays! – If the fridge in your new apartment doesn’t have an ice maker, then you need to pick up at least 2 of these handy kitchen gadgets. Take our advice – even if you only use a few cubes, take the time to fill up the empty holes that they leave. You’ll be happy when you need a lot of ice in a hurry!
25. Finally, the ultimate kitchen appliance that no home should be without – a coffee maker! From one-cup models to super-duper espresso machines, the choices are endless. Pick one that best fits your lifestyle.
You should be well prepared for anything in your kitchen with these gadgets, but our list is by no means complete. If you have utensils or gadgets in your kitchen that you can’t live without, let us know in the comments!
{ 2 trackbacks }
{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
with all those hand utensils in your kitchen your going to need something to give u some insperation, a few cook books around the kitchen will give you the insperation you will need to wip up any meal