Cooking in a student apartment can be tricky: busy schedules, sudden cravings, and maybe a few too many takeout nights. But the right tools can make all the difference. Whether you’re living in Kingston student housing for the first time or looking to upgrade your off-campus kitchen at Unity Place & Unity Point, a few smart gadgets can turn quick meals into something worth savoring. From time-saving helpers to gadgets that make cooking more fun, here are our top picks for kitchen essentials every student should have.
1. Electric Kettle
Whether you’ve just moved into your first student apartment in Kingston or you’ve been here a while, an electric kettle is a total game-changer. Morning tea before class? Check. Late-night coffee before a study session? Double check. It’s the kind of gadget you’ll use almost every day without even thinking about it.
Pro tip: Look for one with an auto shut-off, perfect for those days when your brain is juggling assignments, group projects, and laundry all at once.
2. Non-Stick Frying Pan
If your kitchen skills start and end at “egg,” this is your ride-or-die. Scrambled eggs, grilled cheese, stir-fry — you name it, this pan can probably handle it. Less oil, less mess, and a lot less time scrubbing means more time for, well, anything else.
Pro tip: Skip the metal utensils unless you like the “ruined pan” aesthetic. Wooden or silicone spatulas keep it looking new longer.
You may also be interested in: Tips for Hosting an Apartment-Friendly Game Night because cooking is more fun when you can share it with friends.
3. Mini Rice Cooker or Multi-Cooker
This set-it-and-forget-it gadget is perfect for busy students. Sure, it makes perfect rice, but also soups, oatmeal, steamed veggies, and even cake (yes, cake). Great for healthier meals without hovering over the stove.
Pro tip: Batch rice, portion it, and freeze it — you’ll thank yourself on those hectic midterm nights when cooking feels impossible.
4. Immersion Blender
Small but mighty, this handheld hero makes smoothies, creamy soups, pasta sauces, and pancake batter a breeze. It’s portable, easy to clean, and doesn’t take up much storage space — ideal for student apartments in Kingston where a quick meal before classes can make all the difference.
Pro tip: Blend directly in your pot or mug to skip extra dishes — because no one likes a sink full of “I’ll wash it later” bowls.
5. Cast Iron Skillet
For the more experienced cooks in Queens University off campus housing, a cast iron skillet opens the door to next-level dishes. From perfectly seared steaks to homemade pizza and crispy roasted veggies, it’s a chef’s dream in one heavy-duty pan. With proper care, it lasts for decades — maybe even longer than your degree.
Pro tip: Season it well and avoid soap when cleaning; warm water and a stiff brush are all you need to keep it non-stick and ready for action.
Ready to Level Up Your Apartment Living?
Check out Unity Point and Unity Place offering modern student apartments in Kingston with everything you need to cook, study, and relax, all in one place.