How To Declutter Kitchen

How to declutter your kitchen effortlessly.

Discover practical tips to organize your space and create a clutter-free, functional kitchen.

What is Decluttering?

Decluttering is the process of organizing and removing unnecessary items from your living or working space.

This practice goes beyond just tidying up; it transforms your environment into a more functional and visually appealing space.

The benefits of a clutter-free environment are manifold. It can reduce stress, increase productivity, and create a sense of calm and order.

When your surroundings are clean and organized, it becomes easier to focus on what’s important, ultimately improving your overall well-being and efficiency.

Decluttering is one of the best ways to transform your home into a more peaceful and relaxing sanctuary.

By removing unnecessary items and organizing your space, you create an environment that is visually appealing and free from chaos.

This not only makes your home feel more spacious but also reduces stress and promotes a sense of calm.

When everything has its place, and there’s no clutter in sight, it’s easier to unwind and enjoy your living space.

Learn how to declutter kitchen regularly, and you’ll find that your home becomes more functional and happy to live in.

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Kitchen Decluttering

Decluttering the kitchen can often feel like an uphill battle, given the seemingly endless number of tools and equipment required to prepare meals multiple times a day.

From pots and pans to blenders and food processors, it’s easy for chaos to take over.

However, the importance of maintaining a clutter-free kitchen cannot be overstated.

An organized kitchen space not only enhances efficiency but also makes cooking a more enjoyable experience.

When everything has its place, you’ll find it easier to focus on the task at hand and even discover more pleasure in meal preparation.

Plus, a tidy kitchen contributes to a calmer, more inviting home environment, making it a win-win for everyone.

And so today, I’m sharing a guide on how to declutter a kitchen in an easy and attainable way.

Find more minimalist kitchen ideas here!

How To Declutter Kitchen

How to Declutter Kitchen Counters

Decluttering your kitchen counters can transform the heart of your home into an organized and efficient space.

Clearing and organizing your kitchen countertops can transform your space into a more functional and enjoyable area.

Follow these steps to achieve a clutter-free and efficient kitchen:

Step 1: Clear Everything Off

Start by removing every single item from your countertops. Yes, everything. This is crucial for creating a fresh canvas to work with.

Step 2: Review Each Item

Take a close look at each item you’ve removed.

Decide whether it truly deserves a spot on the counter or if it should be stored away in a cupboard or drawer. Ask yourself:

• Do I use this item daily?
• Does it need to be easily accessible?

Step 3: Deep Clean

With your countertops clear, take the opportunity to give your kitchen a thorough cleaning.

Pay special attention to those hard-to-reach corners and neglected areas that often get overlooked.

Step 4: Store Appliances

Consider storing bulky appliances like your toaster, Instant Pot, or KitchenAid mixer in a cabinet if you don’t use them daily.

If space is tight in your kitchen, think about storing them in a cabinet in another room.

Step 5: How to declutter kitchen – Food Off Counters

Avoid leaving cereal boxes, loaves of bread, or other food items on your countertops.

These items can quickly make your kitchen feel cluttered.

Instead, store them in a pantry or cupboard. This not only helps in maintaining a tidy appearance but also keeps your food items fresher for longer.

Step 6: Keep The Area Around The Sink Tidy

Keeping the areas around your kitchen sink and stove completely clear—no dish soap or no sponge can make a world of difference in your kitchen’s cleanliness and functionality.

Counters around the sink are often the first to become cluttered.

Striving for a level of tidiness where the sink area is free of items not only makes cleaning easier but also keeps the space looking neat and organized.

Step 6: Reevaluate Infrequently Used Items

Reassess items that were frequently used last year but are now gathering dust.

It might be time to relocate them to a less prominent spot, making way for items you use more often.

Step 7: Maintain Your Organized Space

By following these steps, you’ll maintain a clutter-free, organized, and functional kitchen.

Regularly revisit this process to ensure your space remains efficient and enjoyable.

Taking these steps will help you create a kitchen environment that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional.

How to Declutter Kitchen Cabinets & Cupboards

Before implementing space-saving hacks to organize your kitchen cabinets, it’s essential to start by decluttering them.

Decluttering your kitchen can seem overwhelming, especially when you have more items than storage space.

However, following a few simple steps can make the process more manageable and less stressful.

Step 1: How to declutter kitchen Unnecessary Items

Whether you’re hoarding plastic lids from old takeaway containers or collecting glass ramekins you always promise to reuse (but never do!), it’s time to clear out the items you don’t need.

These things take up valuable space and create unnecessary clutter.

While your intention to upcycle is admirable, chances are you won’t get around to it.

