Spring and summer are here! And while you are enjoying the extra sunlight and the green growth, you’re probably not thinking about some upcoming events in the next few months: graduation! Thousands of first-time movers will be embracing adulthood and all the challenges that come with it. Today, we’re going to tell you about some of the best kitchen tools for first-time movers that will help them settle in to their kitchen.
Here at Home Kitchenary, we primarily focus on kitchen reviews, but we have lots of other categories we write about as well, including coffee, garden, bedroom, and bathroom. At our core, we’re a kitchen product review website; so whether that means recommending the best warming trays or writing a quick overview on ice makers, we’re the site for you. Remember, we cook just like you and we’re trying to make the most if it — and in this case, we know people who are graduating and moving, which inspired this post. We hope this blog helps you prepare your teenagers for their first place on their own!
First, let’s talk about whether your should purchase before or after the move. After that, we’ll show you some of the best kitchen tools for first-time movers.
Advantages to Purchasing Before the Move
Saves money in the long run: Buying kitchen tools before moving out can save you money in the long run as you won’t have to buy everything all at once once you move in. By spreading out your purchases, you can also take advantage of sales and discounts throughout the year.
Allows you to prepare meals instantly: Having essential kitchen tools before moving out allows you to prepare meals at home, saving you money from eating out. You can also control the ingredients and the nutritional value of the food you prepare, which can help you reach your health goals as well.
Makes moving easier: Packing and moving can be stressful, especially if you have to do it in a hurry. Having your kitchen tools already with you will make the move easier and less overwhelming. You won’t have to come up with a big list for shopping or have to guess what your roommates might have for the kitchen. If you are purchasing right now to prepare for a move, you can also save the box to help you with the move. This can help you keep everything organized and ready for when you or someone you know moves out.
Creates a sense of independence: Moving out for the first time can be daunting, but having your own set of kitchen tools can make you feel more independent and confident in your ability to take care of yourself. The last thing you want your friend or child to experience is stress over food. Send them on their way prepared and ready for the busy challenges of adulthood.
Provides you with cooking experience: By having your own set of kitchen tools, you can practice and improve your cooking skills, which will come in handy when you’re living on your own. How can I not put something like this in when I personally love to cook? Yes it can be a drag some days, but helping your new adults learn to cook is an important life skill that they’ll need for the rest of their lives.
Advantages to Purchasing After the Move
Now, these advantages may contradict some of the advantages from above, but they’re still important to note:
Out of State/Country: If you know someone who is making a big move — i.e., out of state, out of country, or overseas — the last thing you want to do is bog them down with a bunch of difference appliances. They are probably trying to get rid of things before the move. Consider where they are moving to and see what is most effective; shipping them some kitchen appliances or even a gift card may be the most beneficial thing for them.
Roommates and Communal Items: One time in a college house I was renting, we had three blenders. What are we going to do with three blenders?! Oftentimes first-time apartments and college housing can be cramped and filled with roommates. The last thing you want to do is waste money on an item that your child doesn’t need. Don’t hesitate to wait on some of these kitchen items. It’s better to wait for the right time and place before making some adult purchases for your child like a microwave, toaster oven, and more. Let roommates help where needed and then purchase when the time is right. There’s also the clear option to discuss purchases ahead of time with roommates if they know who they’ll be living with.
Better Deals for Those Who Wait: A common shopping technique is patience. Those who can wait can keep their eyes peeled for better deals and sales. This also allows buyers to take the time they need to review similar items (like what I do!). This can often result in a better purchase that will last years longer than a rushed purchase that ends up not being the right item. Take the time to find the best kitchen tools for first-time movers before ordering right away. Consider this tip as we enter graduation season and we know that students and maybe your kids will be moving out by the end of summer. This means you have the next few months to shop and keep your eyes open for great deals.
Living Space and Kitchen Size: Your child/student might be used to their family home. Some family homes are much larger and have a nicer kitchen, but their first apartment likely won’t be that way. Limited counter space, limited cabinets, and even no pantry are the reality for most small homes and apartments and finding storage is even more difficult when you have roommates. Pump the brakes and wait before buying your child a bread machine or a massive air fryer. Could they use it? Absolutely, but the reality is most college students barely have enough room as is. Don’t add to the clutter. Wait for them to settle in and check in with them to see what kitchen tools will fit and best improve their living situation.
