Best and worst kitchen appliances, countertops, flooring, and more

Got a bottomless budget for your dream kitchen?  You could pay for the sleekest pro-style appliances, the most luxurious stone countertop, and the trendiest hardwood flooring and still end up paying again to fix things that break down, crack, or dent. Or you could use our advice to make every dollar count by sidestepping high-priced pitfalls in the first place.

And if your budget is more in the $15,000-to-$30,000 range that most homeowners spend on a renovation, relax: You can have a beautiful kitchen that’s functional and efficient, and only looks expensive, like the example here. It combines semi-custom cabinets, quartz countertops, and vinyl flooring to achieve an urban sophistication befitting its city setting.

Create your own oasis by using our product Ratings, reliability reports, and planning and shopping advice:

• Where to buy appliances: Shoppers give a thumbs-up to Abt and Amazon.
• Cooktops and wall ovens: Some combos can cost less than a range.
• Dishwashers: We found greener machines that really clean.
• Microwaves: The 11 best over-the-range models.
• Ranges: We found some “bargains” that really aren’t.
• Refrigerators: New models offer more features for less money.
• Countertops: Stylish and strong options that fit every budget.
• Flooring: Our 12 top picks include a vinyl you’ll swear is stone.
• Kitchen sinks: Stainless steel outshines and outlasts the rest.