A well-stocked kitchen is one of the top things guests look for when booking a short-term rental. Whether they’re whipping up breakfast before a hike or hosting a family dinner, guests want convenience, cleanliness, and a few “just like home” touches.
As a host, stocking the right kitchen gear not only improves guest experiences and reviews, it also shows you care and intend for the guest to feel at home when they’re away from home.
Here are 10 kitchen essentials to stock in your STR:
Nonstick Cookware Set
Why guests love it: Lightweight, easy to clean, and ideal for quick meals.
Top pick: Ultimate Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set 17 Piece – durable, affordable, and consistently high-converting.
Tip: Stick to black or neutral colors for a clean, professional look.
Yes there are less expensive options (read: cheap!), and in our experience, spending a little more money up front will prevent needing to fully replace the items after a short period of time.
Knife Set with Block
Why guests love it: A dull or missing knife is a common frustration.
Top pick: 15pc German Stainless Steel Hollow Handle Cutlery Block Set w/Acacia Block – attractive, affordable, and widely reviewed.
Tip: Look for self-sharpening blocks for easy maintenance.
Single-Serve Coffee Maker
Why guests love it: It’s one of the most requested amenities.
Top pick: Keurig K-Mini Plus Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker – compact, reliable, and comes in colors to match any vibe.
Tip: Offer pods and a reusable filter to cover all preferences. And there’s even Disposable Coffee Paper Filters!
Classic Starbucks is always a perfect choice, and as an extra, considering offering a variety pack of pods that are crowd pleasers, such as hot chocolate and teas.
Microwave-Safe Dinnerware Set
Why guests love it: Durable dishes for real meals—not paper plates.
Top pick: 18-Piece Service for 6 Dinnerware Set – chip-resistant and modern.
Tip: Choose white or neutral tones for a clean, upscale look.
Make sure you offer at least one full setting per person! Rule of thumb: number of beds = minimum number of place settings.
Salt + Pepper Grinder Set
Why guests love it: Adds a touch of “home kitchen” charm.
Top pick: Stainless Steel Grinder Set – elegant, functional, and popular with home cooks.
Tip: Include a small oil/vinegar set for bonus points.
Measuring Cups + Spoons Set
Why guests love it: Great for bakers and meal preppers alike.
Top pick: 13-piece Measuring Cups and Spoons Set – sturdy, colorful, and giftable.
Tip: Attach them with a ring to prevent lost pieces.
Toaster with Wide Slots
Why guests love it: Easy breakfast wins.
Top pick: 4 Slice Toaster Oven – high ratings and good design.
Tip: Keep shelf-stable butter and jam packets in a welcome basket nearby.
Bonus points for providing this matching set that includes the toaster AND Deluxe Stainless Steel Can Opener!
Dish Drying Rack or Mat
Why guests love it: Many STRs don’t have dishwashers, or the guests only use a few dishes and don’t want to run a full dishwasher cycle.
Top pick: Kitchen Steel Frame Dish Rack – sleek and durable.
Tip: Dish drying mats save counter space in smaller rentals.
Food Storage Containers
Why guests love it: Leftovers from dinner out? Store them here.
Top pick: 14-Piece Food Storage Container Set – leakproof and microwave-safe.
Tip: Leave a note saying guests are welcome to use them.
Under-Sink Starter Kit
Why guests love it: Cleaning supplies = guest confidence in your space.
Top pick: Multipurpose Cleaning Kit – includes scrubber, dust pan, and surface spray to get things started.
Tip: Include individually packaged rolls of paper towels and extra trash bags.