Even though kitchens are a hub for conversation and great food, they can also become a black hole for household clutter.

 

Between cook books, spices, condiments, cooking utensils and food, counter space can be hard to come by and before you know it, your kitchen has turned into a disaster zone. Learning how to organize your kitchen is easy and, with a focused effort, everything will be in its place in no time.

Get rid of what you don’t need

Figure out what is causing your kitchen clutter and start getting rid of it. Empty the junk drawer and toss anything you haven’t touched in the past year. When it is time to put stuff back in the drawer, keep the kitchen items you use most often on top so they are the most accessible.

The same process goes for food, kitchen appliances, and other junk that accumulates in your kitchen. Packaged items that have expired, frozen food that has been in your freezer for years, and other random junk you have no use for needs to find a new home in the trash. For items that take up valuable kitchen real estate such as bulky cook books and rarely used appliances, store them at the back of a cupboard, or on the top shelf of the pantry to free up kitchen space.

Organize your pantry

The next step in learning how to organize your kitchen is a must. There is nothing more frustrating than not being able to find what you need when you need it. Don’t let your pantry become a black hole!

Start by alphabetizing spices and then group similar items together. Be sure to keep your newly purchased items at the back so those expiring first get used first.

For kitchen items you use daily such as salt and pepper, keep them in an accessible spot.

sand and sisal

If you have bug problems such as fishmoths, cockroaches or ants, packing your cereals, flours and pastas in airtight containers will eliminate possible contamination.

Organize pots, pans, and storage containers

Is it always a struggle to find empty cabinet space? A stackable cookware set is a great way to save space while keeping your pots and pans organized. Keep these heavy kitchen items stored close to the floor to prevent an accident.

 

ABOVE  A metal strip (or sheet metal) mounted onto the wall is pefect for spice containers with magnetic strips on the base (or tops). You will also know where you spices are and they are right where you need them!

For your storage containers, an under-the-counter kitchen organizer can help keep your containers easily accessible. That way, when it comes time to pop leftovers into the fridge, you’ll be able to find the right size container (and its lid) in a matter of seconds.

the saucy kitchen

Evaluate what appliances are essential

How many of us have kitchen appliances that are barely used? That waffle iron seemed like a great idea at the time, as did that cumbersome food processor, but it is time for these space-gobblers to go. Invest in a multifunctional kitchen appliance such as a blender that can make smoothies, milkshakes, and purée food.

Finally, kitchen organization doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Give kitchen organization a try one step at a time and not knowing how to organize your kitchen will become a thing of the past.

she knows

 

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