This post shows you 15 first Apartment Kitchen Essentials for Small Apartment
There are so many reasons why you would need ideas for kitchen essentials—in this case, you most likely are looking to move or have already moved into your first apartment.
Firstly CONGRATULATIONS! It’s a HUGE step, and there’s a lot of excitement for sure. One of the most important spaces to set up is, of course, your kitchen; we all know it’s the powerhouse of every home.
But generally, if you love to cook or simply need to prepare your meals, having a well-equipped kitchen is needed for you to survive day by day.
Deciding on the right apartment kitchen essentials can be exhausting for sure, so that’s why I’ve brought to you the must-haves for any first apartment kitchen! I will walk you through everything from practical tools to small details that will elevate your kitchen experience.
Each idea I put down is based on what’s important to bring the utmost comfort. The functionality, ease of use, and suitability for small spaces. By the end, I promise you’ll have a clear idea of which items are worth investing in and why they’re crucial for your first apartment.
Without any more chitchat, let’s transform!
15 Kitchen Essentials
1. Dish Drying Rack
A dish drying rack might seem like a small, inconspicuous item, but it plays a huge role in keeping your kitchen looking put together and your countertops clean.
Usually in your first apartment kitchen, the space is often limited; a well-designed dish rack is not just a convenience at that point but a necessity!
Why It’s Essential?
A dish drying rack will help prevent wet dishes from leaving water puddles on your counters, which can lead to mold or water damage if you leave it unchecked.
To add on top, a pretty drying rack helps keep your kitchen looking neat and tidy, which is now especially important when you’re dealing with limited counter space.
Features to Look For:
- You can get foldable or over-the-sink designs that can save space. I would recommend you opt for a compact model that maximizes vertical space.
- Another tip is to look for materials like stainless steel or plastic that are rust-resistant and easy to clean.
- Some racks even come with extra compartments for cutlery or separate trays to collect water
2. Food Storage Containers
It doesn’t matter if you’re meal-prepping for the week, storing leftovers, or keeping dry ingredients fresh; having an assortment of food storage containers is one of the most essential kitchen items for both convenience and an organised look.
Why It’s Essential:
When you have the food storage containers, you can use your fridge and pantry space more efficiently.
They’re ideal for organizing everything from pre-chopped veggies to dry pantry staples like pasta, rice, and flour.
Plus, some of these containers can serve as portion control tools, ensuring that you only cook what you need.
Features to Look For:
- Choose containers that are both microwave- and dishwasher-safe for added convenience.
- Look for sets with varied sizes so you have options for different food items.
- Clear, BPA-free plastic or glass containers are ideal because they allow you to see what’s inside at a glance.
- Stackable containers will help maximize space in both your fridge and pantry.
3. Pots and Pans Set
When starting out in your first apartment, investing in a versatile set of pots and pans is a no-brainer.
A good set of cookware is always at the heart of every kitchen because it allows you to prepare everything from quick meals to more fulfilling dinners!
Why It’s Essential:
A high-quality pots and pans set will more than likely last you for years.
Whether you’re frying eggs, sautéing vegetables, or simmering a stew, having the right tools will make cooking more efficient and enjoyable.
Cheap cookware often leads to uneven cooked food and stickiness, which can have an adverse effect on your health.
So it’s worth getting a reliable set from the beginning!
Features to Look For:
- Non-stick surfaces are ideal for cooking. They’re easy to clean and reduce the need for excessive oil or butter.
- Look for a set that includes at least a frying pan, saucepan, and stockpot, as these are the most flexible pieces out there.
- I would recommend opting for stainless steel or cast iron cookware, as they provide durability and excellent heat distribution.
- Additionally, consider whether your cookware is oven-safe, as this adds an extra layer of versatility to your cooking.
4. Cutting Boards
You definitely don’t want to forget cutting boards on your list!
A good cutting board is another essential piece in your first apartment kitchen.
You’ll need it daily to prepare food like vegetables, fruits, meats, and much more.
Why It’s Essential:
The reason why you probably should consider them is that they help protect your countertops from knife marks.
They also help keep your cooking area organized, preventing cross-contamination by allowing you to prep different ingredients in designated spaces.
Features to Look For:
- I would opt for a set of cutting boards with various sizes for different tasks.
