Basic Gardening Tools

Even for a small garden there are 5 essential gardening tools

1. GLOVES

2. HAND TROWEL

3. WEEDER or HORI-HORI TROWEL

4. PRUNER and SCISSOR

5. WATER CAN and SPRAYER  

10 Basic Household Tools

A set of basic household hand tools are essential in repair and maintenance, craft and handicraft and decoration projects. These are simple tools that are practical to keep and a starting point in building up a more comprehensive or specialized tool set based on a hobby, utility and/or occupation.

Basic tools are usually used more often and receive most wear, purchasing the best quality one could afford is a realistic and economical, not only it could do a job more easily with less effort and time spent, but also it provide more safety. With quality products and basic tool care one will enjoy long-term benefits.

1. Hammer

A general-all purpose hammer, a simple tool that pounds in nails. Whether choosing a traditional or modern hammer, preferred and practical features would be a medium weight, head weight of 16-20 oz., a smooth face, a straight rip claw and a comfortable handle [1]. Additional features to watch out for modern type are a nail starter, and ergonomic designs of handles and an anti-vibration design.

2. Flat-head Screwdriver

A flat-head or slotted flared tip screwdriver is the most common type, used on screws that have a single vertical slit. The driver head should fit snugly into the screw slot without slipping when turning the screw with the tool. Screws and this tool come in variety of sizes and lengths. A basic standard size would be a flared tip of 1/4"-inch by bar handle length of 4-inch (1/4” x 4”) but 8-inch length would have additional reach and be more practical [2]. Additional feature would be an insulated soft-grip handle, vanadium steel bars and sanded tips.

3. Philip Screw Driver

This is a screwdriver with an “X” or cross-shaped head [2]. This tool comes in four basic sizes labeled from #0 to #4, with #0 being the smallest. The most common size would be #2, preferred length would be 8-inch and make sure to buy the one with a flat or blunt tip.

4. Pliers

Pliers a simple lever and come in three basic types: locking, adjustable and non-adjustable [3] used to extend and increase the strength of hand grip, and suited to a particular task. A first practical pliers to have, classified under the nonadjustable pliers, is an 8-inch needle nose pliers with wire cutter, useful in electrical works. Then, 10-inch adjustable tongue-and-groove pliers or a wrench pliers of the same length would be the next thing to invest since it is useful in plumbing works. An insulated soft handle would also be a comfortable feature.

NTS: Never ever use them to grab your or someone else nose.

5. Wrench

A wrench is a versatile turning tool used to provide grip and mechanical advantage in applying torque [4]. Preferred traditional model is a 10-inch adjustable wrench or spanner with jaw width of 1 ¼ inches or higher or wider, smooth thumb turn, smooth and stable jaw. An open-end head and movable smooth jaw that delicately accommodate different sizes of a fastener, from a bulky hose, bike seat adjustment to small fastener on a toy. An alternative modern model would be an 8-inch adjustable wrench with a wide 1 5/8 inch jaw capacity and slimmer jaw to fit in tight spots.

NTS: Heavy wrenches, like hammers, could double as self-defense weapon, just in case, if one really needs to hit a nut or two of a sawbag.

6. Utility Knife and Blades

Utility knife is a cutting tool used for general or utility purpose.  A basic model would be with a retractable blade, non-slip handle and tool-free blade change. An additional feature to look for are additional compatible blades like an 8-inch general purpose saw blade to cut wood, drywall saw blade to cut drywall, and 6-inch hacksaw to cut metal and plastic pipes.

7. Tape Measure

A tape measure, hence the name, is a measuring tool to measure distance. A preferred feature would be about 25-foot with a blade lock and a tang that hooked but doesn’t snag or cause too much abrasion. And the blade would ideally be at least 1 inch wide to keep it from collapsing when extended up to nearly 8 feet. Always check for accuracy and readable marking.

8. Square

A 12-inch speed square is a versatile measuring and layout tool to create an accurate square, make basic measurement and mark lines, use as a protractor, and use as a fence for crosscutting. In addition, the diagonal edge has marking for laying out rafter, roof trim and stair angles [4].  This was invented in 1925 by Albert J. Swanson, who also founded Swanson Tool Company, Inc, so it is just practical to secure a speed square from Swanson, which will provide a pocket sized blue reference book describing the tools functions.

