How to Organise Kitchen Cupboards

Many people find organising and decluttering kitchen cupboards challenging, especially when they’re not sure where to start. Luckily, there are many tips and techniques that can make the task easier and create a clutter-free and functional space in a kitchen. Below, cleaning experts have shared some general advice to get you started.

Pick a decluttering strategy

The best approach to decluttering and organising is to first find a system that suits your lifestyle. For example, if you’re limited on time, work by sorting into categories and sections. To help with that, create a checklist, as it’s easier to stay focused when you know exactly what you have to do. 

Before organising your kitchen cupboards, it’s very important to declutter. When it comes to that, there are a few questions you can ask yourself to determine if an item should stay or go. The ones that would be of most help are: 

• Do I use this item? If you have to think about your answer, it’s very likely that you don’t need it anymore. 
• Is this product still good? Almost all products have expiration dates. If you notice that the texture, colour or scent of the item is off, it’s probably gone bad and should be discarded. 
• Would I still buy this today? Ask yourself if you still like the item. 
• Is it adding function to the space or just contributing to the clutter? 
• Does it help make my life easier or better? 

Afterwards, get rid of and donate the items that you no longer use or need. This will create more space in your cabinets for the ones that you actually use. For example, go through your mug collection. Place your mugs out on a table and only keep the ones that you really like and donate the rest or gift them to friends or family. 

While you have all the items out for decluttering, it’s also a good time to give your cupboards a thorough cleaning. Remove any grime and debris from their insides before putting anything back in. 

Pick quality over quantity

While you’re decluttering, get into the mindset of having fewer possessions. Look only for the items that are the best quality you can afford, and take good care of the ones that come into your kitchen. The things you own should ultimately make your life easier.

Taking the time to really understand what’s inside your kitchen cupboards, what you use and what you don’t, will help you keep your space clutter-free and benefit your well-being.

Designated a place for each item

Once you start designating spots for specific items, it will become easier to put things back where they belong. Decide where things will go in advance. 

Before you put the items you’re left with back into the kitchen cupboards, categorise them and arrange the areas with the most frequently used items to be in the front. This will make it easier to find what you need faster. 

Besides that, think about colour-coding as an extra step to help you achieve a more functional and accessible space. Things, such as plates, bowls, and glasses, should be at eye level and within easy reach.

Organising

After taking everything out of your cupboards, you’ll get a better idea of what items you have and how much space is available. Once you’ve done that, group the items by categories, such as plates, glasses, cookware and baking supplies.

Next, assess your cupboard space. Measure the height, depth and width of your cabinets to determine what the best placement will be.

Ask someone for help

Decluttering is chaotic, and it’s a big task to do on your own. Don’t be ashamed to ask for help if you need it, whether it’s from a friend, a family member, or a professional.

Keep your energy levels high

Decluttering and organisation take a lot of time as well as physical and emotional energy. Staying hydrated, eating regularly and listening to upbeat music can be of great help and should be one of your top priorities.

Make decluttering and organisation a habit

Keeping your kitchen space organised is an ongoing process, and the most important part of it is to maintain it this way after you’ve finished it the first time. 

Additionally, consider shelving and drawer inserts or other types of storage solutions. These can help you maximise your cabinet space and keep your items more organised. Utilise the back of cabinet doors as well, which is often an overlooked storage opportunity. Consider adding hooks or a door-mounted organiser for more frequently used items.

Last but not least, label your items and cabinets. This will additionally help you keep everything organised and easy to find in the future.

Additional Tips for Organising a Kitchen

Knowing where everything should go in a kitchen is another important factor because it will help you maintain a clean and organised space. However, these decisions will ultimately depend on your preferences and lifestyle. Everyone’s kitchen is different, and what works for someone else may not work for you. 

It’s essential to take your specific needs into account when organising your kitchen, and the most critical thing should be to create a functional and comfortable space that works for you. Despite that, there are still some general tips that cleaning and organisation experts recommend considering.

Store frequently used items in easily accessible areas 

For example, keep items you use regularly, such as cooking utensils, pots, pans and spices, within easy reach of the stove or cooktop.

Group similar items together 

Grouping similar items, such as all baking supplies, in one area will make it easier to find what you’re looking for when you need it.

Store heavy items on lower shelves 

Heavier items, such as cast-iron skillets and larger appliances, are safer stored on lower shelves or in lower cabinets to avoid strain and potential accidents when you’re taking them out.

Place dishes and glassware near the dishwasher or sink 

Finding a storage spot for your dishes and glassware near the area where you wash them will make it easier to unload them and put them away once they’re clean.

Use drawers for cutlery and smaller items 

Placing your cutlery and smaller items into the kitchen drawers and using dividers for them will make them easier to find.

Store snacks and non-perishable items in a designated pantry area 

For snacks and other non-perishable items which don’t require refrigeration, opt for a standalone pantry or a set of shelves, depending on how much kitchen space you have.

Keep frequently used appliances on the countertops 

Keep frequently used appliances, such as a toaster or coffee maker, on the counter for easy access and put away any appliances that you use less often to keep your kitchen space as clutter-free as possible.

Final Words

While decluttering and organising your cupboards, keep in mind that the key to maintaining an organised kitchen is to keep it simple and functional. Try not to overstuff them and only keep in them the items you use most frequently. A messy kitchen can be a big source of stress and take the enjoyment away from cooking, but if you find the organisational system that works best for you, this should no longer be a problem.