Top 10 Best Kitchen Gadgets Under $20 You Need Now!

Cooking at home can sometimes feel time-consuming and complicated, especially when your kitchen tools aren’t up to the task. Affordable solutions that make meal prep easier and more enjoyable are often hard to find.

That’s where the best kitchen gadgets under $20 come into play. These budget-friendly gadgets are designed for anyone who wants to save time, reduce clutter, and improve efficiency without spending a lot. From handy slicers to versatile peelers, each item offers practical benefits that support everyday cooking tasks.

This review will explore several useful kitchen gadgets in this price range, highlighting what makes each one stand out. Whether you’re updating your collection or just starting out, you’ll find insights to help choose the right tool for your needs.

Top Affordable Tools That Make Cooking Easier and More Fun

Image	Product	Price
Our Top Picks 1	TrendPlain Glass Olive Oil Sprayer 16oz Black	Check Price
Our Top Picks 2	Stainless Steel Onion Slicer Holder	Check Price
Our Top Picks 3	Cisily Kitchen Sink Sponge and Brush Holder	Check Price

1. TrendPlain Glass Olive Oil Sprayer 16oz Black

Elevate your cooking routine with the TrendPlain Glass Olive Oil Sprayer 16oz Black. Designed to blend style and functionality, this oil dispenser delivers precise control over your oil use.

Crafted from BPA-free glass with a sleek black finish, the sprayer fits comfortably in hand and looks great on any countertop. Its durable build ensures long-term use in busy kitchens, making it a reliable addition to daily cooking tasks.

The dual dispensing feature sets this olive oil sprayer apart by allowing users to switch between a fine mist spray and a steady pour. This versatility prevents waste and mess, keeping kitchen surfaces cleaner.

The nozzle is engineered for precision, enabling you to drizzle or spray oil exactly where needed.

Each spray releases just 15 grams of oil, helping manage healthier cooking with careful portion control. Users can effortlessly reduce excess oil while maintaining flavor and texture. The BPA-free glass is odorless and heat-resistant, adding a layer of safety and quality for everyday use.

Simple to use and clean, the bottle’s design suits cooks aiming to streamline meal prep without sacrificing control. Its compact size and easy-to-handle shape make it perfect for home chefs who appreciate practical yet elegant kitchen tools. With a lifetime assurance backing the product, shoppers gain confidence in its durability and performance over time.

With a lifetime assurance backing the product, shoppers gain confidence in its durability and performance over time.

Pros

• Dual function allows both spray and pour options for cooking flexibility
• Precision nozzle provides accurate oil dispensing to minimize waste
• Durable, BPA-free glass bottle that is safe, odorless, and heat resistant

Cons

• Black finish may show fingerprints or smudges more easily

Offering precise control over oil use with a stylish and sturdy design, the TrendPlain Glass Olive Oil Sprayer is a smart tool for every kitchen. Its combination of spray and pour features supports healthier cooking habits while making meal preparation more efficient.

This oil dispenser is a valuable choice compared to traditional bottles or bulky sprayers.

2. Stainless Steel Onion Slicer Holder

Experience effortless and uniform slicing with the Stainless Steel Onion Slicer Holder. Designed to eliminate the hassle and mess of chopping onions, this tool enhances safety and precision in the kitchen. Its sturdy construction offers a reliable grip, making slicing tasks quicker and more comfortable.

Its sturdy construction offers a reliable grip, making slicing tasks quicker and more comfortable.

Beyond onions, this versatile gadget works great for slicing various vegetables and even tenderizing meat. Its clever design supports consistent cuts and better control, reducing accidents and uneven pieces.

A handy accessory for every kitchen, it simplifies meal preparation while improving efficiency.

The Stainless Steel Onion Slicer Holder features sharp steel pins that firmly hold vegetables in place during cutting. These pins are engineered to prevent slipping and deliver evenly sized slices.

More than just an onion slicer, the tool doubles as a meat tenderizer. The long steel needles penetrate deeply into meat fibers, helping enhance flavor and texture.

Cleaning is straightforward, making it practical for everyday kitchen use without added hassle.

Built with premium stainless steel tines accompanied by an extra-wide handle, the holder offers comfortable grip and stability. The thick plastic handle is designed to be non-slip and dishwasher safe, improving both safety and convenience.

