Guests might not call out your cookware by name in their review, but they’ll definitely notice if your kitchen feels under-equipped. In fact, a well-stocked kitchen is one of the most mentioned details in guest reviews (or one of the biggest complaints when it’s missing!). A good set of pots and pans makes your Airbnb kitchen feel instantly more put-together.
But buying pots and pans for your Airbnb doesn’t mean stocking every size or buying the most expensive set. You just have to find durable pieces that hold up to frequent use and still look great for the next guest.
This guide covers:
- What to look for in cookware
- The features that actually matter
- Our list of the best pots and pans for Airbnbs
- Where to buy cookware for short-term rentals
What to consider when buying cookware for your Airbnb
The pots and pans in your short-term rental should be easy for anyone to use, quick to clean, and stylish enough to complement your kitchen design.
Here’s a checklist of what to keep in mind before buying cookware:
1. Durability and material
Prioritize sturdy, long-lasting materials that can withstand frequent use by guests who might not handle your cookware as gently you’d like.
What to look for:
- Stainless steel cookware is one of the best options because it resists warping, rusting, and scratching, and maintains its shine with minimal effort.
- Hard-anodized aluminum and ceramic-coated pans offer a lighter feel and easy maintenance while distributing heat evenly.
What to avoid:
- Copper
- Uncoated cast iron
- Teflon
Both of these materials require special care, like seasoning and polishing, so they’re not ideal for short-term rentals.
2. Ease of cleaning
Between turnovers, your cleaner or property manager doesn’t want to spend hours scrubbing the cookware to keep it looking fresh for the next guest.
Look for pots and pans that:
- Are dishwasher safe
- Have nonstick or ceramic coatings
- Have smooth surfaces and fewer crevices to prevent food buildup
3. Versatility
Your STR kitchen is going to cater to a range of cooking styles. Some guests will only use it to fry some eggs for a quick breakfast, while others will be prepping elaborate meals for large group dinners. The best cookware sets for Airbnbs work for multiple purposes.
Minoan’s pro tips for choosing versatile pots and pans for your Airbnb:
- Oven-safe cookware allows flexibility for roasting or baking.
- Induction-compatible bases ensure your cookware works across all stovetops, which future-proofs your setup (just in case you switch to a new kind of stove in the future!)
- A few multipurpose pieces (like a deep skillet or stockpot) reduce clutter without limiting function.
4. Size variety and quantity
A common mistake is understocking Airbnb pots and pans. Guests should be able to make a full meal without feeling limited.
For a standard 1-2 bedroom rental, we recommend:
- 1 ½ quart covered saucepan
- 3-quart covered saucepan
- 8-quart covered stockpot
- 4-quart covered sauté pan
- 10-inch non-stick skillet
- 8 ½ inch skillet
Add a few extra pots and pans for larger homes or stays that attract families or large groups.
5. Aesthetic
Visual appeal doesn’t have to be your highest priority, but it still counts – especially if you feature your kitchen frequently in listing photos.
A modern, matching cookware set brings a cohesive, polished look that signals quality. Choose finishes that complement your kitchen design – for example, brushed steel pots for modern kitchens, or enameled cast iron for rustic ones.
6. Storage and space efficiency
Don’t overlook storage space! Consider the size of your kitchen when determining the quantity and size of your cookware.
Have a small Airbnb kitchen? Consider stackable cookware and sets that share lids or have a nesting design. This not only saves space but keeps cabinets tidy and easy for guests to navigate.
How many pots and pans do you need for an Airbnb?
You don’t need a complete professional cookware set, but guests should be able to prepare a typical meal without missing essentials.
For most short-term rentals, we recommend:
- 1 ½ quart covered saucepan
- 3-quart covered saucepan
- 8-quart covered stockpot
- 4-quart covered sauté pan
- 10-inch non-stick skillet
- 8 ½ inch skillet
Add an extra pot or pan for larger homes or rentals that attract families and long-term guests. And if your listing emphasizes cooking (like “great for entertaining” or “perfect for foodies”), consider a full cookware set instead of piecemeal purchases.
2 saucepans + 1 stockpot + 1 large sauté pan + 1 smaller skillet = the perfect base setup.
Features to look for in the best pots and pans for STRs
Cookware is one of those categories where quality truly shows. Poor-quality pans warp after a few uses. Cheap non-stick pots start to flake after just a few uses.
But investing doesn’t have to mean overspending – you just need to know what matters most. The best pots and pans for a rental property will have these qualities:
High construction quality
Look for cookware built to endure regular use, cleaning, and varying skill levels.
Features to favor:
- Thick gauge material or multi-ply bases (for example, an aluminium or copper core sandwiched in stainless steel) help avoid warping and deliver even heat.
- Handles that are riveted (rather than simply welded) or ergonomically attached.
- Quality lids with good fit and durable handles.
