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Step-by-step directions to declutter and organize your kitchen
Getting your kitchen just the way you want it is no small feat. Once organized, it requires cooperation from everyone in your house to maintain order. To help you get started setting up your new kitchen at The Cloisters, we listed 9 crucial steps for organizing the kitchen.
How to Organize Your Kitchen
- Start With a Clean Slate
Empty your entire pantry, and thoroughly clean it before you begin the organization process. Toss anything that’s expired or not frequently used. Starting fresh will help keep things organized longer.
- Take Inventory
After clearing out old items, you can easily see what’s left to organize which will help you from purchasing unnecessary storage containers. Make a list of your pantry staples and update it regularly. When it’s time to go grocery shopping, take your list with you.
- Categorize
Place like items together. A lazy Susan makes it easy to keep oils, snacks, or baking essentials in one place so you can quickly find what you need.
- Use Containers
Store packaged food in baskets and bins to save space. Odd-shaped boxes and bags fit nicely in storage containers as opposed to being stacked loosely on the shelf. Clear plastic or glass canisters with sealed lids are ideal for storing decanted dry foods.
- Label
Label bins, containers, and shelves so every member of your household knows where items are located. Use a label maker for quick labeling or chalkboard labels so you can easily change the writing.
- Utilize Doors
If you have doors on your pantry, hang organizers over them to free up shelf space. Canned goods, spices, oils, and jars are usually good fits for these types of organizers.
- Make a Kid-Friendly Spot
Fill a bottom shelf or drawer with snacks so kids can easily grab a snack on their own. Visibility and labeling are key so kids can help keep up the organization method by knowing where items are stored.
- Use Extra Wall Space
If you have it, wall space can be a game-changer for organizing your kitchen. Hooks can hold non-food items like aprons, brooms, and reusable shopping bags. You can use a bag dispenser to hold grocery bags and keep them within reach.
- Keep It Up
Always put items back in their appropriate spot, and get the whole family on board by keeping items accessible and visible. Twice a month make sure everything is clean and in its place so you don’t have to spend hours organizing it again.
Other Tips for an Organized Kitchen
We know it’s convenient to keep spices next to the oven, but they should be kept away from heat and humidity to make them last longer and keep from clumping. Store on a rack several feet from the range or on a shelf further away from the oven. Rolling carts are perfect for this task.
Use wire racks in the cabinet to “stack” dishes. It will keep your plates and bowls separated (and basically doubles your storage space) and they will be easier to grab when needed.
Declutter your utensil drawer. If you’re tired of digging through spoons and forks, invest in a modular drawer organizer. You can purchase each compartment separately and essentially create the perfect solution for your space.
