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How to Declutter Kitchen Countertops

Simple Tips for Decluttering Kitchen Countertops

Here are simple tips on how to declutter kitchen countertops and how to keep the clutter at bay for good.

Every day, we use our kitchen countertops for a variety of tasks. From cooking and food preparation to storage and serving, our countertops play an essential role in our daily lives.

But all too often, our countertops become cluttered and crammed with more items than we need.

Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be this way! With a bit of time and effort, you can declutter your kitchen counters for good.

In this article, we offer tips on how to declutter kitchen countertops. But before we go into those, let’s take a look at the benefits of decluttering your countertops. Let’s get started!

Plates, plant and other stuff on kitchen counter and text that says, "How to declutter kitchen countertops".

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The Benefits of Decluttering Your Countertops

Before embarking on any decluttering project, it is vital to be clear about why we are doing this in the first place. There are some obvious benefits to decluttering your kitchen countertops.

We’ll have more space to work on food preparation and cooking. We’ll also be able to find what we need more efficiently, saving time and frustration.

There’s nothing more satisfying than a clean and clutter-free kitchen counter. Having to move a lot of items to clean is annoying. A clear countertop is not only more aesthetically pleasing, but it also allows for easier and quicker cleanup.

A clutter free countertop makes it so easy to quickly wipe down the counter after cooking or working in the kitchen. It is also easier to see what needs to be put away. In the end, a clear countertop tends to be cleaner, which always feels good.

So if you’re looking for a way to streamline your kitchen routine and make your space more enjoyable to cook in, decluttering your countertops is a great place to start!

Keeping your counters clutter free is very important if you are looking for how to maintain a clutter free home.

How to Declutter Kitchen Countertops – Easy Steps and Ideas

Now that we’ve discussed some benefits of decluttering your kitchen counters, let’s talk about how to do it!

Clear Everything off of Your Countertops

The best way to get started is to clear everything off your countertops so that you have a clean surface to work with. Place all items in a temporary place, like your kitchen table, so you can sort and deal with each item separately.

While your counters are clear, take the time to give your counters a good wipe-down, so you’re starting off with a nice clean surface.

Sort Through Your Items

Once everything is removed, take a close look at each item and decide whether or not you need it on the counter. Only keep what you use daily. If you don’t use it regularly or it doesn’t serve a purpose in your kitchen, get rid of it! There’s no reason for it to occupy valuable counter space.

This is not a one size fits all decision. What I use every day may be completely different from what you use. But that’s okay!

Decluttering your countertops is about making the most of your space and keeping things important to you within easy reach. So go through everything you removed and retain what you truly need on your countertops.

Deal With the Items that Won’t Stay Out

Now that you know what items to keep on your kitchen counter, it’s time to decide what to do with the rest. Get rid of anything that is never used.

Find homes for the appliances that aren’t used every day. The goal is to put them away but keep them handy.

Things that only get used for special occasions or holidays, like a turkey baster, gravy boat, or serving platter, can be placed out of the way. They could go in the high cupboards or even into storage. We have a designated cabinet in our home to hold those items.

Find Creative Storage Solutions

Try finding creative storage solutions for items you use but do not want on the counter. We want to ensure they are still easily accessible but not cluttering our counter space. Here are some ideas.

Replace Your Knife Block

Knife blocks are handy for storing our sharp knives, but they take up a lot of counter space. So, why not replace your knife block with a magnetic strip? A wall-mounted magnetic strip allows easy access to all of your knives. I love this magnetic knife organizer and it also comes highly rated.

Another alternative, if you have a drawer to spare, is an in-drawer knife block like this one. It holds 16 knives and reviewers love it. It is made of bamboo, a renewable and environmentally friendly resource.

Modern Innovations 16 Inch Stainless Steel Magnetic Knife Bar - Kitchen Utensil HolderModern Innovations 16 Inch Stainless Steel Magnetic Knife Bar – Kitchen Utensil HolderModern Innovations 16 Inch Stainless Steel Magnetic Knife Bar - Kitchen Utensil HolderIn-Drawer Bamboo Knife Block Holds 16 Knives (Not Included)In-Drawer Bamboo Knife Block Holds 16 Knives (Not Included)In-Drawer Bamboo Knife Block Holds 16 Knives (Not Included)

 

Hang Your Cooking Utensils on the Wall

Cooking utensils can be hard to store as you need quick and easy access, but those caddies can clutter up your countertops.

