7 Basic Kitchen Tools You Need for Your Apartment

Moving into a new apartment is a daunting task. Whether it’s your first apartment or your third, moving into a new space comes with its own set of challenges. You have to get used to the space, get yourself into a new routine, and the worst part, you have to re-decorate. Decorating can be fun, but it also can feel like a never ending process. And if you’re starting from scratch, the kitchen can be the hardest to tackle. What cooking tools do I need? How will I organize them all? When in doubt, start small. You can always build your way up with more tools and appliances. So if you’re struggling with what to buy and what tools will actually motivate you to cook at home, these are 7 basic kitchen tools you need for your apartment:

1. Cutting board

What, are you going to cut your vegetables on the countertop? Of course not, you need a cutting board! A good cutting board is an absolute staple for a new apartment that you can pick up just about anywhere. However, if you’re trying to get creative and add a little character to your space, you can look into custom cutting boards. They might just give you that extra push to make a fancy dinner.

2. Cooking utensils

If nothing else, you need good quality utensils, like any of the ones sold at OXO. You can’t possibly survive off of plastic forks and knives for long. Not only is it wasteful, it’s just not practical long term. Treat yourself to some good quality utensils in your new space, as you can carry the same ones with you from place to place. To make life easier for yourself, you even buy a utensil set that comes with everything you could possibly need.

3. Pots and pans

When you’re just starting off, you don’t need endless pots and pans like you probably had in your kitchen growing up. Just a couple will get the job done. You want something that’s big enough it can cook whatever you’re making, but small enough you can store it easily.

4. Dish towels and a sponge

Even if you’re lucky enough to have a dishwasher in your new space, you still need dish towels and a sponge. You don’t realize how much you actually use them until you go to dry your hands and realize your only option is your shirt. A nice dish towel will go a long way, as it’s useful for cleaning up spills and drying dishes.

5. Toaster

Whether it’s a toaster oven or just a traditional toaster, it’s an absolute necessity for a new apartment. A toaster oven is useful for many purposes and can save you a ton of cooking time and a regular toaster is just essential for all your breakfast needs. An apartment isn’t finished until there’s a toaster in the kitchen, ready to make delicious toast or bagels.

6. Storage containers

Chances are, you’re going to have leftovers soon into your time in your new apartment. Or maybe you’re just really into meal prepping. Regardless, storage containers and bags are a necessity. How else are you going to store your leftover dinner? Investing in a set of containers or bags is key.

You can also save space by using kitchen organizers, maxing out the amount of room you have available to you!

7. Sharp knives

Nothing is better than a brand new knife, so use you moving into a new apartment as an excuse to treat yourself. A sharp knife is crucial to cooking and you’ll find that it gets the job done much quicker and easier.

With these 7 simple kitchen tools, you’ll find that building out and organizing your new apartment’s kitchen comes quicker than you ever imagined. Moving into a new place takes time, but it’s important to remind yourself to start small. You can cook plenty of dishes with just these tools.