Don't Miss!
NO 6% sales tax during August in Florida on computers,
school supplies, & clothing within specific price ranges.
23 Top Kitchen Tools Every Cook Must Have To Function
In this article, we’ll cover the essential kitchen tools we think that every cook must have to make cooking easier, faster, and way more enjoyable.
Cooking isn’t just about following recipes—it’s about having the right tools at your fingertips. Whether you’re a beginner learning how to boil pasta or a seasoned chef whipping up gourmet meals, a well-equipped kitchen makes all the difference.
Imagine trying to cook without a sharp knife, a good skillet, or a measuring spoon—it’s frustrating and nearly impossible.
22 Useful Tools Every Cook MUST HAVE in the Kitchen To Function
Cooking becomes joyful and efficient with the right tools. Here’s your guide, organized into Food Prep, Cookware, and Appliances, now with our recommended choices.
All Useful Tools Every Cook MUST HAVE in the Kitchen To Function
Cooking becomes joyful and efficient with the right tools. Here’s your guide, organized into Food Prep, Cookware, and Appliances, now with recommended Amazon picks.
🥕 Food Prep Essentials
1. Chef’s Knife
Top Pick: Wüsthof Gourmet 6″ Chef’s Knife – Buy on Amazon
Best Value: Victorinox Fibrox Pro 8″ Chef’s Knife – Buy on Amazon
2. Cutting Board
Top Pick: Premium Bamboo Cutting Board – Buy on Amazon
Best Value: Mainstays Non-Slip Bamboo Board – Buy on Amazon
3. Measuring Cups & Spoons
Top Pick: Sur La Table Stainless Steel Set – Buy on Amazon
Best Value: Plastic Measuring Set – Buy on Amazon
4. Mixing Bowls
Top Pick: Crate & Barrel Aspen Ceramic Bowls – Buy on Amazon
Best Value: Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls with Lids – Buy on Amazon
5. Wooden Spoon & Spatula
Top Pick: Farberware Wood Spoon & Turner Set – Buy on Amazon
Best Value: Bamboo Utensil Set – Buy on Amazon
6. Whisk
Top Pick: Bradshaw Goodcook Chrome Whisk – Buy on Amazon
Best Value: Balloon Whisk – Buy on Amazon
7. Tongs
Top Pick: Misen Silicone Tongs – Buy on Amazon
Best Value: Stainless Steel Tongs – Buy on Amazon
8. Colander
Top Pick: Stainless Steel Colander – Buy on Amazon
Best Value: Plastic Colander – Buy on Amazon
9. Peeler & Grater
Top Pick: OXO Good Grips Peeler & Grater – Buy on Amazon
Best Value: Stainless Steel Peeler – Buy on Amazon
10. Garlic Press
Top Pick: Alpha Grillers Garlic Press – Buy on Amazon
Best Value: Handheld Garlic Press – Buy on Amazon
11. Instant-Read Thermometer
Top Pick: ThermoPro Digital – Buy on Amazon
Best Value: Lavatools Javelin – Buy on Amazon
12. Food Storage Containers
Top Pick: Glasslock 18-Piece Set – Buy on Amazon
Best Value: Rubbermaid TakeAlongs – Buy on Amazon
🍳 Cookware Essentials
13. Cast Iron Skillet
Lodge 10.25″ Pre-Seasoned Skillet – Buy on Amazon
14. Nonstick Frying Pan
Top Pick: Zwilling Madura Plus – Buy on Amazon
Best Value: T-fal Nonstick Fry Pan – Buy on Amazon
15. Saucepan & Stockpot
Top Pick: Farberware Stainless Steel Stockpot – Buy on Amazon
Best Value: Farberware Nonstick Stockpot – Buy on Amazon
16. Baking Sheet & Roasting Pan
Top Pick: Nordic Ware Half Sheet Pan – Buy on Amazon
Best Value: Amazon Basics Baking Sheet Set – Buy on Amazon
⚡ Appliances That Make Cooking Easier
17. Blender
Top Pick: Vitamix 5200 – Buy on Amazon
Best Value: Ninja Professional – Buy on Amazon
18. Food Processor
Top Pick: Cuisinart 14-Cup – Buy on Amazon
Best Value: Hamilton Beach 10-Cup – Buy on Amazon
19. Slow Cooker / Instant Pot
Top Pick: Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 – Buy on Amazon
Best Value: Crock-Pot 7-Quart Manual – Buy on Amazon
20. Hand Mixer
Top Pick: KitchenAid 7-Speed – Buy on Amazon
Best Value: Hamilton Beach 6-Speed – Buy on Amazon
21. Microwave
Top Pick: Panasonic Inverter Microwave – Buy on Amazon
Best Value: Toshiba Compact Microwave – Buy on Amazon
22. Toaster Oven
Top Pick: Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer – Buy on Amazon
Best Value: Black+Decker 4-Slice Toaster Oven – Buy on Amazon
Final Thoughts
With the right mix of food prep tools, cookware, and appliances, you’ll be ready to conquer any recipe, whether it’s a quick weekday dinner or a holiday feast.