9. Level

A level is a device used to determine something to a horizontal surface or plane. An ideal model would be a 9-inch torpedo level. Before purchasing this item, always check for accuracy.

10. Flashlight

This is a versatile item in your tool set. Any sturdy flashlight would do, but a hands-free, with tillable head would be ideal for repair or any project that requires an extra hand. 

Is this simple set of basic hand tools sufficient and efficient for household use? Please share your thoughts and post your comments below. Questions, requests, reactions, suggestions and corrections are all welcome. And do not forget to follow to help this blog create better content.

Thank you!

As always keep it simple, be prepared and enjoy!

References

1. The Family Handy Man. (n.d.). Choosing the Best Hammer. [Blog Post]. Retrieved from https://www.familyhandyman.com/tools/choosing-the-best-hammer/view-all/

2. DIY Author. (2009, August 18). Choosing the Proper Screwdriver. [Blog Post]. Retrieved from http://www.diybyexample.info/2009/08/choosing-the-proper-screwdriver/

3. Kelsey, J. (n.d.). Choosing and Using Pliers. [Blog Post]. Retrieved from https://www.thisoldhouse.com/ideas/choosing-and-using-pliers

4. Kinkead, E.B., Sehbai, D.S. & Tunney, C.J. (Eds.). (1972). Modern Century Illustrated Encyclopedia (Vols. 9). Australia: McGraw-hill Far Eastern Publishers.

5. Kelsey, J. (n.d.). Choosing and Using Squares. [Blog Post]. Retrieved from https://www.thisoldhouse.com/ideas/choosing-and-using-squares

Good Quality for Kitchen Essentials

Smart Way to Build a Functional Kitchen

Third set of kitchen essential will focus on the importance of good quality. Items and equipments in the kitchen should be of good quality that would mean it last a lifetime, which in a human lifetime is about 30-50 years. A thing that has a great quality will last more than one lifetime, where it would be passed on and utilized to its fullest from one generation to another. The ultimate money saver is when an item has fully depreciated, in accounting-financial term, and lasted a lifetime but very much functional and efficient.

The first kitchen essentials reflects the initial items one needs in a kitchen to get one starting not only just cooking but also appreciating good healthy food. The second set of essentials discuss versatility, a bonus it also to set up so one could cook, a basic but delicious meal, Carbonara. This current set hope to convey that good quality is important. Price tag and/or a known brand are not signs of good quality; it takes mindfulness and critical desertion with the help of information from material and manufacturing process use, honest reviews, verifiable experience of other and oneself in order to conclude that certain item is of good quality. Let us sharpen that sensibility with the following kitchen essentials.

1. Kettle

Kettle, or teakettle, is a type of pot used in cooking, specifically for boiling water. Classically it is made from metal, with main structures of a lid, a spout and a handle. Considering kettle will be used every day, functionality wise a lighter weight stainless steel is practical than a cast-iron kettle. Copper kettle is another light weight but quite tedious to clean, similar with a cast-iron. Hence such types are not ideal for daily use, but would be fine as a cooking ware collection, like a Japanese cast-iron kettle called Tetsubin [1].

Another quality I consider in selecting a kettle that has a circular structure with a heavier the bottom, as it will conduct more heat. A long thin spout kettle would be ideal for coffee drinkers who used dripper, like me, but I will forgo for more utilitarian purpose of a goose neck spout. Then, for the rest of the appearance it is all purely for aesthetic reason, preferring a more classic look would mean it will never go out of style and it would outlive modern trends.

Plastic components are a concern in anything that is subjected in intense environment, like heat or cold. These are the parts that break easily and/or deforms and making a kettle looks unpleasant and harder to clean, hence functionally, quality and beauty wise it is a great letdown. So, it is more preferably having no or limited plastic component as much as possible.

Owning a kettle would be a money and time saving measure as you can make your own coffee and minimize buying over-priced, waste accumulating and high-sugar content commercial coffee. Making your own coffee or tea will help in reducing garbage and increasing your savings. It will also help in predicting what kind of food you will be preparing in the future.

2. Dripper

This is a must for all the coffee drinkers aka caffeine addicts out there. A wide range of designs and princes are available.  An alternative item for  tea and/or non coffee drinkers would be a small metal deep cone-shaped fine mesh sieve with long hooks and handle  to strain tea leaves and herbs for making tea; strain seeds and/or clumps for making sweets, custards and other pastries.  

