Sure, you can bake cakes in mugs, use a coffee table as a dining table, and use your sheets as fort-making materials (#bestlife). But just because your home goods can perform double duty doesn’t mean they should — at least not every day. We’ve compiled a list of 30 things we advise adding to your life before you hit the big 3-0. Along the way, we’re busting myths, letting you in on trade secrets, and lifting the curtain on the best time to buy (because seriously, if you drag all of these into your Amazon cart at once, that’s just bananas). And on that note: You’ll see that we skipped one-note things like a banana rack. Why not store those bananas in a big, beautiful dish that can moonlight as a salad bowl?
What else didn’t make the cut? Similarly niche pieces that some people "can’t live without" but most will do just fine without (juicer, griddle pan, tongs). Also, anything we feel it’s safe to assume you have. There’s no “forks” or “trash can” here, because we have a feeling you already have those — and if not, you can figure that out on your own. Instead, we’re using our real estate to plug the adult-ifying things that make life easier (see: utensil drawer divider, $15) and more beautiful (throw blanket, also $15).
Cast-Iron Pan
When chef/cookbook author/food god J. Kenji López-Alt had to live a month with only two pans, this baby made the cut thanks to its versatility and foodie-approved ability to sear, crisp, and bake the finest meals. Many will recommend going vintage for this pan, since then you’ll wind up with one that’s already well-seasoned ("seasoning" is a deliberate base of oil that any good cast-iron pan requires). But if you’re icked out by that, look for one in the largest size your stovetop and oven will accommodate (you’ll be using it in both places), that also has good eye-appeal. This will probably get so much play in your kitchen, you’ll want to store it out in the open. Shop for this pre-holiday, as retailers are marking down cookware in preparation for all those Thanksgiving/Christmas/Hanukkah family meals.
Fits the bill: Lodge Cast-Iron Round Fry Pan, $36 at Williams-Sonoma.
Chef’s Knife
A chef’s knife is the centerpiece of any great meal, and if you’re using an old or dull knife, an upgrade can change your life. A great knife makes you want to cook more often and incorporate more fresh veggies — and it will make you feel like a real master in the kitchen. Head to a store and test several models; the best one is going to be whatever feels most natural to hold. Otherwise, look for Japanese steel knives (their edges stay sharper, longer), and options that are equally beveled on each side, so that you — and any left- or right-handed guests helping in the kitchen — can use with ease.
Fits the bill: Tojiro’s DP Gyutou, $67 at Amazon.
Mugs
Just a mug, right? Wrong. While you likely have a ton that have followed you around since high school, four matching-ish grown-up mugs are essential. Look for models that are dishwasher-safe (even if you don’t have a dishwasher now, you likely will at some point). We don't recommend super-wide mugs that cause your coffee to cool down fast. And skip any hard-to-clean details, like embossing, a double handle, or a dino peeking out from inside: They’ll break. Going crazy with all the options? Just go with white.
Fits the bill: Everyday Mug, $4 each at Crate & Barrel.
Serving Bowl
The magic ingredient that turns a bag of potato chips into a moment. Buy one during wedding season to benefit from the deals — and if you host often, you might want to buy a few. This is also key for storing bananas, lemons, and avocados on your counter in a very Instagrammable (and you know, practical) way. And for making yourself a big, beautiful salad that you can dress and fuss with and toss without worrying about things spilling over. Go with a dishwasher-safe version that’s classic enough to work with any future china patterns.
Fits the bill: Organic Serve Bowl, $79 at Hudson Grace.
Cutting Board
Remember that beautiful chef’s knife you’re buying? You’re going to need somewhere to use it — and we don’t mean your kitchen counters. We love bamboo boards, since they look better than the plastic ones and hold up to knives and spills better than most wood options. There are a million bells and whistles available when it comes to cutting boards, but the most useful ones are a juice groove and some sort of easy-transfer system, like the folding one we’re recommending here. Shop in May or June for wedding and grad sales.
Fits the bill: Chop2Pot Bamboo, $25 at JosephJoseph.
Toaster Oven
Not just for Pop Tarts! But also: for Pot Tarts. The internet already told you you can bake sweet potatoes into toast in here (well, kinda), and the truth is you can bake up just about any for-one (or two) dish in this guy. Pick one up in early May and get in on the graduation sales. If you’re in a pinch, a standard-issue toaster oven will get the job done, but if you’re feeling fancy, spring for a convection oven that comes with its own meat thermometer, which takes away 98% of the mystery of cooking meat medium-rare.
Fits the bill: Hamilton Beach 31230 Set & Forget Toaster Oven with Convection Cooking, $150 on Amazon.