👉 Stock your kitchen with these must-haves—and cooking becomes more joy, less chore.
1. Gutter Cleaning: Your First Line of Protection
Clogged gutters lead to overflow and seepage, which can damage your home’s foundation, attic, and siding. You definitely need to do this in the fall after the leaves have fallen.
Grab the debris with a scoop or hose, and make sure water drains freely. Left unchecked, this can lead to foundation or roof damage, rot, and even flooding.
The Pros Say: While professional gutter cleaning averages $162 nationally (up to $390 for multi-story homes), water damage repair costs can add up—averaging $5,100 for foundation damage and $4,300 for a flooded basement.3,4,5
Your action plan:
- Clean gutters at least twice annually—in spring (especially after bad storms) and fall (definitely after leaves drop).
- Use a gutter cleaner, scoop, or hose to remove debris.
- Consider investing in gutter guards to reduce future clogs.
This small task prevents major interior and exterior structural damage, plus it prolongs the life of your home’s exterior.
Creating Your Home Maintenance Schedule
TOP PICK
Best Cleaning Tool, Multiple Applications, Pressure Wash
Jeruifox10 pc Cleaning Tool Set
Excellent quality materials with Ergonomic multi-angled Handles
2. HVAC Filter Replacement: Small Task, Major Impact
A dirty HVAC filter reduces airflow, causes your system to work harder, and increases energy use. It can also lead to health concerns from trapped contaminants circulating in your home’s air.6
The hidden costs: A neglected filter can lead to clamped-up coils, furnace failures, and sometimes a complete system replacement costing $4,000-$12,000.6
Your maintenance routine:
- Replace filters every 1–3 months, depending on filter type, usage, and the number of pets in your home.
- Opt for MERV 8–13 filters for allergies, efficiency, pets, and air quality balance.7
- Schedule full-system annual servicing ($175–$550) to catch hidden issues early.8
This simple task saves on energy bills (15-20% according to the Department of Energy) and extends your HVAC system’s lifespan.8
BEST VALUE
Affordable, Best Value, BASIC AC Furnace Dust Filter
Filtrete Basic Dust Merv 5 AC Furnace Air Filter
6 Pack Filters, Use each 3 months; Not for those with pets or allergies
3. Water Heater Flushing: Preventing Sediment Buildup
Over time, sediment accumulates in your water heater tank, reducing efficiency and shortening the unit’s lifespan. Left unchecked, this buildup can cause leaks or complete tank failure.
The financial reality: Regular flushing prevents early replacement and may be required to maintain your water heater’s warranty.9 You can do it yourself or hire a professional for around $160.10
Your annual process:
- Turn off power and water supply to the unit
- Attach a hose to the drain valve and empty the tank completely
- Check your anode rod; it may need to be replaced every 3–5 years.
This simple routine extends your water heater’s life and preserves energy efficiency.
TOP PICK
Best Value, Easy to Use, Cleans Gas or Electric Water Heaters
Water Heater Flushing Kit Sediment Buster
Flush water heater, clean out sediment. add years to your heater.
