Getting ready to move out

Summer is a popular time for young people to move into their first home

We have put together a list of the kitchen equipment you may need when setting up your own kitchen for the first time.

Have you been accepted onto your ideal course and are moving away from home? For many people, this means packing moving boxes and leaving the familiar surroundings of the family home. It is a big step, and it helps to be prepared.

With a good basic selection in the kitchen, you can make more than boiled pasta and frozen pizza. You may be able to take a few things from home and buy the rest gradually.

It can be worth investing in a few good-quality pots and pans. In the long run, this does not necessarily cost more, and it can help you achieve better results when boiling and frying. You can also read our guide: Boil or steam?

Think about size too. If you mainly cook for one or two people, smaller pots and pans are often more practical.

Kitchen checklist

Serving and tableware

• Dinner plates, bowls and small plates
• Cutlery: knives, forks and spoons
• Water glasses, wine glasses, cups and mugs
• Bread basket, egg cups, coffee pot, teapot and serving bowls
• Salt and pepper mills and trivets

Cooking

• Chopping boards
• Knife set, for example with a bread knife, chef's knife, peeling knife and utility knife
• Cooking spoon, spatula and whisk
• Pot, frying pan and saucepan: read our pot guide and pan guide
• Roasting pan or ovenproof dishes
• Scissors, tin opener, cheese slicer, bottle opener, corkscrew, garlic press and grater
• Measuring jug, kitchen scales and sieve
• Oven gloves
• Dough scraper and rolling pin

Electrical appliances

• Kettle and possibly a coffee maker
• Hand blender
• Toaster
• Possibly a hand mixer

Washing up

• Dish brush and washing-up liquid
• Scouring sponge
• Cleaning cloths
• Tea towels

Cleaning and care

It is important to use, clean and care for your kitchen equipment correctly. This helps it last longer and gives you better results when cooking. See our main page on use and care.