6 Best Kitchen Organizing Tips

This post may contain affiliate links. See my disclosure statement for details. 

Our kitchens get lots of use and abuse! For most of us, our kitchens are really “the heart of the home”. Here are 6 best tips of organize your kitchen and make it not only functional but pretty too!

Most of us would say that our kitchens are the heart of our homes. And they can get used hard! Today, let’s talk about the best kitchen organizing tips and ideas. We are not talking about organizing the cabinets or shelves but about creating effective, attractive areas in your kitchen that work for you and others.

Let’s look at the best kitchen organizing tips and ideas that focus not just on tidying up your cabinets or shelves but zeroing in on creating effective, attractive areas in your kitchen that truly work for you and everyone who steps into it.

If you’re a cook like me, and your kitchen is a bustling hub for breakfasts, lunches, dinners, or even weekend entertaining, you know that cooking and prep space is at a premium. And if you’re also like me, you want your kitchen to be not only functional but a little fabulous, too!

Balancing a working kitchen with a beautiful one might sound tricky, but it’s absolutely doable. With a few smart strategies, you can make your kitchen the perfect blend of practicality and style.

Now, let me say upfront: today’s post is more of a friendly reminder than a revelation. These tips aren’t groundbreaking, but they’re definitely worth revisiting because sometimes, we all need a nudge to embrace smart and simple ideas, right?

So, let’s get to it! Here are 6 best kitchen organizing tips to help you love your kitchen even more.

Best Kitchen Organizing Tip- Keep Clutter Away

Of all the kitchen organizing tips, this one truly stands out as THE BEST!

Let’s face it even the most beautiful kitchens can quickly lose their charm when clutter takes over. My kitchen leans toward being pretty utilitarian, and one thing I can’t stand is clutter, especially on my counters. I’ve made it a non-negotiable rule that my counters are not a dumping ground for papers, book bags, purses, or random piles. If something gets misplaced there, I quickly return it where it belongs.

If your kitchen tends to attract clutter, don’t worry—there’s an easy fix!

• Start Fresh: Clean off all surfaces in your kitchen. Just clear the space, even if it means temporarily placing the clutter in a box or bag. It’s a game-changer to see those clean counters!
• Set the Rule: Make it a hard and fast rule that counters are only for functional or decorative items that belong in the kitchen. Enforce this rule for yourself and your family because it’s a simple way to prevent chaos.
• Keep Counters Clean: A sparkling clean counter naturally deters clutter. Take a few moments each day to wipe down surfaces and enjoy the calm it brings to your space. I use Thieves cleaner, diluted in a spray bottle. It smells wonderful!

When my kids were growing up, our kitchen island was a favorite spot for homework. I loved seeing them work there, but we had a system: as soon as homework was done, everything was put away immediately. Now, my little granddaughter loves using the island for coloring and sticker art, and I’m teaching her the same habit of tidying up when she’s finished.

This tip isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about creating a kitchen that feels inviting and functional. By keeping clutter at bay, you’re making your kitchen a space where cooking, gathering, and even creativity can shine.

We put baskets under the banquette in the kitchen that are now filled with small toys, books, coloring books, crayons, watercolors, and more! These were originally going to stash cookbooks and other things like placemats and napkins, but they found a much better use.

Clearing off all kitchen surfaces will make the biggest difference in how your counters look and how you feel!

What To Do With Small Appliances

I adore the look of Ina Garten’s kitchen, Her appliances look stellar in that massive space! And don’t even get me started on the dreamy kitchen from It’s Complicated. Sigh… those kitchens are the stuff of dreams!

Unfortunately, like many of us, I don’t have the luxury of endless counter space to showcase every gleaming appliance. In a real-world kitchen, appliance clutter can quickly make our kitchens look and feel crowded and take up valuable workspace.

So, what’s the solution? It’s simple: prioritize and put away.

• Keep Only What You Use Daily: If you don’t use an appliance almost every day, it doesn’t belong on your counter. Think about your coffee maker, toaster, or maybe a stand mixer. If it’s not a daily necessity, find it a home out of sight. I use a blender every day to make a smoothie. Instead of keeping my Vitamix on the counter, I opted for a small, attractive, retro mini blender that does just the trick, making perfect smoothies. Its styling looks nice tucked behind a lamp in the kitchen.
• Evaluate Your Collection: Take a good look at your small appliances and ask yourself, “Do I really need this?” If an appliance isn’t serving you regularly, it’s just taking up space. I recently parted ways with a toaster oven and our toaster. I liked them, but I didn’t use them often enough to justify the space they occupied. And our oven works just as well.
• Say Goodbye to Duplicates: For goodness’ sake, no duplicates! You don’t need a spare appliance “just in case.” One reliable version of each tool is more than enough for most households.
• Create Smart Storage: For appliances you use less frequently, designate a specific storage area. My pantry houses overflow appliances, and for the “overflow of the overflow,” I use space in the garage. Yes, it’s a few extra steps to retrieve them, but the trade-off for clean counters is well worth it (a little exercise doesn’t hurt!).
• Rotate Seasonally: Some appliances, like a slow cooker or bread maker, may only see action during certain times of the year. Store them further out of reach when not in use, and bring them back into rotation when needed.

