Let’s Tidy Up!
From pots and pans spilling out of the cabinet to dinner leftovers taking over the fridge, it seems you’re always a step behind when it comes to kitchen organization. Luckily, help is on the way.
We spoke to Mara Richter, an organizing expert (who works at The Container Store), to find out which products can help you get your kitchen under control—and get your meals planned and prepped more smoothly.
Put Bins in the Fridge
To keep the fridge organized, Richter recommends using clear bins. These come in a variety of shapes and sizes and they look great, plus their clarity helps you keep track of what you have in stock. Richter recommends looking for ones with cut-out or integrated handles for easy access. “Then make it a habit to put the bins back in the same place in your refrigerator to speed prep time,” she says.
Stack ‘Em
Another fridge solution is stackable containers. Stacking items frees up more surface area on refrigerator shelves, allowing you to use all the space available. Richter loves the Fridge Binz Egg Holder. It features a sturdy lid, so you can stack items on top, which is obviously not a great idea when eggs are in their original carton.
Organize the Pantry Door
“If you have a door in your pantry or kitchen area, don’t neglect that often-wasted space,” Richter says. “The elfa Door & Wall Rack is designed to fit onto the back of a door. The system’s flexible baskets provide extra storage space for canned goods and other dry foods, cleaning supplies and even bottles of soda. The rack will ease the overcrowding in your cabinets and make it possible to have everything at your fingertips.”
Don’t Forget About Floor Storage
Don’t forget about the pantry floor. This is the perfect spot for keeping onions or potatoes, which should be stored in a cool, dark place in a well-ventilated container (but keep them separate!). Wire baskets are a great way to keep these items organized and ready to use. Stacking baskets are even better, allowing you to use all the space between the lowest shelf and the floor.
Use Clear Canisters
Store baking and cooking staples like sugar, flour and rice in clear canisters. Removing the original packaging creates a cleaner, more uniform storage solution. Plus, the airtight containers keep items fresh and make it easy to see when you’re running low on something.
Corral Pots and Pans
“Look for products that are specifically designed to tackle the hard-to-organize items in your kitchen or pantry, like your pots and pans,” Richter suggests. “Choose racks to keep them under control. They won’t spill out each time you open the cabinet.”
Spruce up Your Spices
The spice cabinet can be a big clutter trap. No one likes taking time to search for the right seasoning while they’re in the middle of making dinner. Use a two-tiered lazy Susan to keep spices and baking supplies organized and accessible. One smooth turn and you’ll find what you need before you can say “Pass the salt.”
Utilize All Cabinet Space
“Many times there’s wasted space because cabinets are built so deep,” Richter says. “A quick and easy solution to cavernous cabinets is to add sliding drawers.” Made in a variety of sizes and styles, they’re mounted to the manufactured shelf and rest on gliders, allowing easy access. “These allow you to bring the back of the cabinet up front and center,” Richter adds.
Take Control of the Junk Drawer
You know that drawer full of measuring spoons, measuring cups, cookie cutters and miscellaneous kitchen tools? The drawer that catches on the counter every time you try to open it because it’s such a mess? Take control with drawer organizers. These can be customized to your needs and will create a proper home for everything in the kitchen.
Clear the Counter
Clutter on the counter is the prime culprit for making a kitchen look messy. Clear the counter by keeping only the essentials on display, like the coffee maker and a few canisters. This hanging wire basket will keep fruit accessible—but off the countertop.
Note: Every product is independently selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
The post 10 Kitchen Organizer Ideas That Will Change Your Life appeared first on Taste of Home.
Erica Young