11 Kitchen Appliances Worth the Investment
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The kitchen is one of the most important places in your home.
It's where family and friends gather to share stories, break bread, and make memories.
It's also where you can add a ton of value with minimal effort. The National Association of Realtors says that modern kitchen renovations often allow homeowners to recoup 80% of expenses when it comes time to sell.
Even if you have no plans to sell your home anytime soon, a kitchen remodel can breathe new life into your home.
If you're ready to take your kitchen to the next level, read on.
Planning Your Modern Kitchen Remodel
The cornerstone to a successful modern kitchen remodel is selecting the best new appliances that will work for your family's needs.
Think about what the kitchen means to you and your family. Let that guide you in your remodel.
The newest trends in kitchen appliances are exciting. Definitely not your grandmother's wood-burning oven!
The trends today include marrying time-honored classics with cutting-edge technology. There are new appliances geared toward healthier cooking styles, interactive monitoring of food levels, and much more.
These new models are sometimes costly, but many are worth the investment.
We've rounded up the top 11 appliances you will want to include in your modern kitchen remodel.
1. Steam Ovens
One of the biggest rising stars in kitchen appliances is the steam oven. If your remodels plans include replacing your oven, consider steam.
Steam ovens are a great choice for people wanting to eat healthier, and here's why.
They save time
They can replace your microwave
Steamed food is nutrient-dense
Plus, this method of cooking has been around for centuries. It is regaining popularity now as we all strive to live healthier lives.
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2. Cooktops
Whatever type of range you end up choosing, a sleek and stylish cooktop should also be included.
The way they are being made now is sleek, stylish, and highly functional.
You could opt for tempered glass, where the burners are concealed and no food will fall into them. Or try cast iron, including both grates and griddles for a mixed-use cooktop.
Investing in new appliances will not only add value to your kitchen/home, but it will also make you fall in love with cooking. Whether that’s falling in love for the first time or all over again, there is just something about new appliances.
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3. Refrigerator
A new fridge is perhaps the easiest way to give your kitchen an instant 'glow-up.' The new models coming out have some of the most impressive all-around style and functionality changes.
For starters, how about clear glass doors? No more opening the fridge to see what's inside - you can just see it. There are also those with Bluetooth compatibility that you can connect to while shopping to see what's in your fridge so you don't buy repeats.
Many models also have built-in screens that can sync with your devices, show you the weather, and let you know when you are low on milk.
Forget about door handles; Bluetooth technology will allow for voice-activated functionality.
Ice makers are also getting an upgrade in many models. Water for ice will be filtered, and you can choose a fun shape for your cubes.
A smart fridge of any variety is a must-have component of your modern kitchen remodel.
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4. Built-In Vacuum Sealer
Food storage is an important part of delivering the freshest, tastiest meals. Up until now, vacuum sealing has been more of a luxury than a standard. Leaving most of us to do without.
Not anymore. We are so excited about the rise of built-in vacuum sealers!
These units are customizable and are easy enough to install into any cabinetry or appliance space.
Now anyone can enjoy this health practice! Keep food fresh for longer and stay up to date with health trends.
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5. Kitchen Islands
If you have the space available, adding an island to your kitchen adds style and function.
They can be a place for an additional sink, additional power outlets, additional seating, and of course, storage space.
Install custom lighting over the island. Have the countertop be a bamboo cutting board or classy slab of marble.
You can even incorporate appliances into the island, such as your new dishwasher, a beer and wine cooler, or an ice cream maker.
6. Top Control Dishwasher
Truth is, most older dishwashers just don’t stack up to their modern counterparts.
The whole point is to not spend a ton of time scrubbing but most older dishwashers leave us with residue.
New models not only do a better job cleaning your dishes, but they are also environmentally friendly, sleek, and quiet.
Hello, multiple wins.
A side note on larger appliances, there are many manufacturers who offer entire kitchen packages. So, you can easily get your bigger appliances in one set that matches and suits your preferences.
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Smaller Appliances
Once you have the standard big appliances accounted for, you can start to add on other fun, smaller components.
What follows are our top picks for countertop appliances and generally cool gadgets your modern kitchen should include.
Additionally, many of the newer models of these gadgets have tech woven in. Many can be controlled remotely via Bluetooth among other exciting features.
7. Instant Pot
Is a kitchen really complete without an instant pot? Is there anything an Instant Pot can’t do?
Use it as a
Pressure cooker
Slow cooker
Rice cooker
Yogurt maker
Egg cooker
Cake maker
Use it to
Sauté
Steam
Warm
Sterilize
So many functions, one small machine. Yes, please.
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8. Quality Blender
A good blender can take you places. In moments you can make fresh smoothies, sauces, dressings, and soups. Plus, clean-up is a total breeze.
Things to look for in a good blender are motor size, wattage, and carafe size. A good blender will excel in these areas. Some will even have different-sized carafes to be used for different concoctions.
You don’t have to break the bank here, but don’t be cheap either. You can get a good middle-of-the-road blender for under a hundred bucks these days.
Some newer models incorporate technology in fun ways. Like a Bluetooth feature that will give you the nutritional information of your creation. Or allow you to control the blender with a phone or other smart device.
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9. Good Knives
Just like all of these smaller appliances, good knives make a huge difference in the kitchen.
Not only are good knives safer to use, they generally look better and last longer.
A good set can set you back a pretty penny, but they can last forever when well cared for.
A great example is Cutco. A Cutco set of knives will stay with you forever, becoming a family heirloom. All their products are guaranteed and backed with a stellar warranty.
Any truly good set of knives will have a similar warranty and guarantee. And make sure you throw in a good knife sharpener while you’re at it.
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10. Mandoline
Simple, classic, effective. These are a few words that come to mind when thinking about this handy tool.
A mandoline can be a dangerous tool, but it’s one that is also quite versatile.
In no time at all turn vegetables into delicious noodles without a bulky spiralizer. Or take a stab at perfecting your julienne slicing, a task the Mandoline makes a total breeze.
The basics are simple; go slow and make sure to use a handguard to prevent injury.
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11. High-Quality Pots and Pans
Say goodbye to toxic cookware and invest in ceramic non-stick cookware. Or even better, cast iron!
Either of these options ensures that your family isn’t being exposed to toxic chemicals. Just delicious food.
Ceramic pans are super easy to clean and have a sleek look to them. While cast iron may take some time to fully break in, they will last literally forever.
There is also copper, carbon steel, or stainless steel. Each type has its benefits as well as drawbacks.
Whatever your preference, investing in a full set will run you a couple hundred but again, is well worth the investment.
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Get Busy In the Kitchen
A modern kitchen remodel is a great way to keep your home fresh and add overall value. Plus you get the incredible return of a healthier, happier, family.
This article included just a few of our favorite updates on classic and small appliances. There are many more options out there to fit every taste.
Your new kitchen will be the place that everyone wants to gather. It will also be the place that you actually want to host them.
If you’re looking for other tips, insights, and explorations into homeownership, then we’ve got you covered. Make sure to check out the rest of our blog while you’re here. It’s chock full of carefully curated content to help you make the best choices for your home and family.