Saving money on essential kitchen tools organized does not have to be complicated. We rounded up the essentials so you can spend less and skip the guesswork.
Key Takeaways
- Whether you’re a newlywed, a recent grad moving into your first apartment, or perhaps one of the 52% of millennials that RealSimple rep...
- Here’s the deal: There are a few basic essential kitchen tools you absolutely need, ten to be exact, without which you are not likely to use t...
- We’re not talking about a mountain of stuff, just ten basic essentials to get started.
Whether you’re a newlywed, a recent grad moving into your first apartment, or perhaps one of the 52% of millennials that RealSimple reported as living at home with their parents, surely the idea of furnishing a kitchen has crossed your mind.
Here’s the deal: There are a few basic essential kitchen tools you absolutely need, ten to be exact, without which you are not likely to use that kitchen for more than a place to pile takeout containers. We’re not talking about a mountain of stuff, just ten basic essentials to get started.
1. Fire Extinguisher
My personal experience makes this an absolute requirement and first on the list. It was one of those lazy Saturdays. I decided to make grilled cheese sandwiches for lunch. I set the greased skillet over high heat and ran out to the garage to say something to my husband. A neighbor wandered over and we started talking. It was the smoke alarm that caught my attention and sent me flying.
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In those few moments that pan flamed out and caught the upper cabinet. My kitchen was on fire! This rechargeable fire extinguisher sitting on the counter saved the day. I am still surprised that I’d learned and reacted, almost intuitively, how to use the thing. Your kitchen must have a fire extinguisher that is fully charged.
First Alert Fire Extinguisher
2. Knives
You need good knives. And I’m talking about knives that can be sharpened and you will keep sharp. That means they need to be handy and super simple to use. If you can find an exceptional set that comes with a block and shears, steak knives, plus at least a chef, carving, and a paring knife like this 15-piece set, that’s exactly what you need.
Cuisinart 15-Pc Block Set
3. Pots and Pans
You can go broke on pots and pans or you can go smart with a high-quality basic set of cookware to last for decades.
You want to make sure you have at least a skillet, a couple of saucepans, and a larger pot for soups and stock, and that your cookware is induction-ready, even if you do not have an induction cooktop. You may in the future. This set comes with three interchangeable glass lids and a steamer basket.
Tramontina Tri-Ply Base Stainless-Steel Cookware Set, Induction-Ready
4. Measuring Cups Spoons
These kitchen tools don’t need to be fancy. They don’t need to be expensive. What you need is a set of cups and a set of spoons that will help you to measure accurately.
This 11-piece measuring set fills the bill. The measuring cups and spoons are made with high-quality stainless steel with engraved markings (not printed with ink or decals that will soon wear off) in both traditional and metric size markings on the handles. Dishwasher safe.
Stainless Steel Measuring Spoons Cups Set
5. Bar Mop Towels
Also known as restaurant cleaning towels, you need a stack of them, clean and ready to go. You’ll save a ton of money not buying paper towels. As they become soiled, throw them in the laundry hamper. You want at least one 12-pack white cotton professional grade like this set from Utopia. They’ll last for years. And years.
MORE: 11 Money Savers That Will Pay for Themselves in a Year or Less
Save $10.00 Bar Mop Towels
6. Colander
I can’t tell you how numerous times I reach for my colander in a typical day. I use it for so numerous things. And now that I have begun cooking rice as I do pasta (in a lot of water, uncovered, boiling rapidly until rice is done then draining and rinsing under hot water), I’m using it even more.
This 5-quart stainless colander with fine-mesh sieve is perfect for all of your colanderizational (is that a word?) needs!
Save $9.00 Stainless Steel Colander
7. Tongs
Essential in any kitchen, for sure. You need tongs! This OXO Good Grips 12-inch stainless locking model is my first choice. Wouldn’t know what to do without them. Truth be told, I have three pairs.
Locks in a closed position for simple storage. Dishwasher safe, too.
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8. Baking Dishes
Whether it’s a cake or a casserole, you’re going to need something to bake it in. You want Pyrex and this Final Thoughts
The bottom line: a little research on essential kitchen tools organized goes a long way. Compare your options, watch for seasonal offers, and never pay full price when a better deal is one click away. Originally published at everydaycheapskate.com.