- Bamboo and plastic boards are lightweight, affordable, and easy to maintain.
- Plastic boards are dishwasher-safe, which adds an extra level of cleanliness.
- If you’re someone who doesn’t mind investing a bit more, wooden cutting boards are beautiful, durable, and can last for years if properly cared for.
5. Knives Set
There’s not a way possible to prepare meals without a good set of knives!
From chopping fruits and vegetables to slicing bread, having a reliable knife set is one of the top kitchen essentials I’d recommend in your first home.
Why It’s Essential:
A sharp, high-quality knife will make meal prep faster, safer, and more enjoyable.
Dull knives can also be actually dangerous. The reason being they require more force to cut, increasing the risk of slipping.
With a full knife set, you can always tackle any recipe that comes your way!
Features to Look For:
- When selecting knives, focus on quality over quantity.
- You don’t need a 20-piece set; instead, I suggest you start with a chef’s knife, a paring knife, and a serrated bread knife.
- These three knives will cover the majority of your kitchen tasks.
- Look for stainless steel blades that hold their edge well and are resistant to rust.
- A comfortable, ergonomic handle is also important to prevent hand fatigue during longer prep sessions.
- Many knives come with sharpening tools, which are handy for keeping your blades in top shape.
6. Measuring Cups and Spoons
Precision is key when it comes to recipes, especially in baking, so these are non-negotiable cooking essentials.
Why It’s Essential:
Guessing measurements will always lead to inconsistent results, especially if you’re new to cooking.
Having proper measuring tools allows you to follow recipes accurately and ensures your dishes turn out as intended.
Features to Look For:
- Choose a set that includes both dry and liquid measuring tools.
- Stainless steel measuring cups and spoons are durable and easy to clean, while plastic ones are lightweight and affordable. So it’s up to you to decide.
- Look around for stackable sets from your local shop. This can save space in your drawers.
- For added convenience, some sets come with metric conversions, which is helpful for international recipes.
7. Blender or Food Processor
If you enjoy making smoothies, soups, or sauces, then you’d want to buy a blender.
I love the appliances because they’re incredibly handy in size and save me time and effort during my meal prep.
Why It’s Essential:
One key reason is they allow you to make healthy meals and snacks at home without the hassle of manual chopping, mashing, or mixing.
This will be especially helpful for you if you’re usually so pressed for time but you want to eat nutritious meals.
Features to Look For:
- Because you have a small space, it’s best to get a multi-functional appliance that can act as both a blender and a food processor.
- Look for models with different speed settings and blade attachments for versatility. If you only plan on using it for smoothies, a compact personal blender may suffice.
- However, if you want to prepare larger meals, a more powerful food processor will be worth the investment.
8. Utensil Set
They look so minor, but these tools can have you desperate! Utensils are very important in every kitchen.
Why It’s Essential:
You might not realize how many utensils you’ll need until you start cooking, and this is from personal experience.
A good set should include basic items like spatulas, ladles, tongs, and slotted spoons. They will allow you to prepare a range of dishes without having to improvise with the wrong tool.
Features to Look For:
- Choose a set made from heat-resistant, non-scratch materials like silicone or wood, especially if you’re using non-stick cookware.
- Silicone utensils are flexible, easy to clean, and gentle on your pots and pans.
- Wooden utensils are also a great option, as they won’t scratch your cookware, but they do require handwashing to maintain their quality. Look for utensil sets that come with a holder to keep everything organized and easily accessible on your countertop.
9. Mixing Bowls
This is an idea for you if you love whipping up a salad, mixing batter for pancakes, or tossing pasta.
Having a set of mixing bowls is always a great choice.
Why It’s Essential:
Having a couple of mixing bowls in different sizes ensures you’re prepared for any task, whether it’s marinating meat or mixing ingredients for baking.
These bowls can also double as serving bowls, so that makes them a multi-purpose tool in your kitchen.
Features to Look For:
- Stainless steel bowls are lightweight, durable, and easy to clean, while glass bowls are microwave-safe and can double as serving dishes.
- Many sets also come with lids, making them perfect for food storage as well. Look for stackable designs that save space in your kitchen cabinets.
10. Baking Sheets and Pans
Even if you don’t consider yourself much of a baker, having a set of baking sheets and pans comes in handy for preparing a wide range of food. For example, chips, potatoes, or chicken.
