Kitchen Essentials You Never Expected to Love
Some kitchen essentials are universal—but then there are the random, everyday items can make a kitchen run smoother than any fancy appliance ever could. From Rubbermaid glass containers for storage, cookware and serveware to a compact air fryer that saves both time and counter space, these little workhorses have earned their permanent spots in many daily routines. Let’s not forget the overlooked heroes too, like the steamer and kitchen sink strainer and stopper. Suddenly, cooking and cleaning feel less like a chore and more like a well-oiled system. These items and more make the list of kitchen essentials you never expected to love. This post contains affiliate links to Amazon. If you click a link and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you.
Rubbermaid Brilliance Glass Food Storage Set with Lids
Rubbermaid Brilliance glass food storage containers are great for meal prep and leftovers. They and feature crystal-clear, odor-resistant lids that are 100% airtight and leak-proof with vented, microwave-safe designs for splatter-free reheating. The space-saving, modular glass containers are oven-safe up to 450°F, doubling as cookware and serveware, and they stack neatly for easy storage. They are also BPA-free and dishwasher- and freezer-safe. Available in 6 sizes.
Pull-Out Trash Can Sliding Organizer for Kitchen Cabinet or Under-Sink Use (Bin Not Included)
This pull-out trash can slide features an adjustable design that fits various bins. The 10 1/8” width fits in under sink cabinets with limited space. Its PROGLIDE system with reinforced crossbars prevents sagging and maximizes space, finished in polished, anti-rust chrome with a lifetime limited warranty. The patented EASY MOUNT design and alignment guide make installation quick and frustration-free with no measuring required.
CHEFMAN Compact Air Fryer, 2 Qt, Nonstick, Dishwasher Safe Basket, BPA - Free, Black
Achieve crispy, healthy fried results with little to no oil using a temperature range of 200°F–400°F while using at least 98% less oil than traditional fryers. This compact personal air fryer saves counter space and offers versatile cooking with manual temperature control and a 60-minute timer. With a nonstick, dishwasher-safe basket and built-in safety features, it’s easy to clean, safe to use, and perfect for small kitchens and everyday meals.
Two-Pack, Two-Tier Organizer for Spices
This compact two-pack, two-tier organizer (12.4"D x 7.5"W x 10.6"H) stores your spices perfectly on the counter or in a pantry. Each double-layer rack includes two clear pull-out drawers and four adjustable dividers for easy, customized storage. Made of durable ABS plastic with stainless steel supports and non-slip silicone bases, it’s built to stay sturdy, waterproof, and rust-resistant.
Tovla Jr. Kid Safe 3-Piece Kitchen Knife Set for Real Cooking, Montessori & STEM Cooking Tools
These real cooking tools for kids safely cut fruits, veggies, cheese, and more, helping children build confidence and develop real kitchen skills. Designed for ages 4+, the lightweight, BPA-free 3-piece set grows with your child and encourages independence, healthy habits, and hands-on learning. Trusted by families and educators and dishwasher-safe, Tovla Jr. makes cooking fun, educational, and a great way to bond together in the kitchen.
Sink Protector for Kitchen Sink, Shields Sink Base from Scratches, Rust-Resistant Coating
This durable sink protector helps prevent scratches and keeps your sink looking like new while protecting delicate dishes from chips and cracks. Made of metal with a rust-resistant coating, These easy-to-clean sink protectors make everyday maintenance effortless. Sized at 16 x 12.3 x 1 inches, they fit most sinks for reliable protection.
Oster Sangerfield 11-Inch Stainless Steel Everyday Cookware Pan with Steamer and Lid
This set includes an 11-inch stainless steel everyday pan with a removable steamer insert and a tempered glass lid. Its mirror-polished construction resists stains and odors, while the encapsulated base promotes even heat distribution for sautéing, simmering, boiling, steaming, and more. Compatible with gas, electric, and ceramic stovetops (not induction), it offers healthy steaming options for vegetables, fish, dumplings, and family-favorite meals.
Three in One Kitchen Sink Drain Strainer and Stopper Combo
The kitchen sink drain strainer features a durable 304 stainless steel body and a food-safe polypropylene basket with a flexible pop-up design and foldable handle for easy use and cleaning. Designed to fit standard 3.5-inch U.S. sink drains, it offers a versatile 3-in-1 function that allows water storage, straining, and odor isolation with leak-proof sealing. The upgraded spring-loaded stopper enables quick switching between filling and fast drainage, while the anti-clogging basket efficiently catches debris for a cleaner, low-maintenance kitchen.
Gorilla Grip DuraGuard Ribbed Shelf Liner
The Gorilla Grip DuraGuard ribbed shelf liner offers a strong, superior, non-adhesive grip that keeps dishes and items securely in place while preventing slipping and bunching. Its 100% waterproof, BPA-free design protects shelves and drawers from scratches, stains, and everyday wear, and it can be easily removed, cleaned, and reused without residue. Simple to trim and install, it refreshes any space—from kitchen cabinets to pantries and work areas—with durable, long-lasting protection.