By: Whitney Hicks
Messy counters can put a strain on dinnertime, and bare countertops are almost impractical. What makes a kitchen great is not about the amount of space you have, but how you organize and utilize that space. Let's face it; no matter how big your kitchen is, it needs to be bigger! Use these storage tips to organize your kitchen in a practical way that allows more space and less headache during food preparation.
Time to empty those cabinets! Yes, take everything out! Start by organizing items into groups based on usage. Group your everyday items- glasses, plates and utensils- and place them in the cabinets at a level that does not require bending over or a step stool. Place your items used for everyday cooking near the stove, and store items for everyday eating near the sink and dishwasher. Grouping items together based on use makes unloading the dishwasher not so aggravating and allows your family to easily catch on to the new organization style. The number one rule to remember when organizing your kitchen is: If you use it the most, store it the closest.
While you are taking inventory, get rid of what you don't use or have at least five of. There is no need for five pans that are all the exact same size. Get rid of it! Discard anything that is broken or has missing parts. A pan without a handle is just as useless as a pot or container with a broken or missing lid. When you toss what you don't use, you free up more space for what you do use. Set a time frame of at least six months, and if you can't remember the last time you used it, then you don't need it.
If you are lacking in storage space for all your pots and pans, consider installing a pot rack. Pot racks not only provide more storage space, they also provide a nice focal point for your kitchen, especially over that mobile island. Pot racks come in all shapes, sizes and finishes. Pot racks are easy to assemble and can be placed in several areas in the kitchen. Convenience is another benefit for using pot racks because you can install the rack close to the space you utilize for everyday cooking. You no longer have to walk across the room and dig through your cabinet to find the right size pot because it is an arm's reach away.
Almost every homeowner agrees they could use more counter space in the kitchen. No matter how much you have, a little more never hurt. Islands are great for buffets, food work space and additional counter and storage space. Islands are a creative way to add an extra touch to your kitchen because they provide simple elegance with the benefits of extra space. Islands also create a great focal point for the room. Mobile kitchen islands are a good idea because you can easily change its location to give your kitchen a fresh new look. Islands are a modern hit in today's kitchen must haves.
Remember, the kitchen is where you prepare everyday meals and spend a majority of your time. Avoid the hassle of falling pots, pans, storage containers and food, and use these tips to organize and arrange for the most important person in the kitchen, the cook.
