Part 3: Essential Housewares & Appliances Every Homeowner Needs

Every dream home starts with the right essentials. A house may be built of walls and beams, but a home is made functional and comfortable by the housewares and appliances inside it. From the refrigerator that keeps your groceries fresh to the pans you cook your favorite meals in, these essentials form the backbone of daily living. In fact, choosing the right housewares and appliances is just as important as a solid remodeling plan, the two go hand-in-hand in creating a convenient and beautiful living space. At MGS Contracting Services, we’ve seen time and again that a successful remodel isn’t just about new walls or cabinets; it’s also about integrating the essential housewares that make life easier and more enjoyable.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk both new homeowners and seasoned renovators through the must-have items for every home. We’ll cover all the bases, major appliances, handy countertop gadgets, versatile cookware, bakeware for every occasion, everyday utensils, stylish tableware, cleaning tools for every floor, cozy linens, and smart tips to tie it all together. By the end, you’ll know exactly what essentials to invest in (and why), how to organize them in your newly remodeled space, and how MGS Contracting Services can help blend these items seamlessly into your home design. Let’s build the foundation of a functional, comfortable home together! Housewares Housewares

CREDIT: PINTEREST

8. Linens & Towels: Comfort Meets Functionality Housewares

We’ve talked a lot about the hard goods and gadgets, but a home’s comfort also relies on the soft goods, the linens. This includes everything from the bath towels that greet you after a shower, to the bed sheets you snuggle into at night, to the tablecloth you spread for a holiday dinner. Having the right linens and keeping them organized can make daily life more comfortable and even reduce stress (ever frantically search for a clean towel?, not fun). In this section, we’ll go over essential towels, bedding, and other linens every homeowner should have, tips on quantities and rotation to avoid laundry pile-ups, and some storage solutions like linen closets that can be integrated into your home (MGS can help make even your closets “guest-ready” and efficient). Housewares Housewares

Bath Towels and Bathroom Linens: Let’s start with the bathroom. Each person in the home should have a set of bath linens including bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths. A common guideline from home experts is to have 2 to 3 bath towels per person. Why multiple? Because usually one is in use while another might be in the laundry, and an extra on standby. You don’t want to be stuck with no dry towel! In practice, if you shower daily, you might use a towel for 2-3 days then swap. So having at least 3 each means you’re not forced to wash immediately. Also have at least one extra set for guests. For hand towels, each bathroom should have a couple so you can change them out mid-week (especially important for hygiene in a powder room or shared bath). Washcloths or face towels, these are small but nice to have a stack of, if you use them for face washing or in the shower. Consider materials: Cotton towels (Egyptian or Turkish cotton) are plush and absorbent. Quick-dry towels (often cotton blends or lighter weave) are thinner but dry faster and are good in humid climates or for gym. It’s really personal preference if you like a thick spa-like towel vs. a lighter one that might be easier to launder and store. One thing to avoid is super cheap towels that aren’t absorbent or that fray quickly, towels get heavy use, so mid to high quality is worth it. They’ll feel better and last longer. Remember to wash towels before first use to remove any finish and improve absorbency. Housewares Housewares

Bed Sheets and Bedding: Few things affect daily comfort like your bed. For each bed in your home (master, kids’ rooms, guest bed), you should have at least two sets of sheets, and ideally three. The classic rule: “One on the bed, one in the wash, and one in the closet”. This rotation means you’re never in a pinch waiting on laundry to remake a bed. If you have a guest room, two sets for that bed is usually fine (one on, one spare). What does a “set” include? Typically a fitted sheet, a flat sheet, and pillowcases (2 for twin/full/queen, 4 for king sometimes). Some people skip the flat sheet and use just a duvet cover, that’s personal preference and a modern Euro-style approach. It’s still good to have flat sheets for flexibility (hot nights, or as an extra layer). Sheet materials: Cotton is most popular (look for 100% cotton for breathability). There are different weaves: percale (crisp and cool), sateen (silkier), flannel (warm for winter). Thread count gets hyped a lot; anywhere from 300-600 thread count in good quality cotton is generally smooth, beyond that might be marketing or can make sheets less breathable. There are also linen sheets (luxurious and great for hot sleepers as they breathe well) and microfiber sheets (very affordable, wrinkle-resistant, but can sleep warmer since they’re polyester). Consider having a warmer set and a cooler set if you live in a climate with seasons (e.g., flannel for winter, percale for summer). Pillowcases: If you have extra pillows, get extra pillowcases. It’s nice to change pillowcases more frequently than sheets sometimes, because face oils and hair product can soil them quickly, some people swap pillowcases every few days. So having a few spares is good. Housewares Housewares

