When it comes to organizing your kitchen counters, it’s important to strike a balance between function and aesthetics. Your counters should have items that are useful for daily tasks but also leave enough space for cooking preparation. From practical kitchen utensils to eye-catching canisters and fruit bowls, here are some essentials to consider when arranging your kitchen counters.
- Kitchen Utensils
- Kitchen Appliances
- Cutting Boards
- Paper Towels
- Pepper & Salt Mills
- Dish Racks
- Canisters
- Fruit Bowls
- Knife Blocks
1. Kitchen Utensils
Kitchen utensils such as forks, spoons, peelers, graters, and spatulas are vital tools for cooking and meal prep. However, to avoid cluttering your countertop, be strategic about what you place on display. Storing your most-used items, like mixing bowls and kitchen shears, in easy-to-reach areas while keeping less frequently used utensils in drawers will create a more organized and functional space.
2. Kitchen Appliances
Small kitchen appliances like blenders, toasters, and coffee makers are everyday essentials, but keeping too many on the counter can make the space look cluttered. To maximize counter space, only display appliances you use regularly, such as a coffee maker or blender. Other less frequently used appliances can be stored in cupboards or pantry spaces.
3. Cutting Boards
Cutting boards are an essential kitchen tool, especially when you’re prepping meals. Having one or two cutting boards on your counter can be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Opt for sleek, wooden or plastic cutting boards that can easily fit into your kitchen’s design while remaining accessible for frequent use.
4. Paper Towels
Paper towels are another kitchen necessity, but their placement should be thoughtful to maintain cleanliness. Keep them in a dispenser or on a stand to avoid them getting dirty or wet. A stylish holder can also contribute to the overall look of your kitchen while keeping this practical item within reach.
5. Pepper & Salt Mills
Pepper and salt mills are often used daily, and having them on the countertop ensures they’re always within arm’s reach. Choosing aesthetically pleasing mills made from ceramic or carbon steel adds a modern touch to your kitchen decor, making them functional and stylish accessories for your countertops.
6. Dish Racks
Dish racks are a must-have for kitchens without a dishwasher or for hand-washing specific items. Opt for a covered dish rack to prevent dust from settling on clean dishes. A well-designed, compact dish rack can be both a practical and space-saving addition to your counter.
7. Canisters
Canisters are excellent for storing snacks or staple food items like flour, sugar, and pasta. They help keep your kitchen organized while adding a decorative touch to your counter. Choose canisters with airtight lids to ensure the freshness of the contents and to prevent spills.
8. Fruit Bowl
A fruit bowl not only serves as a convenient place to store fresh produce but also adds a burst of color to your kitchen. Apples, bananas, oranges, and kiwis are common choices that look great in a decorative bowl. Having fresh fruit readily available also encourages healthy snacking.
9. Knife Blocks
A knife block on your kitchen counter offers quick and easy access to knives during food prep. Instead of rummaging through drawers, keeping your knives in a block ensures they are organized and safely stored, while also freeing up drawer space for other utensils.
What NOT To Put On Kitchen Counters?
While it’s tempting to leave everything on the countertop for easy access, certain items are better stored elsewhere to avoid clutter, maintain cleanliness, and improve kitchen safety. Here’s a list of things you should avoid placing on your kitchen counters.
- Bulky Appliances
- Phone Chargers
- Cleaning Products
- Mugs & Glasses
- Cookbooks
1. Bulky Appliances
Bulky appliances, especially those that are rarely used, take up too much valuable counter space. Instead of leaving large items like stand mixers or food processors on the counter, store them in cabinets or pantries until needed.
2. Phone Chargers
Phone chargers should never be left on kitchen counters due to the risk of spills or heat exposure. Spilled liquids can cause electrical damage, and plastic chargers may melt if placed too close to heat sources, creating a fire hazard.
3. Cleaning Products
Storing cleaning products on the counter is not only unsightly but can also pose a safety risk. The heat from kitchen appliances can cause chemical bottles to degrade, leading to leaks or dangerous reactions. Keep cleaning products under the sink or in a designated storage area.
4. Mugs & Glasses
Mugs and glasses should be stored in cabinets to avoid accumulating dust or getting dirty. Leaving them on the countertop can also lead to accidental spills, which could result in broken glass. Cabinets are a safer and more organized place for these items.
5. Cookbooks
Cookbooks may seem convenient to keep on the counter, but they can easily get dirty from food splatter. To preserve your favorite recipes and keep the kitchen tidy, store cookbooks in cabinets or on shelves where they’ll stay clean and accessible.