Lightweight yet sturdy, it suits users of all skill levels seeking a safer chopping method.

Pros

• Sharp steel pins ensure even, slip-free slicing
• Dual function as both slicer holder and meat tenderizer
• Ergonomic non-slip handle provides a comfortable grip

Cons

• Handle size may not suit users with very large hands

Offering an effective blend of safety, versatility, and durability, the Stainless Steel Onion Slicer Holder is a notable addition to any kitchen toolkit. Its multi-purpose design and ease of use make food preparation faster and more enjoyable.

3. Cisily Kitchen Sink Sponge and Brush Holder

Keeping your kitchen sink area clean and organized can be challenging, especially in small spaces. The Cisily Kitchen Sink Sponge and Brush Holder is designed to enhance tidiness while maximizing countertop space.

This durable organizer features practical functions that simplify daily kitchen tasks. With a smart rotatable spout and multiple compartments, it prevents water mess and keeps cleaning tools neatly separated. Anyone looking to streamline their kitchen routine will appreciate this handy accessory.

Anyone looking to streamline their kitchen routine will appreciate this handy accessory.

Constructed from high-quality rustproof 304 stainless steel, the Cisily holder offers long-lasting performance in humid kitchen environments. Its compact size fits perfectly into kitchens with limited countertop room without sacrificing storage capacity.

The ergonomic dividers create three separate sections, allowing effective organization of sponges, brushes, detergent bottles, and sink stoppers.

The standout feature is the rotatable spout, which swivels in three directions. It directs excess water from sponges directly into the sink, reducing countertop mess and minimizing cleanup time.

Ready to use straight from the box, this organizer requires no installation, making setup effortless. Its sturdy construction prevents deformation, while easy rinsing under the tap simplifies maintenance. Compared to similar products, it strikes an excellent balance between size, storage capacity, and drip management.

This sink caddy suits anyone wanting an uncluttered and hygienic kitchen workspace.

Pros

• Rotatable spout prevents water pooling on countertops
• Compact design with multiple compartments maximizes space
• Durable rustproof stainless steel construction

Cons

• Limited color options might not match all kitchen styles

The Cisily Kitchen Sink Sponge and Brush Holder streamlines kitchen sink organization with durable construction and smart design features. It prevents countertop clutter while simplifying cleanup, making everyday kitchen maintenance smoother.

Ideal for small kitchens, it offers both practicality and durability in one compact package.

4. Otstar Jar and Bottle Opener for Seniors

Opening jars and bottles can be a challenge, especially for seniors or those with limited hand strength. The Otstar Jar and Bottle Opener offers a simple and effective solution for effortless lid removal.

Designed with user comfort in mind, this opener combines multiple functions to ensure every twist or pull becomes easier. It’s an ideal tool for anyone needing assistance handling stubborn jars and bottles.

The Otstar opener features eight circular openings to fit lids ranging from one to three inches in diameter. For larger jars, a mouth-shaped hook breaks the airtight seal, while an additional straight hook handles ring-pull cans confidently. Its long handle provides excellent leverage, reducing the effort required to twist off lids.

Rubber lining inside the openings prevents slipping by firmly gripping the lid surface. The textured handle surface enhances control, helping users maintain a secure hold during operation. This reduces hand strain, even when tackling stubborn lids.

Constructed from food-grade polypropylene and rubber, the opener is both durable and easy to clean. Its compact size allows for convenient storage in drawers or hanging on kitchen hooks. This multifunctional tool is a perfect gift to ease daily kitchen tasks for seniors, arthritis sufferers, or anyone with limited hand strength.

Pros

• Adjustable openings fit small to medium lids and ring-pull cans
• Rubber lining and non-slip handle provide secure grip and leverage
• Compact, lightweight design allows easy storage and cleaning

Cons

• May require occasional repositioning on very large jar lids

The Otstar Jar and Bottle Opener stands out for combining versatility with ease of use. Compared to simpler openers that fit only one lid size, this tool adapts to a wide range of containers.

Its thoughtful design supports users seeking a reliable, low-effort way to open jars and bottles with confidence. For those looking to reduce kitchen struggles, this handy gadget delivers consistent performance.

5. iBayam Kitchen Scissors Shears with Protective Sheath

Enhance your kitchen efficiency with the iBayam Kitchen Scissors Shears, a versatile tool designed for everyday use. These heavy-duty shears combine sharpness and comfort, ensuring effortless cutting for a wide range of kitchen tasks.

