Best Kitchen Upgrades for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need
Published: April 3rd, 2024

✨Sprucing up your kitchen isn't just about making it look good—it's about turning it into a space you'll love to cook in. Plus, it can add some serious value to your home. With so many choices out there, picking the right upgrades can feel overwhelming.

So, we did the homework for you. We've put together a list of the top kitchen upgrades for 2024, covering everything from the best overall enhancements to budget-friendly options and more specific upgrades to meet various needs.

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Overall Best: Install Quartz Countertops

Granite Gold Daily Cleaner for Granite, Marble & Other Natural Stone & Quartz Surfaces, 32 Ounces 32 Fluid Ounces, 1-Pack

When it comes to a kitchen upgrade that offers durability, aesthetics, and value, installing quartz countertops tops our list for 2024. Quartz is non-porous, meaning it resists stains and doesn’t need sealer like granite, making it exceptionally low maintenance. Available in a wide array of designs, quartz countertops can easily match any kitchen aesthetic. This material not only modernizes your kitchen but also attracts potential buyers with its long-lasting quality and minimal upkeep. According to our research, homeowners who choose quartz countertops often see a significant return on their investment.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$9.99 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Granite Gold Daily Cleaner? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Does Granite Gold Daily Cleaner leave a streak-free finish?
Granite Gold Daily Cleaner is pretty popular for keeping natural stone surfaces in top shape, especially granite and marble. What's nice is that it doesn't have harsh chemicals and doesn't leave any residue, so you can use it without worrying about damaging your countertops. Plus, according to the manufacturer's description, it's pH balanced and food-safe. So it's perfect for frequent kitchen use. From what we've gathered, lots of people say it does a great job with a streak-free finish, keeping countertops shiny and clean. It even handles tough stains like red wine, although you might need to apply it more than once to really get everything off. And it comes with a light citrus scent that freshens up your space without any overpowering chemical smell—that matches what the manufacturer claims, too. A heads-up: while the cleaner's performance is largely praised, a few have had issues with packaging. There have been reports of spray nozzles breaking or bottles leaking during delivery, so just something to consider when you're ordering. But overall, the general consensus is positive for Granite Gold Daily Cleaner when it comes to its cleaning power and leaving surfaces streak-free. If you're looking for a solid cleaner that's gentle on stone surfaces and leaves them streak-free, this one seems to be a reliable pick. Just make sure the packaging holds up to avoid extra hassles!
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How often should I use Granite Gold Daily Cleaner on my countertops?
Hey! If you're wondering how often to use the Granite Gold Daily Cleaner on your countertops, here's the scoop. According to how the manufacturer describes it, this cleaner is meant for regular use on granite, marble, quartz, and other natural stone surfaces. It does a good job of getting rid of spills and soils while leaving everything looking nice and streak-free. Plus, it's safe for areas where you prepare food since it's pH-balanced and doesn't leave any harmful residue behind. Based on our research, a lot of people who have used it say it's pretty effective at keeping their countertops shiny and free from any unwanted build-up. Folks often mention how nice their stone surfaces look after using it, without any damage. That being said, a few people have had issues with the packaging, like broken sprayers or leaks when ordering online, which is something to consider. Overall, though, most feel like it's a good purchase, especially compared to what's out there in stores. As for how often to use it, the general consensus, including a mention from the Good Housekeeping Institute, is to use it daily. A quick spray and wipe should be enough to keep your countertops in great shape and looking good. In short, if you're looking for a dependable cleaner that's easy to use and good at maintaining your stone surfaces, Granite Gold Daily Cleaner sounds like it could be a good fit for your daily routine. Keeping up with daily cleanings helps not just in appearance but also in prolonging the life of your beautiful countertops.
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Is Granite Gold Daily Cleaner safe for all types of natural stone?
Granite Gold Daily Cleaner is generally a safe bet for cleaning a range of natural stone surfaces like granite, marble, travertine, and quartz. The manufacturer specifically designed it for everyday cleaning to gently maintain these surfaces without the risk of harm you might get from harsher cleaning products. But here's something to keep in mind: this cleaner doesn't disinfect. So, while it does a great job at cleaning and leaves a streak-free, mildly citrus-scented surface, it won't tackle germs or bacteria. If you need to disinfect, you'd have to find another product that can handle that task safely on natural stone. From what we've gathered, a lot of people find that using Granite Gold for the daily clean along with a disinfectant made for natural stone can work well. One option some folks like is the [Weiman Disinfectant Granite & Stone Clean & Shine](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DWeiman%2BDisinfectant%2BGranite%2B%2526%2BStone%2BClean%2B%2526%2BShine%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), as it disinfects and polishes at the same time. Just double-check that any disinfectant you're considering is stone-safe so you don't accidentally damage your surfaces. Finally, the pH-balanced formula of Granite Gold Daily Cleaner is a real advantage. It helps avoid the etching and dulling you could get from a cleaner that's too acidic or alkaline. Our research highlights that keeping the pH balance right is key for keeping your stone looking good since traditional disinfectants can be too harsh. So, in short, Granite Gold Daily Cleaner is a solid choice for routine cleaning. Just be sure to have a stone-safe disinfectant on hand for when you need it, to keep your surfaces both clean and beautiful over the long haul.
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Runner-up: Upgrade to High-End Appliances

Our runner-up pick for the best kitchen upgrade is investing in high-end, energy-efficient appliances. Introducing brands like Sub-Zero and Wolf to your kitchen can elevate both its functionality and overall appeal. These modern devices, which often come with Energy Star ratings, offer substantial energy savings and advanced features that make cooking more enjoyable. High-end appliances are not just about luxury; they also contribute to long-term cost savings and consistently add value to your home. Potential buyers find energy-efficient and smart appliances particularly appealing, making this upgrade a wise investment.

