A kitchen remodel is an exciting way to refresh your home, but it can also be a little overwhelming if you don’t prepare ahead of time. Remodeling takes time and can disrupt your daily routine, so being ready will help things go smoothly.
Here are some tips to help you get through your kitchen remodel without too much stress.
1. Clean Out Your Kitchen
Before the remodeling crew arrives, it’s time to empty out your kitchen. Here’s how to tackle the task:
- Remove Food: Take everything out of your pantry, fridge, and freezer. Use up perishable items or store them in a cooler or mini fridge.
- Pack Up Dishes: Box up your dishes, glassware, and cookware. Label the boxes so you can easily find what you need later.
- Clear the Countertops: Remove small appliances like coffee makers, toasters, and blenders.
- Organize Essentials: Keep items you’ll need during the remodel, like paper plates, utensils, and a few pots or pans, in an easy-to-access spot.
A clean and empty kitchen will help the remodeling process start on the right foot.
2. Set Up a Temporary Kitchen
Without access to your regular kitchen, you’ll need a temporary space for basic cooking and eating. Try these ideas:
- Pick a Spot: Choose a space like a dining room, garage, or even part of your living room to set up a makeshift kitchen.
- Gather Supplies: Bring over essentials like a microwave, toaster oven, coffee maker, and slow cooker. Don’t forget utensils, plates, and a cutting board.
- Use Folding Tables: Set up a folding table or a portable cart to create extra counter space.
This temporary kitchen will keep you from feeling completely out of sorts during the remodel.
3. Plan Out Your Meals
Cooking in a temporary setup can be tricky, so it’s helpful to plan your meals ahead of time:
- Stick to Simple Recipes: Choose meals that don’t require a lot of cooking or prep, like salads, sandwiches, or pasta.
- Batch Cook: Make large portions of meals like soups, stews, or casseroles ahead of time and store them in your freezer.
- Use Disposable Dishes: Cut down on dishwashing by using paper plates, plastic cups, and disposable utensils.
Meal planning will save you time and keep you from scrambling to figure out what to eat every day.
4. Use the Microwave or Treat Yourself Out to Dinner
Cooking without a full kitchen can get old fast, so give yourself a break:
- Use the Microwave: Microwaves are great for reheating leftovers or cooking simple meals like oatmeal or steamed vegetables.
- Go Out to Eat: Treat yourself to dinner at a local restaurant or order takeout for a change of pace.
- Support Local Cafes: Grab breakfast or coffee from nearby cafes if your mornings feel too chaotic.
Balancing home meals with a few restaurant nights can make the process much more enjoyable.
5. Store Large Kitchen Items or Furniture During the Renovation
To make room for construction, you’ll need to find a temporary home for your kitchen furniture and larger appliances:
- Move Furniture: Remove your dining table, chairs, barstools, and any other furniture from the kitchen area. Place them in a garage, basement, or storage unit.
- Protect Appliances: If you’re keeping your fridge, oven, or dishwasher, store them in a safe place and cover them to prevent dust and scratches.
- Label Boxes: Clearly label boxes with kitchen items to make unpacking easier later.
Clearing out the space ensures workers can move freely and safely during the remodel. If your working with Kitchen Express, you could rent a storage unit in NC to place your large furniture.
6. Stay in Another Home While Your Kitchen Remodel Is Being Completed
Depending on the scale of your remodel, it might be worth considering staying elsewhere during the renovation:
- Temporary Housing: If you have friends or family nearby, ask if you can stay with them for a few days or weeks.
- Hotels or Rentals: Consider booking a short-term rental or hotel if the remodel is particularly disruptive.
- Weigh the Pros and Cons: Staying elsewhere might add to your budget, but it can help you avoid the noise, dust, and inconvenience of living in a construction zone.
Deciding where to stay depends on your personal comfort level and the scope of your project.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for a kitchen remodel takes a little extra effort, but it can make the entire process much easier. By cleaning out your kitchen, setting up a temporary cooking area, planning meals, and considering temporary housing, you’ll be ready to handle the changes without too much stress.
Once the remodel is finished, you’ll be able to enjoy your beautiful new kitchen—and all the hard work will feel worth it! If you live in Greensboro, NC and are looking for a reliable partner to finish your kitchen remodel, contact Kitchen Express NC!
