Inside my kitchen: Functional Favorites
I practically live in my kitchen.
It’s where family mornings start, where coffee saves the day, where memories are made, AND where I’m constantly cleaning something up. Because of that, I’m very intentional about what I keep in this space.
I don’t do clutter, gimmicks, or things that only look good online. If something earns a permanent spot in my kitchen, it’s because it actually makes life easier, holds up to daily use, and is worth the money. I’m a quality coded girl.
These are my functional kitchen favorites. Real-life approved, from a VERY lived-in kitchen.
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Everyday Appliances That Earn Counter Space
These are not impulse buys. I researched & waited to get my hands on these babies. These are tools that support our routine and save time long-term.
KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer
This is one of those items I don’t use every single day, but when I do, it makes a huge difference. From baking to mixing to prepping, it’s reliable, sturdy, and does exactly what it’s supposed to do. It’s heavy, yes! but that’s why it lasts.
Why it earns a spot: durable, powerful, multi-use
Best for: home baking, meal prep, consistency
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Nespresso Vertuo Machine
At this point of my life, Coffee is non-negotiable in this house. This machine is simple, fast, and gives me a good cup without turning it into a whole production. My girl is one of those “press a button and move on” type of tools, which I appreciate on busy homeschool mornings.
Why it earns a spot: quick, reliable, minimal effort
Best for: daily coffee without the café chaos
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Amazon Echo Show
Okay, Ms. girl here may not look like a “kitchen essential,” but she absolutely is for us. Timers, music, reminders, recipes, and background noise while I’m cooking or cleaning, my echo keeps things moving.
Why it earns a spot: multitasking support
Best for: busy kitchens, routines, hands-free help
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Coffee & Drink Setup (Real Life, Not Aesthetic Perfection)
Clear Plastic Cups with Strawless Lids
I’m choosing one set here intentionally. These get used constantly… for iced coffee, drinks, and everything in between. They’re practical, easy to grab, and I don’t stress if one gets lost or messed up.
Why it earns a spot: convenient, lightweight, no babysitting
Best for: daily drinks, kids around, real life
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Nespresso Descaling & Cleaning Kit
This is one of those unglamorous but necessary things. If you’re investing in a coffee machine, maintaining it matters. This keeps it running well and tasting right.
Why it earns a spot: protects the investment
Best for: extending appliance life
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Cleaning & Maintenance That Actually Works
A functional kitchen isn’t just about tools—it’s about keeping them clean and usable.
O-Cedar EasyWring Spin Mop
This mop does what it needs to do without overcomplicating things. Easy to wring, easy to store, and effective. I’ve tried others, I always come back to this one.
Why it earns a spot: efficient, low effort
Best for: quick cleanups, daily messes
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Bee’s Wax Old World Formula Polish
This is one of those products you don’t realize you need until you use it. It keeps surfaces looking good without harsh chemicals and makes a noticeable difference. It’s THE BEST CLEANER. Pricey but my house will never be without it!
Why it earns a spot: gentle, effective
Best for: maintaining wood and finished surfaces
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Why I Share This List
I’m intentional about what I recommend because I know how frustrating it is to waste money on things that don’t hold up. Everything here is something I actually use, rely on, and would replace if it broke.
If you want to see everything in one place, I’ve linked my full
Inside My Kitchen: Functional Favorites Amazon list below.
👉 [Shop the full list here]