Beyond sheets: Blankets and Throws. Each bed likely needs a blanket or two (for layering under a comforter in winter or as the main cover in cooler weather). A lightweight blanket (like cotton or a thin quilt) and a heavy one (like a wool or fleece blanket) can cover the bases. Duvets/Comforters: Many use a duvet insert with different weights, maybe a summer lightweight and a winter heavy, or one all-season. If you do, have duvet covers to protect them (like giant pillowcases for your comforter), and at least two covers so one can be in laundry. Or if you use a quilt/bedspread style, ensure it’s washable or have a plan to keep it clean (like layering a flat sheet to reduce direct contact). Housewares Housewares

Pillows and Protectors: Not exactly linens, but related: have good sleeping pillows and replace them every few years (or use protectors to extend life). Keep a couple extra pillows for guests or for sitting up in bed. Pillow protectors (zipped covers under the pillowcase) and mattress protectors (water-resistant cover over mattress) are very useful to prolong mattress/pillow hygiene and life. Housewares Housewares

Table Linens: If you ever plan to dress up your table, some basic table linens come in handy: Housewares

• Tablecloths or Runners: For daily use, you might not use a tablecloth, but for a special dinner, a tablecloth can transform the dining table. Have at least one nice tablecloth that fits your dining table (measure it, including with any extensions if you’ll host big gatherings). A neutral color (white, ivory) is classic and can be dressed up with colorful napkins or centerpieces. A runner (a long narrow cloth down the center) is a more casual alternative, showing some table surface but adding a decorative touch. Great for rustic or modern looks. Housewares Housewares
  
• Placemats: These are useful for daily dining to protect the table from spills and heat, and add a pop of style. They’re easier to wash than a full tablecloth regularly. Have a set that matches your style (could be wipeable vinyl for kids, or woven fabric, etc.). They also define each setting nicely. Housewares Housewares
  
• Cloth Napkins: Even if you mostly use paper napkins day-to-day, having a set of cloth napkins for holidays or dinner parties is nice. They’re more eco-friendly and feel upscale. You can coordinate them with your tablecloth or contrast. Usually, 100% cotton or linen napkins work well and can be washed and reused for years. Have at least a dozen if you entertain, because napkins come in sets of 4 or 6 often, and you might want extras in case of stains or drop.
  
• Others: Possibly a set of napkin rings to hold cloth napkins (if you want to get fancy), and trivets or potholders (for putting hot dishes on the table). Those can be decorative too (wooden, woven, etc.). Also consider chair pads or covers if you have hardwood dining chairs and want a softer seat or to protect chairs from spills (especially with kids). Housewares Housewares
  

Other Household Linens: Housewares Housewares

• Kitchen linens: Don’t forget kitchen towels and dishcloths. You should have several dish towels (for drying dishes and hands in the kitchen) and dishcloths or sponges for washing. Dish towels can double as a cover for bread or a makeshift potholder in a pinch. They also often serve as decorative accents (people love cute prints or seasonal kitchen towels). Having about 4-6 kitchen towels in rotation is wise, they get dirty fast, and you want to grab a fresh one every day or two for hygiene. Also have a few pot holders or oven mitts (technically not linens, but stored in same area usually). A set of 2-3 oven mitts and a couple of pot holders (trivets) should suffice. Housewares
  
• Curtains/Drapes: If your remodel included new windows or if you have existing curtains, consider how they tie into your linen inventory. Washing curtains periodically is good (they can trap dust). If you have fabric shower curtains, same thing, have a liner that’s easy to wash or replace, and the outer curtain can be washed or at least spot cleaned.
  
