Living in a small home doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort. On the contrary, with a good choice of appliances, you can optimize the available space without sacrificing functionality. In cities like Panama City, where studio and one-bedroom apartments are increasingly common, knowing how to choose the right appliances is key to maintaining a practical and organized lifestyle.
In this article, we share a guide to the best appliances for small spaces, how to choose them correctly, and which features to prioritize to get the most out of them without cluttering your kitchen, laundry room, or living room.
What to consider before purchasing?
Before choosing an appliance for your small home, it’s important to consider three basic factors: size, functionality, and efficiency. It’s not just about the appliance fitting into the physical space, but also whether it integrates well into everyday use.
- Compact size: Prioritize models with a vertical or narrow design, especially in small kitchens or makeshift laundry rooms.
- Multifunctionality: Look for appliances that combine several functions in one. An oven that’s also a microwave, for example, can save you space and money.
- Energy efficiency: In small spaces, good ventilation isn’t always guaranteed. Therefore, choosing energy-efficient appliances helps reduce the heat generated and maintain a more comfortable temperature.
Washers and Dryers for Small Spaces
One of the biggest challenges in small homes is having a functional laundry area. In this case, compact front-loading washing machines are an excellent option, as they allow you to install a dryer on top or even use the top as an additional surface.
Another great alternative is 2-in-1 washer-dryers, which wash and dry in the same drum. Although their capacity is slightly smaller, they are ideal for those who live alone or as a couple. Additionally, many models allow you to program automatic cycles, which saves you from having to keep changing clothes from one appliance to another.
In Panama, brands such as LG, Samsung, and Electrolux offer compact models with good energy efficiency and quiet technology, perfect for apartments where the washing machine is close to common areas.
Refrigerators Just the Right Size
You don’t need a double-door refrigerator to achieve great results. Compact refrigerators or “top freezers” offer the ideal balance between interior space and exterior dimensions.
It’s recommended to choose models between 9 and 12 cubic feet, depending on the number of people in your home. If you live alone or with a partner, a 10 cubic foot model may be more than enough.
Another useful space-saving option is to opt for refrigerators with reversible doors, which allow you to install the door opening on the side that best suits your kitchen layout.
Smart Stoves and Ovens
In small kitchens, every inch counts. That’s why choosing built-in stoves or portable induction cooktops can make a big difference. The latter are safe, easy to clean, and easily stored when not in use.
As for the oven, if you don’t have room for a conventional oven, consider:
- A toaster oven with a convection function, which can warm bread and bake small dishes.
- A microwave with a grill or oven function, ideal for warming, browning, or even roasting certain dishes.
This type of multifunction appliance saves space and eliminates the need to purchase multiple separate appliances.
Small but Useful Appliances
Sometimes, the smallest appliances can make a big difference in everyday life, especially when space is limited. Some appliances that shouldn’t be missing in a compact home are:
- Air Fryer: Allows for healthier and faster cooking without taking up much space.
- Personal Blender: Ideal for quick smoothies, easy to store and clean.
- Multifunction or Electric Pressure Cooker: Replaces multiple pots and appliances in one.
- Handheld or Cordless Upright Vacuum: Perfect for cleaning without taking up half the closet with a broom, dustpan, and bucket.
The important thing is to look for models with compact storage, removable parts, and easy cleaning.
Efficient air conditioning in small spaces
In the Panamanian climate, having an efficient cooling system is essential. In small homes, you don’t need an industrial air conditioner: a 9,000 BTU inverter mini-split is enough to cool rooms up to 25 m².
There are also portable air conditioners, which are easy to move between rooms and don’t require complex installation. However, it’s important to check their energy efficiency, as they tend to consume more electricity than fixed systems.
In areas where the heat isn’t extreme year-round, a good tower fan with an oscillating function can be more than sufficient, and it takes up very little space.
Tips to get the most out of each appliance
Choosing well is important, but so is knowing how to organize your home so that these appliances don’t become obstacles or visual clutter.
- Use multifunctional furniture: For example, a countertop with space to build in the microwave or washing machine.
- Install shelves or racks over appliances: This creates vertical storage without taking up more floor space.
- Opt for appliances with uniform finishes: They help the space look more organized and visually spacious.
- Schedule the use of appliances so they don’t compete with each other: For example, don’t use the washing machine and the slow cooker at the same time if the electrical system is limited.
In short…
Living in a small home doesn’t mean less comfort, but rather being smarter with your space. The best appliances for this type of home are those that combine efficiency, compact size, and multiple functions, allowing you to maintain your routine without sacrificing comfort.
The Panamanian market offers a wide variety of options for all budgets. If you need advice or professional installation, you can go to a technical workshop specializing in white goods that can guide you on which models best fit your lifestyle and available space.
Choosing wisely and thinking long-term will make every square meter of your home work for you.