15 Best Housewarming Gifts for the Kitchen 2025

15 Best Housewarming Gifts for the Kitchen 2025

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Welcome to our ultimate guide to the best housewarming gifts for the kitchen! Finding the perfect present for a new home can be tricky, but we've curated a fantastic selection of kitchen essentials to help them settle in. Whether your loved one is a seasoned chef or a casual cook, you'll find inspiration and ideas ranging from essential gadgets and stylish decor to practical must-haves that will transform their kitchen into the heart of their new home. This guide specifically features the best kitchen-related housewarming gifts available in 2025, making it easy to find the perfect item to celebrate their new chapter.

Essential Kitchen Appliances for Any Home

Must-have appliances to equip a new kitchen and streamline cooking tasks for new homeowners.

Breville Smart Grinder Pro

Coffee lovers will appreciate the Barista Express Impress, an espresso machine feature-rich yet compact enough for most kitchens. Its unique Impress™ Puck System guarantees consistent pressure during brewing, complementing the quick heat-up Thermocoil system. Rated 6.5/10, it offers precise coffee grind control through an integrated 25-setting conical burr grinder. The machine is bulkier and the steam wand less potent, but for true enthusiasts, it creates café-grade beverages with ease.

Material:Stainless Steel
Dishwasher Safe:false
Oven Safe:false
Cookware Compatibility:Electric
Warranty:1

What We Like

  • Consistent grind quality across most grind sizes.
  • Large 60-setting range for precise adjustments.

Room for Improvement

  • Removable hopper and grind container require hand-washing; dishwasher use is not recommended.
  • Can produce more fines at very coarse grind settings, affecting French press or cold brew extraction.
  • Higher price than basic grinders.
Cuisinart Maker Vertical Waffle

For waffle enthusiasts, the Vertical Waffle Maker is a must-have kitchen gadget, marrying space efficiency with performance. In our review, it garnered a 7/10 score due to its compact design and quick heating capabilities, perfect for creating golden, even waffles. However, cleaning difficulty and precise batter requirements present some challenges, but its revolutionary design still ensures delightful breakfast experiences in any new home.

Material:Non-stick
Dishwasher Safe:false
Oven Safe:false
Cookware Compatibility:Electric
Warranty:3 years

What We Like

  • Produces deep-pocket Belgian-style waffles with consistent browning once you learn batter amounts.
  • Vertical upright design saves counter space and makes storage easier.
  • Includes indicator lights and audible alerts for doneness.

Room for Improvement

  • Learning curve for pouring the correct batter amount can cause overflows.
  • Plates are non-removable, making certain cleanups more difficult if batter hardens.
  • Some users report occasional leaking or uneven cooking with thicker batter.
Our Place Wonder Oven 6-in-1 Air Fryer Toaster Oven

The Wonder Oven combines versatility with space-saving convenience, boasting functionalities like air frying and steam infusion for healthier, flavorful meals. While it scored a 6/10 in our review due to durability concerns and usability issues with the control knobs, its quick preheating and compact design make it a valuable addition to smaller kitchens. This oven is ideally suited for those who seek efficiency in modern cooking, despite its need for careful knob handling.

Material:Stainless Steel
Dishwasher Safe:false
Oven Safe:false
Cookware Compatibility:Electric
Warranty:1

What We Like

  • Compact, stylish design that fits well on small countertops.
  • Fast preheat and efficient 360-degree air circulation for quicker cooking.
  • Includes steam-infusion feature that helps keep foods moist.

Room for Improvement

  • Control markings and analog dials are imprecise and can make timing tricky.
  • Accessories and trays are not dishwasher-safe and may stain with repeated use.
  • Compact interior size limits capacity for larger families or big roasts.
Fellow Stagg EKG Pro Electric Kettle

Coffee and tea lovers will appreciate the Fellow Stagg EKG Pro electric gooseneck, a standout housewarming gift that earned an 8/10 in our testing for precise temperature control and a sleek stainless-steel design that looks premium on the counter. The high-resolution color display, built-in timer, scheduling, and temperature-hold made morning brews effortless, and at $199.95 (Best Buy) it competes with higher-end smart kettles—though pricier than basic goosenecks. We did note occasional firmware/app update hiccups and some long-term reliability reports, but the 2-year warranty and hand-wash-only care help ease concerns.

