Top 10 Essential Kitchen Tools For Your College Dorm
KITCHEN TOOLS FOR COLLEGE DORM – Here are the top kitchen tools that you should bring to your college dorm.
I have nothing against instant ramen, but the era in which they were the exclusive choice for college students residing in dorm rooms, lacking time or energy to make their way to the cafeteria, has long passed. Our perspective on cooking without a kitchen has evolved, and the technology to facilitate quick and convenient meals without relying on extensive kitchen appliances has progressed accordingly.
Whether you or your college-bound child are moving into a freshman dorm or a small college apartment with a less-than-ideal kitchen setup, there are certain essential kitchen tools and equipment that can enhance the situation.
This compilation encompasses cooking tools and compact kitchen appliances that are generally permissible within a college dormitory, while also acknowledging items that might not be allowed due to their electric cooking components, like air fryers and toasters. It’s advisable to consult your school’s student handbook or dormitory regulations before making any purchases.
Top Kitchen Appliances for College Dorms
Kitchen utensil set
While you might not require everything in this set while still in a dorm, it’s a practical choice to keep around for the following year when you move off-campus and need to equip a full-fledged kitchen.
GE Air-Frying Microwave
If your school permits it, the GE air-frying microwave is an extremely suitable appliance for a dorm room. It performs all the functions of a standard microwave and offers convection modes for toasting, roasting, and air-frying foods that aren’t suited for microwaving, such as chicken wings, leftover pizza, and French fries.
NutriBullet Personal Blender
We prefer personal blenders over traditional ones due to their smaller size. The blending container also functions as a cup, and it include lids that transform them into portable cups. This enables you to enjoy your smoothie on the way to class or while you’re stationed at the kitchen island with your laptop.
Frigidaire mini fridge
Unless your dorm room already comes equipped with a fridge and freezer, it’s essential to invest in a mini version – it’s a necessity. Even if your dorm room used to be your childhood bedroom or located in the basement, having a dedicated space for snacks is quite convenient.
Zwilling cool-touch electric kettle
Among the electric kettles we tested, the Zwilling model claimed the top position. It’s an ideal addition to your dorm room, serving well for brewing tea, pour-over coffee, and preparing instant noodle cups. Boiling water in under three minutes, the Zwilling kettle also includes an automatic shut-off feature in case you forget to turn it off.
Galanz retro microwave
Beforehand, check whether your dorm room is already equipped with a microwave. If not, opt for a compact version and ensure that all your plates, bowls, and mugs are safe for microwave use. To adhere to standard dorm safety guidelines, choose a small microwave with 700 watts of power or less. This chic model with a retro oval window is available in three colors, injecting vibrancy into an otherwise mundane dorm setting.
Keurig K-Mini pod coffee maker
For those inclined towards pod-style coffee makers, the K-Mini stands as Keurig’s most popular and compact offering.
Reusable silverware
Utensils are a dorm room essential, but it’s a good idea to go for a set that’s easy to pack, especially if you intend to have lunch or dinner outside in the quad or at a friend’s place. This stainless steel set comes with a storage case to prevent forks and spoons from scattering.
Instant Vortex mini air fryer
If your school permits the use of air fryers and toasters (or you’re moving off-campus), you’re in luck. This compact, robot-like oven allows you to quickly prepare all your favorite fried classics – wings, fries, tots, mozzarella sticks, empanadas, and chicken – without the mess of oil. A 2-quart air fryer is an ideal fit for a dorm or small kitchen, and the digital presets incorporate a 60-minute auto-shutoff function for safety.
Instant Pot 3-quart pressure cooker
An Instant Pot is a no-brainer if your school permits it, and the 3-quart model is ideal for compact areas (and those who might not want to deal with five pounds of pulled pork at once). Use the effective, little multicooker to prepare quick meals and batch-cook protein for the week.