I'm looking for ovens/dishwashers/etc to put in my bakery so that I can be LEGAL! What are some things you use, where did you purchase them, etc.? Any recommendations?

TIA,
Suz

You should really check with the licensing entity (county or state) for the requirements. Some require commercial equipment, some will approve home-style appliances. Once you know what you must have, then you can get recommendations on specifics.

It also depends on what you plan to have in your bakery. the equipment could be different. for example, An commercial mulit-shelf convection oven would be sufficient if you were doing just cookies.

The sinks may or may not have to be commercial, etc.

Depends on your volume and what products you will offer. For medium to high volume cakes and cookies-

The following need to be big enough to accomodate a full sheet pan:
Deck Oven- (designed for pizza or bagels)
Big sink with a sprayer
Freezer
Refrigerator
Rolling pan rack for cooling and drying

Also handy to have:
Bench/large tables
Balance scale and scoop
Large mixer and small mixer
Bins for ingredients
Lots of storage & shelving
Small stove top for cooked icing etc
Microwave

Check out restaurant equipment auctions for great deals. Also try eBay narrowed down to your area. Or local "want ads" for places going out of business.

I've checked with the county for requirements. 3 compartment sink with drain board, separate hand sink, separate mop sink. They don't say anything about equipment though. But you can have a home based business as long as the kitchen is set up like a restaurants (same requirements). Right now cakes and cookies are all we will offer, but I would like to expand on that in the future- so I don't want to limit myself.

For ovens you might check with your local Habitat for Humanity recycle store. They have cabinets, appliances, etc that are used but still good. Everyone benefits!
Leslie

I would definitely go with all commercial appliances. It's an investment, but well worth it. You can find used equipment that's pretty cheap at some restaurant supply stores. I would look in the phone book under "restaurant equipment." Just call and ask if they carry used equip. There's also some stuff on e-Bay (under the Business & Industrial category, there's a link for Food Service & Retail). But, sometimes the shipping prices make stuff too expensive.

Buyer beware--do your research! Some places will sell damaged equipment or charge high prices (I usually research the new equip prices on http://acemart.com and some used prices on eBay.com). But, most of the time, kitchen equipment looks beat up from regular use but still works great for years! I agree with Jenn123's list. I would add lots of sheets pans and clear storage containers, which you can also get used as those stores. I'm always amazed at the price of new pans and containers! I found cheap stainless steel shelving at Sam's Club (do they have that chain where you live?) and hardware stores. Pinch those pennies, and good luck! I'm looking for my first bakery location right now, so hopefully I'll be in the same boat soon!