Crafted for durability and precision, the pair comes with distinctively colored handles for easy identification. They are a practical addition to any household, camper, or first apartment setup.

The iBayam Kitchen Scissors Shears feature stainless steel blades engineered to slice through food, packaging, and household materials with ease. Their patented sharp edges provide reliable cutting performance for meat, vegetables, herbs, and even tougher items like twine or cardboard.

Designed for comfort, the ergonomically shaped handles fit naturally in both large and small hands while accommodating left- and right-handed users. The cushioned grips reduce pressure and offer controlled maneuverability during prolonged use.

Included in the package are two scissors with different colored handles, allowing for dedicated use in various food preparations and household chores. This thoughtful design minimizes cross-contamination and adds convenience.

Built to endure, the kitchen shears resist wear and are dishwasher safe, although hand washing is recommended to maintain blade sharpness. They stand out as essential kitchen utensils that blend function and durability, catering well to home cooks and outdoor activities alike.

Pros

• Sharp stainless steel blades cut through diverse materials easily
• Comfort grip handles fit both large and small hands comfortably
• Two scissors with different colored handles for convenient multiple uses

Cons

• Blade edges may dull faster if frequently washed in a dishwasher

With a balanced focus on sharpness, comfort, and versatility, the iBayam Kitchen Scissors Shears offer reliable service for a variety of cutting needs. These shears deliver strong performance at a practical value and suit a wide audience from everyday cooks to those setting up new households.

6. Over the Sink Expandable Fine Mesh Colander with Rubber Grip

Experience effortless kitchen prep with the Over the Sink Expandable Fine Mesh Colander. Designed to fit most sinks, this colander makes rinsing, draining, and straining faster and more convenient. Its adjustable handle and sturdy build bring both flexibility and durability to your kitchen tasks.

Combining practicality with quality, this colander saves counter space by resting securely over your sink. With a fine mesh basket and expandable grip, it accommodates various kitchen sink sizes and a range of food types with ease. Cooking and cleaning are made simple and efficient.

Cooking and cleaning are made simple and efficient.

This colander stands out with its premium stainless steel construction, ensuring long-lasting strength and resistance to deformation. The expandable rubber grip handle adjusts from

3 inches, fitting a wide variety of sink widths effortlessly. This feature also provides a stable, non-slip hold during use.

Its fine mesh basket is perfect for straining pasta, vegetables, and fruits without losing small pieces. Elevated legs allow for easy countertop placement when needed, offering versatility beyond sink use. The colander also performs well with hot ingredients thanks to its heat-resistant materials.

The colander also performs well with hot ingredients thanks to its heat-resistant materials.

Cleaning is hassle-free as the colander is dishwasher safe. Its smooth surface prevents food from sticking, saving time and effort during washes.

Perfect for home cooks who value convenience and durability, this colander is a reliable choice for various kitchen tasks. Compared to standard strainers, its expandable design and sturdy grip offer enhanced usability and stability for busy kitchens.

Pros

• Expandable rubber grip fits most sink sizes comfortably
• Durable stainless steel construction resists bending or breaking
• Fine mesh design effectively strains small foods and liquids

Cons

• Not recommended for very heavy items to avoid stress on handle

Offering an adjustable design with premium materials, this colander is a versatile addition that makes kitchen tasks smoother. Its fine mesh and stable grip enhance functionality compared to simpler strainers, adding value for daily meal preparation.

7. Zulay Kitchen Silicone Spoon Rest Gray

Keeping your kitchen clean while cooking can be challenging. The Zulay Kitchen Silicone Spoon Rest Gray offers a practical way to maintain order and cleanliness. It prevents sauce and oil drips from messy countertops, making meal preparations more enjoyable and less stressful.

It prevents sauce and oil drips from messy countertops, making meal preparations more enjoyable and less stressful.

This utensil holder combines functionality and style with a sleek square design. It fits well in any kitchen setup and supports multiple tools at once, creating a clutter-free workspace that every cook appreciates.

Designed with four separate slots, the spoon rest provides ample space to hold spoons, spatulas, ladles, and other cooking utensils. This separation helps keep tools organized when multitasking, so you always have the right item within reach. The raised edges effectively catch drips, protecting your countertops from grease and food stains.

