Whether you love cooking or loathe it, one thing is for sure: by the time you’re over 50 you will have accumulated a whole ragbag of different kitchen items, some of which will date back many, many years. Be honest now, how much of your kitchen kit was actually given to you as a wedding present, or dates from the days when your children were small?
Although you may be emotionally attached to a few items, most of it will just be “stuff” that takes up room, attracts dirt, and which you don’t particularly like.
Surveys show that like the clothes in our wardrobe we only use a small percentage of all the items we have, the rest is rarely if ever brought out and often can’t be found it you do need it.
This being the case, deciding to chuck out the clutter and equip your kitchen to meet your needs now is a splendid way to feel reinvigorated and to create a wonderful feeling of space.
The starting point is to decide what you actually need to meet the requirements of your lifestyle now.
Creative cook or fast-food fixer? Now you’re older, depending on your way of life and family situation you may find yourself spending more or less time in the kitchen.
If you love cooking and entertaining you may find that you have a little more time to spend on creating delicious meals and treats for your family and friends. If you have grandchildren, you may be enjoying teaching them how to cook and to love food through learning how to prepare it.
But, on the other hand, perhaps you cook less now. You may be eating out more, away more often, spending more time pursuing your (non-cooking related) hobbies and interests, and relying more on quick snacks, takeaways, tins, and the microwave.
Choice for your lifestyleSo start by keeping a diary for a week of what you eat and more important, which bits of kitchen equipment you use. The results will show that some items like the kettle, toaster, or frying pan are likely to be heavily utilised. So are they due for an overhaul?
Replacement items can be amazingly inexpensive and attractive these days - or if you like designer brands with lots of bells and whistles, you can indulge yourself and really go to town. The point is that the choice is enormous. Shopping online means you’ll probably also get the best price with delivery right to your door.
Outside of these basic items, think adventurously. Research the market for new items and new designs. For example, if you like to bake, silicone baking equipment is a fantastic development.
There are many great websites offering amazing ranges of kitsch, cute or convenient kitchenware in classic and contemporary styles. So why not treat yourself or at least start dropping hints for your next birthday presents?
Click here for more information for the over 50s from in my prime.
