Kitchen Organization

As a professional organizer, a question people ask me frequently is "Where do I start organizing?" My reply is the kitchen. We all have to eat and in most families, the kitchen is the family gathering spot.

• First, define your goals for the kitchen. Do you want to have family meals around the table? Are you trying to cut food expenses? Do you want to eat healthy? As with any goal...write them down.
• Look for ways the kitchen can support your goals. Does the fridge need to be cleaned out to make room for healthy food choices? Does the kitchen or dining room table need to be cleared of clutter so you can sit down together as a family? Does the cabinets need to be cleaned and arranged to use the oldest food so as not to waste?
• Clear the counter tops. Food prep is so much easier when you have the room to do the preparation. You will save money and time by clearing the counters.
• Tools? If your knives are dull, have them professionally sharpened or replaced. Having too many gadgets clutters a kitchen. How many spatulas, wooden spoons, can openers or whisks do you really need? Do you use the egg slicer, the cheese slicer, the garlic press, the blender, the juicer and the crockpot that the liner isn't removable? If the answer is no, then purge your kitchen of unnecessary items.
• Get rid of chipped mugs and dishes and those plastic containers that are stained, have writing on them (like old Cool Whip containers) and no longer have lids.