3. Paring knife

The essential 8 inches chef knife is meant to be use on the cutting board, the 3-3.5 inches paring knife is meant to be use off the cutting board, like for peeling, coring and the likes. One could still use it on the cutting board for small work, but it meant to be use for the hand [2].

4. Flatware

Flatware denotes to flat tableware, such as dishes and saucers made of metal, but it is refer especially to eating and serving utensils, such as forks, spoons and knives [3]. It is basic cutlery but made of stainless steel, compare to silverware that is made of or plated with silver. Stainless steel flatware is produced with different alloy quality described by percentage of chrome that range from 18/10, 18/8, 18/0 to 13/0 [4]. The first number represent chromium, which gives the flatware rust and stain-resistant qualities, while the second number refers to amount of nickel, as there is more nickel the shiner it is, mimicking the sheen of silverware. There have been speculations that 18/10 doesn’t exist and it is just a marketing strategy, if you want to know more about this issue, let me know from your comment below. Another factor to consider is the finish, pertaining the comfortable edges, and smoothness.

       

5. Dishware

These are dishes used for serving food, a wide range of variety based on function, on material and manufacturing process. Since this article pertain to essential choosing for the purpose of kitchen aesthetic and/or entertainment might be better covered in another article. Dishes material and process varies from ceramics, fine china, bone china, stoneware to glass, would depend on its availability and affordability. The very basic items one needs are dinner plate, salad plate and soup bowl, and maybe a couple of serving plate. For the basic design and size of dishware would depend on the number of housemates. White is classic and safe to assume it is lead-free, hence a lot who like it simple are partial to the brand Corelle.

6. Glassware

Glassware is another type of drink ware, together with a couple of microwavable mugs, these are few essentials to add on, starting with tall highball glasses and short old-fashioned glasses. These are everyday glasses like the highball or tumbler type could contain 240 to 350 ml, the more volume the better. It is ideal for drinks with lots of ice and volume, like sodas, iced teas, iced coffee, shakes and smoothies, while the short old-fashioned glasses are for fruit juices. Other glassware like wine glasses, beer glasses and the likes are collections that would be suited under barware.   

Good quality synonymous to durability. Kitchen essential should be made for everyday use, and with basic care should last a lifetime. However, with profit-oriented industries and corrupt politicians who aims to deregulate quality standard due to vested interest the honesty to manufacture good quality product is becoming rare. With great hope this post provided good information for better decision making and inspires ideas that could help in assembling and/or improving one’s kitchen.

Is this article or its subject matter interesting? If you believe it is and would like to know more, please let it be known and leave comments or questions below. Such information helps inspire, initiate, and create useful blog material. And please don’t forget to follow. If you find this article lacking please feel free to post your reactions, suggestions, and corrections. And maybe follow to somehow aid this blog to create better content. Thank you!

As always enjoy cooking!

Reference

1. California Academy of Sciences. (n.d.). Tetsubins: Iron Treasures of Japan. [Blog post]. Retrieved from http://researcharchive.calacademy.org/research/anthropology/tetsubin/index.html

2. Hiroyuki Terada - Diaries of a Master Sushi Chef. (2017, July 9). How To Choose The Perfect Knife - 4 Things To Consider. [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7nTBEbMQBGQ

3. Merriam-Webster’s collegiate dictionary (10^th ed.). (1993). Springfield, MA: Merriam-Webster. 

4. Crate&Barrel. (n.d.). Everything You Need to Know About Choosing Flatware. [Blog post]. Retrieved from https://www.crateandbarrel.com/ideas-and-advice/flatware-buying-guide 

The 10 Essential Professional Wardrobe Items

No matter what profession, career, and/or vocation one taken to avoid dressing like a tight ass prick every day, there always this one time that one need to dress formally and professionally. Perhaps may it be a first ever job interview, a meeting for bank loan, to secure documentation like passport in a government facility and/or simple formal occasion. There is no escape so it is better to be prepared than to be caught off guard.  