The raised edges effectively catch drips, protecting your countertops from grease and food stains.

Made from durable, heat-resistant silicone, the holder withstands high temperatures near the stove without damage. Its non-slip base ensures the rest remains steady during busy cooking sessions.

Cleaning is simple; it can be placed directly in the dishwasher, saving time after meal prep.

Durability meets affordability in this kitchen gadget. The lifetime warranty reflects Zulay Kitchen’s confidence in its quality.

Pros

• Four slots allow organized placement of multiple utensils simultaneously.
• Heat-resistant silicone material withstands stove proximity safely.
• Non-slip base prevents sliding, keeping counters clean.

Cons

• Limited color options may not match every kitchen aesthetic.

The Zulay Kitchen Silicone Spoon Rest Gray is a smart addition to kitchens seeking tidiness and convenience. Its thoughtful design and user-friendly features make it stand out against simpler spoon rests.

Those wanting to avoid messy counters and streamline cooking tools will find great value here.

8. Meat Chopper Ground Beef Masher Tool

Introducing a kitchen tool designed to simplify meal preparation and speed up cooking tasks. The Meat Chopper Ground Beef Masher Tool combines durability with user-friendly features to help manage ground meat and other ingredients effortlessly. Its innovative design makes it an essential utensil for everyday cooking.

Its innovative design makes it an essential utensil for everyday cooking.

Perfect for anyone who regularly cooks with ground meat, this tool works efficiently without damaging your cookware. Whether you’re preparing hamburgers, turkey, or chicken, it ensures evenly chopped meat for consistent results every time. Its versatility extends beyond meat, making mashing fruits and vegetables easier and more uniform.

Crafted with five beveled, curved blades rather than the usual three or four, the Meat Chopper allows faster chopping and smoother handling. This design reduces the strain during use and speeds up your preparation time.

Made from food-grade nylon, the tool resists heat up to 430°F and avoids odor absorption. Its sturdy, ergonomic handle fits comfortably in your hand with a non-slip grip, minimizing hand fatigue during extended cooking sessions. The combination of these features improves control and precision, making it particularly good for those who cook frequently or in larger batches.

The combination of these features improves control and precision, making it particularly good for those who cook frequently or in larger batches.

Cleaning is hassle-free due to its anti-dirt design, and the entire tool is dishwasher safe. When compared to other ground meat mashers, it stands out for durability and ease of maintenance.

This makes it a practical addition to any kitchen, especially for home cooks looking for a reliable and affordable gadget.

Pros

• Five curved blades for quicker and efficient chopping
• Heat-resistant, odorless, and BPA-free food-grade nylon
• Ergonomic, non-slip handle designed to reduce hand fatigue

Cons

• Limited to mashing and chopping, not suitable for heavy-duty tasks

This ground meat chopper combines smart design with practical features to enhance kitchen efficiency. Its durable build and user comfort make it a worthwhile tool for everyday use.

9. Yusshn 12-in-1 Vegetable Chopper with Container

Efficient meal prep begins with the right tools, and the Yusshn 12-in-1 Vegetable Chopper with Container simplifies kitchen tasks. Its versatile design blends multiple functions into one compact device, making it ideal for a variety of fruits, vegetables, and cheeses. This chopper turns tedious slicing and dicing into a quick and safe activity.

Crafted for durability and convenience, the unit’s sharp blades and stable base reduce kitchen clutter and prevent accidents. Whether preparing weekday dinners or weekend feasts, this kitchen gadget offers reliability and speed, transforming how ingredients are handled.

The Yusshn 12-in-1 combines twelve indispensable kitchen accessories, including dicing blades, a cheese grater, slicer, wave slicer, and even an egg separator. These diverse tools expand culinary options without occupying extra storage space.

Each blade is crafted from 420J2 stainless steel, maintaining sharpness and resisting rust over time.

The chopper features a non-slip base ensuring steady operation on any countertop, minimizing slips during use. Its containerized design integrates a water filter basket, streamlining both washing and collecting chopped foods. The ABS material delivers high heat resistance and impact durability for lasting performance.

The ABS material delivers high heat resistance and impact durability for lasting performance.

Maintenance remains hassle-free since the entire assembly disassembles quickly for thorough cleaning with included brushes. The device’s slightly inclined design angles ingredients perfectly, enhancing precision with every cut.

