How to Organize the Contents of Kitchen Cabinets

Well-located cabinets make a cook's life easier.

Well-organized kitchen cabinets are an asset to chefs and novice cooks alike. Getting organized and knowing where all of the utensils and tools are before cooking can be a tremendous time-save, giving cooks more time to enjoy the meal and company.

Instructions

1. Store spices and seasonings in a cabinet, shelf or drawer near the stove so they are easy to access during cooking. Do not place them over the stove, as the rising heat causes the spices to deteriorate.

2. Store mixing bowls and baking utensils in cabinets under the counter where the mixer or blender sit or in the cabinets where the appliances are stored.

3. Put the coffee, coffee creamers, sweeteners and flavorings in a cabinet near the coffee pot on the counter top. Store the coffee accessories within arm's reach when standing in front of the coffee pot.

4. Place the everyday dishes in cabinets near the dishwasher or the sink to save steps when putting dishes away after washing.

5. Separate the silverware, the everyday cooking utensils and the lesser-used items into separate drawers. The silverware should be stored in a drawer close to the cabinet of everyday dishes. The everyday cooking tools should be near the stove and the miscellaneous items should be placed in a drawer that is farthest away from the stove.

6. Place larger plastic or wooden utensils in a counter-top utensil caddy near the stove for easy, immediate access while cooking.

7. Store canned goods and pre-packaged products in lower cabinets or lower pantry shelves to keep them cooler and less affected by heat from the stove.

8. Store plastic dishes and microwave bowls and containers in a cabinet near the microwave for easy access and to avoid using a dish that is not microwave safe.

Resources

• Get Organized Without Losing It, by Janet S. Fox
• Idea Wise Storage, by Matthew Paymar