Avoid extremely low-cost pans that will degrade after a few guest stays and become something you have to replace every few months.
Dishwasher safe
In STRs, cookware cleaning time and ease of use for guests are critical. Prioritize dishwasher-safe cookware (if your property has a dishwasher).
Guest-friendly material
The material and surface of the cookware matter a lot (maybe even the most!) when it’ll be used in a vacation rental.
Our favorite cookware materials for Airbnbs are:
- Stainless steel because it’s durable, non-reactive, and easy to clean.
- Non-stick/ceramic coatings because they’re user-friendly, especially for less confident cooks. Just be sure to invest in high-quality non-stick pots and pans, because cheap ones will start to flake and wear quickly.
We recommend avoiding cast iron because not all guests know how to care for it properly.
Oven and induction compatibility
Versatility is key. Look for cookware that can handle oven finishing (at least 400°F safe) and that works across gas, electric, and induction cooktops. That way, your pots and pans will work well even if you upgrade your stove in the future.
Stay-cool and ergonomic handles
Look for silicone-wrapped or heat-resistant handles that stay cool on the stove and feel balanced in the hand. Lightweight yet sturdy handles also help prevent accidental drops or burns.
Best pots for Airbnbs
Budget pick
This 3-quart stainless steel saucepan from Farberware is a kitchen workhorse. Made from heavy-duty stainless steel with a full-cap aluminum base, it distributes heat evenly and resists warping over time. The clever built-in straining lid lets guests drain pasta or veggies without grabbing a colander, which reduces cleanup and clutter. Its polished finish also looks timeless on any stovetop.
Details:
- Oven safe to 350°F and dishwasher safe for easy maintenance
- Built-in pour spouts and straining lid design
- Durable mirror-finish stainless steel exterior with even-heating aluminum core
Mid-tier pick
This 2-quart saucepan from Zwilling’s Energy Plus line is designed for performance and polish. Its 3-ply construction ensures fast, even heat, while the ceramic nonstick interior resists scratches and makes cleaning effortless. It’s ideal for everyday tasks like reheating soup or reducing sauces, but it’s durable enough to handle heavy use in an Airbnb kitchen.
Details:
- PFOA- and PTFE-free ceramic nonstick coating
- Induction-compatible 3-ply stainless construction with aluminum core
- Ergonomic, stay-cool handles
Mid-tier pick
This multi-tasking pasta pot simplifies meal prep for guests. It includes two colander inserts so guests can boil pasta and steam vegetables – or even two batches of pasta – at once. The polished stainless body heats evenly, while the flared rim prevents messy pouring. Perfect for larger Airbnbs or family-friendly listings.
Details:
- Dual colander inserts for simultaneous cooking
- Oven safe up to 500°F
- Dishwasher and induction safe
- Interior capacity marks and ergonomic side handles
Luxury pick
This KitchenAid 8-quart stockpot was built for durability and everyday performance. It features a thick, aluminum-encapsulated base that eliminates hot spots and distributes heat evenly from edge to edge. The etched measurement markings and tempered glass lid are functional perks that guests will appreciate.
Details:
- 3-ply base with aluminum core for fast, even heating
- Induction compatible and oven safe up to 500°F (350°F with lid)
- Etched internal measurement marks
Luxury pick
A statement piece in any kitchen, this enameled cast-iron French oven from Staub is as beautiful as it is functional. The self-basting lid keeps food moist and flavorful, while the smooth enamel interior resists stains and requires no seasoning. It’s perfect for soups, stews, and braises. Bonus points: It’ll look great in your listing photos!
Details:
- Chip-resistant enameled cast iron with vibrant finish
- Oven safe to 500°F and compatible with all cooktops
- Self-basting lid for moisture retention and even cooking
Best pans for Airbnb
Budget pick
This jumbo cooker is ideal for Airbnb guests cooking one-pan meals or big breakfasts. Its durable nonstick coating ensures easy release and quick cleanup. And its helper handle and glass lid are comfortable and practical. The large surface area makes it versatile enough for sautéing, simmering, or even shallow frying.
Details:
- Heavy-duty aluminum construction with nonstick coating
- Helper handle for stability and easy transfer
- Dishwasher safe and oven safe up to 350°F
Budget pick
This two-piece frying pan set is simple, reliable, and built to last. Each pan has a mirror-finish stainless steel exterior and an aluminum-encapsulated base for quick, consistent heating. They’re sturdy enough for daily use, plus they’re super sleek and will elevate your kitchen’s look.
Details:
- Even-heating stainless steel with aluminum core base
- Oven safe up to 350°F and dishwasher safe
- Polished exterior
Mid-tier pick
For hosts who want to balance style and durability, Henckels’ hybrid pans hit the mark. This pan combines the durability of stainless steel with a reinforced nonstick surface that resists scratching (even from metal utensils). Guests can cook confidently without worrying about damaging the pan’s finish.