• Miscellaneous: Depending on lifestyle, there might be picnic blankets, beach towels (if you have a pool or frequent beach trips, have a separate set of large beach towels that you don’t mind getting sandy/chlorine etc.). Also laundry hampers or baskets, not exactly linens but part of managing them. Each bedroom should have a hamper, and maybe separate ones for lights/darks if you’re really organized. Housewares Housewares
  

Building a Rotation System: We hinted at this with 2-3 sets idea. The goal is to avoid laundry stress by having enough linens that you aren’t forced into emergency laundry runs. For example: Housewares Housewares

• Sheets: Wash bedding ideally once a week or every two weeks. If you have 2-3 sets, you can strip the bed, put fresh ones on immediately from the closet, and launder the dirty at your convenience, not necessarily that same day. This means your bed is always made and you only do linen laundry when you have a full load to do. Housewares
  
• Towels: Many households do a “towel wash” weekly. If each person has 3 towels, they rotate through and by week’s end there’s a nice full load of towels to do (hot water wash to kill bacteria, especially if musty). Then you put those away and start using the others. Housewares Housewares
  
• Kitchen towels: Swap those every couple of days and have enough to toss into a hot wash load with other whites or towels.
  
• Table linens: After a dinner party, you don’t want to find out you have no clean napkins for the next event. Having extras and pre-treating stains quickly (wine, sauce) will save your linens. If something is badly stained or burned (like a scorched pot holder), consider repurposing it as a rag rather than keeping it in main use.
  
• Seasonal rotation: Some folks like flannel sheets only in winter, or lighter quilts in summer, etc. Store the off-season linens in a labeled bin or the top shelf of linen closet. When you swap, launder them so they’re ready to go when that season comes back.
  

Storage Solutions, Linen Closets and More: Storing linens properly keeps them fresh and accessible. A linen closet is a real asset. If you have one built into your hallway or bathroom, keep it organized by category: one shelf for sheets (perhaps label by bed size, twin, queen, etc.), one for towels, one for table linens, etc. Pro tip: store each sheet set folded inside one of its pillowcases, then it’s like a tidy package and you don’t have to hunt for matching pieces. For towels, stack by size (bath towels together, then hand towels, washcloths maybe in a basket). If you worry about humidity (especially in bathrooms), you can use cedar blocks or silica packs to keep linens fresh and avoid any musty smells.

If space is tight, use creative solutions: maybe under-bed storage bags for infrequently used extra linens or bulky blankets. In bathrooms with no closet, a bathroom cabinet or etagere can hold spare towels, or roll them spa-style in a basket. In a remodel, if a dedicated linen closet wasn’t possible, we sometimes create an oversized cabinet in a bathroom or laundry area that serves the same purpose. For example, tall cabinets above the washer/dryer can hold your stash of linens.

We strive to design “guest-ready” linen storage, meaning, things are so nicely arranged that if a guest needed an extra blanket or towel, they could find it themselves. It’s a good way to check yourself: could a stranger find what they need easily in your linen storage? If yes, you’re organized!

One trending idea is open shelving in bathrooms with neatly rolled towels on display, it looks inviting (like a hotel). Just be aware they might get dusty if they sit long. But if those are your everyday towels in rotation, they won’t sit long enough to dust.

Guest Linens: If you host overnight guests occasionally, have at least one or two sets of older sheets and pillows reserved for an air mattress or sofa bed if needed. Same with extra blankets. These don’t have to be your best, but clean and serviceable. Keep them stored together so grabbing “the guest setup” is easy.

Laundry Frequency and Care: Proper washing extends linen life. Use appropriate temperatures (hot water for white cotton towels and sheets, but warm or cold for colored to prevent fading). Use gentle cycles for delicate table linens. Avoid over-drying in the machine; it wears fibers out, better to slightly underdry and then hang or lay flat to finish (especially for anything with elastic like fitted sheets, heat can degrade elastic). And don’t overload the storage either, stuffing a linen closet tightly can impede air circulation and invite mildew if things were even a bit damp. If you live in a humid area, consider a closet dehumidifier or just open the door occasionally.

By having a well-thought-out collection of linens and a rotation system, you not only make your home more comfortable (always a clean towel and fresh sheets at the ready), but you also reduce the panic of “oh no, we’re out of XYZ”. Linens might seem like a minor detail compared to appliances or cabinets, but they are intimately tied to your daily routines and comfort. There’s something deeply satisfying about climbing into a well-made bed with crisp sheets, or reaching for a fluffy towel after a bath, these small luxuries in everyday life are made possible by planning your housewares in advance.

So stock up on those essentials, organize them in your space, and enjoy the comfort and ease they bring. MGS Contracting Services often helps clients think through these things (like adding that extra linen shelf or designing a closet with both hanging space for tablecloths and shelves for quilts). It’s all part of creating a home that’s not just beautiful to look at, but a joy to live in.

