We all know what a kitchen is but what exactly is a kitchenette? To help you better understand what is meant by this term, we looked into the differences between the two. From room size to the number of appliances, read on to discover exactly what a kitchenette is and which is better for your home.
What is a Kitchenette?
Most simply put, a kitchenette is a smaller more simplified version of a kitchen. They have smaller and fewer appliances to keep them compact. They are commonly found in apartments where space is limited, short-term rentals and in-law suites. While you can certainly cook in a kitchenette, they are designed to cook simple meals usually for one person. Kitchenettes are ideal for people who don’t need a full kitchen for cooking or entertaining large groups.
What is a Kitchen?
A kitchen is a separate room in the home, fully equipped with standard appliances such as a fridge, stove, oven and sometimes a dishwasher. Kitchens can also sometimes include a dining area. The biggest benefit is the amount of space that you can use to prepare elaborate meals and entertain guests. While kitchens can come in any size, it’s the type of appliances that qualify it as a real kitchen.
What’s the Difference Between a Kitchen and a Kitchenette?
The biggest difference between a kitchen and a kitchenette is the amount and type of appliances it has. A kitchenette commonly does not have an oven as the appliance is too big. Instead, it may have a hotplate or similar device. While a kitchenette should come with a fridge, it’s likely either a bar fridge or a skinny fridge. It’s more common to see various countertop cooking devices such as a slow cooker or Instant Pot to prepare meals in a kitchenette.
Which is Better for Your Home?
If you’re renting an apartment with a kitchenette, think about how much you cook. Do you need a full kitchen set up to make your grandma’s famous pineapple upside-down cake? Or are you more likely to buy from a store? If not having a full-size kitchen to clean sounds like a dream to you, go for the unit with the kitchenette. You’re also likely to save money not having to pay to power full appliances.
On the other hand, if the thought of not having access to all of your appliances sounds awful to you, you’re better off sticking with a full-size kitchen. Some of us love spreading out our ingredients and getting creative in the kitchen. If you’re an aspiring home cook or just like having the option to be one, a full kitchen is your best bet.
Depending on where you live, the size and set up of your kitchen might not be up to you. If you’re renovating your space and are considering downsizing to a kitchenette, make sure you’re comfortable with the limitations. At the end of the day, your home and your kitchen should work for you. If something isn’t working, you can always connect with a kitchen renovation pro to help you out. Whether you opt for a compact kitchenette or a full-size kitchen, make sure it’s one you love.