Details:
- Hybrid stainless-steel/nonstick design for durability and easy release
- Metal utensil safe and dishwasher safe
- Induction compatible with ergonomic handles
Luxury pick
This Staub deep skillet is made of enameled cast iron, ensuring even heat retention, while the high sides and curved interior make it great for sautéing or baking right in the pan. The cherry-red finish is gorgeous and will make your rental kitchen feel just a little more elevated.
Details:
- Enamel-coated cast iron, no seasoning required
- Compatible with all stovetops and oven safe to 500°F
- Deep sides ideal for one-pan dishes or casseroles
Luxury pick
These All-Clad frying pans are the gold standard for performance and reliability. Crafted from hard-anodized aluminum with a PFOA-free nonstick coating, they heat quickly and evenly. You get the best of both worlds: sleek, contemporary design plus dishwasher safe.
Details:
- Oven safe up to 500°F and induction compatible
- Scratch-resistant, PFOA-free nonstick coating
- Stainless-steel handles and warp-resistant base
Best cookware sets for Airbnb
Budget pick
This complete 12-piece set from Zwilling covers every kitchen need with professional-grade performance. The 3-ply stainless-steel design provides even heating across all pots and pans, while the glass lids make it easy for guests to monitor cooking.
Details:
- Multi-ply stainless construction for durability and heat consistency
- Includes fry pans, saucepans, sauté pan, and stockpot
- Induction compatible and dishwasher safe
Budget pick
An affordable yet high-quality choice for outfitting your entire kitchen. This Cuisinart Chef’s Classic set offers professional performance with an elegant mirror finish. Each piece features an aluminum-encapsulated base for even heating, drip-free rims, and cool-grip handles.
Details:
- Tempered glass lids and stainless steel construction
- Oven safe to 500°F and dishwasher safe
- Aluminum base eliminates hot spots
Mid-tier pick
This cookware set from KitchenAid combines function and flair. The vibrant evergreen finish is beautiful and will appeal to guests, while the ceramic nonstick surface ensures effortless cleanup. Designed for all cooktops (including induction), these pans are lightweight yet durable.
Details:
- PTFE- and PFOA-free ceramic coating
- Induction compatible and oven safe to 400°F
- Lightweight and easy to handle
Mid-tier pick
An effortless set that balances premium quality with ease of care. This 10-piece set features 18/10 stainless steel construction with a non-toxic ceramic coating for easy cleanup. Its sleek, modern look elevates your Airbnb kitchen, and the variety of pot and pan sizes covers everything from breakfast to family dinners.
Details:
- Energy-efficient aluminum core for even heating
- Ceramic nonstick coating; PFOA- and PTFE-free
- Dishwasher safe and induction compatible
Why you can trust Minoan’s picks
Every product listed here was chosen because it meets our high standards of quality, durability, and design appeal – because we know how hard it can be to shop for cookware that lasts in a short-term rental.
Our picks aren’t random Amazon finds, they’re vetted favorites from brands that understand real kitchens, real guests, and real hosting wear and tear.
These recommendations are based on:
- Real hosting experiences: Several members of the Minoan team are former or current STR hosts themselves, so they know what matters to hosts!
- Real reviews: We assessed reviews from actual customers when determining which pots and pans to recommend.
- Insights from other hosts: We account for recommendations and opinions of actual Airbnb hosts when we recommend any product.
At Minoan, our mission is to help hosts like you design, furnish, and stock your rental with premium pieces at insider pricing. Every pot and pan you see in this guide can be purchased through your Minoan account, where you can get up to 60% off retail prices.
Where to buy the best pots and pans for Airbnbs and vacation rentals
You could spend hours shopping online and clicking between retailers – or you could shop smarter with Minoan.
Minoan is a purchasing platform designed specifically for STR hosts and interior designers to shop guest-favorite brands at the best possible prices.
You’ll find cookware from trusted brands like KitchenAid, Zwilling, and All-Clad, all with exclusive member discounts. Plus, you can manage everything in one dashboard, track shipments, and design rooms that guests love (and review highly).
Create your free Minoan account and start saving!
Airbnb cookware FAQ
What type of cookware is easiest to maintain in an Airbnb?
Ceramic-coated or stainless steel cookware is typically the easiest to maintain. Both hold up against high use, resist staining, and can be tossed in the dishwasher. Avoid overly delicate nonstick pans unless they’re high-quality and scratch-resistant.
Which types of cookware should you not use in an Airbnb?
Skip copper, uncoated cast iron, or anything that requires special cleaning. Guests won’t always season or care for cookware properly, so go for low-maintenance options instead.
How often should Airbnb hosts replace cookware?
A good rule of thumb: inspect your cookware every 3-6 months and plan to replace heavily used nonstick items every 12-18 months. Stainless steel and enameled cast iron can last much longer with proper care.