What’s the Big Deal?
Living on your own for the first time can be stressful. Whether it’s your first job as an adult or you are entering college, there is a lot on your plate. Finding the time and effort to balance cleaning, cooking, friends, and more can be challenging. Consider these tips when looking at kitchen and home tools for those who recently left the nest.
- Time Management: A good kitchen tool is likely one that benefits their time. Easy to use, quick to cook, and easy to clean is the name of the game.
- Health: Ever heard of the freshman 15? Adulthood can be trying and it can challenge even the best with their health. Make sure that whatever appliances you give them can help them stick to healthy eating and living habits.
- Social Health: Being able to cook and clean is more than just an adult skill; it can effect social life as well. Whether it’s a date they are trying to impress or just helping out by hosting a movie night, having the right tools can make socializing more enjoyable.
- Budget and Thinking Long Term: New adults are always struggling with a budget. By purchasing quality items that they actually need and use you can actually help them save money in the long-term. Quality items that last up to 10 years is what they really need, not some cheap plastic appliance.
The Best Kitchen & Home Tools for New Adults
Pots & Pans for First-Time Movers
College students and young adults who are moving out for the first time need kitchen cookware that is both affordable and functional. The AmazonBasics 15-Piece Cookware set fits the bill with its non-stick surface and large variety, making it useful for a variety of recipes and making it easy to clean after use.
Normally I make sure I’m shopping for super high-quality items when I’m looking at replacing something in my kitchen. However, I’m in my 30s and my life is very different from how it was a decade ago. I don’t think a Caraway Ceramic Set would have been right for me (I probably would have chipped or cracked one, and I certainly wouldn’t have stored it well). Or even a nice stainless steel set from Mueller would have likely resulted in a lost lid or pot. Remember, the best kitchen tools for first-time movers might vary person to person.
With over 50,000 reviews on Amazon, this cookware set is a popular choice among first-time movers for its affordability, durability, and functionality. Take note of pot and pan care; if these are treated the right way, they can easily last a student’s time at college. If you think your young adult might not take such good care of these (it’s ok, I did the same thing) consider this affordable option that is dishwasher safe: Cuisinart 11-Piece Cookware Set.
Cutting Boards for First-Time Movers
Cutting and chopping are essential cooking skills, but they can be intimidating for new cooks. That’s why a good cutting board is an essential tool for college students and young adults moving out for the first time.
The cutting board by Sonder Los Angeles is a great option because it’s made of high-quality materials and designed with safety and practicality in mind. The non-slip surface ensures the board stays securely in place while in use, reducing the risk of accidents. And we’re not being dramatic: we mostly mean accidents of ruining a counter top rather than bodily injury. Help your new adult not lose out on their security deposit by having them use reliable cutting boards.
The non-porous surface also makes cleaning a breeze, and it’s dishwasher safe for even more convenience. The board is made of eco-friendly and durable materials, ensuring it can withstand the wear and tear of daily use. And while wood cutting boards can be absolutely lovely, I felt that young adults may accidentally ruin them by putting them in the dishwasher and ruining the wood glue used to keep them together. If you do feel like your young adult could take care of some wood boards enjoy these renewable and affordable options: Greener Chef Bamboo Cutting Board and Royal Craft Wood 3-Piece Set.
Overall, a cutting board is a great investment for new cooks looking to build their kitchen arsenal. It’s a tool that will make cooking safer, easier, and more enjoyable.
Mixing Bowls for First-Time Movers
When it comes to preparing meals and snacks, having the right kitchen tools can make all the difference. One essential tool that every college student and young adult should have in their kitchen is a set of mixing bowls, and there are plenty of fantastic options.
Here are a few reasons why I recommend the YIHONG Mixing Bowls:
Durability: These mixing bowls are made of high-quality stainless steel, which is known for its durability and long-lasting performance. This means that these bowls can handle regular use and will hold up well over time, even with frequent dishwashing (yes that’s right, they’re dishwasher safe!).
Versatility: The set comes with seven different sizes of bowls, which makes them perfect for a wide range of cooking and baking tasks. Whether you’re mixing ingredients for a cake or whipping up some scrambled eggs, these bowls have got you covered. They also have lids, which makes sealing off some food a breeze for easy storage!