9. Tips for Smart Homeowners & New Remodelers

As we come to the end of our housewares and appliances journey, let’s zoom out and talk big picture. Equipping your home with all these essentials is a process, and it can feel overwhelming (or expensive!) if you try to do it all at once. Fear not, this final section offers some smart tips for prioritizing purchases, budgeting alongside your remodel, organizing your home into efficient “zones,” and how MGS Contracting Services can assist in integrating all these items into a cohesive plan. These pointers will help you be a savvy homeowner, whether you’re setting up your very first home or upgrading after a remodel.

Prioritize Essentials First, Luxuries Later: If you’re a new homeowner or just completed a remodel, you might be working with a budget that doesn’t allow buying everything immediately. That’s okay! Focus on the must-haves first: the items that enable day-to-day living. For example, major kitchen appliances (fridge, stove) are top priority, you need those to store and cook food from day one. A mattress to sleep on and some basic bedding and towels come next. Pots and pans to cook with, and some plates and utensils to eat with, those are essential. Essentially, invest in things that will serve you daily. Luxuries or specialty items can wait until the basics are covered. Perhaps you postpone buying that high-end espresso machine until you have the regular coffeemaker and toaster sorted. Or you hold off on purchasing a stand mixer until you find you really need one (or can catch a sale or receive as a gift). By ranking your needs vs wants, you can allocate your budget smartly. Make a checklist (maybe like the one we’ve laid out through this guide) and mark which you truly need immediately. Maybe even categorize: Level 1, Immediately needed, Level 2, Important but can acquire over next few months, Level 3, Nice-to-have upgrades in the future.

Also consider the “big impact” items. A quality chef’s knife might improve your cooking more than a food processor would, so get the knife first and chop by hand until you can add the processor later. Or if your washing machine is on its last legs, replacing that is more urgent than, say, getting a robot vacuum.

Budgeting Tips, Plan for Housewares in Your Remodel Budget: It’s common that homeowners pour so much into the renovation construction costs that they forget to budget for the “stuff” that goes in the new space. Ideally, as you plan your remodel with MGS, we would discuss appliance budgets (often handled separately from contractor costs), and perhaps even suggest setting aside some funds for new furniture or housewares to complement the fresh space. For instance, a remodeled kitchen might shine with those integrated appliances, but do you need new cookware to take advantage of that induction cooktop? Did you budget for the custom bar stools or pantry organizers? Try to anticipate those costs. A good strategy is to create a line item in your budget for housewares. Some estimate around 10-15% of the total remodel budget for furnishing and equipping the space afterward. This varies depending on how much you’re reusing old items. If you already have all the essentials, you might just want a few new things; but if you’re moving from a small apartment to a newly renovated larger home, you might need a lot more (e.g., more furniture, extra linens for a new guest room, etc.).

Keep an eye out for seasonal sales on appliances and housewares. Frequently, there are big sales around holiday weekends (Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Black Friday, etc.). If your remodel timeline allows, you can coordinate purchasing during those times to save some money. Some appliance dealers also offer package discounts if you buy multiple appliances from the same brand, something to consider if you’re getting all new ones.

For smaller items, places like discount home stores or online marketplaces can yield great deals. You don’t need the most expensive wine glasses, for example, you can find decent ones at reasonable prices. Save splurges for items where quality truly matters (like a chef’s knife or a vacuum if you have allergies and need a HEPA filter, etc.).

Create “Zones” in Your Home for Organization: This concept is all about grouping like items and activities together, something professional organizers and kitchen designers swear by. In a functional home, you should be able to walk to one area and have everything you need for a task at hand. We already touched on zones in context (like beverage station, baking station), but let’s expand:

• Kitchen Zones: Think in terms of cooking workflow. You want a prep zone (counter space + cutting boards + knives + bowls nearby), a cooking zone (near the stove/oven, with pots, pans, spatulas, potholders in reach), a clean-up zone (around the sink and dishwasher, with dish soap, scrubbers, trash, etc.), and a serving zone (dishes, glasses near the dining area). MGS designs kitchens with this in mind, e.g., storing dishes near the dishwasher for easy unloading, or building a pull-out trash near the prep area for convenient scrap disposal. You can apply this yourself by how you arrange items: store baking sheets and cake pans in the cabinet closest to the oven (baking zone). Store your spices and cooking oils in a cabinet or drawer near the stove (so seasoning happens where you cook). Keep your cutting boards, knives, and mixing bowls near the section of counter you usually use to chop, maybe between sink and stove. By keeping zones tight, you minimize walking back and forth, making cooking more enjoyable and less chaotic.
  