4. Dryer Vent Cleaning: A Critical Safety Task
Lint buildup in dryer vents doesn’t just reduce drying efficiency—it’s one of the leading causes of house fires in the U.S.11 They also force your dryer to work harder and longer for each load.
The cost factor: Professional dryer vent cleaning costs about $144 nationwide, while fire-related damage can run into the tens of thousands.12
Your safety protocol:
- Clean dryer vents every six months using a brush kit, or call in a professional.
- Replace plastic ducts with rigid metal ones, which resist lint clogs.
- Monitor drying times—longer than usual may signal a blockage.
This potentially life-saving task improves both safety and appliance efficiency.
TOP PICK
2 Piece Kit: Hose Attaches to Vacuum Cleaner + Long Brush
Clean out lint often. Plus clean behind appliances & gaps in sofa.
5. Refrigerator Coil Cleaning: The 35% Energy Drain
Your refrigerator’s coils help expel heat. When coated in dust, they force the compressor to work harder, increasing energy bills and shortening appliance lifespan.
The efficiency impact: Dirty coils can increase energy use by up to 35% and, over time, can lead to costly repairs or replacement.13
Your simple solution:
- Check your manufacturer’s guidelines; many recommend cleaning every six months.
- Locate coils behind or at the bottom of the unit and use a vacuum or coil brush to remove dust and debris.
- Keep condenser fan areas unobstructed.
This $0 DIY task can trim your electricity bill—and prevent early breakdown.
TOP PICK
Multi-purpose Cleaning Tool Kit, Under/ Behind Large Appliances
Qaestfy Under & Behind Appliance Cleaning Tool
Ultra Slim Design for Tight Spaces: Easily glides under refrigerators.
6. Garage Door Lubrication: Prevents Costly Repairs
A squeaky garage door means friction—and friction leads to wear on moving parts, costly spring damage, and failed openers.
The mechanical reality: A new garage door opener can cost between $350-$1000 installed, but a can of lubricant only costs about $10.14
Your annual routine:
- Check the manufacturer’s guidelines to choose the right lubricant for your garage door.
- Prioritize safety: Ensure the door is fully closed and cut the electricity.
- Check for any signs of damage before proceeding, and call in a pro if needed.15
This simple task eliminates squeaks and avoids expensive mechanical repairs.
POPULAR
Contact Your Garage Door Manufacturer for Lubricant Product to Use on Your Door!
Amazon Recommended Garage Door Lubricants
WD-40 can’t be used on everything. Check the door’s recommendations.
7. Seal Window & Door Cracks: Stop Drafts & Moisture
Air leaks around windows and doors, or water leaks around tubs and sinks, may seem small—but over time, they can lead to higher energy bills, mold, rot, and even structural damage. Whether it’s a chilly draft in winter, rain blowing in through a tiny crack, or bugs crawling inside, sealing gaps is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to protect your home.
Cracks around doorframes and window trim can develop over time as materials shift or caulk deteriorates. Reapplying caulk or weatherstripping helps prevent air, water, and bug intrusion—and saves you from costly repairs down the line.
The Pros Say:
Sealing gaps can cut heating and cooling costs by up to 20%.6 Mold remediation from water seepage can cost homeowners an average of $2,500–$6,000, while water damage repair can exceed $7,500 if left unchecked.24,25
Your Action Plan:
- Inspect windows and doors each season for visible gaps, loose caulk, or crumbling weather seals.
- Use outdoor caulk or expanding foam sealant to seal exterior gaps or cracks near foundations, outdoor outlets, and pipe entry points.
- Similarly : Re-caulk tubs, showers, sinks, and kitchen counters every 1–2 years or when discoloration or mold appears.
This small effort—just a weekend DIY project—can save energy, protect against water intrusion, and help you avoid thousands in long-term damage repair.
TOP PICK
Most Popular INDOOR Latex Caulk w Silicone, Waterproof Sealant
DAP Alex Plus Acrylic Latex Caulk
Excellent flexibility & adhesion. Easy to apply & clean. Dries quickly.