Wine Glasses
Do you need separate wine glasses for red, white, and champagne? Maybe, depending on your drinking habits and standards, but it’s safe to say that you’ll get by just fine with a set of stemless beauties that also double as cocktail glasses (and yes, plain-old water-drinking glasses as well). Look for lead-free crystal, which is going to hold up better than glass and will give you a more elegant, thinner shape, with extreme durability (i.e. something you can throw in the dishwasher). Shop in May or June for wedding deals.
Fits the bill: Stemless Wine Glasses, $48 for 4 at SNOWE.
Coffee Maker
Don’t drink coffee? Skip this and replace it with the machine to make whatever it is that gets you out of bed in the morning. Anyone with a working knowledge of math knows that a $5 daily coffee habit (even a $2 one!) adds up like crazy. Get a machine that you can program the night before, and it’s like you have an incredibly thoughtful barista living with you. Pair it with those grown-up mugs, and you’ll have a lovely morning routine. Also, be on the lookout for models that can make both a brimming pot of coffee (so you’ll never have to buy a cardboard box-o-joe for breakfast parties) and a small-batch brewing option for everyday. Shop in May for those grad deals.
Fits the bill: 12-Cup Coffee Maker With One-Touch Brewing, $120 at KitchenAid.
Utensil Organizer
We promised you this would be here. If you’ve ever tried to fish out a fork from the depths of an undivided drawer (or worse, poked yourself on a roving knife), you know how important this is. Get one that’s easy to wash (not every day, but routinely). Finding an adjustable one is key for making sure it moves with you from apartment to apartment. Non-slip feet will ensure you don’t have to line the entire drawer in cheesecloth and, tada! One less thing to do. Buy it in late March, when spring-cleaning sales abound.
Fits the bill: Expandable utensil organizer, $15 at Oxo.
Food Storage Containers
Doubling your recipes means cooking half as often. And durable, sleek, and easy-to-clean containers mean your leftovers will actually be appealing. Ditch the plastic stuff and invest in a set that snap shut (easier to grab and go to work!), stack up nicely in the fridge, go straight into the oven, and last. You can’t say that about plastic. Shop ‘em in May with all the grandmas trying to outfit their graduating grandkids’ kitchens.
Fits the bill: Oven safe box set, $40 at Glasslock.
Food Chopper
Even if you’re not a prolific cook, the simple genius of a great food chopper is life-changing and truly money-saving. You can stop paying a premium for premade-but-so-easy-to-DIY things like hummus, guac, salsa, soups, frozen banana “ice cream”...the list goes on. Seek out a food processor with buttons that let you puree or chop, an opening to add in additional liquids (for soups or smoothies), and a size that can sit on your kitchen counter all year. Otherwise, it’ll likely be out of sight and mind. Also great to shop for in May.
Fits the bill: 3.5 Cup Food chopper, $50 at KitchenAid.
Cocktail Shaker
Yes, it’s so you can make one of the million cocktails your Instagram feed is showing off. We also have friends who use these to mix up an iced latte (genius). And keep in mind: An especially beautiful shaker can double as a vase in a pinch if you remove the top. Whatever material you choose for the exterior, look for a stainless-steel inside to keep things nice and clean. Wedding season is the time to buy.
Fits the bill: Gold cocktail shaker, $36 at Consort.
Mattress
Investing in your sleep is one of the most important and wise decisions you can make. And while dropping an entire paycheck on a mattress isn’t in everyone’s budget, it’s worth saving up for (See: Buy coffee maker, eliminate daily coffee expense, put that extra money to work). Since the mattress industry tends to introduce the new goods in June, you’ll find major sales on old models in May — and no one cares if you have last season’s mattress. You can also turn to the new selection of direct-to-you mattress companies that are vying for your affection with generous return policies and constantly evolving technology. And do not make a plan for a new mattress without making sure your company of choice will help get rid of your old mattress, freeing you of a hassle and a potential fee. We’re especially fans of a reversible mattress with firmer and softer sides — perfect for changing up your style years down the road. And, to be clear: This thing should last around 20 years.
Fits the bill: Zenhaven mattress, $1,899 at zenhaven.com.
Sheets
Let’s talk thread count: It’s not the be-all, end-all when it comes to your sheets, so don’t be dazzled by the billion-thread-count sheets you see in big-box stores. Instead, focus on the number plus material (Egyptian cotton is a good one), weave (percale or sateen), and provenance (Europe is always a good idea). If you’re eh on flat sheets, skip 'em. White is a winner, since you can bleach them, and they’ll go with any accent pillows/whatever you stack up on the bed. Online retailers aren’t as sensitive to the sale cycle, but if you're buying in-store, wait for August when everyone’s back-to-dorm shopping.
