6 kitchen items not worth spending money on, say experts
There’s no denying that the kitchen is one of the most expensive rooms to renovate. And while there are certain things to splurge on, interior designers say there are some kitchen items not worth spending money on.
So many things go into your kitchen ideas, but it’s easy to get carried away. Whether you’re in the process of designing your space or want to give an existing scheme an update, it’s important to know which elements are worthy of luxury, and which are likely to be a waste.
To find out the kitchen items not worth sending money on, we’ve asked interior designers to weigh in – and their advice is sure to save you a few dollars.
6 kitchen items not worth spending money on
From desired luxuries that aren’t as functional as you might have thought to unnecessary additions, there are a lot of kitchen items these days that you’ll probably regret. Remember to always weigh up the cost versus how useful it is – and how often you’ll actually use it.
1. Warming drawers
(Image credit: Becky Shea Design)
Some kitchen appliances can seem like a handy addition, but it’s important to weigh up whether it’s something you’re really going to get much use out of, or if it’s something that’s going to be left unused for long periods.
‘Warming drawers can feel like a luxury, but unless you’re regularly hosting large gatherings, they often go underutilized. In most kitchens, they end up taking up valuable space that could be used for much-needed kitchen storage,’ says interior designer Becky Shea.
Instead, invest in a hardworking oven that has multiple uses. ‘Your oven can perform the same function, making the drawer redundant unless you have a consistent need for it,’ she adds.
2. A built-in coffee maker
(Image credit: Shani Core, Matt Horton)
Integrating your appliances is nothing new – a fridge hidden behind a cabinet door can make a scheme feel more seamless. But some items don’t need to have the built-in look – and certainly aren’t worth buying into.
‘Another temptation difficult to resist is a built-in coffee maker that can set you back a couple of thousand dollars when a chic stand-alone one is just as useful. After all, it’s the quality of the coffee that really matters,’ says Miami-based interior designer Ania Agárdy.
There are so many coffee makers that look stylish on your countertops, so it seems a shame to hide them. For a balance of style and function, look to models that perform well and suit the aesthetic of your kitchen.
Technivorm Moccamaster KBGV Select
Reviewed by our experts as the best for drip coffee, the Technivorm Moccamaster KBGV Select comes in 24 colors, so there’s something to suit every kitchen scheme.
If it’s speed you’re after, Nespresso’s Vertuo Next is a great choice. There are a couple of colors and metal finishes to choose from if you want to match your kitchen hardware.
De’Longhi La Specialista Maestro
For a true coffee shop experience, the De’Longhi La Specialista Maestro is sure to add luxurious style to your kitchen.
3. Pot fillers
(Image credit: Becky Shea Design)
If you’re an avid cook, you’ve probably considered introducing a pot filler into your kitchen. Offering a direct water source to pots while they’re on the hob, it seems like an endlessly useful feature, but it’s not quite as practical as you might think.
‘Pot fillers may look stylish and convenient, but they often come with unnecessary costs, both in installation and upkeep. Beyond the added plumbing, they can require regular maintenance and are prone to leaks,’ says Becky.
And while you may think the ease of water access justifies the cost, Becky warns that they don’t help with all of your heavy lifting problems. ‘Plus, they don’t solve the issue of having to carry heavy pots back to the sink for draining, so their practicality is often overstated.’
Instead, design a kitchen layout that factors in the flow between your hob and sink. The classic kitchen triangle layout can be really helpful in these instances.
4. A steam oven
(Image credit: Jennifer Barron)
Kitchen appliances are always investments, so choosing the best models is always a priority. But as an increasing amount of small appliances become popular and recommended, it’s important you make informed decisions about the ones you need and those you don’t.
‘Don’t feel the need to splurge on every advanced kitchen gadget or appliance. I have a steam oven that I never use. Before purchasing any high-end appliance, ask yourself what features you really need and will use,’ says Claudia Dorsch, founder of Claudia Interiors.
Instead, consider kitchen gadgets or small appliances that offer something your other existing ones don’t. Perhaps an air fryer is a missing piece to your kitchen, or maybe a stand mixer is a more useful addition to the way you use your space.
5. Juicers
(Image credit: Becky Shea Design/Jake Shea Photography)
On the topic of small kitchen appliances, you absolutely don’t need to spend money on every popular gadget that trends. You’ll just end up with kitchen countertops cluttered with items you never use. And for Becky, a juicer is one not worth purchasing.
‘I totally get the appeal of a juicer – it looks sleek, and having one just feels like you’re making a healthy choice. But before you invest, consider whether you’ll truly commit to using it.’
Consider whether this is an appliance you will use before purchasing. ‘They can be bulky, take up counter space, and cleaning them can be a chore. More often than not, they end up stored in a cabinet once the initial excitement fades,’ Becky adds.
6. Matching appliances
(Image credit: Neptune)
It can be tempting to invest in every appliance to make sure they match, but you really don’t need to replace existing appliances for purely aesthetic reasons. Instead, invest in the main appliance you use the most, and then integrate your fridge and dishwasher so they blend in with your cabinetry.
‘When it comes to appliances, I recommend a mix-and-match approach. Focus on investing in the one or two items that matter most to you. For instance, if cooking is a passion, a high-quality cooker or extractor hood can make all the difference,’ says Claudia.
‘But for less visible appliances like the dishwasher or fridge, consider more budget-friendly options. You can even integrate these appliances seamlessly by cladding them with door fronts that match your cabinetry, so their appearance blends into the design.’
Whether you’re someone who can’t stop buying the latest small appliances or you love an extra luxury in your kitchen, make sure you check on designer advice before adding one of these kitchen items you’re likely to regret spending money on.
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