• Cleaning & Laundry Zones: Have a designated spot for cleaning supplies (maybe a hall closet or the laundry room). Within that, maybe a caddy or basket that you can carry room to room with sprays, cloths, etc. In the laundry area, set up zones for sorting clothes (hampers for whites/colors, or for each family member), a zone for folding (a counter or a foldable table), and storage for detergents, ironing equipment, etc. If you have the space, MGS can build cabinets and counters in your laundry room to facilitate this “laundry zone” approach, as mentioned in Section 1 with ideal laundry layouts.
  
• Linen Zone: Keep all extra bedding and towels in one central place (or one per floor if you have multi-story). This is your linen closet zone, as we described. It makes it easy to inventory what you have and avoid stashing random blankets all over the house where they can get forgotten or musty.
  
• Entryway/Mudroom Zone: If you want to keep your home clean and organized, a zone by the main entrance (or the garage entry) can help corral shoes, coats, umbrellas, keys, mail, etc. MGS often creates mudroom cubbies or drop zones, a bench, hooks, and cubbies. This prevents clutter from traveling into the living spaces. So set up a small table or wall organizer for keys and mail, a shoe rack or mat for footwear, and a coat rack or closet for outerwear. That becomes the zone for anything you take off when coming home or need when leaving.
  
• Home Office or Study Zone: If you have kids, a specific area for homework or crafts with all supplies at hand will keep those activities from spreading all over the dining table. If you work from home, your office zone should have all your tech and files in one area so you’re not scattering papers around. Good shelving and desk with drawers helps.
  
• Entertainment Zone: Similarly, group all media and games in the family room or wherever you entertain. Use a cabinet for board games, have a basket for remote controls, a storage for game console accessories, etc. That way, fun time doesn’t turn into a hunt for the missing puzzle piece or charger.
  

By consciously establishing these zones, you make it clear where things belong. This is especially helpful for families, everyone knows that after laundry is folded, it lives in the linen closet, not random places; or that all art supplies should return to the art cart in the playroom zone. It reduces clutter buildup and stress of searching for things.

Integrating Housewares into Remodel Planning (The MGS Touch): A great remodel isn’t just about the fixed elements (walls, cabinets), it’s also about how you will use the space. At MGS Contracting Services, we strive to design with your lifestyle in mind. This means early in the planning, we’ll ask questions like: Do you love to cook or entertain? Do you have a lot of small appliances you’d like hidden? Do you require storage for a large collection of something (be it spices, wine, or that enormous Instant Pot)? How do you do laundry, would a built-in folding station help? By knowing your housewares and patterns, we can incorporate features that specifically accommodate them:

• We might build an extra-deep cabinet if you tell us you plan to house an oversized mixer or bread machine on the counter, for instance.
  
• If you have a prized set of china you want to display, we can include lit glass cabinets of the right dimensions to show it off safely.
  
• If you’re a tech buff with smart appliances, we ensure enough outlets (and even USB outlets or charging drawers) are in the design.
  
• Perhaps you mention loving coffee, we could carve out a niche in the pantry for a coffee station complete with an outlet, mini-fridge for creamer, and storage for mugs above.
  
• Or maybe you’re downsizing and won’t have as much storage, we can advise clever multi-functional furniture or modular shelving that looks built-in but can adapt with your needs.
  

Our goal is to future-proof and customize the remodel so your stuff fits perfectly. It’s frustrating to finish a remodel and realize your tall cereal boxes don’t fit in the cabinets or there’s no good place for the vacuum cleaner. We try to avoid that by thorough planning. Even something as simple as measuring your tallest spice jar or favorite cookie sheet and adjusting cabinet heights can mean the difference between frustration and bliss later on.

Additionally, we pay attention to workflow as discussed. We ensure the “working triangle” in the kitchen (distance between fridge, stove, sink) is efficient, but beyond that, we consider the “adjacencies” of where housewares will live. For example, we might suggest a pull-out trash and recycling bin in the island right where you’ll be prepping food, making it intuitive to sweep scraps off the cutting board into the trash. Or adding an outlet inside a cabinet for charging a cordless vacuum or for plugging in that food processor only when needed, keeping counters clear.