Available at Amazon
View at Amazon

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Budget Pick: Repaint Cabinets and Update Hardware

Nuvo Titanium Infusion Cabinet Makeover Kit - Easy DIY 7-Piece Set, Brilliant White, Long-Lasting Finish Titanium Infusion Full Sized Kit

For those on a budget, repainting cabinets and updating hardware can be a game-changer. A fresh, modern coat of paint can rejuvenate the look of your kitchen, making it feel bright and inviting. Pair this with new handles and knobs to add a touch of elegance without breaking the bank. This affordable project can dramatically improve the overall vibe of your kitchen and is a quick way to make a big impact. According to our research, this simple but effective upgrade can make your kitchen look revitalized and new.

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$76.70 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Nuvo Cabinet Makeover Kit - Brilliant White? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Is sanding required before using Nuvo cabinet paint?
If you're thinking about using the Nuvo Titanium Infusion Cabinet Makeover Kit, you might be wondering if you need to sand your cabinets first. According to the manufacturer, one of the great things about this paint is that it sticks well to surfaces like laminate, wood, and metal, without having to do extensive prep work like stripping or priming. So, for most people, that cumbersome sanding isn't required. From what we've gathered, though, doing a quick, light sand isn't a bad idea—especially for really glossy or slick surfaces—as it can help the paint stick better. Just basic prep steps like cleaning your cabinets and a light sand can sometimes make a big difference in how the final result turns out. The paint is acrylic and designed to be pretty durable, with a nice satin finish that holds up well in kitchens. Plus, the manufacturer says you don’t need an extra sealer or top coat, which makes it even more convenient. According to others who’ve used the kit, many have had success with just minimal preparation. Some folks did mention that if you have areas with a lot of use or contact, using a top coat can help with durability. Also, just a heads up—some people noticed the paint color was slightly different from the promotional pictures, so testing it on a small area first to see how it dries might be wise. In short, if you’re looking to freshen up your cabinets without a ton of work or cost, the Nuvo Cabinet Paint Kit seems like a pretty good option. It's designed for different surfaces and really simplifies the whole painting process.
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How many coats of Nuvo cabinet paint are needed for full coverage?
For the Nuvo cabinet paint, particularly the Titanium Infusion Cabinet Makeover Kit, you can usually expect to get full coverage with just two coats. This is what most folks find, and it gives a nice, smooth satin finish that's pretty durable. It's a good idea to stick to the application's instructions, though. Prepping is key, so make sure you clean and lightly sand the cabinets first. This really helps the paint stick better and last longer. Our research suggests that people are generally happy with how it turns out, noting that it leaves a streak-free finish. But if your cabinets are in a spot that gets a lot of action, you might notice some wear over time. In those cases, even though the kit doesn't say you have to, some recommend adding a [polyurethane topcoat](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dpolyurethane%2Btopcoat%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) for some extra toughness. So, typically, two coats should do the job, but think about where your cabinets are and how much wear and tear they're going to face. And don't skip the prep work—it's worth it to get the best results with your Nuvo paint project.
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How durable is the Nuvo Titanium Infusion Cabinet Makeover Kit?
From what we've gathered, folks have generally been happy with how the Nuvo Titanium Infusion Cabinet Makeover Kit holds up, even when tackling really dark or previously stained cabinets. The manufacturer mentions that the paint sticks well to wood, laminate, and metal, and you don't need to strip the old finish or prime beforehand—makes it pretty straightforward for a DIY project. Many people we've heard from have successfully used it on darker cabinets and found the coverage to be decent. A couple of coats usually does the trick for a smooth finish, and the results can really brighten up a kitchen or bathroom. Of course, like with any DIY project, a little prep can go a long way. Some advice we came across suggests cleaning and maybe even lightly sanding your surfaces before painting to get the best results. If you're going from a really dark to a lighter color, you might need a few extra coats, so it's something to keep in mind. The kit covers about 100 square feet, so you might want to double-check your measurements and maybe grab an extra can if you're covering a big area. Overall, the kit is pretty forgiving and does a great job with minimal prep, but paying attention to the details and planning ahead will help you get the finish you're aiming for. When applied properly, it seems to stand up well to everyday use in kitchens and bathrooms, making spaces look fresh and more resilient.
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Best for Functionality: Add a Kitchen Island

Adding a kitchen island is a top choice if you’re looking to boost functionality. A well-designed island offers extra prep space, additional storage, and even a casual dining area. This versatile addition can make your kitchen more spacious and efficient. Whether you opt for a simple layout or one featuring built-in appliances, a kitchen island is sure to enhance both the utility and aesthetic appeal of your kitchen. Homebuyers find this feature highly desirable, making it a smart upgrade for both daily use and long-term value.

Available at Amazon
View at Amazon

Best for Aesthetics: Install Under-Cabinet Lighting

For those focused on aesthetics, installing under-cabinet lighting can make a significant difference. Proper lighting is essential for a functional and inviting kitchen, and under-cabinet options provide both. These lights illuminate your countertops, making meal preparation easier, and add a sleek, modern touch to your kitchen décor. LED under-cabinet lighting is particularly energy-efficient and long-lasting, making it a practical and stylish investment. This upgrade not only enhances the look of your kitchen but also makes it more user-friendly.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$16.99 at Amazon
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