6 Ideas for a Clutter Free Kitchen

Today, many new and renovated homes have kitchens that are fully open to a living or

family room, and are therefore highly visible. Where we used to have toasters, mixers,

pots and other devices and utensils on the counters or walls, you won’t see that in today’s

kitchens or design sites. A highly popular modern trend is minimalist kitchens that are

spare and virtually clutter free. If you want to have a version of this look in your new or

redesigned kitchen, early in the design process, you’ll want to think about what you have,

what you want, and how you want to use it. Discuss all this with your kitchen

designer/planner to have the correct type of cabinets and kitchen layout. Here are 6 ways

to decrease clutter in your new kitchen, and some will work for any kitchen.

1. Install hidden storage space. Make sure small appliances are hidden but easily

accessible. Specialty storage and design is available for pots and lids, spices, wine,

cleaning supplies, hidden electrical outlets, microwaves in drawers, vegetable bins, pet

dishes and more. Use counter tops for only a couple of decorative items to keep

countertops relatively clear.

2. Install proper disposal bins. Disposal bins should be strategically located, often

near the sink, to allow ease of use while working. It is easier to sort garbage, trash, and

recyclables if they are close at hand, but hidden, preferably under the counter. Not having

a place to organize or dispose of things in the moment can lead to clutter.

3. Have a home for everything. Make sure everyone in your household knows where

things belong. Designate a specific place for all kitchen implements, and likewise, don’t

let things like keys, lunch boxes, purses, and mail end up on counter tops. Make sure

these have designated storage places as well.

4. Keep the refrigerator free from artwork, magnets and notes. Simple, but effective,

are storage frames which will display one piece of your children’s artwork while storing

several others within. A clutter free refrigerator will give your kitchen a clean and

organized appearance.

5. Filter out the excess. Most kitchens are filled with numerous items that are rarely

or never used. Donate these or throw them away. Keep utensils, dishes, and implements

to a minimum. Evaluate your small appliances as well. If you haven’t used it in over a

year, it may be time for it to go.

6. Allow yourself one junk drawer. Even the neatest, most organized people have

junk. Designate one drawer for miscellaneous items that don’t have a specific place.

Make sure it’s only one drawer and go through it often to remove unwanted items.

These are just a few ideas for keeping your kitchen neat, clean, and clutter free. Our

designers can help you select specialty or custom cabinets. They can plan your layout for

beauty and convenience and give you the best advice on what will work for you and

achieve a modern, beautiful result.