Kitchen setup: what cookware and appliances do guests actually use?

Category: Design & Furnishing

By: Michael Thompson

Posted: 2026-01-14T11:03:46.289Z

I initially over-stocked my kitchen — spiralizer, juicer, waffle maker, fondue set, etc. After 50+ turnovers, most of these items are never used and just take up cabinet space. For hosts who've been at it a while: what kitchen items do guests ACTUALLY use? And what can I remove to simplify my kitchen?

Reply by David Okafor:

After tracking what gets used and what doesn't across 100+ turnovers: **Used by 80%+ of guests (essential):** - Coffee maker (Keurig or drip — Keurig is easier for guests) - Microwave - Basic pots (1 small, 1 large) - Basic pans (1 non-stick 10" skillet) - Cups, mugs, glasses - Plates, bowls - Silverware - Cutting board and knife - Colander - Baking sheet (for oven heating) - Can opener, bottle opener, wine opener - Measuring cups - Dish soap and sponge - Paper towels - Salt, pepper, olive oil, cooking spray **Used by 30-50% of guests (include but don't over-invest):** - Toaster - Blender (smoothies) - Rice/grain cooker (depends on market demographics) - Mixing bowls - Full knife set - Tupperware/storage containers - Corkscrew/wine tools - Ice cube trays **Used by <10% of guests (remove or don't bother):** - Waffle maker - Juicer - Food processor - Spiralizer - Fondue set (lol) - Instapot / pressure cooker - Stand mixer - Specialty items (mandoline, avocado slicer, etc.) The 80/20 rule applies hard here. 20% of kitchen items get used 80% of the time. Keep those in the open/accessible spots and minimize the rest.

Reply by James Wu:

I'd bump the toaster and blender to essential tier. Especially the toaster — EVERY guest wants toast for breakfast and it gets mentioned in negative reviews when it's missing. The one appliance I'd add that's worth the cost: a **Nespresso machine** ($150-200). It sits there looking premium, the pods are portion-controlled (no messy grounds), and guests treat it like a perk. "Loved the Nespresso!" shows up in my reviews regularly. I spend ~$0.70 per pod, leave 6-8 per stay.

Reply by Jake Anderson:

For families with kids (a huge Airbnb demographic): having a high chair and booster seat available is mentioned positively in reviews way more than you'd expect. I keep them in a closet and mention "high chair and booster seat available" in my listing. Families specifically choose my property because of this. Also: plastic cups and plates for kids. We keep 4 of each in a lower cabinet. Parents appreciate not worrying about their toddler breaking a glass.