If you're interested in replacing your current kitchen appliances, there are a few things to consider before you purchase. In this article, we're sharing a few tips so you know how to choose the right kitchen appliances. How to Choose the Right Kitchen Appliances You are going to spend a lot of time in your kitchen and, well, it is safe to say that you are going to want your kitchen to do some work for you while there. After all, we live in the modern ages that give us conveniences and privileges of gas or electric appliances to handle all of our cooking needs. But, there are so many on the market, right? How do you know which appliance is the right one for your kitchen? How do you know it will give you everything you could ask for and more? Whether you are building a new kitchen, remodeling, or just looking to upgrade your appliances, there is a good chance you’ve got a lot of questions like these. Well, there are a few things that you’d have to take in mind. For instance, your kitchen design style, the layout and size of your kitchen, the features you are looking for, and more. Together, we are going to explore all of these and more so that you can make sure you are choosing the right appliances for your kitchen. Here's how to choose the right kitchen appliances. Determine Your Kitchen Design Style There are so many different design styles so you can be certain that you will find the one that feels right for you. For instance, here are some of the most popular: Modern Country farmhouse Cottage Contemporary Industrial Coastal Mediterranean Traditional Elegant and luxurious Being able to determine your design style will, of course, allow you to be able to choose your perfect appliance. We want to let you in on a little secret though. Ready? Stainless steel appliances fit with nearly every design style. So, if you are not quite sure what style you want just yet – or if you want appliances that will change with your style preferences – then opting for stainless steel may be just what you need. Layout and Size of Your Kitchen If you have some choice over the size or layout of your kitchen, then great! This may be for new construction or remodels. For others, perhaps you already have your kitchen so you know exactly what you are working with – and need appliances to fit the space specifically. There are 3 popular layouts for kitchens: Galley kitchens. For smaller spaces, this type of kitchen is formed between two walls. It provides a straight walkway through the kitchen without much extra. Though, they do provide very efficient workspace. L-shaped kitchens. As its name suggests, this layout is L-shaped. Designed much like a galley kitchen, it also has a curve at one end to provide additional space. U-shaped kitchens. Larger kitchens are often found to be U-shaped. Again, as its name suggests, it is the shape of the letter U. This layout generally comes with three walls for appliances, cabinets, countertops, and more. The main idea of how your kitchen is set up is to remember the work triangle. This is the imaginary triangle that is formed between your prep/sink area, your range, and your refrigerator. You can move freely while cooking and easily access everything as you need it. Either way, the layout and size of your kitchen will determine the right appliances you can choose. For instance, in a galley kitchen, depending on the space between sides, you have to make sure there is enough space for, say, the refrigerator door to swing open or the oven door to pull down. Keep this in mind as you move forward with your search. What You Want from Your Appliances Take some time to think about what you want from your appliances. In other words, are you planning to get use from them and start cooking large dinners for family and friends? Do you have a large family that uses the appliances every day? Do you do minimal cooking in the home? Are you looking for something that is of a versatile finish that will move with you through design changes? Are you looking for elegant, pro-style appliances that are both durable and beautiful? Appliances are not created equal. And, heading out on a search without taking time to consider what it is you are looking for in an appliance can leave you easily swayed. And, truth be told, you may find yourself with an appliance you don’t even like. Take a look at your cooking/kitchen habits, your design style, the layout and space available in your kitchen – but also learn about available features and what you do/don’t like. Appliance Size Matters When it comes to appliances, the size of your appliance matters. Bigger is not always better. And, some smaller appliances may end up being just that – too small. The way you go about this is going to depend on your situation. Obviously, if you are designing your kitchen from the get-go, then you have the ability to create the space around the appliance, if you wish. The same holds true for most remodels. But, if you are looking to replace your old appliances with new, upgraded versions, then you need to carefully consider the measurement. Be sure to measure the space allotted for the appliance – length, width, and height. And, always allow a little space around it so that you can have proper airflow around the appliance. Keep in mind that you need to measure doors and such so that you have room to open them, as mentioned above. Appliance Specifics Finally, we have a few tips for specific types of appliances. Refrigerators: Consider how much food you will need to store and how organized you want that food to be. Some refrigerators may look nice, but don’t offer you the convenience of adjustable storage or ample space. Range: Consider the amount of cooking space you will utilize. You can find stovetops with 4 burners or as many as 6 and a griddle. Knowing the type of fuel you prefer helps, too. Dishwasher: Are you looking to save energy and get a wash suited to your dish load? Then look for that. When it comes to choosing the right kitchen appliances for your home, you need to take the time to reflect on how you currently use your kitchen – or how you desire to do so. From there, buy what fits and feels right.
