How to Choose Kitchen Appliances: 6 Relevant Tips

When choosing kitchen appliances, focus on two key questions: how they will function and how they will look in the interior. 

It's better to select equipment dimensions before starting renovation work, so that contractors can correctly install all necessary utilities. In the future, it will be convenient for everyone to use all appliances from an ergonomic perspective. 

1. Refrigerator

First of all, consider its size. The size determines how well the refrigerator fits into the kitchen dimensions. The depth and width may differ by just a few centimeters, but the height varies from 50 centimeters to 2 meters.

The most budget-friendly option is a low refrigerator that can be built into the countertop. The only drawback in some of these models is the lack of a freezer compartment. In such cases, buy the freezer separately and place it next to it. If the budget and dimensions allow placing a stationary refrigerator, there are several options for any taste: two-door, with the freezer compartment on top or at the bottom.

2. Stove

First, decide what kind of stove you need: freestanding or a built-in oven with a built-in range hood. The first type has several surface types: gas, electric, and induction.

The most modern one is induction. Induction burners heat up twice as fast as Hi-Light. They are more economical and safer, because you cannot burn yourself on their surface. With the PowerBoost function, the desired temperature is reached quickly and efficiently, which allows preparing dishes while saving time and electricity. The BridgeZone technology enables creating culinary masterpieces even with large cookware. Two burners merge into one heating zone with just one touch of the sensor. Perfect for cooking fish with rice and vegetables.

Gorenje EIT6351XPD Induction Stove

3. Range Hood

There are several types of range hoods. Wall-mounted ones are easy to install and mount above the stove or in a kitchen cabinet. Those who prefer a minimalist design should consider wall-mounted models. 

If the stove is in the center of the room, an island variant mounted on the ceiling will work. For those who have a separate stove and oven, tabletop models are ideal. They are installed vertically or at an angle in the countertop and extend only during cooking. 

Design: Julia Kalemie.

4. Dishwasher

When choosing a built-in dishwasher, consider the space for placement, select the design and finish. A clear advantage of this option is its size, which can hold from 8 to 16 sets of dishes. This same feature is also a disadvantage, as such appliances are better suited for open spaces.

If the kitchen is small, feel free to choose a countertop dishwasher. It takes up less space but is just as functional as a built-in one. This machine holds from 4 to 6 sets of dishes. The advantages of this model include lower cost, less electricity and water consumption. 

5. Small Household Appliances

All home gadgets, from a blender to a coffee machine, are considered small household appliances. Appliances are chosen individually, taking into account the needs of the person who will use them. If you have a small kitchen, buy only the most necessary items: for example, a kettle, coffee machine, and blender that can be used to make almost anything – from smoothies to meatballs.

If the space in your kitchen allows storing a large amount of appliances, you can acquire a waffle maker or any other appliance that is not essential but significantly simplifies cooking.

6. Specialized Household Appliances

Those who lead a healthy lifestyle will find a steam oven useful. Food in it is prepared using heated steam without additional fats, oil, or other additives. With this oven, you can also cook sous-vide dishes in special vacuum-sealed bags. 

Wine lovers can store their wines in a special wine refrigerator-cabinet. It creates conditions similar to a cellar, but it can be placed in your kitchen.

Design: Julia Kalemie.