Moving into your apartment can be super exciting, but it also can be easy to get overwhelmed when deciding what to purchase for your new space. If you’re a first-time apartment renter, you might feel conflicted about which kitchen staples are actually necessary to own. It can be tough to forecast what items you are going to need. The good news is that you can start out with a few essentials, and continue to add more as you continue living in your apartment!

For your convenience, we compiled a list of the most essential prepping, cooking, and cleaning supplies that are the most commonly used and most worthwhile for you to buy!

This is a non-exhaustive list of kitchen essentials that every renter should invest in! These items will allow you to prepare meals, snacks, desserts, and everything in between!
 

Prep:

• Grater

• Colander

• Mixing Bowls

• Whisk

• Knives

• Chef Knife

• Cutting Boards

• Measuring Cups

• Measuring Spoons

• Vegetable Peeler

• Can Opener

Cooking:

• Spatulas

• Saucepan (large and small)

• Stockpot

• Skillet

• Toaster

• Blender

• Baking Sheets

• Casserole Dish

• Rubber Spatula 

• Tongs

• Ladle

Cleanup & Misc:

• Towels

• Sponges

• Dish Rack

• Trash Can

• Potholders

• Oven Mitts

• Tupperware

• Foil

• Parchment Paper

• Saran Wrap

Functional Decor

If you already have some of the basics and are looking to add more style to your kitchen, consider investing in these items:
 

Coasters and placemats

This is a great way to add your own style into an otherwise standard kitchen set. Spruce up your kitchen by adding accents of your favorite colors to make your apartment feel like a home.
 

Matching silverware, plates, bowls, cups, and glasses

Depending on how many people live with you, or how many people you dream about hosting in your apartment when the pandemic is over, this can inform how many sets of silverware you need to purchase. We recommend starting with a set of four of everything. If you know that you are lazy when it comes to doing dishes (I definitely fall under this category), consider investing in more than four sets of silverware, plates, glasses etc. so you don’t have to wash them as frequently.
 

Silverware organizer and/or cooking utensil holders

These are underrated kitchen items that help so much! Both will help your kitchen stay decluttered and organized.
 

Multi-purpose glass dishes

While starting off with plastic storage containers is practical, glass dishes are an elevated choice once you have the kitchen basics covered. The benefit of glass dishes are that they can go in the dishwasher, freezer, microwave, and oven. They also make storing leftovers easier and produce fewer dishes for you to wash at the end of the night.
 

Time-Saving Gadgets

Cooking can seem overwhelming if you don’t have prior cooking experience or knowledge. If cooking isn't your strong suit, consider investing in one of these convenient and time-saving kitchen gadgets. 
 

Panini Press

Elevate your sandwich game with a panini press. Build your sandwich, pop it in, and within a few minutes, you will have a restaurant-style panini. This multipurpose sandwich press can also be used to cook other foods such as fish, meat, or vegetables. 

Slow Cooker or Pressure Cooker

The beauty of this gadget is that you can literally throw all your ingredients into the pot and let the cooker do the rest. You can prepare a wide variety of meals, and you don’t even need to be in your kitchen to have success. Many people love the ease of use of a Slow Cooker. You can throw in your ingredients in the morning, and by the time you are done with work, you have a full dinner already prepared. 

Coffee Maker

Coffee makers are a staple in a lot of kitchens and will shave off some precious minutes for your morning routine. You can purchase one for a wide range of prices and preferences. Just think about all the money you will save by making coffee at home, and having refills available within minutes. 

With all the essentials to get your kitchen up and running, you have everything you need to prepare delicious meals for yourself and your roommates.