Material:Stainless Steel
Dishwasher Safe:false
Oven Safe:false
Cookware Compatibility:Electric
Warranty:2 years

What We Like

  • Precise, variable temperature control suitable for coffee and tea brewing.
  • High-resolution color display with timer, scheduling, and temperature-hold options.
  • Sleek, professional stainless-steel design that looks premium on a countertop.

Room for Improvement

  • Firmware and app updates have caused connectivity or update failures for some users.
  • Some owners report the kettle stopping heating or developing reliability problems after about a year.
  • Relatively expensive compared with basic gooseneck kettles.
Ninja Foodi Smart 6-in-1 XL Indoor Grill

Grill, air fry, roast, and more with the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill & Air Fryer, an 8.5/10-rated marvel in our guide for its versatility and capacity. Ideal for family meals, it can handle up to six steaks with ease. The Smart Cook System ensures perfect doneness, although cleaning can be tricky and its size requires ample storage space. Despite these drawbacks, its multifunctionality and ease of achieving restaurant-quality results make it a valuable kitchen addition.

Material:Non-stick
Dishwasher Safe:true
Oven Safe:false
Cookware Compatibility:Electric
Warranty (years):1

What We Like

  • Built-in smart thermometer helps achieve consistent doneness without guesswork.
  • Multiple cooking functions (grill, air fry, roast, bake, broil, dehydrate) increase versatility.
  • Removable nonstick accessories are dishwasher-safe, simplifying cleanup of parts.

Room for Improvement

  • Large footprint can be cumbersome in small kitchens and difficult to store.
  • Some users report the grill plate can stick with certain foods over time.
  • The built-in thermometer and electronics add complexity and potential repair points.
SMEG 4 Slice Toaster

The SMEG 4-Slice Toaster looks fantastic on a new counter, but with a 4.5/10 score it's more about style than performance in our testing. We liked the wide, deep slots and bagel/defrost/reheat modes, yet uneven toasting with raw corners and a somewhat plasticky feel at this price held it back. It's covered by a 2-year warranty. If design is the priority, it's a statement piece; otherwise, better-performing toasters deliver more consistent browning for less.

Material:Stainless Steel
Dishwasher Safe:false
Oven Safe:false
Cookware Compatibility:Electric
Warranty:2

What We Like

  • Attractive retro design that makes a strong visual statement on the counter.
  • Wide, deep slots accommodate thick or long slices and bagels easily.
  • Includes bagel, defrost and reheat functions for versatile use.

Room for Improvement

  • Some users report uneven toasting and raw corners on certain breads.
  • Build can feel plasticky to some buyers despite premium price.
  • Relatively expensive compared with many other 4-slice toasters.
Zojirushi Micom Rice Cooker Warmer

For a set-it-and-forget-it upgrade, the Zojirushi Micom Rice Cooker is our top-rated pick at 10/10 thanks to consistently fluffy, perfectly cooked rice in our review. The detachable inner lid and included steaming accessories make cleanup and weeknight sides easier, though cycles can run longer than budget models. Its nonstick inner pan may wear over time, but replacements are available, and the 1-year warranty covers the basics. If they value reliability and results, this is a housewarming slam dunk.

Material:Non-stick
Dishwasher Safe:false
Oven Safe:false
Cookware Compatibility:Electric
Warranty:1

What We Like

  • Consistently produces well-cooked, fluffy rice.
  • Includes a detachable inner lid and accessories for easier cleaning and steaming.

Room for Improvement

  • Cooking cycles can be longer than some budget models.
  • Inner nonstick pan may wear over time and is a replaceable part not covered long-term.

Stylish Kitchen Decor to Brighten Spaces

Elevate the kitchen's aesthetic with beautiful and functional decor items for their new space.

Estelle Colored Glass Stemless Wine Glasses (Set of 6)

For an elegant, ready-to-gift set, Estelle's hand-blown stemless wine glasses scored 7/10 for their heirloom-quality look and entertaining-friendly mixed colors. During our review, the six vibrant hues made it easy for guests to keep track of drinks and instantly elevated a tablescape. Expect hand-wash-only care and no warranty, and the $170 price is higher than many mass-market sets. If your recipient values craft and color over convenience, this set will wow at every dinner party.