Start small to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Focus on one cabinet at a time, ensuring a thorough and effective decluttering process.

Take everything out of the cabinet and place the items on a countertop or table.

This makes it easier to see what you have and assess each item.

Throw out any non-essential items that you haven’t used in a while and are unlikely to use again. This includes:

• Chipped Tableware and Glasses: These are often forgotten and take up unnecessary space.
• Broken or Outdated Small Appliances: If they’ve been shoved to the back of your cabinets and haven’t seen the light of day, it’s time to part ways.

Setp 2: Deep Cleaning

While you’re organizing, take the opportunity to refresh your cabinets by cleaning out any crumbs, dirt, or sticky spills.

Use shelf liners to protect surfaces and simplify future clean-ups. This is especially effective for maintaining a tidy pantry or food storage area.

Additionally, remember to check the expiration dates on perishables, bottles, and jars, and dispose of anything past its prime.

Clear out those nearly empty bottles that are just taking up space in your cabinets to maximize your storage efficiency.

Step 3: Divide Cabinets Into Areas

Start by dividing your cabinet space into specific zones.

This not only keeps everything organized but also makes it easier to find items at a glance. Here are a few zoning suggestions:

• Cookware Zone: Designate an area for pots, pans, and lids.
• Baking Zone: Allocate space for baking trays, accessories, and mixing bowls.
• Small Appliances Zone: Keep your toaster, blender, and other small appliances in one accessible spot.

Label each zone clearly to make it even easier to locate what you need quickly.

Streamline your pantry by grouping multiples of the same items together.

This method not only helps you find things faster but also ensures you know when it’s time to restock. Consider these groupings:

• Cooking Oils and Vinegars: Keep all your oils, vinegars, and cooking sprays in one section.
• Dry Foods: Store rice, pasta, and grains together for easy access.
• Condiments and Sauces: Arrange your sauces, dressings, and condiments in one spot.

Step 4: Appliances You Use Daily

Whether you love cooking or can’t resist the latest kitchen gadgets, it’s easy for appliances to pile up on your countertops and in your cabinets.

Instead of creating clutter, focus on keeping only the essentials within easy reach.

When organizing your kitchen cabinets, place the appliances you rarely use towards the back.

Bring the frequently used ones to the front.

This not only keeps your space tidy but also saves you the hassle of digging through everything to find your best blender or food processor.

Step 5: Use Clever Storage Solutions

Use shelf risers to make the most of vertical space inside your kitchen cabinets.

These sturdy racks allow you to safely stack items, avoiding the risk of cans or other items collapsing.

With everything neatly stacked, your shelves will look cleaner and more organized.

Instead of letting jars and packaging clutter your shelves, use risers to make everything visible and easy to access.

This simple change can help maintain a tidy and orderly kitchen.

Consider installing under-cabinet hooks to hang utensils or mugs, which frees up valuable counter space.

You can also showcase your wine glasses with a holder or mount a paper towel holder for easy access.

These additions not only keep your kitchen organized but also add a touch of style.

Other useful cabinet organizers include door-mounted racks and storage solutions for the underside of cabinets.

These handy additions can help you make the most of every inch of available space, keeping your kitchen functional and organized.

How to Declutter Kitchen Pantry

Step 1: Take Everything Out

Gather All Pantry Items

Start by pulling out all of your pantry items and placing them on a large table. This includes:

• Canned Goods: Soups, vegetables, beans, etc.
• Dry Goods: Flours, cereals, rice, pasta, etc.
• Condiments: Sauces, oils, and unopened dressings.

Don’t forget about items typically stored on the counter or in other areas, such as coffee, fresh fruits, and vegetables.

Group similar items together to make the next steps easier.

Reflect on Your Abundance

Once everything is laid out, take a step back and observe just how much food you have.

It’s a wonderful reminder of the abundance we often overlook in our daily lives.

Step 2: Remove Expired Items

Start by discarding ingredients that have passed their expiration date or show signs of spoilage.

This not only frees up valuable space but also ensures your culinary creations use only the freshest components.

As you sort through your pantry items, use a bold marker to clearly rewrite expiration dates on each container.

This simple step saves time during future clean-outs and helps you quickly identify which items to use first, reducing food waste.

Step 3: Dry Good Storage

Have you ever marveled at a pantry with rows of neatly labeled containers?

While aesthetically pleasing, this organization method offers practical benefits beyond its visual appeal.

Why Decant Your Dried Goods?

