Smart Kitchens

  • If you don't have a block of time, tackle a large reorganizing task gradually--one cupboard at a time, one shelf at a time.
     
  • Beginning with the cabinet closest to the sink, work your way around the kitchen methodically.  Take everything out of each cupboard and wipe down the shelves.
     
  • Return only the items that belong there, placing in front the ones used most frequently.  Set the rest aside to be stored elsewhere or put them in a giveaway box for a local shelter.)
     
  • Reserve prime storage space for items used daily.
     
  • Line glasses up in neat rows according to what they're used for (short juice tumblers, tall drink glasses, etc.)
     
  • Wherever possible, save space by stacking glasses.
     
  • Prevent dust buildup and discourage insects by storing glassware upside down.
     
  • Let younger kids stock a lower cabinet with plastic cups and dishes.
     
  • Store seldom-used pots and pans, bowls, casseroles and platters in less-accessible cabinets.
     
  • Install vertical dividers in a lower cabinet near the oven to hold cookie sheets and pizza pans.
     
  • Store pot lids in one place.  Stand them on their sides in order of size in a deep drawer.
     
  • Keep leftovers in clear glass or plastic containers in your fridge.  That way, you'll always know what you're saving.
     
  • Hang kitchenware that you use daily on a wall grid in your favorite color.
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  • Store oversize utensils (soup ladels, whisk--anything that can jam drawers) in  a crock or pitcher by the stove.
     
  • Use the dead space under the sink for storage.  Install wire or plastic sliding shelves, or use plastic vegetable bins.  (Position shelves or bins so that you can get to the water shutoff valve easily.)
     
  • Hang a towel rack on the inside of a cabinet for wet dishrags or gloves.
     
  • Get rid of space-taking cookbooks you rarely use, but be sure to cut out or copy favorite recipes first.  Then, using an inexpensive photo album, file them into a personal cookbook.
     
  • Keep favorites seasonings and spices at arm's length but not above the stove.  Heat can destroy a spice's flavor.  Store others in a cool, dark place.
     
  • Save search time by labeling shelves in your freezer.  (I.E.:  Breads and Quick Meals, Vegetables, Desserts and Beverages, and Meat).
     
  • Number lids and bottoms of plastic storage tubs with a permanent marker so they're easy to match up.
     
  • Make use of the space inside cabinet doors.  It's a good place to post information such as kitchen measurements, favorite  recipes and ingredient substitutions.
     
  • Buy an inexpensive foil, plastic wrap and brown bag organizer, and store items neatly inside a pantry door.
     
  • Spread butcher's paper (from an art-supply store) over counters before doing a messy cooking job.  Just wad it up and throw it away when you're finished.
     
  • When a new appliance comes with a supply of extra parts, label them and store them in a designated parts box in the garage.
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    Family Circle 11/1/98


     

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    (c) Copyright Carin Gibbs 1999  The information contained in these pages is not to be reproduced in any way for any use other than private, personal use.

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