Material:Glass
Dishwasher Safe:false
Oven Safe:false
Cookware Compatibility:Ceramic
Warranty:0

What We Like

  • Hand-blown colored glass gives a distinctive, heirloom-quality look that dresses up tablescapes.
  • Comes as a mixed set of six vibrant colors, useful for entertaining and gift-giving.

Room for Improvement

  • Care instructions specify hand wash only, so they are not dishwasher-friendly.
  • Higher price point compared with many mass-produced colored glass sets may be prohibitive for some buyers.

Practical Kitchen Gadgets for Efficiency

Innovative tools and gadgets that simplify cooking and make meal prep a breeze.

MEATER Wireless Meat Thermometer

The MEATER wireless probe is a modern gift for grillers, earning 6.5/10 in our guide for its convenience and cleanup. We found the multi-sensor design nailed core temps, and both the stainless-steel probe and charging block are dishwasher-safe; the probe is also oven-safe for roasts. Be aware Bluetooth connectivity can be finicky and contacts must be kept clean, and it's pricier than wired options. Fast partial charging helps on busy nights, reaching about 50% in roughly 15 minutes.

Material:Stainless Steel
Dishwasher Safe:true
Oven Safe:true
Cookware Compatibility:Gas
Warranty:1

What We Like

  • Provides multi-sensor internal temperature readings for more accurate core-temperature measurement.
  • Probe and charging block are dishwasher-safe, making cleanup easier than many wired probes.
  • Fast partial charging — reaches about 50% charge in roughly 15 minutes for long cooks.

Room for Improvement

  • Some users report intermittent Bluetooth connectivity and disconnection issues during cooks.
  • Probe charging and connectivity can be sensitive to residue or grime on the contacts.
  • Higher price point compared with basic wired or instant-read thermometers.
Thermapen ONE ThermoWorks

Serious cooks will love the Thermapen ONE, which scored 8.5/10 for best-in-class speed and accuracy in our testing. We consistently saw readings in about one second with a tiny margin of error, and its IP67 waterproof build shrugged off splashes. While it's not dishwasher safe and some users report occasional power quirks over time, the five-year warranty helps. It costs more than bargain thermometers, but the performance easily justifies the spend for precise grilling, roasting, and candy work.

Material:Plastic
Dishwasher Safe:false
Oven Safe:false
Cookware Compatibility:Induction
Warranty:5 years

What We Like

  • Extremely fast readings—reports of temperature displayed in about one second.
  • High accuracy with a very small margin of error suitable for precision cooking.
  • IP67 waterproof rating makes it resistant to splashes and short submersion.

Room for Improvement

  • Priced significantly higher than many other instant-read thermometers.
  • Some users report occasional power/turn-on inconsistencies after extended use.
  • Not safe to put in a dishwasher despite being water-resistant.
Zwilling 2-Pc Set Electric Salt/Pepper Mill

Enhance your seasoning game with the ZWILLING Enfinigy Salt/Pepper Mill Set, a perfect blend of style and functionality. Its rechargeable design—complete with a USB cable—frees you from disposable batteries, while the automatic light ensures precise seasoning. In our review, it scored a respectable 7.5/10, though some users mentioned charging issues and noise. Still, if you're after a sleek, user-friendly set that brings a touch of elegance to mealtime, this is a sound choice.

Material:Plastic
Dishwasher Safe:false
Oven Safe:false
Cookware Compatibility:Electric
Warranty (years):3

What We Like

  • Rechargeable USB-powered battery that holds a charge for extended use.
  • Quiet, push-button operation with an adjustable grind dial from fine to coarse.

Room for Improvement

  • Small spice chambers mean more frequent refills compared with traditional mills.
  • Some users report durability issues and limited availability of replacement parts.
Digital Scale Escali Primo

If they bake or meal-prep, the Escali Primo is a handy starter scale that scored 6/10 in our guide. In our testing it was accurate down to 1 gram, the slim design stashed neatly in a drawer, and the sealed controls wiped clean after spills. Trade-offs include no milliliter readout for liquids, an 11-pound max capacity, and some durability complaints; coverage is a 1-year warranty. While not feature-rich, it's a reliable, compact pick for small kitchens and precise portions.

