How to Live Without a Kitchen

Designate a space for your temporary kitchen. Choose a space that is as close to a sink as possible, such as a laundry room or near a bathroom.

Pack up and store kitchen items that you do not use regularly or that you can’t use while you are without a kitchen. Keep only the basics out of storage, such as mixing spoons, measuring cups and spoons, a spatula and some knives.

Set up a kitchen area with cooking equipment. You can prepare basic meals with a microwave, toaster oven, electric skillet and water kettle. A slow cooker is also useful for making home-cooked meals without a stove.

Store food, kitchen utensils and equipment in large bins that you can move out of the way when not in use. Large bins can also serve as preparation and eating surfaces when necessary.

Cook on a grill. You can grill even in cold weather.

Move the refrigerator to the dining room or another area away from the renovations. If you don’t have a place to move the fridge to, invest in a small, dormitory-sized refrigerator to keep small amounts of food cold.

Purchase disposable plates, cups and cutlery to avoid having to wash dishes as much as possible. If you have to wash dishes, wash them in the bathroom or laundry room sink, or the bath tub.

Stock up on easy-to-prepare foods, such as cereal, peanut butter and jelly, pasta and canned foods. If you have a freezer, fill it with prepackaged frozen meals that you can cook in the microwave.

Shop for food as you need it. Stop at the store on the way home to purchase supplies for dinner; for example, store-cooked chicken and a salad from the salad bar is a healthy dinner that requires no preparation. Explore the grocery store’s pre-made entree section for items that you can warm up in the microwave or toaster oven.

Plan to eat at least some of your meals at restaurants. Watch for coupons and specials to keep your budget intact.