Cookware?

[Lisa11009]

I am currently renovating my condo into an Airbnb. I have some questions about the cookware people recommend. I was thinking of buying high-end pans but am worried about the Teflon being scratched and having to replace them. Should I go for a cheaper brand? Does anyone have any thoughts or experiences on this?

[Greystone0]

Hi @Lisa11009  - we use stainless steel cookware and I would recommend this for a short term rental. It does not degrade the way non-stick can degrade and leave you with needing to replace again and again.

We have not had to replace any stainless steel pots or pans and have a very active rental. When our budget was tight I sourced stainless steel pieces thru garage sales, thrift finds, estate sales and was able to source some great items. We also have a new set that we purchased once budget allowed. If any piece becomes too grimy from baked on stains, we remove from inventory and leave for a scrubbing with baking soda.

All of our heavily used pots and pans look fantastic and we are able to maintain them to an almost like new with this method.

good luck!

[Lorna170]

@Lisa11009  Teflon will be scratched very quickly.  I used to purchase stainless steel pots and pans that lasted about 3 years before the bottoms looked like they had been used on a campfire.  I have since moved to a "rock" type finish or the black diamond pans.  They don't seem to get burned as quickly and are currently on year 5.

[Elisa]

Hi @Lisa11009 😊, 

Thank you for asking this interesting question here!

What do you think of Lorna's and Greystone's suggestions?

Do you need more help with this?

[Justin2463]

Hi @Lisa11009,

I would stick to stainless steel, or anodized aluminum. 

Teflon will scratch very quickly. 

Also, provide wooden or silicon utensils to prevent scratching. 

Cheers.  

[Marcus804]

I went with Ikea for my kitchen as the financing options are great and replacements for everything are easy to source. Not sure on durability yet, but everything looks pretty nice. Stainless stuff here.

[Kumail4]

Great question! I'd actually recommend skipping Teflon/non-stick altogether for STR properties. Here's what works well:

Best options for Airbnb rentals:

• Stainless steel — nearly indestructible, dishwasher safe, lasts years even with heavy guest use. Brands like Cuisinart or Tramontina offer great quality without breaking the bank.
• Cast iron — extremely durable, but heavier and requires some seasoning care.
• Carbon steel — a middle ground between the two.

Why avoid non-stick/Teflon for rentals:

• Guests often use metal utensils without thinking
• Scratched Teflon pans become a liability and look bad in photos
• Replacement costs add up quickly over time

My personal approach: Mid-range stainless steel (Tramontina or similar) — around $30–60 per pan. Durable enough to last years, and if something does happen, replacing one pan won't hurt your wallet.

Save the high-end cookware for your personal home. For STRs, durability beats luxury every time. 🍳

Hope that helps with the renovation — exciting times ahead! 🏡