Ultimately, keeping your small appliances in check helps create a kitchen that feels open, functional, and visually appealing—no matter its size. With a little effort, even the smallest kitchens can achieve that dream-kitchen vibe!

Create Kitchen Stations Or Zones

When it comes to the best kitchen organizing tips, this one comes in at a close second to keeping your kitchen clutter-free. Creating kitchen stations is a game-changer for both efficiency and style!

Think of kitchen stations as little work zones, each designed for a specific function. The goal? To have everything you need for a task right at your fingertips. But here’s the golden rule: keep them simple and pretty. Overcomplicating a station or zone will make it harder to use and less aesthetically pleasing!

Meal Prep Zone

A meal prep station is a lifesaver for busy cooks! Designate a section of your counter or island for preparing meals. I delegate the center of the U-shape in my kitchen for meal prep. This area sits between the sink and the stove.

• What to Include: Cutting boards, knives, measuring cups, prep bowls, and a garbage bowl for food scraps. If space allows, a small utensil holder for spatulas or peelers is handy, too.
• Storage Tip: Use a nearby drawer for items like vegetable peelers, can openers, or small kitchen shears.
• Enhancement: Add a pretty butcher block cutting board that stays in place, doubling as a decorative element.

Coffee Zone

For coffee lovers like me, a coffee zone is a must-have for streamlined mornings and cozy coffee breaks.

• What to Include: Place your coffee maker or espresso machine at the center, with cups, coffee pods, or ground coffee nearby. Add sugar, stirrers, and a milk frother if you use one.
• Storage Tip: Use a tray to corral items like a decorative sugar container and a small jar for stirrers. Consider a drawer organizer for coffee pods or filters. If there are cupboards directly above your Coffee Zone, use them to store mugs and other dry essentials.
• Enhancement: Add a small, framed message or an inspiring quote like “But first, coffee!” for charm.

Drink Zone

Whether you’re a smoothie lover, tea enthusiast, or cocktail connoisseur, a drink station can be tailored to your needs.

• What to Include: Keep a small, attractive blender and cocktail tools like a shaker and strainer here.
• Storage Tip: Use a small tray to corral essentials, making the area look tidy and purposeful.
• Enhancement: Include decorative glasses or a vase of fresh herbs like mint for cocktails or tea.

Cooking And Baking Zone

Combine cooking and baking essentials into one zone to make meal prep and special projects like baking cookies effortless.

• What to Include: Keep frequently used spices, oils, and utensils like tongs, spatulas, and measuring spoons here. Baking essentials like flour, sugar, and mixing bowls should also live in this zone. Put the most used items on a wooden lazy Susan and add a small potted herb for an easy-to-access and attractive display
• Storage Tip: Use clear jars for dry goods and tiered racks for spices to maximize vertical space. A small drawer organizer for measuring cups and spoons can keep things tidy.
• Enhancement: Add a cookbook stand to display recipes or a decorative crock for frequently used utensils.

Cleaning Zone

A cleaning zone keeps supplies accessible and makes tidying up easy.

• What to Include: Store dish soap, sponges, microfiber cloths, and cleaning sprays under the sink. Include a decorative soap pump for style.
• Storage Tip: Use a pull-out shelf or organizer to maximize space.
• Enhancement: Use attractive reusable paper towels called Swedish dishcloths.

Pantry Zone

Optimize your pantry with a zone for frequently used staples.

• What to Include: Store dry goods like pasta, rice, and beans in clear containers. Keep snacks and baking supplies here as well.
• Storage Tip: Use tiered shelving for spices and stackable bins for larger items.
• Enhancement: Add baskets for produce like onions or potatoes to create a farmhouse feel.

Assess how you use your kitchen to create zones that work for you and your family.

Have One Big Designated Work Area

Every cook needs a workspace, and the bigger, the better! Having a designated work zone is essential. If you have an island, it’s probably your go-to surface, but if not, don’t worry—just be ruthless in following tips 1, 2, and 3 to clear space and maximize your counters.

The key to a functional work zone is keeping it clear and purposeful. The more uncluttered counter space you have, the more room you’ll have to prep, cook, and stay organized!

My Work Zone Setup

In my U-shaped kitchen, I’ve designated the middle counter area as my primary work zone. It’s large, bare, and perfect for meal prep and food preparation. Everything I need is conveniently stored within arm’s reach:

• On The Counter: I keep my kapoosh of most-used knives and a set of kitchen shears on the counter within easy reach.
• Top Drawers: These hold my most-used tools like measuring spoons, a knife sharpener, zester, garlic press, and lemon reamer.
• Middle Drawer: This is home to storage essentials like bags, foil, plastic wrap, and parchment paper.
• Bottom Drawer: I’ve tucked away my vacuum bag sealer and its bags here, keeping it handy but out of the way.

