Moving into your first apartment is an exciting experience. You finally have a space that you can call your own and decorate however you want to fit your personal style. One of the most important rooms in any home is the kitchen and outfitting it with all the necessary items for cooking, baking, eating, and entertaining can be intimidating, but don’t worry. We’ve got you covered.
To make sure that your kitchen has everything you need, we’ve compiled a list of First Apartment Kitchen Essentials so that you don’t forget anything when stocking up! From pots and pans to dishes and utensils, here are all the must-have items for any new apartment kitchen
Cookware
When considering kitchen essentials, investing in good quality cookware is a really good idea. Not only does it make cooking easier and more enjoyable, but high-quality cookware can also last for years if taken care of properly.
Versatile cookware that can be used for multiple cooking methods is also ideal. Look for pieces that are non-stick, dishwasher-friendly (if you have a dishwasher), and easy to clean.
With so many options to choose from, selecting the right pieces of cookware that are best suited to your needs is the most important factor to consider. You may not consider yourself to be the best cook but having the right cookware for your kitchen is very important. Here’s what we think are the must-have cooking essentials for your first apartment.
Versatile cookware that can be used for multiple cooking methods is also ideal. Look for pieces that are non-stick, dishwasher-friendly (if you have a dishwasher), and easy to clean.
With so many options to choose from, selecting the right pieces of cookware that are best suited to your needs is the most important factor to consider. You may not consider yourself to be the best cook but having the right cookware for your kitchen is very important. Here’s what we think are the must-have cooking essentials for your first apartment.
Pots & Pans
Every kitchen should have a decent collection of cookware. Having versatile cookware in your first apartment that fits your lifestyle is key. Whether you plan to cook often or don’t plan to cook hardly at all, knowing this will determine what types of pots and pans you will need.
Pots & Pans are absolutely essential kitchen tools and sets that provide multiple pieces with varying sizes will keep you ready for any type of cooking task.
Pots & Pans are absolutely essential kitchen tools and sets that provide multiple pieces with varying sizes will keep you ready for any type of cooking task.
Knife Set
A good quality knife set is the cornerstone of any kitchen. For your first apartment you will need a variety of knives for different tasks such as chopping, slicing, and dicing vegetables, fruits, and meat.
A set that is made with high-carbon stainless steel blades and comfortable handles that won’t slip when you’re using them is going to be your best option.
A set that is made with high-carbon stainless steel blades and comfortable handles that won’t slip when you’re using them is going to be your best option.
Non-Stick Frying Pans
Non-stick cookware is great for cooking all kinds of foods and should be a high priority when considering kitchen essentials. It’s important to look for a non-stick frying pan that is made from high-quality material so it will last you many years and not scratch or warp easily.
We also recommend a glass lid to go with your frying pan/pans, so that you can keep an eye on your food while it’s cooking.
We also recommend a glass lid to go with your frying pan/pans, so that you can keep an eye on your food while it’s cooking.
Medium Saucepans
Medium saucepans are great for making soups, sauces, and gravies. Saucepans with a non-stick coating is always our first option but if you prefer stainless steel, that’s fine.
A lid is also important so you can easily trap heat and moisture while your food is cooking.
A lid is also important so you can easily trap heat and moisture while your food is cooking.
Small Saucepans
Small saucepans are great for making small amounts of sauces and gravies. They can also be used to reheat leftovers, boil eggs or boil water to make a quick cup of tea.
Aluminum Baking Sheet
An aluminum baking sheet is a must-have in any apartment kitchen. It can be used for everything from roasting vegetables to baking cookies.
A non-stick coating can also make clean-up much easier and you won’t have to worry about food sticking to the pan.
A non-stick coating can also make clean-up much easier and you won’t have to worry about food sticking to the pan.
Oven Mitts
A good pair of oven mitts will be a lifesaver when cooking. A pair that fits well on your hands and is made of a material that is super heat-resistant and non-slip is a great choice.
Oven mitts are often an afterthought when buying things for an apartment kitchen but don’t forget about them. They are an important part of kitchen essentials.
Oven mitts are often an afterthought when buying things for an apartment kitchen but don’t forget about them. They are an important part of kitchen essentials.
• Baking Dish/Casserole Dish
• Stock Pot
• Grill Pan
• Pot
Cooking Utensils
In your first apartment, having tools to help you cook and bake is so important in making sure that you can prepare meals with ease. Spatulas, spoons, ladles, tongs and whisks are all great items to have in your kitchen utensils arsenal and having the correct cooking utensils will ensure that you never have to worry about a kitchen disaster.
