The other day, my four-year-old told me I’m “so old” now. Apparently, she thinks anyone over 12 falls into that category. It got me thinking about how my life has changed over the years. I’ve really simplified things in the last decade. For example, I use bentonite clay as a go-to for washing my hair, detoxing my armpits, and making tooth powder. Coconut oil is another staple that I use for just about everything. I’ve even streamlined my wardrobe and kitchen tools recently (still working on the shoes…).
When I first got married, I loved collecting kitchen gadgets and dishes while learning to cook. It was all about experimenting. Now, I’ve pared down my kitchen tools and gadgets to just the essentials, leaving me with much more manageable drawers and cabinets.
Here are 14 kitchen tools and gadgets I use daily, take on vacation, and can’t cook without. Honestly, they cover most of my cooking needs:
When we had our third child, regular baking sheets just didn’t cut it anymore. I discovered these stainless steel table pans, which are typically used in catering and restaurants. They’re perfect for roasting a turkey, preparing loads of veggies, or whipping up a massive meatloaf for 30+ people (did that last night!). With two of these pans, I can cook an entire meal with meat in one and veggies in the other, ready at the same time. They’re made from steel, not aluminum, and have a deep lip to prevent spills. I’ve donated all my old baking pans because these stack and store easily. They’re also a must-have for vacations. Best $20 I ever spent.
Kitchen scissors are incredibly handy. They’re great for opening packages and cutting up a chicken, but they also make prepping food for kids quick and easy. I use them every meal to cut up meat and veggies for my little ones.
Kitchen tongs are another versatile tool. They’re perfect for stirring, tossing salads, serving, grilling, sautéing, and so much more.
A good immersion blender is a game-changer. It can replace a blender and whisk, and is excellent for making butter coffee, blending sauces, or whipping up cream. It fits easily in a small drawer, unlike a regular blender. We still have a Blendtec and love it, but I end up using the immersion blender more.
Oven gloves have replaced my old hot pads and kitchen mitts. They’re also great for grilling and work well with cast iron cookware.
A friend told me about Wusthof knives, which are expensive but worth it. These three knives have completely replaced my knife block, storing neatly in a single drawer. Another excellent knife option offers a lifetime warranty.
Mason jars are incredibly versatile. They function as drinking glasses, storage containers, vases, candle holders, and more—they replace a ton of other kitchen items. Cuppow lids transform them into spill-proof drinking cups.
A cast iron skillet can handle just about any meal. It’s great on the stove, in the oven, or even over a campfire. If seasoned properly, it becomes relatively non-stick and lasts forever.
Huck towels have taken over all my kitchen towels and napkins. They’re way more absorbent, easily washable, and can even double as cloth napkins. Hospitals use them to clean up because they’re so effective.
Stainless steel bowls have replaced all my old glass, plastic, and silicone ones. They nest together, come with lids for storage, and are incredibly convenient.
With kids, glass dishes aren’t ideal. We switched to stainless steel plates, bowls, and cups, which we use daily. They’re dishwasher and oven safe and nearly indestructible.
Our bamboo utensil set replaced all our old plastic ones and works so much better.
A crinkle cutter is a bit unique, but I love it. It’s safe for kids to help chop veggies, keeping them involved and more likely to eat what we’ve prepared.
I’m curious—what kitchen tools can you not live without?
