How to Stock Your First Kitchen
If You're Moving In to Your First Place, Here's What Your Kitchen Needs
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When I moved in to my first apartment, I knew what bedding I wanted and how I would arrange the throw pillows on my couch, but I had no idea what to do about the kitchen. Having lived with a mom who's arguably the best cook I knew made me feel a little bit better when I went food shopping, as I'd spent my life watching her in the kitchen, but I still felt a bit bewildered. It got so bad that I had to leave Williams Sonoma when shopping for pots and pans. There are so many different options for what feels like kitchen basics, and I just didn't know what to do. So, if you're looking to stock up your own brand-new kitchen, I've complied a list of the 15 items you absolutely need, whether you're a proficient chef or can barely boil an egg.
What do I consider to be absolutely necessary for a kitchen? Well, silverware, glasses, plates, and bowls all fit that list. I also think having a can opener and wine opener will always be good. Plus, mixing bowls are great for baking, making pasta, and creating salads. If you feel overwhelmed by all your options, just keep reading to shop our edited picks.
Lianyu 20-Piece Silverware Flatware Cutlery Set
Make sure you have some silverware in your home. We love this Lianyu 20-Piece Silverware Flatware Cutlery Set ($18, originally $20) because it's comprehensive and affordable.
Bamboo Kitchen Drawer Starter Kit
Separate said silverware with this easy Bamboo Kitchen Drawer Starter Kit ($40).
Secura Electrical Wine Bottle Opener
Never have a difficult time opening wine again thanks to this Secura Electrical Wine Bottle Opener ($20).
NutriBullet 12-Piece High-Speed Blender/Mixer System
This NutriBullet 12-Piece High-Speed Blender/Mixer System ($50, originally $60) is compact, easy to clean, and makes great smoothies.
Brita Pitcher
Eco Marble Cutting Board
This Eco Marble Cutting Board ($20) feels fancy, but is affordable and super useful.
AmazonBasics 8-Piece Non-Stick Kitchen Cookware Set
With this AmazonBasics 8-Piece Non-Stick Kitchen Cookware Set ($40), you can make just about anything.
The White Company Orford Set of 4 Tumblers
Drink just about anything out of these versatile The White Company Orford Set of 4 Tumblers ($42).
Nambé Pop 4-Piece Place Setting
The nice part about this Nambé Pop 4-Piece Place Setting ($60) is that there's one of every plate you need when starting out, and you can buy as many, or as few, as you want.
ProKeeper Baker's Storage Set of 6
Keep baking ingredients, or chips and cereal, in this ProKeeper Baker's Storage Set of 6 ($48, originally $60).
OXO Good Grips 3-piece Mixing Bowl Set
Having this OXO Good Grips 3-piece Mixing Bowl Set ($25) on hand is always a good idea.
OXO Good Grips Smooth Edge Can Opener
You should always have a can opener in your drawer. You never know when you'll need this OXO Good Grips Smooth Edge Can Opener ($13, originally $22).
Measuring Cups and Spoons Set of 15
You're going to need this Measuring Cups and Spoons Set of 15 ($30) at some point.
M Kitchen World Heat Resistant Silicone Spatulas Set
If you're cooking, this M Kitchen World Heat Resistant Silicone Spatulas Set ($11) should be in your kitchen.
Cuisinart 12 Piece Color Knife Set With Blade Guards
A set of knives is practically a requirement. Start out with this Cuisinart 12 Piece Color Knife Set With Blade Guards ($20).
