Things People with an Organized Small Kitchen Never Do 

Things People with an Organized Small Kitchen Never Do  (with some FAQs) 

Welcome to the world of compact yet highly efficient kitchen spaces! In today's fast-paced lifestyle, having a small kitchen is increasingly common, but keeping it organized can sometimes feel like a puzzle. The secret to maximizing this essential area of your home lies not just in what you do, but also in what you consciously avoid doing. People with well-organized small kitchens follow certain principles to maintain functionality without sacrificing style. In this article, we'll explore the key things that these individuals never do, offering insights into how you can transform your small kitchen into a model of efficiency and elegance. 

Never Ignore Vertical Space: Many small kitchens fail to take advantage of the valuable real estate that walls and back of doors offer. By installing floating shelves or wall-mounted pot racks, you can free up cabinet space and keep essential items within easy reach. Also consider adjustable shelf options, that will allow you to change the arrangement as your storage needs evolve, and make sure shelves are positioned where items can be easily accessed.  A back of door rack is also very useful. It can used for food items, measuring cups or saran wrap to name a few.  

Never Overcrowd the Counters: Overcrowding your kitchen counters can make your space feel cramped and chaotic, limiting your work area and making meal preparation difficult. It's best to maintain a minimalist approach, keeping only the appliances you use daily, like a coffee maker or toaster, within arm's reach. Store infrequently used appliances in other areas such as cabinets or pantries to free up counter space.  

Never Forget the Back of Cabinet Doors: The backs of cabinet doors are often overlooked, yet they offer prime storage space for small, flat items and can help reduce clutter. Adding organizers to these areas can maximize storage for things like foil and saran wrap boxes, pot lids, or spices. Magnetic strips can hold knives, freeing up counter and drawer space. Lightweight racks or bins can also be attached to cabinet doors for extra storage, making use of every available inch in your kitchen. Ensure that any added racks or storage solutions don't interfere with the functionality of the cabinet, or the items stored within.  

Never Neglect Organization: A disorganized kitchen can lead to frustration and wasted time during meal preparation. Drawer dividers can help compartmentalize utensils and gadgets, making them easier to find and reducing clutter. For cabinets, consider using shelf risers or under shelf baskets to make the most of the vertical space. Clear bins and labeling can further streamline your organization, ensuring that every item has a designated place. Regular decluttering is also essential; keeping only what you need, and use will help maintain an organized and efficient kitchen space.  

Never Choose the Wrong Size Appliances: Large appliances in a small kitchen can consume valuable space and may overwhelm the room. Before purchasing new appliances, measure your space carefully and consider how often and how extensively you'll use each appliance. Opt for compact models that are designed specifically for smaller spaces, such as slimline dishwashers or refrigerator models that are narrower and have a shallower depth. Multi-functional appliances, like a microwave that doubles as a convection oven, can also save space. Be strategic about where you place your appliances, ensuring they don't obstruct movement or cabinet access.  

Never Block Natural Light: Natural light makes a kitchen feel more open and inviting. Be cautious not to place any furniture or shelving that might cut off the light, particularly in front of windows. Sheer window treatments can provide privacy without sacrificing sunlight, and using glossy finishes on countertops and backsplashes can help reflect light further into the room. Strategically placed mirrors can also amplify natural light, making the space feel larger.  

Never Overlook Multi-functional Furniture: Multi-functional furniture is essential in a small kitchen where flexibility is key. Look for pieces like a kitchen island on wheels that can be moved as needed or a dining table that can fold away when not in use. Consider stools that can tuck under the counter or a butcher block that has integrated knife storage. Even something as simple as a drop-leaf table can provide additional prep space when needed and be folded down to save space. Furniture with built-in storage can hide kitchen linens, serve ware, or even non-perishable food items, keeping them handy but out of sight.  