Budget Friendly & Good Reviews: While under $30, this product still boasts thousands of reviews with an average rating of 4.7. It’s practical, effective, and will help any young adult as they transition into their first kitchen.
Easy to Clean: As mentioned before, the stainless steel material of these bowls makes them easy to clean. They are also dishwasher safe, which means you can simply toss them in the dishwasher after use for quick and convenient cleaning. This is the real reason I consider them to be one of the best kitchen tools for first-time movers. Easy cleaning and dishwasher safe is of huge importance to me.
Now if you don’t want to buy from a random Amazon company (I get it: sometimes I want deals and other times I want buy-it-for-life), here are some other brands that feature high quality, versatility, and durability: Wildone Mixing Bowls, KitchenAid, and Pyrex Glass Bowls.
Silverware for First-Time Movers
Are you a college student or young adult looking for a reliable and affordable set of utensils for your kitchen? Look no further than the Silverware Set by Bon Flair.
This flatware set is made of high-quality stainless steel that is both durable and long-lasting. With its sleek design and elegant finish, it will add a touch of sophistication to your dining table without breaking the bank.
But don’t just take my word for it: the Silverware Set has received rave reviews from satisfied customers on Amazon. With thousands of ratings and an average rating of 4.6 stars, it’s clear that this is one of the best kitchen tools for first-time movers. Customers love its sturdy construction and comfortable grip, making it the perfect choice for daily use.
And the best part? This set is dishwasher safe, making clean-up a breeze. No need to spend hours scrubbing away at stubborn stains; simply pop it in the dishwasher and let it do the work for you.
Overall, the Silverware Set by Bon Flair is a great purchase for anyone in need of a reliable and affordable set of utensils for their kitchen. With its high-quality construction, rave reviews, and dishwasher safe feature, it’s a no-brainer for any college student or young adult looking to upgrade their kitchen without breaking the bank.
Looking for something more stylish? These Matte Black Utensils by Sharecook are a hit right now and for good reason. Sleek and stylish for those willing to pay a little extra, these boast solid reviews as well (although it is recommended to be hand washed only).
Cooking Utensils for First-Time Movers
Are you looking for some high-quality cooking utensils that can handle your cooking demands while also being easy to clean? Look no further than the Silicone Cooking Utensils Set by Aothod. This set of cooking tools is an excellent choice for college students and young adults who are on a budget but still want to invest in reliable kitchenware.
One of the most significant advantages of this set is its affordability. For a very reasonable price, you can get a 15-piece set that includes all the essential utensils you need for cooking and serving, such as spoons, spatulas, whisks, tongs, and more. The silicone material is durable, heat-resistant, and won’t scratch your cookware, so you can use them for years to come. Young adults are so busy that most don’t want super expensive or nice cookware. These handy silicone utensils are convenient and easy, which is why they are one of the best kitchen tools for first-time movers.
The reviews speak for themselves: this set has received high ratings from customers who appreciate the quality and usefulness of the utensils. They’re especially popular among young adults who are starting out in their own apartments and need an affordable set of kitchen utensils that can handle basic cooking tasks.
Another advantage of this set is its ease of cleaning. The silicone material is non-stick, non-toxic, and dishwasher safe, making it a breeze to clean up after cooking. This is a huge plus for busy college students and young adults who don’t have a lot of time to spend on kitchen clean-up.
Overall, a Silicone Cooking Utensils Set is a smart investment for anyone who wants a reliable and affordable set of cooking tools. If you’re looking for something with more personality, we recommend this colorful set. If you think wood would be a good choice, we love Mooues Full Wood Set and Umite’s Wood + Silicone Set
Home Kitchenary: Your Product Review Website
Don’t send off your beloved graduates without preparing them! We hope this blog helped you find the best kitchen tools for first-time movers. We hope that with the right tools, you will help them grow into adults. If you found something that works for you, let us know below! Good luck and congratulations to all the young adults who will be moving out this spring and summer. We wish you the best and don’t forget to check back here for more kitchen and home tips. Here are some other blogs you can check out while you’re here:
- Best Kitchen Knives — Buyer’s Guide
- Best Coffee Gifts for Your Caffeine-Addicted Partner
- Best Juicers
- 21 Tea Kettles That Instantly Up Your Aesthetic
- Prioritize Self-Care With These 5 Kitchen Tools
- Kitchen Storage Hacks, part 1: The Pantry
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