The kitchen is often the heart of the home—where meals are shared, conversations flow, and memories are made. But when clutter takes over, it can dampen the joy of cooking and gathering. If your countertops are jam-packed, your cabinets are overflowing, or you’re constantly searching for the items you need, it’s time to declutter and organise your kitchen. The best part? You can achieve a beautifully organised kitchen in just one day!
Are you ready to restore order to the hub of your home? Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Set the Stage
Start by preparing for the day. Put on some energizing music, grab some bins or boxes for sorting, and clear your schedule. Make sure you have cleaning supplies on hand—you’ll want to wipe down surfaces as you go.
Pro Tips:
- Block off a full day—no errands, no distractions. Think of it as an investment in a calm and functional space.
- Label your sorting bins as “Keep,” “Donate/Sell,” and “Trash” to streamline the process.
Step 2: Empty and Assess
Pick one area to start with, such as a cabinet or drawer. Take out every single item and lay them on a flat surface. This allows you to see everything you have and assess what’s worth keeping.
Ask Yourself:
- Do I use this regularly?
- Is it in good condition?
- Does it add value to my kitchen?
Be ruthless. If you haven’t used an item in the last year, it’s time to let it go.
Step 3: Categorise and Declutter
Now that everything is visible, group similar items together, such as baking tools, cookware, or pantry staples. As you sort, declutter duplicates and items you don’t need.
Examples of Common Clutter:
- Expired spices or food
- Duplicate utensils (how many spatulas do you really need?)
- Appliances you never use
When in doubt, ask yourself if you’d buy that item again if you lost it. If the answer is no, it’s time to declutter.
Step 4: Clean as You Go
With your cabinets and drawers empty, take the opportunity to give them a good scrub. Clean surfaces not only look great but also make your kitchen feel fresher.
Pro Tip: Line shelves with easy-to-clean mats to protect surfaces and make future cleanups easier.
Step 5: Organise Thoughtfully
Put everything back in a way that makes sense for how you use your kitchen. Prioritise accessibility by placing frequently used items within easy reach and less-used items in higher or lower spaces.
Organising Tips:
- Use bins and baskets to group small items.
- Add shelf risers to maximise vertical space.
- Label jars and containers for easy identification.
- Keep like-items together (e.g., all baking supplies in one cabinet).
Step 6: Tidy Countertops
Countertops should be functional, not storage spaces. Keeping them clear not only looks better, it also reduces stress and makes prep work so much easier. Keep only essential items, such as a toaster or coffee maker, on display. Store everything else in cabinets or drawers.
Pro Tip: A clear countertop creates a sense of calm and makes meal prep easier.
Step 7: Maintain Your Hard Work
Now that your kitchen is decluttered and organised, commit to maintaining it. Regularly assess your items and tidy up after cooking.
Quick Maintenance Habits:
- Put items back in their designated spots.
- Do a mini-declutter every month.
- Clean out the fridge and pantry weekly.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to a clutter-free, organised kitchen that makes cooking, hosting, and even cleaning up feel like a breeze. Happy decluttering!
Need Extra Help?
Transforming your kitchen doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Ducks in a Row Home Organisation, we specialise in helping families create organised, functional spaces. If you need an extra hand, reach out and take the first step toward a kitchen you’ll love.
Your dream kitchen is just a day away. Ready to get started? Click here!