You want an organized kitchen but are overwhelmed by clutter. Maybe it’s disorganized, but not a total disaster. Or maybe you haven’t organized your kitchen since you moved in five years ago. Whatever the reason, I’m here to help you get your kitchen organized!
As the heart of your home, the kitchen gets used and abused on a daily basis. It may not be widely known, but well-organized kitchens function better. They also save you time, money, and frustration. Who couldn’t use that?!
In the Beginner’s Guide To Easily Organized Kitchen, I break down your kitchen into six zones. Each zone features small, actionable steps. Work the areas (zones) in any order. Tackle them all on a weekend or do one a day. Then watch as your kitchen transforms before your eyes.
Let’s get started!
Counters
First thing’s first – take everything off your kitchen counters. Yes, everything! Make one pile for the items you find that don’t live in the kitchen (old receipts, library books, homework). You can return those items to their home(s) later.
Next, figure out what you actually use on a regular basis. Do you have rarely-used appliances taking up counter space? Store them in another location (if possible). You only want your “must-haves” sitting out.
Wipe down those counters so they are nice and shiny! Once dry, you can return your items and bask in the beauty of your clear (and clean) kitchen counters.
Drawers
First, you’re going to declutter the utensil drawer. Take everything out. Examine each utensil for cracks, rust, missing pieces, et cetera. If it’s falling apart or already broken, channel your inner Elsa and “Let it go!”
What’s left? If you have more flatware than you need or duplicate appliances, donate them if they are in good shape. Throw away everything else.
Now, move on to the rest of your drawers. Empty each one, wipe it clean, and return only the items you truly need (and use). Think about getting some drawer organizers to maximize space. You can find them at most dollar stores.
Under The Sink
There’s a good chance that you keep everything but the kitchen sink under the kitchen sink. Empty your under-the-sink cupboard. Inspect the area for water damage or leaks and then wipe it clean.
Go through the cleaning products that you keep under there. Throw out empty bottles and get rid of the supplies you never use. Survey what remains and decide on the best storage solutions for your space.
Tip 1: Add a tension rod to hang spray bottles. They’ll be easy to grab in a hurry and keep the bottom free for other items.
Tip 2: Attach hooks to the doors to hold your towels, scrubbers, and other frequently used supplies. Command Hooks are the bomb for this!
Refrigerator and Freezer
Empty one at a time. Get rid of everything that is expired or can no longer be identified. Wipe down all the surfaces before you return your food and beverages.
Tip: Designate an area for leftovers so everyone can find them quickly.
Pantry
Remove everything from your pantry and wipe down the surfaces. Group all your expired products together (if you won’t use them) and contact your local food bank to donate.
Put items back with a system that makes sense for your family. It may be cereal on lower shelves so little hands can reach it or baking supplies in the top right corner so they can’t. Try adding shelves or caddies to double your space.
Cabinets
When was the last time you went through and organized your kitchen cabinets? You have specific places you put your dishes, glasses, and pots and pans, but is it truly organized?
Empty all your cabinets and put the contents on the counter. Wipe down the cabinets (don’t forget the door) and take stock of what you have. If you don’t use something, Elsa it (let it go).
If you need more space, consider adding a new shelf system or removable shelves.
Getting organized requires effort; staying organized doesn’t have to. Learn how in Home Organization for Beginners: 5 Simple Rules.
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