Is your kitchen counter a magnet for random stuff? That’s the case for so many of us. Counters tend to collect everything from appliances to that weird utensil you never use. But a cluttered counter can make cooking a hassle and your kitchen look messy. Tackle those space-wasters and get your counter back to being a functional, tidy spot with these tips.
Cooking Oils
Keeping cooking oils on the counter can lead to quicker degradation of their quality due to exposure to light and heat. It’s best to store them in a cool, dark place to maintain their freshness and nutritional value. Plus, a clutter-free counter offers more space for meal prep and keeps your kitchen looking tidy.
Cookbooks
While it might be tempting to display your favorite cookbooks on the counter, this can actually cause them to wear out faster from spills, splatters, and exposure to cooking vapors. Store them on a shelf or in a cabinet to keep them clean and in good condition.
Phone Chargers
Chargers can easily become tangled and take up valuable space on your kitchen counter. More importantly, having electronic devices near water sources and cooking areas poses a safety risk. Designate a charging station away from the kitchen to keep your counters clear and your electronics safe.
Cleaning Products
Storing cleaning products on the counter can lead to accidental contamination of food surfaces and utensils. It’s safer and more hygienic to keep these items under the sink or in a designated storage area.
Mugs and Glasses
While having mugs and glasses at hand might seem convenient, storing them on the counter can lead to dust accumulation and accidental breakages. Keeping them in cabinets protects them from contaminants and frees up space on your counter for cooking and food preparation.
Piles of Paper
Papers, mail, and receipts can quickly clutter your kitchen counter, making it hard to find what you need and reducing your available workspace. Storing these items in a designated spot or organizer keeps your counter functional and tidy, and helps reduce the stress of misplaced important documents.
Unused Small Appliances
Small appliances that aren’t used daily, like mixers or blenders, take up valuable counter space and collect dust. Store them in cabinets or on shelves to keep your counters ready for immediate use and make your kitchen appear larger and more inviting.
Knives
While having knives within reach might seem convenient, storing them on the counter in a bulky knife block can be unsafe, especially in households with children or pets. Opt for drawer storage instead for your knife set.
Cooking Utensils
Similar to knives, cooking utensils can clutter your workspace if left out on the counter and being constantly exposed, they can accumulate dust and grease when you go to use them. Storing them in drawers is a better option if you have the room.
Cutting Boards
Cutting boards are essential, but when not in use, they take up valuable counter space. Unless it’s a gorgeous wooden board that makes an artistic statement in your kitchen, storing them on their side in a cabinet or a designated rack keeps them out of the way and makes your countertops appear larger.
Spices
Spices stored on the counter can lose their flavor faster due to exposure to heat, light, and moisture. Keeping them in a cool, dark cabinet helps preserve their quality and extends their shelf life.
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*Select images provided by Depositphotos.
Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
