6 Surprising Kitchen Essentials I Always Get at TJ Maxx

From designer clothing to rows of teas and coffee syrups, TJ Maxx is known for the hidden treasures among its products. Though you might stop by for a great deal on a new sweater or shoes, the houseware section—typically tucked in the back—is filled with discount items to fully stock your kitchen.

As a young adult stocking my kitchen for the first time, TJ Maxx has become my go-to spot for all the essentials. Kitchenware can be a bit pricey, but it's generally much more affordable here. Whether you're stocking your first solo apartment or searching for something to replace the 30 year old pot with dents and stains that just won't budge, TJ Maxx has it all.

From basic kitchen items to unique filler items, these are the items I always look for at TJ Maxx.

1. Pots and Pans

Typically the pots and pans in the kitchenware aisles are classic silver metal, but sometimes there are cute sets to grab as well. Although the pans aren't usually patterned or colorful, they still look cohesive with the other individual items being sold. Most importantly, they get the job done—and they're super affordable.

2. Large Kitchen Utensils

The kitchen aisle has handy packs of large utensils. They often come in packs that include ladles, tongs, and slotted spoons, making it easy to find a set of matching utensils. Multi-packs are perfect if you're looking for your first kitchen utensils, or if you're looking to replace the pieces you currently have. Individual utensils and miscellaneous items, like can openers, cheese graters, and kitchen scissors, can also be found around the utensils.

3. Cutting Boards

Finding cutting boards can sometimes be a tedious task when you have specific cutting needs. In true TJ Maxx fashion, sometimes have to dig a little to find the diamond in the rough. Some cutting boards aren't the best quality, but do the trick—like the classy set of two bamboo boards that eventually warped a bit after a few hand washes—but you'll also find heavy-duty wood options and clear glass cutting boards at a fraction of department store prices.

4. Food Storage Containers

Storage containers for leftovers or food prepping might be my favorite kitchenware section at TJ Maxx. There are so many options for whatever your needs are: choose from glass or plastic, single area box or bento style, and han-wash or dishwasher safe. As a lover of all-things dishwasher safe, I thought my choices would be few and far between, but they weren't. Most of the storage containers were dishwasher safe, and many were also freezer and microwave safe too. To figure out if what they're safe for, check the bottom of the container for the symbols.

5. Drinkware

The large selection of cute mugs at TJ Maxx is no secret: they come in every shape and size, and fit every season and aesthetic. But their lesser talked-about items—that are still great finds—are the drink glasses and portable bottles. TJ Maxx has been selling unique martini glasses for months, switching out summery glasses with acrylic embeds of bees and flowers, for trendy seasonal glasses with gingerbread men, trees, and bows.

One of my favorite finds has been 8 oz. glass bottles with spill-proof screw top lids. These are great for prepping smoothies for the week, storing homemade health shots, or bringing a protein shake to the gym in an eco-friendly container. The best part? The glasses are dishwasher safe.

6. Dish Towels

Dish towels at TJ Maxx are a surprising savior. They usually come in packs or two to three, with colors and patterns to liven up the kitchen. And, it's easy to find high-quality sets that actually work when cleaning up spills or drying dishes. If you're looking for decorative or holiday-specific options, they have plenty of those as well.