A great storage solution is to hang them on the wall or inside a cupboard door. This allows for easy access and keeps things looking neat. They come in all shapes and sizes, and you can find a great selection of utensil racks on Amazon.

Get Your Spices Out of the Way

Herbs and spices make our food taste good, but those bottles can take up a lot of space. After much trial and error, we settled on an adjustable drawer insert like this one.

We use a drawer next to the stove and find it really handy. It is easy to find the bottle you want, and I love that it doesn’t take up counter or cupboard space.

Spice Drawer Organizer, 4Tier Clear Acrylic ExpandableSpice Drawer Organizer, 4Tier Clear Acrylic ExpandableSpice Drawer Organizer, 4Tier Clear Acrylic Expandable

 

If your fridge is close to your stove, you could also use magnetic spice jars and use the fridge to store them.

Hide Your Pot Scrubbers, Sponges, and Brushes

This little shelf uses the wasted space in the front of your sink. It is perfect for hiding pot scrubbers, vegetable brushes, and sponges. It mounts on the front panel and tips out to reveal hidden storage.

Add Floating Shelves

Floating shelves are great for freeing up counter space and providing storage. You can buy ones that come ready to go, or you can build your own custom shelving to fit the exact size of your kitchen. They are a great way to declutter without losing valuable storage space.

Take Advantage of Cabinet Door Storage

One often overlooked storage solution is to use the door of the cabinet. You can free up valuable countertop space by installing hooks, racks, or shelves on the door.

Door-mounted storage solutions are also great for keeping frequently used items within reach. With creativity, you can find all sorts of clever ways to use this hidden storage space. Here are some ideas to get you started:

TreeLen 2PK- Kitchen Cabinet OrganizerTreeLen 2PK- Kitchen Cabinet OrganizerTreeLen 2PK- Kitchen Cabinet OrganizerEgepon Over the Door Pantry Organizer RackEgepon Over the Door Pantry Organizer RackEgepon Over the Door Pantry Organizer RackWall Door Mounted Pot Lid Rack, Chrome FinishWall Door Mounted Pot Lid Rack, Chrome FinishWall Door Mounted Pot Lid Rack, Chrome FinishMosuch Stainless Steel Over Door Towel RackMosuch Stainless Steel Over Door Towel RackMosuch Stainless Steel Over Door Towel Rack

 

Hang Up Your Fruit

If you’re looking for a way to add extra storage space to your kitchen, why not use a hanging basket? Hanging baskets are a great way to keep your favorite fruits within reach.

You can find hanging baskets in various sizes and styles, so it’s easy to find one that fits your space and needs.

Keeping the Clutter at Bay

Once you’ve decluttered your kitchen countertops, you want to keep them looking that way. Here are some helpful routines that will help keep the clutter at bay

Deal with Dirty Dishes Immediately

As soon as you finish using a dish, wash it or put it in the dishwasher. Don’t leave it sitting on the countertop – that’s inviting clutter.

Do a Quick Clean Sweep Each Night

Before bed, take a minute or two to wipe down your kitchen countertops and remove anything left out. This will help prevent spills and crumbs from accumulating overnight.

Watch for Problem Areas and Deal with Them

Take note of any areas that tend to get cluttered quickly. Once you’ve identified these problem areas, take steps to stop the clutter build-up.

That could mean setting up a small tray or key holder by the door or investing in a storage item to keep things off the counter.

Final Thoughts on How to Declutter Your Kitchen Counters

You deserve to have a beautiful, functional kitchen that brings you joy. Many benefits come with decluttering your kitchen countertops. More space, less frustration, and improved overall appearance – to name a few!

By following the steps in this post, you’ll be well on your way to having the clear, streamlined kitchen of your dreams. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get those countertops cleared!

Did you find our tips on how to declutter kitchen countertops helpful? Leave your comment below.

Kettle and pan on a stove, cup, plates, plant and other stuff on a counter and text that says, "Decluttering kitchen countertops".

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Teri Pickens

Sunday 31st of December 2023

Your decluttering tips are amazing! I have been deep cleaning my home. I recently retired and love to keep a clean and clutter free home. We live in a two bedroom two bath home so every little space counts. I began my cleaning by using your decluttering tips. I do one area at a time and I have managed to declutter and clean my whole home. Thank you! I still find your articles so useful. Clutter is an everyday battle, so I will keep reading and improving!

Carol

Monday 1st of January 2024

Hi Teri,

I'm happy to hear that you find my decluttering tips helpful.

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