There are 10 simple, basic and versatile, thus making it essential, wardrobe items would ease the anxiety of vexing if one is under or over dress in a professional or formal interview, meeting and/or gathering. It is not recommended to buy everything in haste, this is just a heads up in case one is going window shopping and does not have these certain items. Always give some thought and time in finding the right size, fitting, design and style to suit one’s need, taste and comfort. Do not worry, one can still used these items in casual and informal occasions, all one need is a little imagination. 

10 Essential Items in a Professional Wardrobe

1. White Polo Shirt

A white simple well-fitted polo shirt makes everything look formal and put together, even if it is worn in a casually. Acquire a fabric that match one’s climate, example in tropical climate cotton is the best. It is light, soft and breathable but some wrinkle easily, which would be a setback for the next factor to consider, a fabric that needs no or minimal ironing. There are fabric-combinations like cotton-polyester that nice in a hot climate and wrinkle the leas, take time and effort to find it.

2. Gray Shirt

A gray semi-formal shirt, worn with well-fitted blazer completes the formal look. Neck line, rounded or v-neck, would depends on one’s face shape.  

  

3. Basic Black Dress for females and Well-Fitted Basic Suit for males

A basic black dress or a well-fitted suit alone is suitable in every occasion. With a few accessories it would create a brand new wardrobe hence it is versatile that it can be worn endlessly.

4. Slack

A well-fitted, comfortable black slack provide a formal setting whether it is worn with a white polo shirt or gray shirt with blazer and any combination.

5. Dark Blue Jeans

A clean pair of jeans paired with white polo shirt, or gray shirt, or any shirt with blazer present formality, more so if one act with politeness similar to Keanu Reeve in most recent movie interviews.    

6. Blazer

Invest in a well-fitted black blazer, an item that would make an informal shirt to formal. It is a versatile item would help put together a multitude of combination. Make sure the shoulder fits perfectly.  

7. Basic Flats for females and Loafer or Sneakers for males

Comfortable pair of shoes is useful on active and busy days.  These would receive the most wear invest a comfortable, good quality but not expensive pair.   

8. Leather - Ankle Boots for female and Lace-up Formal Boots for male

This is an additional footwear item for more professional meeting. There are heavy duty utility boots that look like as a formal boots, 

9. Leather Belt 

A solid good quality leather belt is to support slack or jeans. Preferable if it matches with formal shoes in color, material and metal accessories, to project a uniformed, snappy and clean look. 

10. Functional Bag

A light weight, medium size but heavy duty every day bag to place everything you need to survive in one’s work day. A comfortable shoulder strap would be helpful in securing a bag while both hands are needed to complete a task.

Final Thoughts 

These items are not vanity items, that is only be displayed on special occasion, nor a trendy fashion, that is short lived.  Before wasting hard earn cash on trendy fashion, invest on these items first. And since these items are worn and used the most, buy the best quality one can afford for durability and longevity.

For items to be unnoticeable of being used everyday, it is smart to stick with solid neutral or just black palette, and traditional or classical design. To present a clean formal and organized look closely match in color, texture and/or material of items like slack, belt and shoes.

Would like a comprehensively take on this subject? Please share your thoughts and leave comments, questions, reactions, suggestion and corrections below. It would inspire useful additional and comprehensive post. And please don’t forget to follow to help this blog to create better content. Thank you!

As always keep it amazingly simple and pretty. Enjoy!

Essential Household Cleaning Supplies

This blog post is in synergy with the last one about a simple cleaning schedule. The value of keeping a good standard of hygiene is the prevention of transmission of disease-causing microorganisms. Having the right items for specific goal is essential in order for things to get done faster and easier. Here are 12 essential household cleaning items I would recommend when cleaning and disinfecting in home-care setting.

1. Soaps and Detergents

In hand washing and cleaning, there are 3 essential components which are cleansing agent, water (pressure/fluidics) and friction. Detergents and soaps are the most common and lowest cost cleaning agents utilized in our home. Dish washing soap and laundry soap are detergents with specific purpose as designated by their names. Bath and hand washing soaps are another type of cleaning agent use in maintaining good bodily hygiene.   

2. Baking Soda

Due to concern on environmental safety alternatives such as natural and food grade products have been encouraged and popularly used as household cleaning agent. Among the alternatives is baking soda, a leavening agent, but moonlight as a cleaning agent. Taking note of it abrasive quality one seek in cleaning a non-smooth surfaces but it is not EPA-registered disinfectant [1], therefore not made for and ineffective against S.Typhi and E.coli, not a reliable disinfectant. However, it is good in keeping glassware clear and shiny. And to be more economical, use the expired baking soda for cleaning and the unexpired for baking and cooking.