Fits the bill: Fitted Sheet, $88 at SNOWE.
Duvet Cover
Just a step away from the bed-in-a-bag. Yes, a big, fluffy comforter is cool, but it's an enormous pain to wash, and it's not going to last anywhere near as long as a beautiful-quality duvet cover. Look out for ones with zip closures (those buttons can be a pain), and, similar to the sheets, a good balance of thread count and material. Make sure the pattern you choose feels both timeless enough that you won’t tire of it, but special enough that it will make you happy when you walk in (it will, after all, take up a good deal of bedroom real estate). Watch out for post-holiday sales for these.
Fits the bill: Harold Duvet, $200 at Biscuit.
Nightstand
You are a person who deserves a place to put your alarm clock and book and a glass of water at your bedside. You are! So look for a nightstand that fits whatever space you have — a wall-mounted one, even! — and is neutral enough to grow with you through homes to come. A drawer is an excellent idea (not just for sexy stuff, but yes, that’s a perk). Depending on how high your mattress is, you’ll want a nightstand that's between 24 and 28” high. Look out for sales in June to clear out merch and make room for the new lines that tend to hit in summer.
Fits the bill: Wrightwood Nightstand, $299 at Land of Nod.
Pillow
No, we don’t mean a throw pillow; that’s not on our list, but please do get one you love. because they’re fun. Instead, we’re digging our heels in and commanding that you get thee a quality pillow for the sake of your lovely neck. And quality of sleep. Look for one that stays cool (so stay away from foam filling), retains its shape well (unless you have your heart set on down), and is going to be comfortable for every single sleeping position — because no one stays on their left side all night. Shop in summer when everyone’s moving and registering, and stores are marking stuff down.
Fits the bill: The Casper pillow, $75 at Casper.com.
Full-Length Mirror
Because you shouldn’t have to stand on the toilet to know how your shoes look with your earrings. Forget the over-the-door mirrors, and invest in a standing mirror you can move into another room if you like. Bonus: A standing mirror doubles as decor. Having a party? Placing the mirror across from a window instantly makes your casa bigger and brighter. Ta-da! Only sort of magic. Look in April when springtime sales aim to clear out inventory in many big stores.
Fits the bill: Ikornnes, $129 at IKEA.
Inflatable Mattress
Anyone you care about deserves a comfortable place to sleep — that’s not squeezed between the couch cushions. Search for a mattress that comes with a built-in electric pump, an inflated height that reaches at least 17 inches, and enough side-support to keep it from tilting if someone rolls towards one edge. And depending on how much you’ll be using this, invest appropriately: These can run up to a few hundred dollars, but there are a handful of $50-ish ones that get great reviews. Or, go lower by shopping in August when everyone’s summer guests have gone home, and stores are eager to clear out inventory.
Fits the bill: Intex Deluxe Pillow Rest Raised Airbed, $49 at Amazon.
Sofa
All the better to lie on while watching TV or wasting time on your phone. You want one that’s as comfortable as it is good-looking: deep seats, a high back, a material that’s easy to clean, and a fill that will last. The rest of the details are up to you — the size that works for your space, the legs that feel most appropriate for your style, cushion seating versus bench, armless versus a nice, wide arm that can fit an extra friend perched atop it. If you’re tempted to go with a sleeper sofa option, be warned: These often cost a great deal more and are less comfortable. (Remember our air mattress pick? Less money than investing further in the bed component here.) Old styles and floor models tend to go on sale in January, but many stores have sales throughout the year, so keep your eyes open.
Fits the bill: Henry sofa, $799 at West Elm.
Coffee Table
Or “cocktail table,” as it’s known in fancy circles. Whether you have a dining table or not, you’ll likely eat a good deal of meals here, so make sure it’s not too precious to spill a drink on. An open base is key; skip the drawered tables, which will fill up with junk, and instead find one you can store a basket of blankets or stack of coffee table books underneath. A 16-18” height is the norm, but keep in mind that sticking to the lower end of that is helpful if you’re hosting casual round-the-table gatherings; it will make it easier to sit on the floor. Start your hunt in February, when retailers will be slashing prices so they can clear out real estate for the spring collections.
Fits the bill: Alix Matte black coffee table, $419 at Capsule Home.
Rug
Yes, it’s not an essential, but no other item pulls together your home quite as quickly. Look for a rug that can comfortably fit all your living room furniture, or if that’s too expensive, go small with one that will be centered just under the coffee table, with your sofa and everything else on the floor. Wool and cotton are among the most affordable, quality, and durable materials (jute might look cool in design magazines, but unless you’re investing $$$ you’ll likely wind up with something scratchy). Pick one with a color palette you love, and then use that to inform the other colors in the room. BOOM. You’re basically a decorator.
