How to Keep a Kitchen Organized

A well-organized kitchen helps the cook function much more effectively. Take the time to organize, and meal preparation will be a much more pleasant task.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Storage containers
• Plastic bags
• Box marked "donate"

1. First, clean out your kitchen. Go through every drawer and cabinet. When you find items you haven't used in years, put them in a big box marked "donate." When you are done organizing, donate them to the Salvation Army, Goodwill or a local thrift shop.

2. Throw out items that are broken or out-of-date, like spices you bought many years ago.

3. Move items close to the area where you use them. Pick a cabinet near the stove for the frying pans and cooking pots. Choose an area near the counter where you prepare meals for your cooking utensils.

4. Put items you use every day, like tea bags, in containers on the counter near the stove.

5. Streamline your kitchen by keeping only items that you use. Donate any excess. You do not need five of any item, even if they were wedding gifts.

Tips & Warnings

• A well-organized kitchen is easier to cook in and easier to clean.
• Be relentless. If you haven't used the item in more than two years, donate it or have a garage sale and sell it.
• Start this project when you will have enough time to finish it.