Don’t tell my parents that I’m sharing this so publicly, but they’re both over 60. They’ve accumulated many items that, much like them, are ready for retirement — especially in the kitchen. As empty nesters, their priorities have shifted: They eat out more, don’t need to use overly complicated kitchen gadgets, and definitely don’t need to haul around heavy cookware.
I want to give my parents and others thriving in their 60s some (nonjudgmental) permission to get their kitchens back to the basics. It’s time to shift from culinary complexity to effortless efficiency, safety, and enjoying every meal. Here are five things everyone in their 60s should consider letting go of to make room for joy, not junk, in their kitchen.
1. Trendy, Single-Use Gadgets
You know those impulse buys and one-trick ponies that clutter drawers and counters? I’m talking avocado slicers, strawberry hullers, single-purpose herb choppers, mini popcorn makers, and novelty egg shapers. They take up valuable drawer space and perform tasks that a good, sharp chef’s knife or a simple peeler can handle just as easily (and more efficiently). If you’re simplifying your space, you’ll appreciate having fewer items to hunt for and clean.
2. Complex Multi-Cookers
Many appliances promise perfectly cooked food but often involve multiple, not-so-user-friendly steps that can be frustrating for daily use. Examples include a dedicated sous vide immersion circulator or a multi-cooker with what feels like a million different, rarely used settings. They often feature complex, multistep instructions and small, hard-to-read digital displays. If you’re not consistently using them for elaborate meals, a user-friendly air fryer, countertop oven, or basic slow cooker may be a more accessible, space-saving alternative for everyday cooking.
3. Bulky Appliances
These are great for big families or frequent entertainers, but they can be a literal pain in the neck (or back) to move and store. If you’re no longer entertaining big crowds, you can probably get rid of commercial-size, heavy stand mixers or large, unwieldy food processors (especially older, heavier models) that can be difficult and potentially even dangerous to lift in and out of cabinets. Instead, a good hand mixer or immersion blender can often handle most light baking, whipping, and blending needs without the hassle of a heavy lift.
4. Cast-Iron Skillets
Similarly, another item to consider tossing are heavy cast-iron skillets. If arthritis or reduced grip strength is an issue, switching to quality stainless steel is a more manageable weight for daily cooking. And it typically requires far less maintenance than cast iron.
5. Appliances That Are Too Smart
Many appliances today, from coffee makers to toasters, rely on smartphone apps or Bluetooth, which can be a hassle. This dependence on an app to operate basic functions can create more frustration than ease. Instead, straightforward appliances with clear and intuitive buttons or dials offer a more reliable and user-friendly experience.
6. Niche Appliances
Just like gadgets, unless you’re a serious hobbyist, those “onetime use” speciality appliances are prime candidates for donation. Think soda makers, ice cream makers, and fondue pots! They’re designed for occasional social use and just hog cabinet space 99% of the time. Clearing out these rarely used items frees up storage for your everyday essentials, making your kitchen way more organized and functional.
Is there something taking up precious space in your kitchen that you want to donate? Let us know in the comments below!