If there is a kitchen organizing secret, it would be…Let go of things you don’t use!
Dishes, containers and gadgets multiply and take up valuable space in kitchen cabinets and drawers. When you eliminate items you don’t use, your organizing task becomes a piece of cake!
Start by removing everything from the kitchen cabinets and sorting items into three piles: HOT – WARM - COLD.
- HOT items are the tools you use every day.
- COLD items are things you don’t use, don’t know how to operate or don’t recognize. They may be broken, discolored, rusty or stained. You don’t want them but, someone else might. Donate!
- WARM category includes special occasion serving dishes and storage containers.
As you survey the row of empty cabinets and a kitchen counter and table covered with things you want, use and need, you are ready to create an efficient kitchen organizing system. Use the most accessible shelves for everyday dishes and glassware. That means shelves at a comfortable height and located near the dishwasher and sink so you don’t have to move very far to put things away. Pots, pans and casserole dishes go on lower shelves near the stove.
INNOVATIVE STORAGE - Time to consider innovative storage systems like roll-out drawers, plate stackers and cup/mug carousels, to increase storage space and keep often-used items close at hand. It’s all about saving energy and making it easy to put things away. By storing “like with like”, it’s easier for everyone who uses the kitchen to find and replace items.
HIDDEN SPACES: The back of the shelf and almost inaccessible recesses in the corner cabinets can be put to better use. Check out your favorite storage solutions store and think outside the box. There are roll-out wire baskets, stacking shelf units, hooks, hangers, and other storage options that are inexpensive and easy to install. They make every inch of your kitchen cabinets useful and accessible.
CONTAINERS: Without an organizing system, every drawer becomes a junk drawer! Organizing containers come in all shapes and sizes and turn “junk drawers” into efficient spaces where utensils are easy-to-see and easy-to-reach. Some containers have lids and provide safe storage for sharp objects; others are layered to increase available storage space. Save time and money by measuring drawers, cabinets and items to be stored before you shop.
These three basic organizing rules work for all areas of your home:
- Just keep the things you want, use and need.
- Store “like with like’ and make sure frequently used items are accessible.
- “Have a place for everything and keep everything in its place.