One more integration aspect is lighting, we might place LED strips inside glass cabinets to highlight your pretty dishware, or under-cabinet lights to shine on your cutting boards so you can see clearly while chopping. We consider ventilation too: if you’ll be cooking a lot, a strong range hood fan is essential (especially with gas ranges to clear combustion fumes). Safety features like GFCI outlets in the right spots, and durable, easy-to-clean materials (backsplash that wipes clean, flooring that doesn’t stain easily) are chosen because we know you’ll be actively using this kitchen, not just admiring it.

In summary, communication is key, share your vision and daily habits with us (or your remodel contractor) so the design aligns with real use. We love when clients say “I have a huge collection of spices” or “We eat as a family at the island every morning,” because those details allow us to tailor the space (like adding extra spice rack pull-outs, or ensuring enough knee space and durable countertop at the island for breakfast time).

Final Advice: Embrace the process of setting up your home. It can actually be fun, think of equipping your home like gearing up a ship for a voyage. You’re stocking the galley (kitchen) with provisions (appliances and tools), outfitting the berths (bedrooms) with cozy bedding, and making sure the deck is swabbed (with your cleaning arsenal). A bit of planning and organization upfront saves you from chaos and discomfort later. And remember, homes evolve, you might not get everything perfect from day one, but with the tips above, you’ll have a strong foundation to build on.

If you ever feel unsure, the team at MGS Contracting Services is happy to offer guidance. We have seen countless homes and know what tends to work well. We can suggest, for example, “hey, you might want an extra outlet here for a future appliance” or “clients often wish they had more storage in this area, let’s add an extra drawer.” Our experience, combined with your personal preferences, will create the best outcome.

The ultimate goal: a home that functions smoothly and suits your lifestyle like a tailored suit, with every essential houseware and appliance in the right place, ready to serve you. That way you can truly enjoy the results of your remodel and homeownership without sweating the small stuff.

Conclusion

Transforming a house into a comfortable, functional home is all about pairing the right essentials with a smart design “flow.” We’ve journeyed through every room, from the kitchen appliances that form the backbone of daily living, to the pots, pans, and gadgets that empower your inner chef, to the soft linens that wrap you in comfort at day’s end. Along the way, we highlighted how thoughtful choices in housewares and appliances go hand-in-hand with a well-planned remodel. After all, a brand new kitchen isn’t much fun if you don’t have a good skillet to cook in or a proper spot to store it, but when you combine quality essentials with a space tailored for them, that’s when the magic happens and home life gets easier and more enjoyable.

Let’s recap our key themes. Major appliances like your refrigerator, range, and washer/dryer provide the core functions every home needs, choosing the right styles and integrating them (perhaps with custom cabinetry or layouts by MGS) lays the groundwork for efficiency. Then layering in the supporting cast: countertop appliances for convenience (with clever storage like appliance garages to keep counters tidy), and a robust selection of cookware and bakeware so you’re ready for any recipe (stored in ergonomic ways like deep drawers and dividers). We talked about the importance of good tools and utensils, those everyday helpers that, when stored safely and accessibly (think magnetic knife strips and organized drawers), make cooking safer and more fun. We moved on to the dining experience: having durable yet attractive tableware and serving pieces, which can double as décor especially in a kitchen with open shelving (why hide your gorgeous serveware when “it deserves to be shown off”?).

No home is complete without a clean environment, so we explored cleaning and floor care must-haves, emphasizing tools like microfiber that save time and are eco-friendly. We also tailored cleaning advice to floor types, underscoring how using the right method (e.g., gentle cleaners for wood, steam for tile) protects the investment you made in new flooring. We didn’t forget the cozy factor, linens and towels, noting how having enough and organizing them well (with perhaps a custom linen closet or built-in storage) can streamline routines and add that hotel-like comfort to your daily life. Finally, we gave overarching tips for smart home management: prioritizing essential purchases within your budget, creating organized zones so everything has its place, and leveraging MGS’s expertise to weave your lifestyle needs into the remodeling plan from the start.

When essentials create function and remodels create flow, together they truly make a dream home. A kitchen where you can seamlessly go from fridge to cutting board to stove, pulling out exactly the right tool from a well-placed drawer, that’s a dream to cook in. A bathroom where plush towels are within reach and laundry is a breeze to manage thanks to ample storage, that turns chores into minor tasks. A living space where your items are beautifully organized and displayed not only reduces stress but also reflects your personal style, making your home uniquely “you.”