Nearby Storage

• Left Turntable: This holds bowls, measuring cups, mason jars, and other essentials I use frequently when cooking or baking.
• Right Turntable: Here, I keep cooking staples like oils, sugar, flour, and other frequently used ingredients. Having these close by makes meal prep so much smoother.

Trash Drawer

One feature I absolutely love in this kitchen is the large bottom drawer under my work zone that houses the trash can. It’s perfectly positioned to let me sweep scraps directly off my cutting board and into the trash—a small detail that makes a big difference when cooking!

Why I Love My U-Shaped Kitchen

I never would have thought a U-shaped kitchen would suit me, but now I can’t imagine cooking in any other layout. Everything is convenient, with plenty of counter space and easy access to all my tools and ingredients.

Helpful Tips For Maximizing Your Kitchen’s Work Space

• Keep It Clear: Follow tips 1, 2, and 3 to ensure your workspace remains uncluttered and functional.
• Optimize Storage: Store your most-used tools and ingredients within arm’s reach.
• Customize to Your Needs: Tailor your work zone to your cooking style. If you bake more than you cook, prioritize baking tools and ingredients.

Create A Beautiful Focal Point Or Vignette

Now we’re talking my decor love language! A kitchen may be a workspace, but that doesn’t mean it can’t also be beautiful. Adding a decorative focal point or vignette brings warmth, charm, and your personality to the space, making it a joy to spend time in.

The Key to Beautiful Kitchen Decor

Choose one or two areas in your kitchen to decorate to have something lovely to look at. The goal is to strike a balance between beauty and functionality, keeping your decorations limited to designated spots so they don’t interfere with cooking or meal prep.

Ideas for Decorative Focal Points

• A Styled Tray, Baskey, or Cutting Board: Use a wooden tray, low-sided basket, or cutting board as a base for a vignette. Add a small vase of flowers or nod to the season, a decorative candle, and a ceramic container filled with utensils. The tray keeps everything corralled and visually cohesive.
• Seasonal Decor: Rotate your vignette seasonally, adding touches like pumpkins in the fall, greenery at Christmas, or fresh lemons in the summer.
• Cookbooks and Art: Prop a favorite cookbook on a stand or add a small piece of framed art that complements your kitchen’s style.

My Approach to Kitchen Vignettes

I keep all non-functional decorations corralled to one or two areas, away from where I cook. This keeps my workspace clear while letting me indulge in my love for decor. A favorite spot for a vignette in my kitchen is the corner of the counter near the sink. There’s just enough space to create something pretty without getting in the way of prepping and cooking.

Pro Tip: Keep It Simple

When creating a vignette, less is more. Too many items can overwhelm the space and defeat the purpose of having a decorative focal point.

Decorating your kitchen isn’t just about organization—it’s about creating a space that feels inviting, warm, and uniquely you. A well-placed vignette can make all the difference!

Enjoy Things You Love

The kitchen is often the heart of the home, and if you’re like me, you spend a lot of time there. So why not make it a place that brings you joy and inspires creativity? Surround yourself with things you love and create a working sanctuary of culinary delight!

Surround Yourself With Beauty

Your kitchen doesn’t have to be purely functional; it can be beautiful, too. Incorporate items that make you happy, whether they’re decorative pieces, fresh flowers, or even a favorite piece of art. These personal touches add warmth and personality, making your kitchen a space you truly enjoy.

Fresh Food and Herbs

For me, having fresh herbs on my island is non-negotiable. They speak to my soul and elevate the way I cook. Plus, they’re beautiful to look at! A small pot of basil, rosemary, or parsley adds greenery to the kitchen and makes it easy to grab a sprig when cooking.

Tips for Surrounding Yourself with What You Love

• Incorporate Personal Touches: Display a beloved cookbook, a cherished family recipe in a frame, or a colorful bowl filled with seasonal fruit.
• Add Freshness: A vase of flowers, a bowl of lemons, or a plant like fresh herbs can bring life and vibrancy to your kitchen.
• Use Pretty and Functional Items: Choose utensils, storage containers, or cutting boards that are as beautiful as they are practical. Think ceramic utensil holders, marble trivets, or glass jars for pantry staples.

Make It a Space That Inspires You

Your kitchen should inspire you to create, cook, and gather. Whether it’s through the beauty of fresh ingredients, the charm of a well-curated vignette, or the joy of surrounding yourself with meaningful items, your kitchen can be a place that fuels both your culinary and aesthetic passions.

The best kitchens are those that feel like an extension of you—so fill yours with what you love and let it be a place where delicious memories are made!

I hope you will take stock of your kitchen and implement these 6 best kitchen organizing tips! Create a functional and organized and clutter-free kitchen. And make it fabulous!!!!

You might like these posts too…

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO GROWING HERBS IN YOUR KITCHEN

ORGANIZING SPICES IN YOUR KITCHEN