A functional and organized kitchen is a necessity. It is no secret that we all want that aesthetically pleasing home to wake up in every day. We all want a perfectly organized home to show off to our friends or even just for our own eyes. We all get a little messy and want a lazy day to do nothing. It can be difficult keeping every spot clean and tidy all the time because we are not superhuman. It is okay to have a dish and a towel not in place. Let the kids be messy and have fun making that cake because I have solutions you will love and can keep up with.

Cleaning and staying organized may sound like a chore or something difficult and unreachable to some, but if you can prioritize it once you can maintain it for years to come. So, if you are redesigning a new kitchen or working with the one you currently have, here are some storage and layout tips that will make your life feel functional again!

This is all about your kitchen organization

Cabinets

Utilize cabinets for storing kitchen essentials such as dishes, glassware, and cookware. You can also install pull-out drawers for easier access to items stored in the back.

1. Shelf Dividers: Use shelf dividers to keep items like plates and bowls from sliding around and becoming mixed up.
2. Pull-Out Drawers: Install pull-out drawers in lower cabinets to make it easier to access items stored in the back.
3. Lazy Susans: Use lazy susans in corner cabinets to maximize space and make it easier to access items stored in the back.
4. Dividers for Pots and Pans: Use dividers to keep pots and pans organized and easy to access.
5. Basket Organizers: Use basket organizers to store items like potatoes and onions in a neat and organized way.
6. Trays: Use trays to keep items like lids and cutting boards organized and easy to access.
7. Vertical Storage: Consider installing vertical storage solutions, such as pot and pan racks, to make the most of the space in your cabinets.
8. Hooks: Install hooks inside cabinet doors to hang utensils, towels, and other items.
9. Label Everything: Label everything to keep your kitchen organized and make it easy to find what you need.

Pantry

A pantry can be a great addition to a kitchen, providing additional storage for food, spices, and other kitchen essentials.

10. Group Like Items Together: Store similar items together, such as all the canned goods in one area and all the snacks in another.
11. Use Baskets and Containers: Use baskets and containers to keep items organized and to make it easier to see what you have on hand.
12. Install Shelving: Install adjustable shelving to make the most of the space in your pantry and to allow for flexible storage.
13. Label Everything: Label everything to keep your pantry organized and make it easy to find what you need.
14. Use Vertical Space: Utilize vertical space by installing stackable bins, tiered shelving, or using a step ladder to reach items stored on high shelves.
15. Store Bulky Items at the Bottom: Store bulky items at the bottom or the back of the pantry, freeing up space in front and at eye level for items that are used more frequently.
16. Use Door Space: Make use of the door space in your pantry by hanging organizers for spices, snacks, or other small items.
17. Rotate Stock: Rotate your pantry stock regularly to ensure that items are used before they expire.
18. Keep It Clean: Keep your pantry clean and free of clutter to make it easier to find what you need and to ensure that food stays fresh.

Open Shelving

Open shelving can be a stylish and functional storage solution, providing easy access to frequently used items.

19. Group Like Items Together: Store similar items together, such as all the dishes in one area or all the glasses in another.
20. Use Coordinating Pieces: Use coordinating pieces, such as matching canisters or baskets, to create a cohesive look on the shelves.
21. Mix and Match: Mix and match items of different heights, textures, and colors to create visual interest on the shelves.
22. Add Decorative Items: Add decorative items such as plants, vases, or decorative jars to add color and interest to the shelves.
23. Use Linens: Use coordinating linens, such as tea towels or cloth napkins, to add color and texture to the shelves.
24. Rearrange Regularly: Rearrange the items on the shelves regularly to keep the space looking fresh and to avoid boredom.
25. Balance the Shelf: Make sure to balance the items on the shelf, both in terms of size and color, to create a harmonious look
26. Store Everyday Items: Store everyday items on open shelves, such as dishes and glasses, so that they are easily accessible.
27. Keep It Clean: Keep the open shelves clean and free of clutter to maintain the aesthetic and make it easier to see what you have on hand.

Countertop Space

Make the most of countertop space by keeping it clear of clutter and using it for food preparation.  It’s important to keep only the essentials on the countertops. Everyone has a different routine so this will depend on your personal preferences and cooking style, but here are some general guidelines.

28. Everyday Items: Keep items that you use frequently, such as a coffee maker, toaster, and knife block, on the countertop for easy access.
29. Cooking Tools: Keep cooking tools, such as a cutting board, utensils, and mixing bowls, on the countertop for easy access while cooking.
30. Fresh Ingredients: Keep fresh ingredients, such as fruits and vegetables, on the countertop to encourage healthy eating.
31. Decorative Pieces: Add decorative items, such as a vase of flowers or a bowl of fruit, to add color and interest to the countertops.
32. Small Appliances: Store small appliances, such as a blender or food processor, on the countertop only when in use, and store them away when not needed to clear counter space.
33. Cleaning Supplies: Store cleaning supplies, such as a dishcloth and sponge, on the countertop for easy access while cleaning up.

Work Triangle

Consider the “work triangle” when designing your kitchen. This refers to the relationship between the sink, stove, and refrigerator, and have them positioned in a way that allows for easy movement between them.

Lighting

Good lighting is important in a kitchen, both for aesthetics and for tasks such as food preparation. Consider adding task lighting under cabinets, under countertops, and bars, as well as ambient lighting for the overall space.