Material:Plastic
Dishwasher Safe:false
Oven Safe:false
Cookware Compatibility:Electric
Warranty:1

What We Like

  • Accurate measurements down to 1 gram, good for baking and portion control.
  • Compact, slim design stores easily in small kitchens or drawers.
  • Sealed control panel and easy wipe-clean surface resist spills and crumbs.

Room for Improvement

  • Does not measure liquids in milliliters, limiting use for liquid recipes.
  • Some users report durability issues with units failing after months of use.
  • 11-pound maximum capacity may be insufficient for very large bowls or heavy items.
Alessi Stainless-Steel Pepper Mill

Elevate culinary aesthetics with the 9098 pepper mill, a high-end accessory that blends style with durability. Crafted from resilient stainless steel and scoring 6.5/10 in our review, it delivers consistently on visual appeal but might not outperform in practicality due to its cost and functional quirks, like the detachable top ball. Nonetheless, for those who value design and robustness, this mill offers a refined way to enhance the flavor profiles of any dish.

Material:Stainless Steel
Dishwasher Safe:false
Oven Safe:false
Cookware Compatibility:Electric
Warranty:2

What We Like

  • Durable 18/10 stainless-steel body gives a premium, polished look.
  • Distinctive plastic fins (wings) provide an iconic designer appearance.

Room for Improvement

  • Some users report the top fin/knob can break with regular use.
  • Higher price point compared with basic pepper mills.

Premium Cookware Sets for Culinary Enthusiasts

High-quality cookware sets that will last for years and enhance their cooking experience.

Our Place Always Pan 2.0

The Always Pan 2.0 is a versatile kitchen staple, perfect for new homeowners seeking an all-in-one cookware solution. Made from 100% certified post-consumer recycled aluminum, this pan champions sustainability, while its built-in spoon rest offers convenient use. Despite earning a 7/10 in our review due to non-stick limitations and the need for hand washing, its oven-safe design and stylish appeal make it a thoughtful gift for those who appreciate longevity and eco-friendly practices.

Material:Non-stick
Dishwasher Safe:false
Oven Safe:true
Cookware Compatibility:Induction
Warranty:1

What We Like

  • Oven-safe up to 450°F for stovetop-to-oven cooking.
  • Induction-compatible, so it works on modern cooktops.

Room for Improvement

  • The ceramic nonstick coating can lose slickness and show staining over time.
  • Manufacturer recommends hand-washing; not dishwasher-safe for preserving the coating.

Useful Kitchen Tools for Everyday Use

Essential kitchen tools that make food prep easier for everyday meals and cooking.

Viking 8-Piece Stainless Steel Utensil Set

The Viking 8-Piece Kitchen Utensil Set is a durable option for any culinary enthusiast, though it scored 6.5/10 in our review due to its slightly bulky design. Crafted from 304 stainless steel with ergonomic handles, this set ensures a comfortable cooking experience, even for prolonged periods. While spatula chamfering is lacking, affecting delicate food handling, its seamless design makes cleaning a breeze, proving to be a reliable and long-lasting kitchen companion.

Material:Stainless Steel
Dishwasher Safe:true
Oven Safe:true
Cookware Compatibility:Gas
Warranty:lifetime

What We Like

  • Made from durable 18/8 (304) stainless steel for long-lasting corrosion resistance.
  • Seamless, mirror-polished construction makes the set easy to clean and hygienic.

Room for Improvement

  • Utensils are relatively long and may not fit in smaller dishwasher racks.
  • Handles do not have hanging holes, limiting storage options for some kitchens.
OXO Good Grips 2-Piece Cutting Board Set

Outfitting a new kitchen? The OXO Good Grips 2-Piece Cutting Board Set is a practical, budget-friendly pick at $27.99, and the two boards make it easy to separate raw meats and produce. In our testing, the non-porous plastic surface was easy to clean and dishwasher-safe, while rubberized feet prevented slipping during chopping. It scored 7.5/10—on par with other solid options here—offering knife-friendly durability and simpler upkeep than many wood boards. The trade-off is that plastic can develop cut marks that trap food particles, so plan periodic scrubs and rotating sides.

