Amenities can go such a long way toward helping make your short-term rental guests feel more at home. If you’ve been following along, you’ve already seen our general list of basic amenities for your vacation rental as well as an article on must-have bathroom amenities.
Let’s keep going with our top, must-have kitchen amenities!
Functional Appliances
A well-equipped kitchen starts with functional appliances that cater to all of your guests’ needs.
When it comes to refrigerators, try to find a spacious model with plenty of storage. Many people opt for a rental property over a hotel so they have the freedom to make meals at home to save a little cash. You need to make sure there is enough room in the fridge for everything they’ll need!
Deciding between a gas or electric oven and stove depends on your preferences and property. As a note, gas appliances are more precise and have faster cooking times, while electric options are known for even heating and easy maintenance.
In addition to these essentials, you’ll also want to add a microwave in case your guests do go out for meals and want to heat up leftovers — or water for a cup of tea.
Cooking Utensils and Tools
High-quality cooking utensils and tools will make cooking at home easier. Invest in a full cookware set that includes pots, pans, and skillets of various sizes instead of using your STR as a catchall for pots and pans you no longer use. Long gone are the days of guests who accept a 20-year-old skillet that looks like it’s about to fall apart. There are tons of affordable cookware sets available online!
Knives and sturdy cutting boards are also key for meal prep — make sure your kitchen is stocked with a selection of knives (that are actually sharp) that can be used for slicing, dicing, and chopping. A durable cutting board made from wood or plastic can help keep your countertops safe too.
You’ll also need the right utensils for serving. Spatulas, ladles, tongs, and serving spoons can all really come in handy.
Dining Essentials
Equipping your property with the essentials is all about predicting what your guests may need and ensuring you have everything they could possibly ask for! A complete dinnerware set including plates, bowls, and cups is one of those essentials. No paper plates, please, and choose a set that’s dishwasher-safe to make cleanup easier on them.
A variety of glasses and cups can also be helpful. Wine glasses, tumblers, and mugs will cater to guests who want to enjoy everything from their morning cup of coffee or tea to evening drinks while they’re on vacation.
Complete your must-have dining arsenal with a selection of forks, knives, and spoons. Double-check you have enough to accommodate the maximum number of guests you can host — meaning if your property sleeps four, have four sets — plus a few extras in case anything gets dirty or broken.
Small Appliances
Your kitchen is only as functional as the small appliances you stock it with are! A coffee maker or espresso machine is a must-have for most travelers, and you’ll also want to invest in an electric kettle for your tea or instant coffee drinkers. You may also consider stocking up on a selection of complimentary coffee and tea too.
A toaster or toaster oven is another essential appliance for preparing quick and easy breakfasts and snacks. An air fryer would bring your property from ordinary to extraordinary and give your guests even more opportunity to cook at home.
And if you really want to cater to thrifty guests who plan to make all of their meals, consider providing a blender or food processor.
With a kitchen setup like this, they’ll be able to whip up any type of meal they like.
More Kitchen Amenity Inspiration
Go the extra, extra mile to ensure your kitchen is fully equipped with additional amenities that will make your property even more comfortable for your guests.
No one ever said no to a dishwasher — it will also come in handy when cleaning between bookings. Include dishwasher detergent so they don’t have to worry about going out to buy some.
Proper garbage and recycling bins will also make cleaning easier on you and give guests the option to dispose of cardboard, aluminum, and glass in a more environmentally friendly way.
Finally, stocking the pantry or cabinets with basic cooking ingredients — think rice, pasta, flour, sugar, oil, basic seasonings, and the like — ensures your guests have everything they may need to cook at home. It’s small efforts like this that will help you earn those 5-star reviews.
By investing in any of the must-have kitchen amenities above, you can create a welcoming and functional space that sets your property apart from the competition and ensures a better experience for your guests!
This content originally appeared in our twice-monthly Guest Book newsletter.
