Essential Kitchen Items Every Airbnb Host Should Stock

As an Airbnb host, one of your goals is to make your guests feel at home, and a well-stocked kitchen is key to achieving that. Whether your guests are preparing a gourmet meal or just making a quick snack, a fully equipped kitchen will enhance their stay and help you receive positive reviews.

From basic dinnerware to essential cooking tools, here’s a comprehensive list of kitchen items you should have in your Airbnb property. These will not only meet your guests' needs but also make their cooking experience seamless and enjoyable.

1. Full Plates & Quarter Plates

A variety of plate sizes will cover all dining needs. Full-sized plates are essential for main meals, while quarter plates are perfect for appetizers, snacks, or smaller portions. Stock at least four to six of each size to accommodate different guest preferences.

2. Bowls

Bowls are a must-have for everything from salads to soups, cereal, or even a simple snack. Aim to have a set of large bowls for meals and smaller ones for desserts, sides, or dips.

3. Tall Glasses & Wine Glasses

A set of tall glasses for water or juice is essential, but don’t forget wine glasses for guests who want to unwind with a drink. Whether it's a glass of wine or a cold beverage, providing the right glassware adds a thoughtful touch.

4. Coffee Mugs

Coffee is a universal comfort, and having plenty of coffee mugs is non-negotiable. Whether your guests prefer coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, a well-stocked mug collection will make them feel at home.

5. Cutlery: Spoons, Forks, & Serving Spoons

Every guest needs the basics—spoons and forks. Be sure to have enough for each guest (at least 4-6 sets). Don’t forget serving spoons for family-style meals or shared dishes, as well as a set of knives for cutting and preparing food.

6. Knife Set

A good-quality knife set is essential for any kitchen. Include a sharp chef's knife, a paring knife for smaller tasks, and perhaps a serrated knife for bread. A well-maintained knife set will make meal prep easier for your guests.

7. Strainer & Bottle Opener

A kitchen strainer is useful for rinsing fruits and vegetables, draining pasta, or sifting dry ingredients. A bottle opener is a must-have for guests enjoying a cold beer or soda—don’t leave them scrambling to find one!

8. Scissors

Kitchen scissors are incredibly useful for everything from cutting open packaging to snipping herbs or even cutting a pizza. These multifunctional tools are essential for a fully stocked kitchen.

9. Dough Parat, Tawa, & Chakla

For guests who enjoy Indian cooking or baking, a dough parat (a round flat board for kneading dough), a tawa (a flat skillet for making roti or pancakes), and a chakla (a rolling board) will be invaluable additions to your kitchen.

10. Belan & Chimta

For preparing traditional Indian flatbreads like roti or naan, a belan (rolling pin) and chimta (tongs) are essential tools. These items are often overlooked, but they can elevate the cooking experience for guests who are used to these traditional tools.

11. Non-Stick Pan & Kadhai

A non-stick pan is perfect for making eggs, pancakes, or delicate foods that might otherwise stick to the pan. A kadhai, on the other hand, is essential for deep frying, making curries, or stir-fries, especially for guests who enjoy Indian or Asian cuisines.

12. Cooker & Tea Maker Pot

For those who enjoy cooking rice, dals, or stews, a pressure cooker is a must-have. Similarly, a tea maker pot is a great addition for guests who prefer to brew fresh tea or coffee during their stay.

13. Kettle

A good-quality kettle is indispensable for boiling water quickly, whether it’s for tea, instant coffee, or even for preparing instant noodles. Ensure your kettle is easy to use and holds enough water for multiple cups of tea or coffee.

14. Cooking Oil Bottle

Always have a bottle of basic cooking oil (vegetable, sunflower, or olive) on hand. This is essential for guests who plan to cook meals and need an oil option to fry, sauté, or bake.

15. Kitchen Roll Stand

A sturdy kitchen roll stand and a good supply of paper towels are essential for cleanliness. Guests will appreciate having paper towels to clean up spills, wipe down counters, or dry their hands.

16. Tea, Sugar, & Coffee Box

Guests will appreciate having easy access to tea, sugar, and coffee. Stock a small box or container with packets of tea bags, sugar, and coffee, along with a spoon for measuring. This small touch can make a big difference to guests who enjoy a morning cup of tea or coffee.

17. Chopping Board

A good chopping board is essential for food prep. You may want to have both a wooden and a plastic chopping board on hand—plastic ones are easier to sanitize, while wooden ones are often preferred for chopping veggies and fruits.

18. Wooden Spoon Set

Wooden spoons are gentle on cookware and provide a classic, rustic feel to your kitchen. They're perfect for stirring sauces, soups, or stews, and they won't scratch your non-stick pots and pans.

Bonus Tips for Kitchen Organization:

• Storage: Ensure there’s plenty of cabinet and counter space for guests to store their groceries. Clear, labeled containers for dry ingredients like rice, pasta, and flour can help guests feel more at ease.

• Cleanliness: Make sure all kitchen tools are clean, well-maintained, and free of food residue. This will help your guests feel comfortable using them.

• Additional Conveniences: If you have space, you could also offer basic items like a toaster, microwave, blender, or sandwich press—small appliances that add value for guests who may prefer convenience over elaborate cooking

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Conclusion:

A kitchen well-stocked with the essentials will leave your guests impressed and ensure they feel at home during their stay. By investing in high-quality, durable kitchen tools and appliances, you'll create an inviting space that encourages guests to cook, dine, and enjoy their time at your property. Remember, the key is to provide everything your guests need, whether they’re preparing a simple meal or getting creative with a more elaborate dish. With the right kitchen setup, you’ll be on your way to earning great reviews and repeat guests!