10 Purchases That Set My New Kitchen Up for Success and Changed the Way I Cook

When I moved states last year, I promised myself I would finally invest in my kitchen. I’m not talking about stocking up on Le Creuset Dutch ovens or buying expensive outdoor grills. One of the many perks of being a recipe developer is that I own most of these things already. No, I’m talking about products that help with flow and functionality. This move was my chance to take chef’s knives out of drawers and flour out of open bags. It was my chance to set myself, and my kitchen, up for success. 

That’s exactly what I did. Read on to find the 10 products that have made me a safer and more efficient cook. Plus, some of my favorite picks are up to 70% off for a limited time.   

Best Kitchen Purchases 

• OXO Good Grips 8-Piece Baking Essentials Container Set, $68 
• Emile Henry Large Storage Bowl, $165
• Le Tauci Set of 2 Utensil Holders, $19, originally $30
• Hereof 18-Inch Magnetic Knife Strip, $20
• Copco Non-Skid 3-Tier Spice Rack, $10, originally $33
• Dorai Home Dish Pad, $95
• Le Creuset 8-Ounce Stoneware Mini Round Cocotte, $22, originally $32  
• T-Fal 4-Pack of Premium Waffle Dishcloths, $8
• Gorilla Grip Anti-Fatigue Cushioned Kitchen Floor Mat, $43, originally $60
• Simplehuman 55-Liter Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can, $180, originally $200 

OXO Good Grips 8-Piece Baking Essentials Container Set 

Before I moved, I stored my dry goods in their original bags. After years of cleaning up spills and throwing out spoiled flour, I finally got myself a set of storage bins to hold everything. This bundle by OXO comes with five rectangular airtight containers in different sizes, a brown sugar saver, and two 1/2-cup scoops. They stack easily, keep my ingredients fresh, and are dishwasher-safe.     

Emile Henry Large Storage Bowl 

I had my eye on this ceramic storage bowl for years before I finally bought it, and I’m so glad I did. The lid is made of cork, which is supposedly a natural deterrent to fruit flies, while the base is made of a gorgeous Burgundy clay. I store things like bananas and lemons on the top level and sweet potatoes and onions in the cellar-like atmosphere underneath. It comes in two sizes, but I recommend the larger version for its impressively wide surface area.  

Le Tauci Set of 2 Utensil Holders 

I have three utensil holders in my kitchen. They sit on my counter and keep all of my many, many, many whisks, peelers, and Microplanes from clogging up my drawers. This set is especially useful because its two different sizes allow me to separate my larger utensils from my smaller ones. Over 750 shoppers recommend this brand, noting that the crocks are “excellent quality” and great for organization. 

Hereof 18-Inch Magnetic Knife Strip 

Much to my embarrassment, I used to store my knives — think cleavers, chef’s, paring, bread, etc. — in a single drawer. It was an absolute nightmare trying to extract one without getting cut, and I promised myself I would come up with a better alternative when I moved. After doing research, I decided to buy a magnetic knife strip that I could attach to my wall. While I don’t have this exact version, I do have one this same length. I also have the word of over 870 happy customers who “can’t say enough good things” about it. 

Copco Non-Skid 3-Tier Spice Rack 

I have an undeniable love of spices but limited cabinet space in my kitchen, so this three-tiered shelf by Copco has been a total game changer for me. Each level is 15 inches long and can easily fit at least seven spice jars. That’s 21 jars total. You would think it would be difficult to find the spice I want to use, but the step design makes it easy. More than 18,900 customers have given this product five-star ratings, citing quality and price as major pluses. It’s 70% off at Amazon right now, so act quickly before it sells out.          

Dorai Home Dish Pad 

I fell hard and fast for this dish pad. The three stones are encased in food-grade silicone that can be taken off for easy washing. It's collapsible, so I can fold it up and store it behind my sink when I don’t need it, but it’s also pretty enough to display without ruining the aesthetic of my kitchen. And I love that I never have to worry about spills because the diatomaceous stones are absorbent and quick to dry. I was so obsessed, I bought Dorai’s bath mat for outside of my shower.  

Le Creuset 8-Ounce Stoneware Mini Round Cocotte 

While you can certainly use Le Creuset mini cocottes to make individual portions of French onion soup or chicken pot pie, I use mine as salt cellars. They provide easy access to the salt within and they look adorable on my counter. It’s a win-win. Grab one for yourself while they’re 31% off.    

T-Fal 4-Pack of Premium Waffle Dishcloths

You can never have enough kitchen towels, and my recommendation is to get the absolute cheapest ones you can find to clean up your most disgusting messes because they’re undoubtedly going to stain. These dishcloths by T-fal are thick and sturdy, meaning they clean well and hold up to multiple cycles in the washing machine. Since this four-pack costs less than $8, I recommend adding multiple to your cart now.  

Gorilla Grip Anti-Fatigue Cushioned Kitchen Floor Mat

If you’re cooking as often as I am, you need a little cushion under your feet. Enter this anti-fatigue floor mat by Gorilla Grip. Voted “Best Overall” in our lab’s tests, this easy-to-clean and highly durable mat relieves pressure on my lower back. The 32 by 20-inch option is perfect for most home kitchens, but it comes in a variety of sizes if you’re working in a larger or smaller space.   

Simplehuman 55-Liter Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can 

And last but not least, I treated myself to this Simplehuman garbage can. With it, I never have to worry about unpleasant odors because the stainless steel keeps them trapped inside. This is a good thing because at 55 liters (or 14.5 gallons) my dumpster runs have decreased dramatically. I was hesitant at first because it felt like a lot to spend on something that holds literal trash, but I knew it would be a worthwhile purchase — and it was. Lucky for you, it’s 10% off at Amazon right now, so there’s never been a better time to buy one for yourself.