16 Things for Your Kitchen to Act Your Age
This one is a little lengthy but buckle up. Some of us started this process in our 20s, maybe not even until our 30s. Heck, we still might be working on it, but I think we should all strive to act our age in the kitchen. What does that even mean? The hand-me-downs you used in your dorm room or the kitchen in your first apartment, should no longer live in your kitchen. They were great when you were living off of ramen noodles and peanut butter sandwiches, but now that you’re in a more settled stage of life, it’s time to level up.
Here are my 16 favorite things for your kitchen to act your age.
01. Drinking glasses
I see those in your cabinet: A hodgepodge of plastic cups from concerts, parties, or even your local bar. Don’t get me wrong, I still have a few of my own, because 1) I have small children, and 2) #memories. But, it’s time to step-up your drinking game with real glasses. Meet Marjorie. Reminiscent of antique bottle glass, the green pressed glass pattern of flowers and leaves weave around the body of the cup invitingly.
02. Pots and pans
Here’s another spot in your kitchen for hodgepodge, abandoned, neglected, and forgotten items. It’s time to say goodbye to that pot your roommate left when she moved out. Is the nonstick coating peeling off that skillet? You have seven lids and only three pots? Yep, time to go. I love this cookware set from Crate & Barrel, because you don’t have to decide your loyalties to rose gold or stainless steel. Get it here.
03. Bakeware
Same as your old pots and pans, it’s time to stop re-using disposable foil pans, and buy a proper bakeware set. I love this set from Crate & Barrel, because it’s an excellent introductory baking collection. Get it here.
04. Dinnerware
When I graduated from college, one of the items I purchased (and I’m so glad I did) was a dinnerware collection from Williams Sonoma. I cashed in a few gift cards, and there you have it. How I knew this back then is beyond me, but I chose a classic white set. Sophisticated enough for entertaining, yet sturdy enough for everyday dining. It can grow with you as your tastes change, and it never goes out of style. Here’s a similar collection to what I still have in my cabinets today.
05. Serverware
I kept the same idea rolling as I began collecting platters and other types of serverware. Classic, timeless, stylish, sturdy, and never goes out of style. Even if you decide to get a few rectangular or square pieces, you could even mix in round and oval pieces, too. Mix and match easily. Here’s the Open Kitchen Collection by Williams Sonoma to get you started.
06. Charcuterie Board
Aside from pandemic, I’d put my money on “charcuterie” being the most popular word of 2020. Introduce yourself to Margo. This show-stopping serving piece brings the best of both worlds with both marble and wood components. The white marble side sets off the rich tones of the mango wood, which includes a natural bark edge. As with every tree, each board will be subtly unique making for a one-of-a-kind serving experience.
07. Silverware
Plastic forks and spoons can be a great option for a huge party or a picnic, but they don’t belong in your kitchen for everyday use. There, I said it. Pick a set that’s classic and blends with any style. Or, if you want to jump on a recent trend, try a matte black set from Hearth & Hand at Target.
08. Knife set
A proper cook has proper tools. You don’t know how much your life will change in the kitchen with a good set of knives. Knife sets can get a bit pricey, so pace yourself. I’m loving this white handle set (plus hardwood storage block) from Williams Sonoma.
09. Glass storage containers
This one took me up until about two years ago to do, so I’m half still preaching to myself. But, throw that ratty, spaghetti-stained Tupperware out of your cabinets. Treat your leftovers and meal prep to glass storage that won’t stain, release chemicals I don’t know how to spell, and will last much longer. It’s worth the investment. Here’s a 10-piece set with airtight lids to get you started.
10. Decorative Storage
Don’t just have a bunch of K-cups and coffee syrups stacked up on your counter. Better yet, don’t just throw out a butter dish and salt and pepper on your table. Tap into rustic elegance with the Brantley Decorative Wood Tray, featuring a solid wood plank shelf and curved metal stand.
11. Cloth napkins
You can bring out the Bounty to clean up spills in your kitchen, but when company’s coming, be sure to put out cloth napkins on your table. It’s an easy way to elevate your entertaining game. Pick a classic set that can stand the test of time.
12. Potholders
No more mismatched, half-burned potholders anymore. The Catherine Crocheted Potholders could easily pass for a family heirloom. It’s just as if grandma made them, with their simple pattern and pretty but practical earth tones. Who says the basics have to be boring?
14. Coffee maker
Here’s one that my husband and I took far too long to address. Our old Coffee-Mate coffee maker was finally replaced by a Keurig. I have to say I’m still not convinced I like the K-cups better than a traditional coffee maker. So, for this spot, I’m suggesting a grown-up version of our old coffee maker. SMEG just does a great job with their appliances—with their color choices and all. Pick your favorite color.
15. Cooking utensils
Step away from the days of mixing your macaroni and cheese with a fork in your dorm room. It’s time for some proper cooking utensils. In recent years there’s been a wave of cooking utensils in a variety of colors and finishes. I treated myself to a rose gold set a couple of Christmases again, and I can say that was a mistake. The rose gold “finish” tarnished and chipped. I’m sure I didn’t properly care for them. But, in my kitchen, if it can’t go in the dishwasher, it doesn’t belong. Here’s a set that can hang on for the ride.
16. KitchenAid Mixer
You have officially graduated to adulthood when this classic kitchen staple finds its way to your kitchen. For years, the KitchenAid Stand Mixer has been the quintessential accessory to any proper cook’s kitchen. I’ve had a light pink mixer in my own kitchen for years, but I’ve been keeping my eye on this new color and texture in the Artisan collection.