The art of maintaining an organized small kitchen hinges on avoiding common pitfalls that can lead to clutter and inefficiency. By not ignoring vertical space, keeping counters clear, utilizing the backs of cabinet doors, maintaining organization, choosing appropriately sized appliances, allowing natural light, and investing in multi-functional furniture, you can significantly enhance the functionality and appeal of your kitchen. Remember, a small kitchen doesn't have to mean a cramped or chaotic one. With these mindful strategies, you can create a space that is not only efficient and easy to navigate but also a joy to cook in and a testament to smart design.   

FAQs  

General  

Q: What would you begin with the list above?   

A: Clear your countertops and don’t block natural light sources. These cost nothing and can make an immediate impact.  

Overcrowded Counters  

Q: How can I decide what to keep on my kitchen counters?   

A: Prioritize items based on daily use, and keep appliances that you use frequently, such as a coffee maker or toaster, easily accessible. Store items that you use less often in cabinets or on higher shelves to maintain a clean and functional counter space.  

Q: What are some ways to keep my countertops organized?   

A: Consider using a combination of utensil holders, spice racks, and appliance garages to keep necessary items tidy. Drawer organizers can also be helpful for items that are easily stored away when not in use.  

Ignoring Vertical Space  

Q: How can I effectively use vertical space for storage?   

A: Install open shelving, wall-mounted pot racks, or magnetic knife strips to utilize vertical space. Adjustable shelves can accommodate items of varying heights, and pegboards offer customizable and flexible storage solutions.  

Q: Won't using vertical space make my kitchen look cluttered?   

A: Not if done thoughtfully. Use matching or coordinating storage containers and be selective about what you display to create a visually appealing and organized look.  

Forgetting the Inside of Cabinet Doors  

Q: What can I store on the inside of my cabinet doors?   

A: You can store a variety of items, such as spice jars, measuring cups, or cleaning tools, using mounted racks, or self-adhesive bins. You can also use command hooks for lighter items. 

Q: How do I make sure that adding storage to cabinet doors doesn't interfere with my cabinet contents?  
A: Measure the depth of your cabinet and the items you plan to store inside to ensure there's enough space for door-mounted items without impeding the cabinet's functionality.  

Neglecting Organization  

Q: What's the best way to organize kitchen drawers?   

A: Use dividers or inserts to compartmentalize utensils, cutlery, and gadgets. Group similar items together and keep the most frequently used items within easy reach.  

Q: How often should I reorganize my kitchen cabinets?   

A: It's a good practice to re-evaluate your kitchen organization seasonally or whenever you notice things becoming cluttered. This can also be an opportunity to declutter and remove items you no longer need or use.  

Choosing the Wrong Size Appliances  

Q: How do I choose appliances for a small kitchen?   

A: Look for compact or space-saving models designed for small spaces and consider the appliance's functionality to ensure it meets your needs. Measure your space carefully and think about how the appliance will fit into your kitchen's layout.  

Q: Can large appliances ever work in a small kitchen?   

A: It depends on the layout and your needs. If a larger appliance, like a full-size refrigerator, is necessary, ensure that it doesn't obstruct traffic flow or access to cabinets.  

Blocking Natural Light  

Q: How do I maximize natural light in my small kitchen?   

A: Keep window spaces clear of tall or bulky items, use light or sheer window treatments, and consider reflective surfaces to bounce light around the room.  

Q: What if my kitchen has very limited natural light?   

A: Enhance what light you do have with mirrors and a light color palette. Add under-cabinet lighting and consider installing a skylight or solar tube if possible.  

Overlooking Multi-functional Furniture  

Q: What should I look for in multi-functional furniture for my kitchen?   

A: Search for pieces that serve more than one purpose, such as tables with storage underneath or kitchen islands with integrated seating, that can adapt to your changing needs.  

Q: How can I fit an island into my small kitchen?   

A: Consider a small, movable island that can be rolled to the side when not in use. Ensure there is adequate clearance around the island for comfortable movement.