Most cooking utensils are very budget friendly. You can save money by opting for utensils made of plastic or silicone. If you are looking to invest in higher quality pieces, items made from stainless steel generally last longer and withstand more wear and tear.
Most cooking utensils are very budget friendly. You can save money by opting for utensils made of plastic or silicone. If you are looking to invest in higher quality pieces, items made from stainless steel generally last longer and withstand more wear and tear.
Spatulas
A good quality spatula is an absolute must in any kitchen. It’s one of the most versatile and essential kitchen items you can have when cooking, baking, or sautéing.
Look for spatulas that have a comfortable grip and are made of metal, plastic, or silicone that is heat resistant so that it won’t melt while you’re cooking. .
Look for spatulas that have a comfortable grip and are made of metal, plastic, or silicone that is heat resistant so that it won’t melt while you’re cooking. .
Cutting Board
Whether you’re chopping vegetables, slicing meat, or making a sandwich, having a sturdy and durable cutting board is a must.
Cutting boards prevent damage to your countertop from using knives and makes cleanup easier.
Cutting boards prevent damage to your countertop from using knives and makes cleanup easier.
Whisk
A whisk is a kitchen essential that will make your life so much easier when it comes to baking, making sauces, or whipping up some delicious strawberry waffles on Saturday morning, Yum!!!
We prefer whisks that are made of stainless steel because they are so easy to clean.
We prefer whisks that are made of stainless steel because they are so easy to clean.
Mixing Bowls
Mixing bowls come in a variety of different shapes and sizes to accommodate all your mixing needs. We’ve found some really good plastic mixing bowls but going with a more durable option like glass or stainless steel is also a good idea.
Remember to always consider your cooking preferences to determine just how many mixing bowls you will need.
Remember to always consider your cooking preferences to determine just how many mixing bowls you will need.
Adjustable Measuring Cups
When making something that requires liquids and solids to be measured out, adjustable measuring cups come in very handy. Versatility and being easy to clean makes this our favorite option for a measuring cup.
Tongs
Tongs are a great kitchen tool to have because they can be used for so many different tasks in the kitchen. From flipping meat and veggies on the stove, to grabbing something from boiling water. Having a pair of good-quality tongs is essential.
We love durable tongs that are dishwasher-safe and have a comfortable grip. Metal tongs with a rubber grip are a good option.
We love durable tongs that are dishwasher-safe and have a comfortable grip. Metal tongs with a rubber grip are a good option.
Hand Juicer
Juicing fresh fruits is a great way to get your daily dose of vitamins and minerals. Having a hand juicer is perfect for adding splashes of flavor to water, food, or making small quantities of juice for a special recipe.
The best part is that you can place it on any countertop or in any drawer without taking up hardly any space.
The best part is that you can place it on any countertop or in any drawer without taking up hardly any space.
Strainer/Colander
Strainers and colanders are great kitchen tools to have on hand. They come in handy if you need to strain pasta, rinse vegetables, or just drain excess liquids from food.
A high-quality strainer or colander with a sturdy handle(s) that won’t break easily is generally a great option to go with.
A high-quality strainer or colander with a sturdy handle(s) that won’t break easily is generally a great option to go with.
Meat Thermometer
Making sure that your meat is cooked to the right temperature is very important and having a good quality meat thermometer is the only way to keep tabs on it.
Whether you’re cooking a steak or baking a holiday ham, having an accurate thermometer is a must for any kitchen.
Whether you’re cooking a steak or baking a holiday ham, having an accurate thermometer is a must for any kitchen.
Stirring Spoon
Stirring spoons are a multi-purpose kitchen tool that can be used for stirring, mixing, and serving food. The best ones are heat-resistant, have a comfortable grip, and are easy to clean.
Can Opener
Having a good can opener is essential for any kitchen. It makes opening cans and jars so much easier than trying to do it with a knife or other sharp object.
A can opener that is made of durable metal and has a comfortable grip is perfect for opening cans without any hassle.
A can opener that is made of durable metal and has a comfortable grip is perfect for opening cans without any hassle.
• Slotted Spoon
• Vegetable Peeler
• Rolling Pin
• Measuring Spoons
• Grater/Hand Grater
• Ladle
Eating
In addition to a well-stocked set of cookware, you will also need plates, bowls, glasses, and utensils. When choosing dishes for your first apartment kitchen, take into account your lifestyle and how often you plan on using them. A good rule of thumb is to buy a smaller set of dishes and gradually buy more as you settle-in to your apartment.
If you plan on having friends over pretty often then consider picking out a few serving pieces as well to complete your kitchen collection. Bowls, platters, and trays are all great pieces to have on hand when you’re entertaining guests.
