Going without a kitchen, even for a couple of weeks, is harder than most people expect. Here are some practical tips to make it easier, whether you're having a new kitchen fitted or waiting for repairs.
Before the work starts
- Cook and freeze. Make a big batch of meals you can reheat, like chilli, curry, soup and pasta bake.
- Run the cupboards down. Use up food so there's less to move and store.
- Pack a "survival box". A few plates, bowls, mugs, cutlery, a sharp knife, a chopping board, tea towels and washing-up liquid.
- Pick your spot. Choose one room for your temporary kitchen, ideally near a sink and with sockets.
Setting up a makeshift kitchen
- Keep the essentials together. Kettle, toaster, microwave and a fridge if you can move it.
- Add a slow cooker or air fryer. They make proper meals with very little washing up.
- Protect the surfaces. Put a board or wipe-clean cloth down on any table you use.
- Watch your sockets. Don't overload extension leads with several hot appliances at once.
Washing up
- Use a utility room sink if you have one.
- Otherwise, use a washing-up bowl in the bath or shower tray, and rinse it well afterwards.
- Wash up straight after eating so it doesn't pile up.
Keeping meals simple
- Plan a week of easy meals so you're not deciding every night.
- Salads, wraps and sandwiches need no cooking at all.
- Set a budget for takeaways and meals out. It adds up faster than you'd think.
Not sure whether to stay at home at all? Read can you live in your house during a kitchen renovation?
Or skip all of that
If you'll be without a kitchen for more than a week or two, a temporary kitchen pod takes the stress away. It's a fully fitted kitchen on your driveway with a gas oven, hob, sink, fridge freezer, dishwasher and washing machine, from £349 a week.
- Gas oven
- Gas hob and extractor
- Sink with hot and cold water
- Fridge freezer
- Dishwasher
- Washing machine
- Breakfast bar
- Worktops and cupboards
- Heating and lighting
- Plenty of plug sockets
Questions
What's the easiest way to cope without a kitchen?
Set up one spot for cooking and one for washing up, cook and freeze meals before the work starts, and keep meals simple. If you'll be without a kitchen for more than a week or two, hiring a temporary kitchen makes a big difference.
Where can I wash up without a kitchen?
A utility room sink is best. If you don't have one, use a washing-up bowl in the bath or shower, or use the garden tap in good weather.
Can I cook without a kitchen?
A microwave, slow cooker, air fryer and kettle will cover a lot of meals, but you'll miss a proper oven and hob. A kitchen pod gives you both.