Keeping your kitchen organized can seem like an overwhelming task, but with some thoughtful design choices, you can create a space that naturally lends itself to tidiness. Here are 10 tips to help you design a kitchen that’s easy to keep neat and orderly.
Choose Open Shelving Selectively
While open shelving is trendy and allows you to display beautiful dishware, it also requires that everything be kept tidy at all times. Limit open shelving to areas away from the prep zone and consider including closed cabinets for messy Items or supplies you only use occasionally.
Incorporate Drawers Whenever Possible
Drawers are great for storing utensils, gadgets, linens, and other kitchen tools that can otherwise clutter countertops. Opt for large, deep drawers with dividers to keep contents neatly organized. Shallow drawers are best suited for spices, oils and other small condiment bottles.
Install Pull-Out Pantries
Pull-out pantries let you access items in the back without having to move everything up front. They also give you a better view of what you have on hand so Nothing gets lost in the depths of your pantry. Install pull-outs for both upper and lower cabinets.
Use Lazy Susans
Lazy susans are circular trays that spin within a cabinet so you can access items all the way around. They’re perfect for corner cabinets and great for keeping spices, condiments and baking supplies readily accessible.
Consider Drawer Organizers
Cutlery trays, utensil holders and other drawer organizers keep items neatly separated within drawers. This prevents jumbled messes and makes locating what you need quick and easy.
Utilize Vertical Space
Floor-to-ceiling pantries let you take advantage of all available space. Install extra tall units for brooms, mops and other cleaning tools. Mount spice racks on the inside of a cabinet door to keep jars and bottles out of the way.
Include a Landing Zone
A landing zone near the entryway provides a designated spot to drop keys, mail and other items when you enter from the garage or back door. This keeps clutter contained instead of spreading through the kitchen.
Incorporate Deep Pull-Outs for Trash and Recycling
Hide unsightly garbage and recycling bins in deep pull-out cabinets. Not only does this conceal mess, but it also contains spills and smells. Situate trash pull-outs near prep and cleanup areas.
Opt for Roll-Out Trays Under the Sink
It’s tempting to shove items under the kitchen sink, but this quickly leads to chaos. Roll-out trays neatly organize cleaners, sponges and other necessities while maximizing the space. Install them under both sinks.
Leave Plenty of Countertop Space
No matter how organized your cabinets and drawers are, clutter still accumulates on countertops. Leave ample open counterspace, especially near prep and cook zones. This gives you room to work and a place to set items aside.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much countertop space should be left open in a kitchen?
It’s recommended to leave at least 24 inches of open countertop space on one side of sinks and cooktops and at least 15 inches of open space elsewhere. This provides enough room for task circulation and a landing spot for items.
What’s the best way to organize a small kitchen with limited storage?
In a small kitchen, maximize vertical storage with floor-to-ceiling pantries, extra tall cabinets, and wall-mounted racks. Also opt for pull-outs, lazy susans, and drawer organizers to make the most of the space you have.
How can you keep the insides of cabinets and drawers neat?
Using organizers like cutlery trays, shelf risers, and small bins helps keep cabinet and drawer interiors tidy. Always put items back in their designated spots after using. Regularly purge any old, unused items.
Should everything be stored out of sight in enclosed cabinets?
Not necessarily. The key is to put frequently used items within easy reach while hiding seldom used items behind doors. Daily dishes can go in open shelving while special occasion pieces go in closed cabinets.
What types of organizing products help make kitchens more functional?
Pull-outs, roll-outs, lazy susans, risers, drawer organizers, tiered shelves, turntables, and other specialized storage tools maximize kitchen space and efficiency.
How often should you purge unused kitchen items?
Plan to sort through your kitchen items and purge unused or rarely used items at least twice per year. Do a big cleanout when switching seasons and eating habits.
Conclusion
A clean and organized kitchen enhances your enjoyment of cooking and makes meal prep safer and more efficient. Applying these design tips will help you create a functional kitchen tailored to your needs. Proper storage, plenty of countertop workspace, and smart organization tools are key to keeping your kitchen tidy. With some forethought and strategic planning, you can design a kitchen that maintains order no matter how busy life gets. What organization strategies do you find most useful in your kitchen? Incorporating a few of these tips will help you maintain sanity even on your busiest days.