8. Chimney Cleaning: Preventing House Fires
According to the National Fire Protection Association, the leading cause of home heating fires (30%) is a dirty chimney.16
The fire prevention imperative: Professional cleaning costs between $100-$350 and is crucial for anyone burning wood.17 The cost of ignoring this task includes chimney repairs and fire damage that can devastate homes.
Your annual safety check:
- Hire a certified chimney sweep for inspection and cleaning, if needed.
- Use only seasoned wood to reduce creosote buildup.
- Install a chimney cap to block debris and critters.
Professional chimney maintenance is a non-negotiable safety investment.
TOP PICK
Cleaner & Scrub Brush for Brick, Stone, Rock, Tile, & Marble
Quick N Brite Fireplace Cleaner Kit for Inside Home
Heavy-duty, safe, non-abrasive gel cleaner swiftly removes soot, creosote, ash
9. Roof Inspection: Protecting Your Shelter
Your roof endures a lot—storms, sun, pests—and while damage may start small, it can become unbelievably costly if ignored.
The structural stakes: A professional inspection averages $239, but some roofers will offer one for free.18 Roof repair costs have surged 28.47% year-over-year.19 A new roof now costs $9,500 on average.20
Your inspection process:
- Twice per year, perform a DIY inspection for missing shingles, cracked flashing, and sagging areas.
- Check your attic for stains or leaks after rainfall.
- Consider a professional inspection every 1-2 years, depending on your risk factors.18
Early intervention prevents thousands in repairs and helps retain resale value.
TOP PICK
Heavy Duty, Aluminum, Light Weight, Telescopic, Stabilizers
SocTone Telescopic Aluminum Extension Ladder 12.5′
Easy portability & storage. Steps – smart locking pins. High quality.
10. Water Pressure Monitoring: Protecting Your Plumbing
Many homeowners never check their home’s water pressure, but levels above 80 psi can damage pipes, appliances, and fixtures throughout your home, leading to premature failures and leaks.
The pressure problem: Water pressure that’s too high can damage your pipes and lead to expensive repairs or flooding. Pressure that’s too low can impact the performance of your faucets and appliances.21
Your annual check:
- Use a water pressure gauge connected to an outdoor faucet.
- Ideal pressure: 40-60 psi. Install a regulator if it runs high.
- Monitor for sudden changes that could signal a plumbing issue.21
This small check helps you avoid hidden damage to your entire plumbing system.
TOP PICK
Water Pressure Gauge Regulator Hand Adjustable Knob, No Lead.
Water Pressure Gauge & Regulator Test & Change PSI With Hand
High quality brass material, test & easily change pressure, 3/4″ thread.
Creating Your Home Maintenance Schedule
Rather than reacting to emergencies, create a proactive yearly plan. Here’s a chart for home maintenance that puts it all in one place:
The Maintenance Investment Reality
Maintained homes, with consistent maintenance routines, sell for around 10% more than average.2 More importantly, budgeting 1–4% of your home’s purchase price annually helps prevent sudden, catastrophic expenses.22
As Lucas Puente, Economist at Thumbtack, notes: “Across the U.S., buyers should be prepared to spend at least a few thousands a year in home maintenance costs.”23
Bottom line
Proactive home maintenance isn’t optional—it’s essential. The ten hidden tasks above are often overlooked, but they’re critical to preserving your home’s safety, energy efficiency, and resale value.
Ultimately, your home is an investment. Consistent upkeep helps you avoid emergencies, save on utilities, and protect your equity for the long term.
Ready to create a tailored maintenance plan for your home? We can connect you with trusted local service pros and show you how proactive upkeep contributes to your home’s market value. Let’s talk about keeping your home in peak condition—and protecting one of your most valuable investments.
Sources
- Finance Buzz
- Thumbtack
- This Old House
- This Old House
- Forbes
- HVAC.com
- New York Times
- Today’s Homeowner
- Home Depot
- Angi
- National Fire Protection Association
- Home Advisor
- U.S. Department of Energy
- Angi
- Lowes
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
- Today
- Angi
- Bankrate
- Nerdwallet
- The Spruce
- Home Guide
- Zillow
- HomeAdvisor.com
- Forbes