Material:Plastic
Dishwasher Safe:true
Oven Safe:false
Cookware Compatibility:Electric
Warranty:0

What We Like

  • Non-porous plastic surface is easy to clean and is dishwasher-safe.
  • Rubberized feet help prevent the board from sliding during use.

Room for Improvement

  • Plastic surface can develop cut marks over time that may trap food particles.
Los Angeles Acacia Wood Cutting Boards

Elevate meal prep with the Sonder Los Angeles Acacia Wood Cutting Boards, a stylish and eco-friendly kitchen essential. With a score of 7.5/10, these boards offer durability and functionality, although care is needed to prevent surface scratching and maintain their appearance with regular oiling. The integrated finger grips and juice groove add to its practicality, making it a timeless housewarming gift for those who prioritize sustainable choices without sacrificing aesthetics.

Material:Wood
Dishwasher Safe:false
Oven Safe:false
Cookware Compatibility:Gas
Warranty:0 years

What We Like

  • Attractive acacia wood grain that looks upscale for gifting or serving.
  • Solid weight and sturdiness help the board stay in place during use.

Room for Improvement

  • Thick, heavy construction makes it harder to store in small kitchens.
  • Requires regular oiling and hand-wash care to maintain appearance.
Reviews
Microplane Classic Zester Grater

A small gift with big impact, the Microplane Classic Zester earned an 8/10 for razor-sharp performance at an accessible price. In our experience the photo-etched stainless-steel teeth made feathery citrus zest and fluffy Parmesan with minimal effort, and it's top-rack dishwasher safe for easy cleanup. Just handle carefully—the teeth are very sharp—and the narrow back can be fiddly to clean by hand. For cooks who love bright flavors, it outperforms bulkier graters while taking almost no drawer space.

Material:Stainless Steel
Dishwasher Safe:true
Oven Safe:false
Cookware Compatibility:Gas
Warranty:1

What We Like

  • Ultra-sharp, photo-etched stainless-steel blade produces fine, even zest and grating.
  • Compact, lightweight design is easy to store and maneuver.
  • Top-rack dishwasher safe for convenient cleaning.

Room for Improvement

  • Narrow back can be difficult to clean thoroughly by hand.
  • Very sharp teeth pose a cutting risk if handled carelessly.
Cangshan L Series 4-Piece Steak Knife Set

The L & L1 Series Steak Knife Set enriches any dining experience with its handcrafted German steel blades that promise long-lasting sharpness. An ideal gift for meat lovers, these knives, however, scored a modest 5.5/10 in our tests, primarily due to handle durability issues reported over time. Nevertheless, their ergonomic design and exceptional edge retention make them a substantial addition to any kitchen, delivering effortless, precise cuts for elegant meal presentations.

Material:Stainless Steel
Dishwasher Safe:false
Oven Safe:false
Cookware Compatibility:Gas
Warranty:Lifetime

What We Like

  • Forged X50CrMoV15 German stainless steel blades for good edge retention.
  • Hand-sharpened 16-degree edge per side for precise slicing of meats.

Room for Improvement

  • Some buyers report the knives feel light and less substantial in hand.
  • Not recommended for dishwasher cleaning; manufacturer instructs hand wash and dry.
Reviews
Hedley & Bennett The Essential Apron

Looking for a gift they'll actually use every day? The Hedley & Bennett Essential Apron earned a 7.5/10 in our guide for its pro-grade 100% cotton twill that stands up to heavy prep, plus smart pockets and a utility loop that keep tools handy. We found the adjustable neck and long waist straps deliver a dialed-in fit, and the lifetime warranty inspires confidence. Just note it isn't waterproof, and at $86 it's pricier than basics; avoid the dryer to prevent shrinkage.

Material:Plastic
Dishwasher Safe:false
Oven Safe:false
Cookware Compatibility:Electric
Warranty:Lifetime

What We Like

  • Durable, pro-grade 100% cotton twill construction built for heavy use.
  • Multiple pockets and utility loop provide practical storage for kitchen tools.
  • Adjustable neck and long waist straps allow a customizable fit.

Room for Improvement

  • Not waterproof—heavy liquids can soak through cotton if not treated.
  • Machine wash recommended but tumble drying may cause shrinkage or color transfer.
  • Price may be higher than basic aprons, which could deter budget buyers.