1. Pest Prevention: Sealed containers create a barrier against insects and rodents, protecting your food from unwanted visitors.
2. Inventory at a Glance: Clear containers allow you to quickly assess your stock, making meal planning and shopping more efficient.
3. Bulk Buying Benefits: Purchasing larger quantities becomes more manageable, often leading to cost savings.
4. Space Optimization: Uniform containers can maximize shelf space, creating a more organized and efficient pantry.

Finding Your Balance

While a fully decanted pantry might seem daunting, even small steps can make a difference:

• Transfer frequently used items like flour and sugar into easy-to-scoop containers.
• Place smaller bags of dried goods into resealable plastic bags for added protection.
• For high-turnover items like cereal, keeping them in their original packaging is often fine.

Tips for Successful Decanting

1. Choose Wisely: Select containers that suit your needs for scooping and measuring.
2. Label Everything: Note both the contents and expiration date on each container.
3. Consider Cold Storage: Some items may benefit from refrigeration or freezing to extend their shelf life.

Step 4: Organize Your Pantry

Assess Your Space

Before diving into organization, take stock of your available pantry space.

Your goal should be to create a designated area for everything that aligns with your family’s needs and eating habits.

Remember, visibility is key – you want to easily see what you have on hand to prevent unnecessary purchases and reduce food waste.

Smart Grouping Strategies

Traditional Method: Like with Like

The most common organization strategy is grouping similar items together. Consider these categories:

• Canned goods
• Pasta and rice
• Unopened condiments
• Cereals
• Flours and baking items
• Oils and vinegars
• Beverages

Functional Method: Purpose-Based Grouping

Alternatively, organize based on specific needs or meal times:

• Afternoon snacks
• Breakfast options
• Quick dinner essentials

This how to declutter kitchen approach can streamline meal preparation and make it easier for family members to find what they need.

Create an “Use Soon” Section

Designate a specific area for items nearing their expiration date. This simple strategy can help you:

1. Reduce food waste
2. Save money by using up items before they expire
3. Inspire meal planning based on what needs to be used

By implementing these organization strategies, you’ll create a more functional pantry that saves time, reduces stress, and might even inspire some creative meal ideas!

Step 5: Maximizing Storage Space in Small Pantries

Not everyone has the luxury of a spacious walk-in pantry. If you’re dealing with limited storage, don’t worry!

With some creative thinking, you can make the most of your available space. Here’s how:

Identify Potential Storage Areas

Start by surveying your kitchen for unused spaces:

1. Dedicated Pantry: If you’re lucky enough to have one, great! If not, consider converting a nearby closet.
2. Cabinets: Utilize both upper and lower cabinets effectively.
3. Wall Shelving: Install floating shelves for easy access and visibility.
4. Counter Space: Use attractive containers to store frequently used items like spices or baking goods.
5. Drawers: Perfect for organizing smaller items or creating themed storage (e.g., coffee station).
6. Standalone Units: Consider a rolling island, armoire, or repurposed office cabinet for additional storage.
7. Door Space: Hang an over-the-door organizer for extra storage.

Organize Strategically

While it’s ideal to keep your pantry items in one location, limited space might require some creative solutions:

• Prioritize Convenience: Keep frequently used items easily accessible.
• Group Similar Items: Create logical groupings (e.g., baking supplies, breakfast items) for easy retrieval.
• Separate Snacks: If space allows, consider a dedicated snack area for quick access.

Read more useful tips to make a small kitchen look bigger here!

Step 6: Smart Organization Tips for Year-Round Freshness

Congratulations on organizing your pantry!

But the work doesn’t stop there.

Follow these expert tips to maintain an organized, well-stocked, and fresh pantry all year round.

1. Make Expiration Dates Visible

When unpacking groceries, use a Sharpie to:

• Circle existing expiration dates for quick visibility
• Or rewrite dates prominently on packaging

This simple step saves time and reduces food waste.

2. Create a Labeling System

Establish clear zones in your pantry:

• Label bins, shelves, and spaces
• Ensure all family members know where items belong
• Make it easy for everyone to find and return items

A well-labeled pantry streamlines cooking and reduces clutter.

3. Implement a Collaborative Shopping List

Keep your pantry stocked with a shared shopping list:

• Place a magnetic notepad on the refrigerator door
• Encourage all family members to note low-stock items
• Consider using a digital app for real-time updates

This method ensures you never run out of essentials.

4. Schedule Regular Pantry Reviews

Set a recurring date to assess your pantry:

• Before grocery shopping
• On trash day
• At the start of each season

Quick, routine checks prevent clutter and keep your pantry fresh.

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By incorporating these how to declutter kitchen habits, you’ll maintain an organized pantry that saves time, reduces waste, and makes cooking a breeze. Happy organizing!