Kitchen Design Pros Promise This Appliance Upgrade Isn't Worth The Splurge - Tasting Table

"Melissa Schneider, co-founder and lead designer at Homes Innovation, said that the warming drawer "makes for an effective flex," but ultimately, it isn't worth the price. A warming drawer is a kitchen appliance that is typically installed along with your oven. It is designed to keep food at a low, consistent temperature so that it stays warm after cooking. This makes it a great choice for people who host dinner parties every week or have large families who eat at different times."

""If you're the kind of person hosting five-course dinners on a Tuesday, then yes, I fully support this purchase - and also, please invite me over." However, for the average household, the $1,000 to $3,000 cost of a warming drawer makes it more of a luxury rather than a practicality. Plus, while some kitchen appliances are worth the splurge, warming drawers are complex to install, and can end up being too bulky for smaller kitchens."

Homeowners often face budget constraints when renovating kitchens and should prioritize upgrades with strong return on investment. Warming drawers cost between $1,000 and $3,000 and suit frequent hosts or large families who need to keep dishes warm. Warming drawers are complex to install and can be bulky in smaller kitchens, making them impractical for average households. Alternatives include using an oven, stovetop techniques such as keeping food in a cast iron skillet, and other low-cost warming methods. Selecting practical, cost-effective upgrades preserves budget while delivering functional improvements and avoids unnecessary luxury expenditures.

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