Are you tired and overwhelmed by cluttered and disorganized kitchen countertops, and long to keep them clutter-free and organized? If that is you, then you have come to the right place. In this post, I outline the steps I have taken to declutter my countertops, free up more space, and maintain organization in my kitchen. Here is how to declutter kitchen counters and keep them organized effortlessly.

How to declutter kitchen Counters

1. Sort out and reorganize items on the counters.

Remove all items from the countertops and sort them into categories, such as appliances, cooking utensils, dishes, and miscellaneous items.

2. Remove any unused and duplicate items from the countertops

Evaluate each item and determine whether it is essential for daily use or should be set aside for later. Store items that you use rarely or duplicates in cabinets or other storage areas to leave more space on the countertops.

3. Create zones on the countertops

Designate specific zones on the countertops for designated purposes. For instance, you can have a meal prep zone, a cooking area, a meal serving zone, a key area, and a mail sorting zone. Zoning will help you keep things organized and easily accessible.

4. Group items

Use storage containers, trays, or baskets to store similar items and keep them organized. For example, use a utensil holder for cooking utensils or a lazy susan tray for spices and oils. These storage solutions can help reduce clutter in your kitchen.

5. Install storage

Utilize vertical space by installing shelves, hooks, or racks on the wall to store frequently used items, such as cutting boards, mugs, cooking sticks, or pots and pans, thereby freeing up space on the countertops.

6. Invest in suitable kitchen organizers

Consider investing in space-saving organizers, such as stackable shelves, drawer dividers, or lazy Susans, to maximize storage in cabinets and drawers, thereby freeing up more space on countertops and reducing clutter.

7. Limit decor items

Minimize the number of decorations you place on your countertops. Add a few pieces that add visual interest without taking too much space.

8. Clean as you go

Develop the habit of tidying up as you work around your kitchen. Clean and put away items that have been used immediately instead of leaving them unattended on the countertops.

9. Consider frequency of use

Keep frequently used items within easy reach on designated shelves, and store less frequently used items in lower cabinets or higher shelves to reduce clutter on the counter.

8. Declutter and Organize.

Develop the habit of regularly cleaning and decluttering your kitchen countertops to maintain a tidy and organized space.

How do you keep your counters clutter-free

Remove unnecessary or non-essential items from the counter as soon as you see them.

Minimize the use of too much cooking equipment, such as pots, knives, and bowls. Buy multi-purpose kitchen tools and items, such as a food processor, to do multiple tasks.

Essential Tools for decluttering and Organizing Your Kitchen Counters

You need practical and functional tools to organize and declutter your kitchen counters effortlessly. Here are some of the best tools to help you create an efficient and tidy kitchen workspace.

1. Storage Containers

You can have assorted types of containers, such as Airtight containers, baskets, and canisters.

These are excellent for keeping dry foods such as flour, sugar, and rice fresh and accessible. Make sure you label your containers for easy identification.

2. Drawer Organizers

They come in different designs and shapes. They include expandable utensil trays and compartmentalized bins.

They are great for neatly storing or arranging utensils, measuring cups, and small gadgets.

Drawer organizers help reduce clutter in drawers by preventing them from overflowing onto counters.

Choose adjustable organizers to fit your drawer size.

3. Cutting Boards

You can decide to have Wooden, glass, or bamboo boards.

A Cutting Board provides a dedicated space for cutting and prepping ingredients. They help protect the countertop surface from scratches and clutter from food remains.

Opt for boards you can store upright on your counters when not in use to save space.

4. Stands and Racks

Multi-tiered stands and racks are excellent for storing fruits, oils, and spices.

They help keep frequently used items like spices, oils, and fruits within arm’s reach. Try to elevate items to use vertical space effectively.

Consider magnetic spice jars or racks, which can be attached to the side of your refrigerator or kitchen wall for a contemporary look and functionality.

5. Hooks and Pegboards

These can be Wall-mounted hooks or pegboards. They help free up counter space by providing spaces for hanging pots, pans, and kitchen tools to avoid cluttering and overcrowding the counters.

Try to organize kitchen items based on frequency of use for quick access.

Use decorative hooks to add a bit of style and beauty to your kitchen decor.

6. Baskets and Trays

You can choose to have woven baskets or decorative trays for storing items on your countertops.

Try to group smaller items, such as snacks, spices, or tea bags, together to keep them easily accessible and organized.

Use trays to corral items like salt, pepper, and cooking oils in one spot. Select various sizes and styles of baskets or trays to create a visually appealing display.

7. Showcase Items

These can be in the form of Decorative jars or stylish containers.

You can use these for storing commonly used items, such as pasta, spaghetti, or snacks, as well as adding aesthetic value..

Try to keep your showcase items on the counters to a minimum to avoid clutter.

8. Countertop Appliances

These may include Coffee machines, toasters, waffle makers, and blenders.

Limit the number of appliances you keep on the counter to those you use daily or most frequently.

Store less frequently used appliances in cabinets or on upper shelves.

Choose appliances that match your kitchen decor for a cohesive look.

9. Lazy Susans

These are turntable trays made from wood, plastic, or metal. They are crucial for easily accessing items stored in the back of cabinets or on the counter.

Lazy Susans are perfect for storing condiments, oils, or spices that frequently get lost when stored at the back of your cabinets.

Consider using a two-tier lazy Susan for a compact and organized setup.

10. Cleaning Supplies Caddy

These can be portable caddies or bins for cleaning supplies. They are great for keeping and organizing cleaning essentials, such as cleaning solutions, sprays, cloths, and sponges, within reach. Additionally, they make it easy to carry different cleaning items to various areas of the kitchen.

Choose a caddy that you can store under the sink to maximize counter space.

These tools can help you organize and reduce clutter on your kitchen countertop and create an efficient workspace. These are only suggestions; you don’t have to use all these items, but find what works best for you as you try to create a balance between functionality and aesthetics to create a more organized and visually appealing counter space.