Perfect for busy households aiming to reduce meal prep time, it suits cooks seeking reliability, speed, and enhanced safety.

Pros

• Durable stainless steel blades resist rust and retain sharpness
• 12 versatile kitchen tools combined in one compact device
• Non-slip base and hand protector improve safety during use

Cons

• Not dishwasher safe, requiring manual cleaning below 60°C

This vegetable chopper balances quality, versatility, and safety, delivering effective meal prep assistance for everyday cooking. It stands out when compared to single-function slicers by providing a comprehensive 12-piece kitchen solution.

Its reliability and ease of cleaning justify its place in any kitchen aiming for smoother food preparation.

10. MECHEER Over The Sink Roll Up Dish Drying Rack

Maximize your kitchen space with the MECHEER Over The Sink Roll Up Dish Drying Rack. Designed to fit perfectly over various sink types, it offers a versatile drying solution that keeps counters clutter-free.

Its compact and foldable design makes it an essential tool for any modern kitchen.

More than just a drying rack, this multifunctional accessory serves as a cooling rack, fruit bowl, and extra countertop workspace. Durable, space-saving, and aesthetically pleasing, it seamlessly combines practicality with style for everyday kitchen tasks.

The MECHEER drying rack measures 5 by 8, which suits most kitchen sinks, including undermount, RV, and camping sinks.

8, which suits most kitchen sinks, including undermount, RV, and camping sinks. Before purchasing, measuring your space ensures an ideal fit and maximizes its use as an over-the-sink organizer. Its foldable design allows easy setup and storage, rolling neatly for compact cabinet storage when not in use.

This rack’s sturdy frame uses 18 high-grade 304 stainless steel pipes connected by premium silicone. It supports up to 33 pounds and resists rust, waterproofing, and slipping for reliable performance. The BPA-free silicone is heat-resistant up to 400°F, ensuring it handles hot pots and bakeware safely without damage.

Cleaning is simple due to its rust- and oil-resistant materials. It doubles as a drying mat, cooling rack, and prep surface, making it ideal for apartments, RVs, or busy households needing efficient kitchen organization. This drying rack integrates multiple purposes to save space and time in the kitchen, making it a smart investment for everyday convenience.

Pros

• Durable stainless steel and silicone construction with rust resistance
• Multi-functional use as dish rack, cooling rack, and countertop extension
• Foldable roll-up design for easy storage and space-saving

Cons

• May not fit sinks smaller than specified dimensions

The MECHEER Over The Sink Roll Up Dish Drying Rack combines flexibility, strength, and functionality to enhance kitchen efficiency. Its thoughtful design and premium materials provide a lasting solution for drying and prep tasks in limited spaces.

Key Factors When Choosing Kitchen Gadgets Under $20

Durability and material quality

Many kitchen tools are crafted from materials like stainless steel, silicone, and BPA-free plastics, each offering unique benefits in terms of durability and safety. Stainless steel is known for its resistance to rust and deformation, making it ideal for items that experience frequent use and exposure to moisture.

Silicone components provide flexibility and heat resistance, preventing cracking and wear over time. BPA-free plastics ensure that harmful chemicals won’t leach into food, maintaining household health standards.

• Resistance to wear and tear: Durable materials withstand daily use without breaking or deteriorating quickly.
• Non-toxic composition: Ensuring materials are free from harmful chemicals protects both users and their families.
• Heat and moisture tolerance: The ability to endure high temperatures and exposure to water without damage extends the lifespan of the gadget.

Functionality and ease of use

Devices that offer multiple ways to connect to other tools or appliances provide greater versatility, allowing them to adapt to various kitchen setups and tasks. A user-friendly design ensures that even those with minimal experience can operate the gadget efficiently, reducing frustration and saving time during food preparation. Additionally, models designed with easy maintenance and simple cleaning processes not only prolong the gadget’s lifespan but also promote better hygiene in the kitchen.

Balancing these factors contributes to a more seamless cooking experience while maximizing the utility of an affordable kitchen tool.

Size and storage considerations

Many kitchen tools are designed to fit comfortably in tight spaces, making them ideal for smaller kitchens where countertop and cabinet room is limited. Devices that offer multiple connection ports or slots allow users to hook up various accessories or components, enhancing their usefulness without crowding the workspace.

