Let’s be real—having your kitchen under construction is no walk in the park. It’s one of the most used, most beloved spaces in a home, and when it’s out of order, things can get a little... chaotic. But fear not! Over the years, our amazing customers have shared their top tips, tricks, and genius hacks for surviving the kitchen-less days of a renovation. And now, we’re passing the wisdom on to you!
During most kitchen remodels, the heavy-hitters—sink, cooktop, oven, and dishwasher—will be out of commission. The good news? Contractors often try to keep your refrigerator plugged in, even if it’s shuffled to a random corner or adjacent room. That cold storage is a lifeline!
Let go of the idea of “normal” for a while. Instead, set up a mini kitchen zone somewhere nearby—a folding table or your dining room table works perfectly. This is your new HQ for small appliances like:
Store pantry staples and snacks right there, too. Think of it as a minimalist kitchen... with a rustic twist.
And yes, this is the time for paper plates, plastic utensils, and solo cups. It might not be glamorous, but it beats washing dishes in your bathtub (we've heard the stories... we know it happens).
Sure, takeout is great—for a few days. But eating pizza and Pad Thai every night can wear you out fast. Luckily, there are some easy (and delicious) alternatives to keep your crew well-fed: Creative Ideas:
Phone a friend (or a few): Got nearby family or friends who’d love to host a dinner or two? Don’t be shy—say yes!
Local church programs: Some customers have been able to order meals through community churches—worth asking around!
Grill season: If the weather’s on your side, fire up the grill for easy, flavorful dinners.
Microwave steamer bags: These are great for quick veggies or rice with minimal cleanup.
Plan ahead by prepping dump meals (throw everything in a freezer bag, then into the slow cooker when ready). They're a lifesaver! Here are a few recipe collections our readers have loved:
10 Crock pot Freezer Meals in under an Hour
20 Delicious Keto Crockpot Recipes You Have to Try
24 Healthy And Delicious Things You Can Make In A Slow Cooker
This too shall pass. And while you might not miss the dust or the noise, you just might find a new go-to recipe or fall in love with your slow cooker all over again. Hang in there—you’re on your way to a beautiful new kitchen!
