Cooking in small apartment kitchens or small kitchens can be challenging, but rewarding if you enjoy cooking for yourself and others. The most important thing is to keep your apartment kitchen safe.

Keep kitchen counters clean, uncluttered and free of clutter. Unplug small appliances after use and put knives, potholders, cookbooks, etc. away. If you use matches or a lighter to light your stove, be sure to store those in a safe place as well.

Be especially careful while cooking on the stove. Never leave the stove unattended, keep pot handles turned in, and don’t cook with long sleeves or drapes that could get close to the heat. Make sure the stove hood fan is running and use it regularly, or open doors or windows for ventilation. Make sure your apartment has working smoke detectors and a fire extinguisher in the kitchen.

Use your microwave correctly, never put metal inside it, and keep an eye on the food cooking inside the oven. Always make sure the microwave, stovetop burners, or hot dishes are turned off before leaving the kitchen. Do not try to repair a gas stove yourself. Call a professional. If you smell gas, report it to the gas company immediately.

Keep the stove and oven clean. Take extra care when cooking with butter or oil, watching what is cooking and regulating the heat. Never use water on a grease fire. Use a fire extinguisher or baking soda. Safety first is the motto in all kitchens, but especially in apartments.