Now, as you stand in your newly outfitted home, take a moment to appreciate how far it has come. Every appliance humming efficiently, every cupboard holding just what you need, every detail from the backsplash tile to the silverware in its drawer coming together in harmony. This is the foundation of comfortable living you’ve built, or are about to build, and it will serve you every single day.

If reading this guide has sparked ideas for your own space or perhaps made you realize a few gaps in your housewares collection, we encourage you to take action. Make a list, plan out those zones, and don’t hesitate to seek out items that will improve your daily life. And if you’re excited by the thought of integrating all these elements seamlessly into a beautifully remodeled space, remember that MGS Contracting Services is here to help. We love collaborating with homeowners to design kitchens, bathrooms, and whole-home remodels that not only look stunning but function intelligently for the way you live.

Ready to take the next step? Whether you’re about to embark on a remodel or just want to optimize your current home setup, we invite you to reach out to MGS Contracting Services. Schedule a consultation with our team, and let’s talk about how to make your home the best it can be, a place where well-chosen appliances, housewares, and design elements all come together in a perfect symphony of style and convenience. We’ll bring our expertise (and plenty of real-world insights from projects we’ve done), and you bring your vision and daydreams of that ideal home lifestyle. Together, we’ll turn those dreams into a practical, gorgeous reality.

Thank you for reading our comprehensive guide. Here’s to happy cooking, comfortable living, and a well-equipped home that truly meets your needs. We look forward to possibly being a part of your journey to an essential-equipped, beautifully remodeled home!

Comparison Table: Must-Have vs. Nice-to-Have Housewares

Sometimes it helps to see a quick overview of what’s essential and what’s optional. Below is a comparison of must-have items that every homeowner typically needs, versus nice-to-have additions that you might consider once the basics are covered:

Category	Must-Have Items (Essentials)	Nice-to-Have Items (Luxuries/Upgrades)
Major Appliances	Refrigerator (with freezer), Cooking Range or Cooktop + Oven, Microwave, Dishwasher, Washer & Dryer	Chest Freezer (for bulk storage), Wine Cooler, Second Oven, Trash Compactor (if desired)
Countertop Appliances	Coffee Maker or Kettle, Toaster/Toaster Oven, Blender, Microwave (if not built-in)	Stand Mixer, Food Processor, Air Fryer, Espresso Machine, Slow Cooker/Instant Pot (multi-cooker)
Cookware & Bakeware	Skillet/Frying Pan, Saucepan, Stockpot, Baking Sheet, 9×13 Baking Dish, Knife Set (chef, paring, bread), Cutting Board	Wok, Dutch Oven, Cast Iron Skillet, Muffin Tin, Extra Specialty Knives (boning, santoku), Springform Pan, Grill Pan
Utensils & Tools	Mixing Bowls, Measuring Cups & Spoons, Spatula, Tongs, Wooden Spoon, Whisk, Peeler, Can Opener, Colander, Oven Mitts	Garlic Press, Microplane Zester, Mandoline Slicer, Immersion Blender, Specialty Baking Tools (piping bags, candy thermometer)
Tableware	Everyday Dish Set (plates, bowls), Drinking Glasses, Mugs, Cutlery/Flatware Set, Serving Spoon & Ladle	Formal China or Additional Dish Set, Cloth Napkins & Rings, Serving Platters, Gravy Boat, Cake Stand, Crystal Glassware for wine/spirits
Cleaning	Vacuum Cleaner, Broom & Dustpan, Mop (appropriate type), Bucket, Microfiber Cloths, Basic Cleaners (all-purpose, glass, dish soap), Laundry Hamper	Robotic Vacuum, Steam Mop, Specialty Cleaners (stone polish, stainless steel spray), Air Purifier Unit, Central Vacuum System
Linens	Bed Sheet Sets (2–3 per bed), Bath Towel Sets (2–3 per person), Pillows, Blankets, Basic Comforter/Duvet, Hand Towels, Kitchen Dish Towels, Shower Curtain (if needed)	Extra Fancy Bedding (duvet cover sets, decorative throw pillows), Seasonal Sheets (flannel, etc.), Guest Bedding set, Tablecloths/Runners, Decorative Throw Blankets for living room, Bathrobe for each occupant

Use the above as a checklist: ensure you have the essentials first. The nice-to-have items can be added over time or as your lifestyle demands. Every household is different, if you never bake, you might skip the muffin tin; if you’re a tea lover, an electric kettle might be a must-have for you. Customize to fit your needs!

