Looks like the perfect kitchen, right? Are you thinking “my kitchen will never look like that”? Honestly, I’m not sure whose kitchen actually looks like this everyday if they cook!
In my efforts to de-clutter the kitchen, I have learned one very important rule: tools that work together should live together.
Living in a condo, we have that dreaded galley/alley kitchen. Little counter space and even less cabinet space. So if I am going by the “rule” to create activity centers, here are some ideas:
Most food prep begins with washing and cutting, right? So, all the tools you need for slicing, chopping, and cutting, should be close. Here are some great ideas for storing those knives and it gets that wood block off the counter where there is VERY little space.
Hang a paper towel dispenser on the wall or beneath a cabinet to save space. To encourage hand washing and hygiene, decant liquid hand washing soap into a pretty pump dispenser and assign it a home next to the sink.
Cutting boards, grater, strainers, colander, mixing spoons, rubber scraper, garlic press, vegetable peeler, vegetable brush, melon scoop/melon baller should be in easy reach too. Mine are all thrown in a drawer making it hard to find sometimes. Again, counter space is limited but I do like these ideas:
How about those measuring spoons you are always hunting for?
We have about 2 feet wide of counter space between the sink and the stove which doesn’t really allow for a “cooking center”. Pots and pans, are stored in a cabinet but if you have the space, here are some great ideas:
I am grateful for my under-stove drawer that let’s me store those often used pans.
Herbs and spices need to be conveniently located for easy seasoning, but make sure they are in a cool place: they’ll lose their savor stored under hot conditions.
Keep cereal, snacks and unbreakable dishes into spot for the kids. Place items on a low shelf for easy reach.
Keep seldom-used serving dishes in the way-back of the cabinet shelf, while plates and soup bowls enjoy the shelf front.
My nemesis is those plastic food storage containers. You can keep them nested and handy. Corral lids separately in a basket to prevent fallout.
How do you create “activity centers” in your kitchen to make life easier? Share your ideas with us…
Have a ThirtyOne-derful day!
Hope Wissel 