July 22, 10:09 AM
So the kitchen really doesn't need a lot of furniture, but it needs something more along the lines of appliances and tools. Some Apartmentites think all they need is a coffee machine, but that is far from the truth.
Your apartment kitchen serves so many more purposes than just being a place to brew your coffee and grab a cereal bar. It's a place to entertain, prepare for your day, relax in the evening, and to become a king or queen of cleaning.
To complete the perfect kitchen in your apartment, use this list as your guide to get all the equipment, utensils, and such that you need to have the perfect kitchen:
Toaster- The toaster has been around for years and no kitchen is complete without one. It's easy to use and very little snacks can beat a toasted peanut butter and jelly or a toasted ham and cheese. The Poptart and Eggo waffle were even invented to create additional awesome eateries that are easily cooked in the toaster.
Coffee Maker- Fine...you should have one. Even if you aren't a coffee drinker, you should pick one of these bad boys up just to take up some space on an empty counter. Plus, you never know when you are going to have a coffee desiring guest. You could even fancy up your apartment kitchen with an espresso machine instead. You'll be the talk of the community and you'll have people popping by like you are a Starbucks.
Blender- Back in my workout days this little machine came in handy in a big way as I mixed up a number of protein shakes. Then in my margarita days...well...I don't remember, but I am pretty sure that gadget really helped me out. Seriously though....have a blender...even if you have it stored away for a rainy day you should have one.
Microwave- It's so hard to tell these days because some apartments will come with microwaves and some won't. When you are looking for your place, you should be sure to check this little ditty of info out and if it doesn't look like one is coming built in,you should invest in a microwave. They are the cooking wave of the future, I tells ya!
Measuring Cups/Spoons- You will need something to measure out the perfect amount of liquids in your cooking so be sure to pick up a measuring cup or two. While you are at it, add a meat thermometer in the case that you ever decide to make a roast!
Knife Set and Cutting Board- You'll also want to pick up a decent knife set and cutting board. The knife set should include ones for chopping, slicing, sawing, and poking. Most sets will also come with a sharpener, but if it doesn't you'll want to get one of those too.
Bottle Opener, wine tool, and Can Opener- We all know that you will really NEED a bottle opener. Why everyone doesn't make twist offs now, I have no idea, but having a bottle opener on hand for those moments is imperative. An automated can opener goes a long way too.
Cloth- You'll need paper towels and a paper towel holder to begin with, but you will also need a few other types of cloth around the kitchen. You'll need dishrags, a hand towel or two, a few oven mits/pot holders, a rug for the floor, and place mats and napkins for the table.
Salt and Pepper Shaker- No meal is perfect...at least not when I'm cooking. I am a chronic salt addict, so a salt and pepper shaker is a necessity. You can get some really funny and creative ones out there too. Look around and find the one that gives the flavor that you like...other than just salt and pepper!
Dishes- You'll need to get bowls, plates, glasses, flatware (utensils), and some coffee mugs to stock your cabinets with some great dishes. You'll also want to pick up a few serving dishes and cooking utensils like a spatula, wooden spoon, and whisk.
Furniture- If your apartment kitchen includes a dining area, you will need to purchase a kitchen table with 4 (yes..4) matching chairs. Don't have just one that doesn't match...either have 4 matching...or...go with none that match. You will also need a trash can to dump all of your junk!
Lastly you'll need to stock your pantry and fridge with food. Set some dishsoap and a scrubber in the sink and you should be good to go. My kitchen even has a TV in it for those long hours of cooking! Enjoy your new kitchen!