12 Things You Can Do To Organize Your Kitchen

The kitchen is the heart of your home.  It should be clean, clutter free and highly organized in order to get the most use out of the space.  Regardless of how big or small your designated cooking area is your space can be practical and functional by following a few tips.  Below are 12 things that you can do to organize your kitchen.

1.  Clean out your cabinets.

What do the inside of cabinets look like? Chances are that if you were to go in there at this very moment, you would not be able to find a single thing that you are looking for.  Make time to clean out your cabinets.  Organize them so you know exactly where to go when you need a certain pot or dish.

2.  Empty the dishwasher.

Sadly, some people NEVER bother to fully empty the dishwasher. Get into the habit of unloading the dishwasher once the cycle is complete. This will end those long searches for items that have been in the dishwasher for ages.

3.  If you don’t use it, lose it!

When cleaning out your cabinets, get rid of things that you no longer use. Don’t be a pack rat. If you haven’t used it in ages, consider giving it to someone who will.

4.  Eliminate “junk” drawers.

How many junk drawers do you have in your kitchen?  If you are like everyone else, it is at least one–if not more.  Junk drawers serve only to build up clutter and are full of things that you really don’t need.  Get away from the idea of having a junk drawer.

5.  Throw out dated food.

Go through your food pantry and check the dates on all of your food.  You are likely to find something that is begging to be thrown out.  Out dated food can be very dangerous. Add this to your “to do” list every couple of months to ensure the safety of your family.

6.  Have a designated spot for everything.

Everything in your kitchen needs a home. Designate a spot for pots, pans, utensils, and even your spices. Doing this can make cooking easier and more enjoyable for you and your loved ones.

7.  Don’t store things in the kitchen.

Kitchens are not storage sheds.  Free the kitchen from items that belong in the garage such as bikes, baby strollers, etc.  Storing large items in the kitchen will make it feel small and closed in. Find a storage place other than the kitchen.

8.  The countertop is not a place for clutter.

Clean off the countertops.  Countertops filled with “stuff” can leave your kitchen feeling very messy!  Clear off the countertops for an instant feeling of cleanliness.

9.  Utilize shelves efficiently.

If you have shelves in your kitchen, make sure that you are getting the most use from them.  Shelves are a great place to store plates, glasses, and other items that are easy on the eyes.  Make sure they are organized and free from dust and clutter.

10. Find a place for small appliances other than the countertop.

Can openers, food processors, blenders, and other items do not belong on the countertop. If at all possible, store small appliances in areas where they are easily accessible but where they cannot be seen.  As a general rule, allow only the coffee pot and microwave to be a part of your kitchen décor when it comes to small appliances.

11. Dispose of old medication.

If your medication cabinet is located in your kitchen, you will want to clean this cabinet, too.  Get rid of outdated medication or medication that you no longer need.

12. Once you have it organized, do what it takes to keep it that way.

Organizing your kitchen can take lots of time.  Make sure you don’t have to spend your precious time re-organizing once you have completed the job.  Go the extra mile to keep it cleaned and organized on a daily basis. Encourage your family to help out so that everyone can reap the benefits of a clean and organized kitchen.

Use the tips above to get started organizing your kitchen.  You will likely be spending a great deal of time in this space. Why not organize it to make the experience more enjoyable?
About the Author:

Marina is  a SAHM mom and freelance writer who deals in specialty products like kitchen wall clocks, nesting dolls for kids, artificial plants and a lot more.

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