In our home – as with many other households – the kitchen is our centre. Forget the living room. This is where we do most of our living. The flurry of activities practically ensures that the space will be a mess. To combat this, follow these five easy tips to keep the kitchen clutter-free.
Set proper places.
Designating places for items is one of the best ways to keep things neat. Install hooks for aprons and pot-holders. Tools should be grouped together so nothing gets lost. A decorative canister for slotted spoons? Yes, please. Another good idea is to use clear zip-lock bags to keep items together when they are stored.
Group the items according to use.
Instead of organizing the kitchen items according to material, why not store them according to usefulness? Place items that are used frequently in the countertops or easy-to-reach shelves. For instance, the coffee maker does not have to be stowed away if it is used every morning. But fine china that is rarely used can be safely tucked at the back of the cabinets.
Utilize the space wisely.
You can never have too much space in the kitchen. Don’t forget underappreciated places under shelves and cabinets. One of the most useful installations in our home is a towel rod under the cabinet. A pot rack can keep pots handy for cooking. In the alternative, you can also install lighting under the cabinets to make working easier and the kitchen appear brighter.
Maximize the use of items.
Minimize clutter by getting rid of them! The less stuff you have, the easier it is to get things organized. This means getting the most use out of items. Mugs can double as containers for cutlery. Cake stands can be used to hold spices for easy access. Baking trays can also be used to hold sauces and oils. Not only do they make reaching for the bottle handier, but they can also catch drips and spills.
Store your recipes properly.
No kitchen is complete without recipes. Whether cookbooks or handwritten cards made out by your grandmother, they are an essential part of cooking. However, very few kitchens actually accommodate them properly. Cookbooks can be decorative if held up by bookends on top of the counter. They can also be placed on a shelf, arranged by colour or height. Use a clear plastic binder for loose sheets or magazine clippings. If using a tablet, invest in a holder to keep your gadget safe and reading the recipe more convenient.