Having the right items will make it so much easier to create delicious meals and appetizing snacks.
If you plan on having friends over pretty often then consider picking out a few serving pieces as well to complete your kitchen collection. Bowls, platters, and trays are all great pieces to have on hand when you’re entertaining guests.
Having the right items will make it so much easier to create delicious meals and appetizing snacks.
Dishware
If you plan on eating a lot of your meals at home, a good set of dinnerware is going to be very important. We recommend plates, bowls, and mugs that are made of durable materials like porcelain or stoneware.
If you are thinking about the overall decor of your apartment but aren’t sure of the color scheme yet, having white dishware will go with pretty much any decor style.
If you are thinking about the overall decor of your apartment but aren’t sure of the color scheme yet, having white dishware will go with pretty much any decor style.
Silverware
Spoons, forks, and knives are always a necessity. Stainless steel is the preferred material because it’s durable and easy to clean.
Glasses
Glasses can come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but ultimately you want items that are durable, easy to clean, and will look nice when entertaining.
It’s important to keep in mind your cabinet storage space and how much glassware you will need.
It’s important to keep in mind your cabinet storage space and how much glassware you will need.
Coffee Mugs
When you need a quick cup of coffee or tea, coffee mugs come in handy. Getting a set that is stackable and easy to store away is ideal for any kitchen.
Porcelain, stoneware, and ceramic mug are a great choice if you’re looking for something that can withstand daily use.
Porcelain, stoneware, and ceramic mug are a great choice if you’re looking for something that can withstand daily use.
• Salad Spinner
• Bottle Opener
• Serving Platter
• Corkscrew
• Salt & Pepper shakers
Appliances
They can help you whip up delicious meals with ease and make food preparation a breeze. Choosing appliances that work well for your lifestyle and ones that also fit well on your counterspace is key.
It can be very tempting to buy cheap appliances but investing in high-quality appliances is worth it because they can last for many years if taken care of properly.
From blenders to coffee makers and toaster ovens, these are some essential appliances to have on hand for your first apartment.
It can be very tempting to buy cheap appliances but investing in high-quality appliances is worth it because they can last for many years if taken care of properly.
From blenders to coffee makers and toaster ovens, these are some essential appliances to have on hand for your first apartment.
Coffee Maker
Having a coffee maker on hand is always handy for those mornings when you need a caffeine boost. Pretty much everyone loves coffee and we consider a coffee maker to be one of the most essential kitchen appliances that you can have.
A good quality coffee maker that doesn’t take up much counter space is ideal for your new apartment. .
A good quality coffee maker that doesn’t take up much counter space is ideal for your new apartment. .
Toaster
A toaster is a great tool for making quick breakfast sandwiches or toasting up slices of bread. Investing in one that can handle thick slices of bread is a plus.
Microwave
If your apartment happens to not have one, it’s a good idea to invest in a microwave. The convenience of a microwave is irreplaceable and should be a top priority of kitchen essentials for a new apartment.
Toaster Oven
A toaster oven is a great tool for making small meals or snacks. It’s perfect for when you don’t want to turn on the oven and make a full meal. Ones that have several features like baking, broiling, and toasting all in one are great options.
Juicer
This is often overlooked but it’s really helpful. Juicers can make a variety of juices and smoothies with ease. One that is durable and easy to clean is ideal.
Hand Blender
Hand Blenders are perfect for crafting single servings of smoothies! Don’t bother breaking out a heavy-duty blender if you want to make one glass: just use your hand blender and save time.
Air Fryer
Air Fryers have been pretty popular over the years. They are convenient for making quick snacks and meals and can be stored pretty easily, which is a good thing for an apartment. Making fried or crispy food without having to use a frying pan is a plus.
• Can Opener
• Kettle
• Blender
• Food Processor
• Pressure Cooker
• Stand Mixer
• Hand Mixer
• Waffle Maker
Clean Up
A first apartment kitchen essentials list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning items to help clean your kitchen.
Clean-up may not always be enjoyable, however having the necessary items available can make it a lot faster and much less of a hassle. Having these cleaning essentials in your kitchen is important, especially if you plan on entertaining friends and guests.
Unfortunately, people often forget to purchase cleaning supplies because they are more focused on making their space look nice with decorations; yet investing in the right cleanup accessories makes an enormous difference.
Here are our top picks to get you started.
Clean-up may not always be enjoyable, however having the necessary items available can make it a lot faster and much less of a hassle. Having these cleaning essentials in your kitchen is important, especially if you plan on entertaining friends and guests.
