When it comes to stocking a kitchen, many people overlook five important items. These gadgets will save you time and money when preparing your favorite family meals and cleaning up after you’re done.

Garbage Disposals

A garbage disposal makes it easy to get the dishes done in fewer steps. Simply rinse you dishes off in the sink, instead of taking extra time to scrape them in the garbage. This reduces the waste you have to throw away, as well, saving money on trash bags and extra waste disposal fees because of overfilling your receptacles.

Stand Mixers

Every home cook should have a stand mixer in the kitchen, such as those found at MendingShed.com and other online retailers. It is a wise investment for creating multiple recipes for holidays or large gatherings. Plus, it allows you to get other family members involved in the fun. Little ones can operate a hand mixer easier to stir the dough of their favorite cookies or cakes, while you prepare other goodies with your stand mixer.

Multi-Functional Can Openers

Another kitchen gadget many people overlook is a manual multi-functional can opener. Electric ones are convenient, but you are out of luck if there is a power outage because of a storm or if it malfunctions. Invest in an opener that opens cans, jars and other containers. It makes it easier for weaker members of your household to open these items, as well, such as the elderly or someone who was recently injured.

Slow Cookers

A slow cooker saves you money by giving you a greater amount of options for home-cooked meals, even if you are pressed for time. Simple recipes, using your favorite meat and vegetable combinations, can be thrown together in the morning and put in the slow cooker to simmer all day long. When you get home from work, you’ll have a delicious meal to put on the table. Say goodbye to overpriced nutritiously unbalanced fast food or takeout.

Food Containers

Invest in a quality set of food containers to store leftovers longer. Quit throwing away money because of improper storage. Many containers are specially constructed to store certain kinds of food, such as to keep lettuce fresher in your refrigerator. Have a couple extra containers around to send leftovers home with your guests after dinner parties, so they don’t go to waste.

These five items are often overlooked by novice cooks and budding chefs, as well. Creating a functional kitchen is about the smaller gadgets, as much as it is about the large investments.