    

3. Vinegar

As mentioned above, advocacy for environmentally safe products encourages the use of alternatives compare to commercial cleaning and disinfecting products. A study conducted by Dr. Rutala, Barbee, Aquiar, Sobsey, & Weber (2000) concludes that most natural products were less effective than commercial household disinfectants; however, undiluted vinegar and ammonia are effective against S. Typhi and E. coli [2]. In addition, vinegar is a great natural alternative as odor remover and fabric softener. A vinegar solution soak is also a helps in unclogging shower heads and softening grimes on faucets.

4. Alcohol

In the healthcare setting, “alcohol” refers to two water-soluble chemical compounds: ethyl alcohol and isopropyl alcohol that are considered mid-range disinfectant, between concentrations of 60%-95%, as these destroys many bacteria, fungi, and viruses in exposure periods ranging from 10 seconds to 1 hour. It is also a tuberculocidal as it destroys M. tuberculosis, a bacterium that caused infectious respiratory disease popularly known as tuberculosis (TB) [3]. It has been used effectively to disinfect small inanimate objects like scissors and thermometers.

5. Bleach

Household bleach is the most prevalent chlorine-based disinfectant. It comes in aqueous solutions of 5.25%-6.15% sodium hypochlorite. Its antimicrobial actions are effective against large variety of pathogens, fast acting, are not affected by water harness, and low incidence of serious toxicity [4], hence making it inexpensive. The disadvantages of bleach are corrosive to metal, discolour fabrics, and release toxic gas when mixed with ammonia, or acid. So please be careful not to mix bleach and Lysol products with ammonia as its main ingredient, surely you will see bubbling, sizzling and nauseous smell. Mixing 2 disinfectants would not maximise their antimicrobial effect.

Bleach is usually diluted in water at 1:10 ratio (~6,000 ppm) which the approximate dilution is 1 ½ cup of bleach in  4 liters of water; and 1:100 (~600 ppm) make up for ¼ cup of bleach in 4 liters of water. Please see table for the dilution corresponding chlorine ppm. The “ppm” measurement helps to identify at what bleach dilution destroy pathogens.  For example, low concentration 25 ppm and less than 5 ppm destroys mycoplasma and vegetative bacteria (no spores, examples E. coli and S. Typhi) in seconds, respectively.  One study shows 200 ppm in 10 minutes exposure time inactivated 25 different viruses [5]. Another, a concentration of 500 ppm showed inhibition if Candida after 30 seconds of exposure [6].

Household bleach is a straightforward disinfectant, and in reality it could really mess up tile grout. So, it is either use bleach dilution to disinfect, re-grout tiles annually and become a master "re-grouter"  within your lifetime; or find an expensive and effective disinfectant that would not destroy tile grout. If you are an arts and craft person who has a lot of time in your hand, then bleach would not be so bad. Bleach is inexpensiveness and availability usually used in large hard surface areas like counter tops and floors. I would use at least a 600 ppm with 10 minutes exposure time to disinfect counter tops; and 6,000 ppm on fairly clean or minimal microbial load floors. If a surfaces area is heavily contaminated, example pee or feces and the likes, it should initially be decontaminated by spraying until soaked 1:10 bleach solution, let it sit for 5-10 minutes, then clean and disinfected with 1:10 final concentration. Just remember always follow manufacturer’s instructions and safety precautions.

6. Other Disinfectants

A variety of commercial household disinfectants are available, and even different products under the same brand contain different active ingredients. Having a disinfectant with hydrogen peroxide as active ingredients would be useful in disinfecting coloured fabrics, sponges and cutting boards. Phenolic (example, o-phenyl phenol) and quaternary ammonium compounds show effectively in environmental sanitation of surfaces like floors, furniture and walls, but because it a bit costly compare to chlorine-based bleach. Moreover, most are non-corrosive to metal, comes in ready-to-use spray bottles or packaging, hence would be economical to use in smaller areas, like knobs and door handles.  