• Lightweight materials and compact shapes make it easy to move gadgets between kitchen areas or even take them on the go.
• Foldable parts or detachable pieces enhance transportability and simplify storage.

By focusing on these aspects, the overall convenience and adaptability of kitchen tools significantly improve, ensuring they fit seamlessly into various kitchen layouts and evolve with your culinary routine.

Price and value for money

Understanding how a gadget interfaces with other devices and allows for additional attachments can greatly enhance its usefulness in your kitchen setup. Gadgets that offer multiple ports or wireless compatibility provide greater flexibility, enabling you to integrate them seamlessly with existing tools or upgrade their functionality with add-ons. This adaptability often means you won’t need to replace the gadget as your kitchen needs evolve, making it a smarter investment over time.

Moreover, products that support these features tend to have better warranty coverage and more robust customer support, reflecting the manufacturer’s confidence in their longevity and performance.

Considering these aspects helps ensure the item not only fits your immediate requirements but also delivers value well beyond the initial cost, avoiding hidden expenses associated with limited usability or lack of support.

Brand reputation and reviews

Devices that offer multiple options for connecting with other tools or accessories tend to provide greater versatility in the kitchen. This flexibility ensures compatibility with a wide range of appliances or accessories, enhancing overall functionality. Additionally, the ability to add extra features or attachments later on can extend the usefulness of a gadget, allowing it to adapt to changing needs without requiring a replacement.

Additionally, the ability to add extra features or attachments later on can extend the usefulness of a gadget, allowing it to adapt to changing needs without requiring a replacement.

Evaluating how easily a device integrates with existing setups and whether it allows for future enhancements can save both time and money. Products designed with such adaptability often maintain their value longer and deliver more consistent performance, making them a smarter investment for everyday cooking tasks.

Safety features

Ensuring a kitchen tool easily connects with your existing utensils or appliances can save both time and effort in daily use. Devices that allow for simple attachment or integration often provide greater flexibility, enabling you to switch tasks without hassle. Additionally, the ability to add compatible parts or accessories extends the functionality of your tool, making it a more versatile addition to your kitchen setup.

Additionally, the ability to add compatible parts or accessories extends the functionality of your tool, making it a more versatile addition to your kitchen setup. This adaptability often means fewer purchases down the line, as the device grows with your cooking needs.

• Streamlined workflow through seamless interaction with other kitchen items.
• Enhanced versatility via supplementary components or upgrades.
• Cost-effectiveness by reducing the need for multiple specialized gadgets.

People Also Asked

Some of the most useful kitchen gadgets under $20 for everyday cooking include a digital kitchen timer, a sharp chef’s knife, a vegetable peeler, and a silicone spatula. These tools help streamline meal prep, improve efficiency, and enhance cooking precision.

Affordable kitchen tools under $20 like a sharp chef’s knife, vegetable peeler, and food chopper can save time by speeding up chopping and slicing. Additionally, a digital kitchen timer helps keep track of cooking times efficiently.

The best kitchen gadgets under $50 for beginners include a quality chef’s knife, a digital kitchen scale, and a set of measuring spoons and cups. These tools help ensure precision and ease in cooking without overwhelming those new to the kitchen.

Yes, there are several highly rated kitchen accessories under $50 for baking enthusiasts, such as silicone baking mats, adjustable measuring spoons, and digital kitchen timers. These affordable tools enhance precision and convenience in baking without breaking the bank.

Budget-friendly kitchen gadgets under $30 that make great gifts include silicone spatula sets, mini food choppers, and handheld milk frothers. These tools are practical, easy to use, and perfect for enhancing everyday cooking without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

Choosing from the best kitchen gadgets under $20 offers a practical way to enhance your cooking experience without a significant investment. These affordable tools typically deliver solid functionality and ease of use, making them ideal for casual cooks or those looking to upgrade their kitchen without overspending. While some gadgets may have limitations in durability or advanced features compared to higher-end options, they often provide excellent value for everyday tasks.

Whether you need a handy slicer, measuring tool, or multi-purpose accessory, these budget-friendly gadgets suit anyone seeking convenience and efficiency. Considering their cost-effectiveness and usefulness, these selections stand as dependable additions to most kitchens, helping to streamline meal preparation with minimal expense and fuss.