FAQs, Common Questions for New Homeowners

Q: What appliances should I splurge on first if I’m on a tight budget?
A: Start with the ones that will impact your daily life the most. The refrigerator and stove are top priorities, reliable, energy-efficient models in these will serve you constantly (it’s hard to prepare food without them!). A good dishwasher can actually save you time and utility costs (remember, it uses less water than hand-washing in many cases). If your old washer/dryer are functioning, you might delay those, but if not, prioritize a washer, going to laundromats is a major hassle. Smaller appliances like microwaves or toasters can be very affordable, so those are easier to acquire. In the kitchen, also consider splurging on a quality coffee maker or kettle if that impacts your morning routine significantly (caffeine is life for some of us!). Another place to invest is a decent vacuum cleaner, keeping your home clean will maintain your new surfaces and health. In summary, splurge on the “workhorse” items you’ll use every day (fridge, range, basic cookware, a good knife) and hold off on luxury-specific appliances (like a separate wine fridge or a high-end blender) until later.

Q: How can I save money on housewares during or after a remodel?
A: There are several strategies:

• Reuse and Refurbish: Not everything has to be brand new. If you have an old solid wood dining table, for instance, you can sand and refinish it to match your new decor, instead of buying a completely new one. Appliances like refrigerators can sometimes be given a new look with appliance panels or paint if they’re still working well. Prioritize function over aesthetics if the budget is tight, you can always upgrade the looks later.
  
• Shop Sales and Second-Hand: Keep an eye on seasonal sales for big-ticket items. As mentioned, appliances often go on sale around holidays. For housewares, check discount retailers and online marketplaces. You can find quality gently-used items for a fraction of retail, for example, many people sell barely used bread makers or mixers online. Estate sales or moving sales can be treasure troves for things like cast iron pans, fine china, or solid furniture. Just be discerning about conditions.
  
• Buy in Sets or Bundles: It’s often cheaper to buy dishware or cookware in a set than piece by piece. Starter kits (like a basic 10-piece kitchen tool set, or a cookware set) can save money and cover your bases. Same for towels or bedding, bed-in-a-bag sets give you sheets, shams, and comforter together at lower cost than separate.
  
• Use Gift Registries or Wish Lists: If you’re moving into a first home or newly married, consider creating a registry or wish list for housewares. Friends and family often want to gift you things, and it’s perfectly fine to direct them to what you need (instead of ending up with three toasters and no crockpot). Even without a formal occasion, some family members might appreciate ideas for holiday gifts, you could mention you’re saving up for a stand mixer or a vacuum, and who knows, maybe you’ll receive it as a gift.
  
• Stagger Your Purchases: It’s not necessary to buy everything at once. Live in your space for a bit and see what you truly miss. Maybe you thought you needed a food processor, but find your knife and grater suffice for now, that’s $150 saved. Or you didn’t realize how much you’d want a blender for morning smoothies, in that case, allocate funds there sooner. By living in the remodeled space, you’ll get a feel for what upgrades will improve your life the most and can budget accordingly.
  
• Energy Savings: Investing in Energy Star-rated appliances might have a slightly higher upfront cost but will save on utility bills long-term. Over years, that can free up money for other wants. Also, check if your local utility or government has rebates for certain efficient appliances or water-saving devices (like low-flow showerheads or toilets), those effectively reduce the cost.
  
• DIY Small Things: You can make some housewares on your own as a temporary solution. For example, if custom curtains are out of budget, you can buy inexpensive fabric and sew simple curtain panels yourself. Or repurpose mason jars as pantry storage rather than buying fancy canisters. These little DIY efforts can add up in savings.
  

By using these tactics, you’ll stretch your dollars further and maybe have room in the budget for a treat, like that fancy espresso machine on Black Friday sale after all!

We hope this extensive guide has armed you with knowledge and inspiration to outfit your home with all the essential housewares and appliances you need. Remember, the heart of a functional home lies not just in the walls and cabinets, but in the thoughtful combination of the right tools, comfort items, and design that suits your life. Here’s to creating a home that’s truly equipped for happy living!If you’re ready to make it happen, MGS Contracting Services is just a call or click away, we’d love to help you merge form and function in your next home project. Happy homemaking!