Declutter countertops

It seems like every kitchen needs more counter space, no matter how many square feet are available. The toaster, can opener, blender, microwave oven, bread maker, fruit bowl, coffee maker, knife block, cookie jar, canisters, juicer – so many items – make the countertops prime real estate.  

There are some appliances made to fit under cabinets including can openers, coffee makers, microwaves and even televisions. Keeping most appliances tucked away in cabinets or a pantry can help reduce clutter. Some appliances are used daily, like coffee makers, and need to be handy. But those appliances that are used occasionally, should not be grabbing precious counter space.

Sometimes you or a family member will place something down on the counter and it suddenly becomes the permanent home for that item. The more often this happens, the less space is available for cooking. The counters are meant for preparing food and not storage. 

So, how can you deal with cluttered counters? First, you must tell yourself the hard truth – some things in the kitchen are going to have to go. Start by clearing off the counters completely and go on from there. Everything should have a home. If there is nowhere to put the item, maybe it is not something you really need. If the item is necessary, find it a permanent spot in cabinets, on shelves or in drawers. 

Plenty of metal shelving and plastic bins are perfect for kitchen storage. If the item in question is old, broken, rusted or never used, it should be purged.

Some people keep cookbooks in the kitchen, but rarely use them. If you use them often, find a place where they can be stored. Add a little cookbook shelf that is within easy reach. However, if you seldom use recipes, keep them where your other books live and retrieve them when you need them. 

Bottles of wine, spices, magazines, newspapers and plants do not belong in the kitchen. Even hanging plants can get in the way. Do you like to read the morning paper while having your coffee? Get a magazine rack, which does not take up a lot of space, and put it in the kitchen. Use that for magazines and the newspaper to keep them off your valuable countertops. Lazy Susans or a wall-mounted spice rack can free up space. Remove duplicate spices or expired containers. Some storage racks can go on the inside of pantry or cabinet doors. Think vertically. Make use of walls whenever you can. A magnetic strip can go on the wall for your spatula, favorite chopping knife or other metal utensils you want to keep handy.

Once you get your counter space back the way it should be, you will discover that food preparation is easier. Knowing where all of your cooking supplies are will help as well. Sometimes this is easier said than done, but try to keep everyone in the family in the habit of putting things away. Your kitchen will look cleaner, and in fact be easier to clean, once everything is put in its place.