Unfortunately, people often forget to purchase cleaning supplies because they are more focused on making their space look nice with decorations; yet investing in the right cleanup accessories makes an enormous difference.
Here are our top picks to get you started.
Trash Can
Having a trash can in the kitchen is essential. It helps keep your space clean and organized. Investing in one that has a lid or foot pedal is ideal.
Trash Bags
Investing in quality trash bags is an absolute must! Although it might be enticing to purchase cheaper bags, opting for strength and durability will pay off when you use them. You’ll come out ahead with sturdy bags rather than cheap flimsy ones because they’ll last even after being stuffed.
Paper Towels
Whether you choose to use the top brands or go for a value brand, you will definitely need paper towels. It’s best to buy in bulk if you have the space for it but if not, buying 3 or 4 rolls at a time of quality paper towels will be fine.
Dish Soap
If you’re wanting to save valuable time, using quality dish soap is the answer. Not only will better-known brands get your dishes cleaner faster, but they also produce more suds which means that less of it needs to be used each time you hand wash your dishes or if you prefer to use a dishwasher – ultimately saving you both money and time!
Sponges
All sponges will break down over time after repeated use but better-quality sponges don’t break down as quickly. Start out with a top brand to get a feel of how much you may or may not use your sponges. After you have an idea of how often you will need to use a sponge it will be easier to make a money saving decision by using cheaper sponges. We recommend using quality sponges for their durability regardless of how often we use them.
Dish Towels & Rags
Dish towels are essential for drying dishes and wiping up spills. It is best to have multiple of them on hand so that they can be changed out when needed. Look for absorbent ones, and make sure to have enough on hand so that you can always have a dry one available.
Dish Drying Rack
When it comes to drying dishes, having the right drying rack is essential. Having one that has enough space to properly air dry your dishes without taking up too much room is key.
Cleaning Spray
We love cleaning spray for its versatility. It can be used to clean almost anything! Invest in a top-notch cleaning spray so that you can make sure your counters, appliances, and other surfaces are as clean as possible.
• Broom
• Dust Pan
• Mop
• Bucket
• Cabinet Liners
• Scented Spray
• Scented Candles
Storage
Having the ideal organization and storage options in your kitchen is paramount. Not only does it make for a stylish yet functional space, but it also allows you to maximize your area as well.
These are not pantry closet organizers; rather they are “in-kitchen” solutions that are relevant and beneficial to first-time apartment owners.
There are a ton of budget-friendly options, so let’s look at a few of our favorites.
These are not pantry closet organizers; rather they are “in-kitchen” solutions that are relevant and beneficial to first-time apartment owners.
There are a ton of budget-friendly options, so let’s look at a few of our favorites.
Storage Containers
A top-notch set of storage containers is essential for any kitchen. These will not only keep your fruits, vegetables, leftovers, snacks, and dry goods preserved but will also free up pantry space and keep your food fresh.
If you want to take it one step further, opt for microwave-safe and stackable ones. Glass storage containers may be a good option to consider because not only can glass containers be taken outside when you’re on the go, but these are also an excellent way to avoid additional washing if you don’t like using dishes all too often – simply pop it into the microwave when necessary.
If you want to take it one step further, opt for microwave-safe and stackable ones. Glass storage containers may be a good option to consider because not only can glass containers be taken outside when you’re on the go, but these are also an excellent way to avoid additional washing if you don’t like using dishes all too often – simply pop it into the microwave when necessary.
Silverware Organizer
A silverware drawer organizer is an absolute must; it keeps everything in neat and tidy order. Not only can you place the utensils that you use the most often in the drawer for easy access, but you can also find ones that are expandable and adjustable to fit any drawer.
Ice Cube Trays
All kitchens need at least 2 of these. Ice cubes will come in handy for making smoothies, cooling drinks, and a lot of other uses.
Paper Towel Holder
This is often overlooked but it does come in handy. A paper towel holder allows you to easily access paper towels when needed. There are a variety of styles and designs to choose from, so make sure you find one that fits your space.
• Zip-Lock Bags
• Plastic Wrap
• Aluminum Foil
• Parchment Paper
• Bag Clips
Conclusion
Outfitting your kitchen with quality products is essential for making sure that your first apartment experience is as efficient and enjoyable as possible. From dish soap to storage containers, having the right tools makes all the difference in creating a functional yet stylish space.
Whether it’s your first apartment, or you’re moving into a new apartment and want to start from scratch, these tips should help to get you started on building the perfect kitchen setup.
Whether it’s your first apartment, or you’re moving into a new apartment and want to start from scratch, these tips should help to get you started on building the perfect kitchen setup.