Why It’s Essential:
Baking sheets and pans allow you to bake, roast, and broil with ease. They’re perfect for making sheet-pan dinners, grilling pork meat, or even quickly toasting a sandwich.
Without these, your oven probably might not see much use, and you’ll miss out on a wide variety of meal options that require baking or roasting.
Features to Look For:
- Look for a non-stick set that includes at least one large baking sheet and one cake pan.
- Non-stick surfaces make for easy cleaning and reduce the need for parchment paper or aluminum foil.
11. Spice Rack and Spices
A spice rack may seem like a decorative item, but it’s one of the most practical apartment kitchen essentials you can invest in. I would suggest a vertical spice rack, especially.
Why It’s Essential:
Spices are the key to elevating even the simplest meals (take that with a pinch of salt; it’s just my opinion!).
With a good selection of spices, you can easily transform basic ingredients into astonishing dishes. A spice rack keeps all your seasonings organized and within easy reach, saving you time and space in the kitchen.
Features to Look For:
- There are wall-mounted racks, countertop racks, and drawer organizers, so choose a spice rack that suits your kitchen’s size and layout.
- Start with basic spices like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, and gradually expand your collection based on your favorite dishes.
- Some spice racks come pre-filled, while others allow you to fill them with your own selection of seasonings.
12. Coffee Maker
For many, a coffee maker or electric kettle is a non-negotiable item in their first apartment kitchen.
Why It’s Essential:
This is technically only essential if you’re a coffee lover, but it still makes sense to add because you can make hot chocolate from them too.
Plus, if you often host guests, it’s always nice to offer them a freshly brewed cup of coffee or hot chocolate!
Features to Look For:
- A single-serve coffee maker is ideal for quick, hassle-free brewing, while a traditional drip coffee maker is better for larger batches.
- Compact designs are ideal for small apartment kitchens where counter space is limited.
13. Toaster
A toaster is a handy appliance that aids us more than we even realize.
Why It’s Essential:
Toasters have simplified cooking routines, especially when preparing breakfast or quick snacks.
Features to Look For:
- If you’re short on space, opt for compact toasters.
- Some toasters even come with wider slots, which are ideal for bagels or thicker slices of bread. If you don’t need all the extra features, a simple two-slice toaster may be sufficient for your needs.
14. Trash and Recycling Bins
While they might not be the most exciting items on this list, trash and recycling bins are needed for maintaining an organized and odorless kitchen. Always aim for a well-designed waste disposal system because that will keep your apartment tidy and make it easier to sort your recyclables.
Why It’s Essential:
In a small apartment kitchen, it’s important to have designated spaces for both trash and recycling to make the job easy for the guy on the other side.
And as a bonus, this will help you also stay organized and reduce odors.
Features to Look For:
- Choose bins that are compact yet large enough to handle your kitchen waste.
- Look for models with lids to keep odors contained and a foot pedal for hands-free use.
- If possible, invest in a dual-compartment bin that separates trash from recyclable
15. Oven Mitts and Pot Holders
Safety should always be a priority in the kitchen, and that’s where oven mitts and pot holders come in. As you probably know, they protect your hands from burns when handling hot pots, pans, and dishes.
Why It’s Essential:
Accidents in the kitchen can happen in the blink of an eye, especially when dealing with high heat!
Oven mitts and pot holders provide an extra layer of protection, making it safer to transfer hot dishes from the oven to the counter.
So simple yet effective way to prevent burns and other injuries.
Features to Look For:
- Opt for heat-resistant materials like silicone or quilted cotton, which provide the best insulation.
- Some oven mitts are even designed with extra-long sleeves to protect your forearms as well.
- Look for mitts and holders with non-slip grips to ensure a secure hold on hot cookware.
- Lastly, don’t forget to choose colors or patterns that match your kitchen decor for a cohesive look.
Conclusion
Setting up your first apartment kitchen can be a thrilling experience, but it’s important to choose the right kitchen essentials that will make cooking and organizing easier.
With this comprehensive guide, you’re now equipped with the ideas to make smart choices as you embark on your first apartment journey!
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Goodluck!!
This post showed you 15 first Apartment Kitchen Essentials for Small Apartment
