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Confronting kitchen clutter

Six tips for tidying up the heart of your home

Have you dreamed of a tidy kitchen where items are organized and everything has a place? With some simple strategies, this dream is attainable. 

HERE’S HOW TO RECLAIM YOUR KITCHEN FROM CLUTTER: 

1) PREPARE FOR IT 

Allow at least two full days in a row to finish. Tidying kitchen items thoroughly takes some time; you don’t want to stop midway! And don’t plan to cook. Counters and tabletops are completely taken over during a tidying event. It’s a great time to order in. 

2) TIDY BY CATEGORY 

Stay focused and avoid overwhelm by gathering and sorting items according to the following categories: 

  • Tools used to prepare food — pots and pans, appliances like blenders and crockpots, utensils like spatulas and whisks, vessels like mixing bowls, etc. 
  • Items used to serve food — dishware, drinkware, cutlery, etc. 
  • Miscellaneous kitchen items — food storage containers, dishtowels, table linens and accessories, cleaning supplies, paper products, etc. 
  • Pantry items — nonperishable foods and supplements 
  • Refrigerator items — after all the rest 

3) JOY-CHECK EVERY SINGLE ITEM 

Examine each piece and determine if you really enjoy using it. If you have repeats or extras, choose the ones that make you happiest, and donate the rest with a thank you. 

4) CHECK PANTRY ITEMS FOR EXPIRATION, THEN DESIRABILITY 

Take time to read labels — and use your nose when possible. If you have unwanted nonperishables that are unopened and still safe to consume, consider donating them to a local food pantry. 

5) STORE WHAT REMAINS BY CATEGORY 

Store like items together. Stack or nest items of similar shapes and materials; store vertically whenever possible (such as cooking utensils upright in a canister); and keep your most frequently used items easily accessible. 

And my favorite tip… 

6) AIM FOR CLEAR COUNTERTOPS 

I urge you to try it for a week. Find another home in the cupboards or drawers for any items currently parked on these surfaces. Not only are clear countertops much easier to keep clean, they invite us to come in, relax and create something delicious and nutritious for ourselves and those we love. 

Happy kitchen tidying, and bon appétit! 


Heather Young, of Tidy and Calm LLC, is a professional home organizer, certified in the KonMari Method® popularized by Marie Kondo. Reach her at www.tidyandcalm.com. 

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