The three best small kitchen tools under $20 are the Microplane Classic Series Zester, the OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Bench Scraper, and the Kuhn Rikon Original Swiss Y-Peeler. Each stores flat or nearly flat, typically sells in the $6–$19 range, and replaces bulkier gear: the zester covers citrus, garlic, and hard cheese; the scraper chops, portions, and clears a board; and the featherlight Y-peeler handles any peeling job. Five more compact tools round out the list.
At a glance
- Microplane Classic Series Zester/Grater — one slim rasp for zest, garlic, and Parmesan; typically $12–$19
- OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Bench Scraper — chops, portions, and clears the board; typically $13–$17
- Kuhn Rikon Original Swiss Y-Peeler — ultra-light carbon-steel blade; typically $5–$8, or about $16 for a 3-pack
- OXO Good Grips Swivel Peeler — classic straight peeler, cushioned grip; typically $9–$12
- Collapsible silicone colander — folds nearly flat; typically $10–$18
- Multi-blade herb scissors — minces herbs in one snip; typically $8–$15
- Collapsible silicone measuring cup/spoon set — nests into a thin stack; typically $10–$18
- Digital kitchen timer — magnetic, loud, easy to read; typically $8–$15
Microplane Classic Series Zester/Grater
A long, narrow stainless-steel rasp with photo-etched teeth. Owners consistently report that it turns citrus peel, hard cheese, garlic, and ginger into a fine fluff with almost no pressure. The main gripe: the fine teeth need a brush to clean thoroughly.
Who should skip it: anyone who mostly shreds bulk cheese for melting — a box grater is faster for that job.
OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Bench Scraper
A flat stainless blade with a cushioned handle and etched measurement markings. Reviewers use it well beyond baking: chopping vegetables, portioning dough against the built-in ruler, and sweeping a full cutting board into a pot in one pass. It is dishwasher-safe and stores flat; the blunt edge is intentional, so it will never slice like a knife.
Who should skip it: cooks who want a true cutting edge, or who rarely prep enough at once to need a board-clearing tool.
Kuhn Rikon Original Swiss Y-Peeler
A featherlight Y-shaped peeler with a very sharp carbon-steel blade. Owners consistently report it glides through potatoes and carrots with less hand fatigue than heavier peelers; many buy the roughly $16 three-pack and stash spares. The carbon-steel blade can show wear over time.
Who should skip it: anyone who prefers the heft and familiar motion of a straight peeler — some cooks never adjust to the Y grip.
OXO Good Grips Swivel Peeler
The classic straight-handled peeler with a sharp stainless swivel blade and OXO's non-slip cushioned grip. Reviews frequently mention years of reliable service and comfort for arthritic or smaller hands. It is heavier than a Y-peeler and takes slightly more drawer space.
Who should skip it: speed-focused cooks who peel in bulk — the lighter Kuhn Rikon is the easier tool for long sessions.
Collapsible silicone colander
A food-grade silicone colander that folds to roughly an inch thick, then pops up to drain pasta or rinse produce. Owners in small kitchens consistently report it as one of their best space trades — a rigid colander is famously awkward to store. Silicone flexes under a heavy load, though, so favor well-reviewed brands.
Who should skip it: anyone who regularly drains large, heavy pots — a rigid metal colander is steadier with real weight.
Multi-blade herb scissors
Scissors with several parallel blades that mince chives, parsley, or cilantro in a single snip, usually with a cleaning comb included. Fans say they skip the board-and-knife routine for garnishes, though the stacked blades take a moment to clean.
