Best Buys for Your Kitchen at Online Auctions and Estate Sales

A necessity in every kitchen are the tools used to cook a meal. In 2016 alone, retail sales of kitchen gadgets and tools were close to 1.19 billion U.S. dollars. Most pots and pans have a lifetime of 5 years or less, while other utensils like paring knives and peelers should be replaced yearly. If you’ve noticed your kitchen gadgets and tools showing signs of serious wear and tear, consider replacing them with a few of the gently used items on the list below.

Cast Iron Cookware/ Enameled Cast Iron Cookware

Cast Iron Cookware has a longer lifetime than non-stick Teflon cookware. If properly cared for it can last twice as long, if not longer. Save money by finding this item at a local estate sale or online auction. Avoid cast iron cookware with dents, pitting, or without a flat bottom surface.

Dishware

Look for unique dishware to add to your existing dishes or to replace existing items. Often you can find a full set in many cases unopened.

Glassware

Glassware like Vintage Pyrex or glass baking dishes are often in abundance in online auctions and estate sales. Look to create a matching set or fill in an existing set. In most cases, the glass is in great condition. If it isn’t, be sure to avoid cloudy, cracked, or chipped glass.

Mason Jars

Mason Jars have many universal uses in the kitchen and a ton of uses outside the kitchen as well. If you find them in an online auction or at an estate sale, look for jars free of cracks or chips along the rim and purchase new lids for the jars to ensure the container can be closed properly.

Pots and Pans

Stainless steel pots and pans in good condition are excellent finds. Avoid warped pots or non-stick cookware with damaged Teflon.

Servingware and Cooking Utensils

Serving spoons or spatulas are great deals to purchase from online auctions and estate sales. Look for items free of rust with minimum wear and tear. If you are looking to create unique art for the kitchen framed utensils can be a thrifty way to create drama in your kitchen or dining room design scheme.

Serving Platters and Stands

Though handy to have, we don’t often use items like serving platters or cake stands outside of special occasions. This makes this category the perfect item to look for preloved!

Small Appliances

Small appliances like blenders or slow cookers can be a great buy if they are like new or in an unopened box. Avoid items that aren’t clean or missing parts.

Stainless Steel Bowls

These bowls are resilient items able to last for years in any kitchen if well taken care of. Stainless Steel is an excellent replacement for plastic bowls that often hold bacteria longer. Avoid stainless steel bowls with uneven surfaces or rust.