7. Sponges & Brushes

Essential items that provide an essential component in cleaning, friction, are sponges and brushes. Different kinds for sponges, from soft to abrasive, are use in cleaning kitchen wares, and surfaces like counter tops and sink; washing machines and bathroom tiles. Brushes range in sizes, lengths and shapes depend on object to be use from bottles and jars; to toilet bowls (ideal in longer length, with a container). After using always remember to sanitise by immersing to a 1:10 bleach solution for 2-5 minutes, for most contaminated item; or hydrogen peroxide for delicate one’s; then air dry. It would be convenient for sponges and brushes have hole or loops so they are just always be hooked, no need for bulky and contaminated containers that gather water and keep sponges wet and conducive to microbial growth.  To be more economical, save and recycle old toothbrushes to clean non-sterile items and/or areas

  

8. Cleaning Rags

Cleaning clothes from recycled old clothes is not the only option used in cleaning, currently we have microfibers. It is more effective in dusting and cleaning as such materials are densely constructed-polyester and nylon fibers, more absorbent and positively charges (dust are negative charge). So if reusable cleaning materials are used, they should be decontaminated regularly to prevent surface cross transmission.

9. Garbage cans & Trash bags, Pails, Basins & Spray bottles

Containers are needed to place garbage and contaminated materials. And also containers, like pails and basins, to dilute solutions, but use container that is only used to clean specified area and/or items to avoid cross contamination, example do not use to clean kitchen counter the same pail used to disinfect floors and floor mops. Do not forget to decontaminate regularly. Spray bottles are convenient containers for vinegar, alcohol and 1:10 bleach solution, just do not forget to place labels. 

10. Broom & Dust pan

Broom and dust pan use to gather and pick up multiple and/or larger particles. Decontaminate regularly.

11. Mop

Variety of mops from microfiber, cotton loop to conventional spring mop. The mop use would depend on floor types and areas. Always remember to decontaminate regularly if items are reused.

12. Gloves & Face masks

Gloves and mask are for personal protection from contaminants and large particles that could cause irritation, inflammation reaction and infection.

I always hope this blog post provide an additional knowledge about good hygiene. If you like this article please let me know, do comment and follow this blog. Feel free to leave any suggestions, questions, corrections and reactions. I always want to know what you think and it would help improve.

Since this blog post ended on personal protection, it would be in sync for the next article to talk about personal health and fitness, in particular on how to maximise taking vitamins and supplements.

As always keep it clean and simple.

References

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (Last Updated February 2017.). Guidelines for Disinfection and Sterilization in Healthcare Facilities, 2008.  Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/disinfection/

2. Rutala, W.A., Barbee, S.L., Aguiar, N.C., Sobsey, M.D., & Weber, D.J. (2000.). Antimicrobial activity of home disinfectants and natural products against potential human pathogens. Infection Control Hospital Epidemiology,  

3. Smith, C.R. (1947.). Alcohol as a disinfectant against the tubercle bacillus. Public Health Reports, 62, 1285-1295.

4. Merritt, K., Hitchins, V.M., & Brown, S.A. (2000.). Safety and cleaning of medical materials and devices. Journal of Biomedical Materials Research, 53,131-136.

5. Klein, M., & DeForest, A. (1963.). The inactivation of viruses by germicides. Chemical Specialties Manufacturers Association Proceedings, 49, 116-118.

Kitchen for Beginners: How to be Smart in Assembling a Functional Kitchen

Living organisms need fuel to have the energy to survive and replicate. Food is one of the main energy sources but as a human beings and a higher form of organism it is not just any substance. Somehow, we have improved and elevated its preparation and consumption. It may be either for very practical purpose of hygiene, health, and economic or for aesthetic purpose of stimulate and gratify our basal senses, consequently enrich one’s life.

Normal functioning olfactory and gustatory perception will result to appreciation of sumptuous meal. Food appreciation leads to more food digestion and/or preparation. Then we have foodies who take it to the next level: collect food recipes, watch baking and cooking shows, and aspire to cook delicious meals, as evident to home cook meals.  Cooking your own meal is one of many simple ways to save money, if one can’t cook anything will be left with limited options either buying expensive pre-made food, ordering restaurants or food deliveries. Home cooking would most likely use fresh and natural ingredients, thus making it a healthy endeavor. In Addition, cooking is not a natural talent but a learned skill, a continuous one. As learning stimulates the brain and augment the effect of dopamine, a happy hormone, greatly help in maintaining motivation and satisfaction after learning activities [1]. Home cooking has it great benefits from being wise with money, staying healthy, keeping oneself motivated, and make one’s life a little sweeter.

