Michael Nash Design, Build & Homes

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

Keeping your new kitchen clear and organized

Many of us struggle with the problem of clutter, especially kitchen clutter. It quickly takes away from the look of our new kitchen and makes us feel the space is small, even when it isn’t.

It is just a problem of too much “stuff.” It’s a problem of disorganization. So here are some tips for getting your kitchen organized.

Keep it clear

Countertops should be clear. When they aren’t, it’s often because we haven’t picked a place to store items. Small appliances, for example, should be put away in a specific place when not being used. Paper, newspapers and magazines should have specific places to be stored – not on the kitchen counter or island.

Weed things out

Make a list of all the appliances, large and small. Do a list for food items as well. Go through your lists by separating items based on where in the kitchen they are used.

Now trim those lists. If something is seldom used, store it in the basement or other storage area. If it doesn’t get used, consider getting rid of it entirely. For example, if that rice cooker is only used two or three times a year, there really is no need for it to be in the kitchen.

Try reorganizing your kitchen by storing what remains on your lists (items frequently used) in the area of the kitchen they are most used.

Drawers and cupboards

Your new kitchen may have beautiful new drawers and other pull-outs but they will quickly become nightmares if you aren’t organized.

Consider avoiding this by using dividers, inserts, small caddies and even bags to separate items like silverware, dinnerware, napkins, baking supplies, spices etc. You can even consider hooks within some cupboards. Items stored in a specified, contained area are easier to keep organized, are more easily found and don’t add to a cluttered look.

 Your new kitchen will continue to look stunning if you can keep it clean and clear. And the best way to do this is through being organized.

Michael Nash Design, Build & Homes
Fairfax, Virginia 22031
(703)641-9800