7 Tips for an Organized Kitchen
7 Tips for an Organized Kitchen
Before you get overwhelmed, we promise there are small projects to re-order and organize your kitchen that you can tackle today. Here are 7 tips for an organized kitchen:
1- Display family recipes. The kitchen might be an unlikely yet perfect place for a gallery wall of framed recipes. If you don't have ample wall space, the kitchen counter can be a great place to display one or two favorite family recipes in frames.
2- Eliminate unnecessary duplicate items. If you have more than one can opener, mixer, blender, etc. they are probably taking up space in your kitchen without adding functionality. Depending on how often you cook and for how many people, think about the quantity of baking dishes, pyrex bowls, wooden spoons, and spatulas you really need. Chances are, you only have need for a favorite few dishes that you use regularly.
3- Streamline the Tupperware collection. How much is too much? Depending on the size of your family, two of the sizes of reusable storage containers you use most frequently are plenty to have on hand! To avoid collecting excessive plastic wear, put your last name on them so you know which ones are yours and which ones need to be returned to friends. It might be time to purge all of your old mismatched food containers and start fresh with a new set!
4- Consider proximity. Each appliance has a host of items that are most frequently needed nearby. Ideally, you would be able to grab what you need right where you are while cooking. By the microwave, having your microwave safe bowls and plates is a good idea. Cabinets near the refrigerator are best utilized by storing your everyday glasses and cups. If you have a few drawers near the pantry, those are perfect for all of your Ziplock baggies and reusable containers. Near your oven, we suggest storing pots, pans, baking dishes, hot pads, your apron and a good spoon rest!
5- Think about accessibility. Are the people who need access to specific items, able to reach them where they are stored? The higher shelves are perfect for fragile glass wear, seasonal or occasionally used serving pieces. Of course, knives should be kept far away from the edge of the counter. For your drawers: use dividers. These little storage tools come in variations of material and sizes. Whether you want wooden, plastic, or wire dividers they keep your kitchen tools and utensils in easy to grab sections. Choose ones that a) fit in your drawers and b) fit the decor of your kitchen.
6- Refresh that pantry. To create order, use simple labels for your shelves and bins. Leveled steps are great for cans and jars. Each week before you grocery shop, assess what food is old and toss it. Place items that are close to the expiration date at the front of the shelf. Practice keeping these perishables in one area to avoid them getting shoved to the back and forgotten. For refrigerator specific tips - check out this link.
7- Add a little personal flavor to your kitchen...
Mugs from one of our favorite neighborhood coffee shops - K Brew (mugs sold at both shop locations)
Add a Knoxville map to your gallery wall - Native Maps (also sold at Rala)
Display your favorite cook books. We love - Half Baked Harvest Super Simple and Magnolia Table.
You can do it! Pour yourself a mug of coffee or a glass of champagne and turn on your favorite tunes. Happy kitchen organizing!