Moving into a new home is exciting — but stepping into a bare kitchen? That’s where things get real. Whether you’re starting from scratch or upgrading from hand-me-downs, here’s your no-fluff guide to the kitchen essentials every new home should have. I’m talking about what you’ll actually use, day in and day out — not that gimmicky banana slicer.
Let’s get your new kitchen set up right from the start.
🍳 1. A Solid Nonstick Cookware Set
You don’t need a 15-piece set — just the basics. A good skillet, saucepan, and a stockpot will cover 90% of your cooking.
Pro Tip: Look for hard-anodized aluminum or ceramic-coated pans.
👉 Great Pick: CAROTE 14 Pcs Pots and Pans Set Nonstick
🔪 2. Quality Knife Set (or Just One Great Chef’s Knife)
A sharp, comfortable chef’s knife is the real MVP.
I use a forged stainless steel knife — it makes meal prep so much easier.
👉 Great Pick: McCook® Knife Sets
🍽 3. Everyday Dinnerware Set
Get something dishwasher-safe and not too delicate. 4-6 place settings is a good start.
👉 Great Pick: Corelle 18-Piece Dinnerware Set
☕️ 4. Coffee Maker (or Kettle if You Prefer Tea)
If you’re a caffeine person, this is non-negotiable. A programmable coffee maker or pour-over setup works wonders.
👉 Great Pick: Keurig K-Classic Coffee Maker
🥣 5. Mixing Bowls (Nested, with Lids if Possible)
From pancake batter to salad tossing — you’ll use these constantly.
👉 Great Pick: Stainless Steel Mixing Bowl Set with Lids
🧽 6. Dish Drying Rack
Not glamorous, but essential. Collapsible racks save space.
👉 Great Pick: Iron Dish Drying Rack with Drainboard Dish Drainers
🍴 7. Utensil Set with Holder
Tongs, spatula, ladle, whisk — trust me, you’ll need them all.
👉 Great Pick: Kitchen Utensil Set-Silicone Cooking Utensils-33 Kitchen Gadgets & Spoons for Nonstick Cookware-Silicone
🍞 8. Toaster or Toaster Oven
Even if you don’t cook much, toast = instant meal.
👉 Great Pick: Basics 2 Slice Toaster
🍝 9. Measuring Cups + Spoons
Perfect for baking and eyeballing sauces. Magnetic ones are handy.
👉 Great Pick: Stainless Steel Measuring Set – Stackable
🧂 10. Salt, Pepper & Oil Dispensers
Start building your flavor station early. Store oils in easy-pour bottles.
👉 Great Pick: Olive Oil & Vinegar Dispenser Set
🔥 11. Oven Mitts + Trivets
Don’t risk burns or ruined countertops — get a heat-resistant pair.
👉 Great Pick: Silicone Oven Mitts with Grips
🧊 12. Food Storage Containers
For leftovers, meal prep, or pantry organization. Go glass if possible.
👉 Great Pick: Glasslock 18-Piece Set – BPA-Free
🧂 13. Cutting Board Set
At least two: one for meat, one for veggies. Non-slip edges = bonus.
👉 Great Pick: ROYAL CRAFT WOOD Wooden Cutting Boards
🍚 14. Colander / Strainer
Essential for pasta nights and rinsing fruits or grains.
👉 Great Pick: Pro Pump Spinner with Bowl, Colander and Built in draining System
📦 15. Drawer Organizers
Keep your cutlery and gadgets from becoming a tangled mess.
👉 Great Pick: Vtopmart 25 PCS Clear Plastic Drawer Organizers Set