Fits the bill: Gray floral tufted Isabella area rug, $400 at World Market.
Office Chair
Even if you don’t work from home, there are always mornings or evenings when you have to squeeze in a little after-hours work (or, for you side-hustlers, far more than a little). The fact is, you deserve to be upright, comfortable, and cheerful — not hunched over or getting some weird imprint on the backs of your thighs. Look for a chair with a high back (a headrest is a plus) and a plush seat, with adjustable seat pitch and height so you can work at any angle. A swivel base and armrests are nice, too. Shop at the end of September to get those left on the floor after the back-to-school rush.
Fits the bill: Cameron Terra Cotta Faux leather highback desk chair, $250 at Lamps Plus.
Framed Artwork
We can’t give too much advice when it comes to what kind of artwork you should choose, because the best piece is one that speaks to you. But we can say that once you find that piece, it will go a long way in making your home feel special, decorated, and yours. Certain art websites are geared towards supporting up-and-coming artists and will allow you customize by size, which can be especially helpful. They’ll also include affordable framing, which means one less errand for you. Sales tend to happen around major holidays, so keep your eyes peeled around Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and more.
Fits the bill: Popsicle by Kelly Ventura, starting at $21 at Minted.
Plants
Another thing that’s all about personal preference but equally important in every home. A plant makes every room look richer, prettier, and will likely keep you feeling calmer. Succulents are a safe bet if you don’t trust yourself to water often and don’t have much light, but if you’re looking for additional air-cleaning benefits, go for ficus plants, snake plants, or spider plants. These are available year-round, but most garden centers mark them down at the end of summer to make room for fall/winter greenery.
Fits the bill: The Succulent Collection, $40 for 6 at The Sill.
Lamp
Your overhead lighting is not enough. You want something closer to eye level that’s going to provide a more flattering light, as well as a decorative accent. Look for these in July, when larger stores are eager to get people shopping and often hold sales on lamps and light fixtures. Buy a matching pair, and you’ve got a sophisticated (and practical) bonus for the living room that can easily transition to the bedside table if needed — or the entryway when you move on up into the deluxe apartment in the sky. Look for a simple, sleek design that goes with every decor style, and a light-colored shade that will enhance the glow.
Fits the bill: Leo Lamp, $150 for set of 2 at Lamps Plus.
Throw Blanket
This is what turns your solid sofa into a statement piece — and keeps you warm and cozy through chips-and-salsa-fueled Netflix binges. Go bold with this piece, but not so bold that it’s impractical (i.e. not machine washable. Remember: salsa). It should be hefty — at least 50” long — and feel cozy against your skin, whether that’s faux fur or cotton. Memorial Day sales tend to be winners for these things.
Fits the bill: John Robshaw Mansib Throw, $15 at Target.
Towels
You need a pair of nice towels — not beach towels, not stolen hotel towels, not grabbed-from-parents-linen-closet towels, but plush, fluffy, and easy-to-keep-in-perfect-shape towels that make the moment after your shower almost as lovely as being under the hot water. You want one that’s not constantly shedding threads, and that absorbs moisture evenly and feels soft to the skin. Rayon and flat-woven cotton towels are gaining in popularity, but it’s safe to say a nice pair of terrycloth beauties will never go out of style. Shop 'em in August in the big bed-and-bath sales happening for the back-to-school crowd.
Fits the bill: Fieldcrest solid towels, $10 at Target.
Bath Mat
Sure, a $5 one works fine, but when you factor in laundering it every couple weeks (yes that’s how often you’re supposed to wash a bath mat, if not more), you’ll see it start to unravel and pill and need to be replaced much sooner than you might like. Another solution? Invest in a woven cotton Kilim rug; it dries fast, is machine-washable, and when you get sick of it in the bathroom, you can move it elsewhere in your home. Let’s see you try that with one of those fuzzy, curly bath mats. Shop at the end of summer for back-to-dorm timing, but also check around for holiday sales.
Fits the bill: The Mendocino bathmat, $62 at Quiet Town.
Plunger
Tada! The least sexy and most important item on the list. Buy it. No special time of year. Buy it today. There are, oddly enough, several types of plungers, but make sure to choose a toilet (not sink) plunger, and look for a plastic or stainless-steel handle that’s easier to sanitize than wood. Then, rest easy knowing that you (or your guests) never have to stress a clog. Get one that comes with a little stand/cover so you’re not putting it right back onto the floor (shudder).
Fits the bill: SimpleHuman Studio plunger, $30 at Target.
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