Most prolific home cooks are guilty of being obsess in having a fully equipped functioning kitchen. Such passion can lead to dangerous addiction that will suck money from unnecessary spending on kitchen equipment and ingredients. So such tendencies drive the need to have a firm plan supported by honest self-assessment and diligent research. Always consider acquiring items with these following factors: functionality, quality, economic and aesthetic.  Assembling a functional kitchen from ground up is slow but purposeful leads to well-being and long-term economical benefits.  It will minimize redundancy, wastage and squandering of limited resources.

Here are recommendations in how to be smart in assembling a functional kitchen, starting with 6 basic essentials: 

1. Sauce Pan

A high-quality 2 quarter stainless steel sauce pan with a heavy bottom with transparent lid cover and metal bar handle would be a great investment. It is just the right size for preparing one serving meals hence avoid food wastes and saves ingredients. As always choose stainless steel with heavy bottom for more equal heat conduction. Purchase the best one you could afford, take care of it and it will be a saving in the long run. Such sauce pan has multi-purpose from simple boiling water to preparing pastas, noodles, rice, soups, sauces and egg recipes. 

2. Wooden Spoon and Spatula

A 14 inches wooden spoon and spatula would be long enough keep away heat while still adjusting to high temperature. Wooden or bamboo utensils help in preserving the longevity of metal pots and pans; it won’t cause scratches that could wear out the pan or pot surface faster.

3. Cutting boards

It is health safety to have 2 cutting boards to avoid contaminating ready to eat vegetables and cooked food with uncooked meat bacteria. The ideal surface size would be bigger than the knife, plus extra space for cut portion. There are various materials to choose from, it would depend on purpose and preference. I would recommend buying 2 cutting boards, one good-quality, wooden board for vegetables and display, another one hard plastic for meat. Wood and plastic would be less expensive, safer and would not dull knives faster, compare materials made of glass, marble, or pyroceramic.

4. Chef Knife

The first knife that a kitchen needs is a standard 8 inches chef knife to learn basic control and access one’s cutting style. Chef knife is mainly use for cutting and chopping on the cutting board. Choose a good knife that is basically one piece where the steel or blade is running through the handle or all the way back, and the handle should fit nicely in your hand. It would be great if it has a good grind where the knife has been nicely tapered from the thick bolster, part of the knife blade near the handle, to the thinner tip as well as a nicely tapered from the spin down to the edge. A cheaper knife does not have full face grind and only the edge has been grinned which is called hollow ground edge. Basically, it is for rough work, like breaking harder foods, like crabs and lobsters. For a beginner and economic reason, purchasing such knife would be fair, as long as the blade is in one piece and the handle fits your hand. Mercer is a brand that has this kind of knife and it is of fair-quality, while Victorinox and Dexter Russell are companies that have a good-quality commercial-grade-stamped steel, full face grind with medium price range knives. Resist buying an expensive knife until you have assessed your knife skill, cutting style and knife purpose. Once you have honestly evaluation could go find and buy good quality knives, even indulging with the knife shape: German, French or Japanese shape; the forming: stamped or forged steel; and type of steel: soft or hard. And designate your old cheap knives to its rougher purpose [2].

5. Large Mugs

Two large microwavable heat-resistant mugs are not only for coffee and/or tea. It could also serve as bowls for single serving meals, until one could afford and find decent and preferred dishware.

6. Cutlery or Utensils

Buy a good quality that one could afford and have at least two of each spoon, fork, knife and teaspoon. A good-quality is that it doesn’t bend with minimal force, so have a go.

For me these are the 6 kitchen essentials to start with in assembling a functional kitchen. One would be able to start cooking simple recipes and facilitate in assessing food interest and cooking skills. Look out for next month blog on “Kitchen for Beginners.” 

References

1. Neve, K. (Eds). (2010). The Dopamine Receptors. New York, NY: Humana Press.

2. Hiroyuki Terada - Diaries of a Master Sushi Chef. (2017, July 9). How To Choose The Perfect Knife - 4 Things To Consider. [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7nTBEbMQBGQ