Declutter Your Small Kitchen: Toss These 20 Items Now
A small kitchen is often a source of both joy and frustration. On one hand, it’s cozy and easy to maintain; on the other hand, limited space can quickly become cluttered, making it difficult to find what you need. Decluttering your kitchen is essential to improving its functionality and creating an inviting space. Whether you’re an avid home cook or someone who uses the kitchen sparingly, a well-organized kitchen makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
This guide will walk you through 20 items you should toss to make your small kitchen more efficient. Additionally, we’ll provide tips for getting started with decluttering, maximizing storage, and keeping your kitchen organized long-term.
Why Declutter a Small Kitchen?
A cluttered kitchen can quickly become a source of stress. You’ll find yourself searching for items, struggling to prepare meals in a cramped space, and feeling overwhelmed by the clutter that surrounds you. But the benefits of decluttering go beyond just creating space. Here’s why it’s worth the effort:
- Improved Functionality: When you remove unnecessary items, you’ll have more room for the tools you actually use. It’s easier to access cookware, utensils, and ingredients when your space is organized.
- Better Cooking Experience: A tidy kitchen makes cooking feel less stressful. With everything in its place, you can focus on the task at hand, not on finding that missing spatula or jar of spices.
- Enhanced Cleanliness: Less clutter means fewer places for dust and crumbs to accumulate. You’ll spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your kitchen.
- Stress Reduction: A clutter-free environment has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety. A kitchen that feels spacious and organized promotes calm and mindfulness.
How to Begin Decluttering Your Small Kitchen?
Before we dive into the list of items to toss, it’s important to take a step back and plan your decluttering strategy. Here are a few tips to get started:
1. Set Realistic Goals
Start by breaking the process down into manageable steps. You don’t need to declutter everything in one day. Choose one area or category to focus on at a time, like countertops, cabinets, or drawers.
2. Declutter in Phases
Decluttering is a process, not a one-time event. Start small and work your way through the kitchen, gradually eliminating items that you no longer need or use.
3. Create a Donation Pile
Have a designated space for items you plan to donate. Don’t let these items pile up in the kitchen for too long—take them to a donation center as soon as you can.
4. Evaluate Functionality
When deciding whether to keep an item, ask yourself: “Do I use this regularly? Does it serve a specific purpose? Will I miss it if I don’t have it?” If the answer is no, it’s time to say goodbye.
20 Items to Toss to Declutter Your Small Kitchen
The following list outlines 20 items that are common culprits of kitchen clutter. By letting go of these unnecessary items, you’ll free up valuable space and improve the overall functionality of your kitchen.
1. Assorted Plasticware
Photo Credit: @kaygarnergrewal
Plastic containers, especially those without matching lids, are notorious for accumulating in kitchen drawers and cabinets. These containers often become warped, discolored, or cracked over time, making them impractical for storage. Consider replacing plastic containers with glass jars or stackable silicone alternatives that offer better durability and aesthetics.
Tip: Swap out mismatched plasticware for a uniform set of containers. It’ll save time and frustration when you’re looking for the right lid!
2. Broken Small Appliances
Photo Credit: @hello_cathyduarte
It’s easy to hold onto small appliances that we think we might fix one day, but in reality, it’s usually more cost-effective to replace them. Items like old toasters, blenders, or coffee makers often clutter countertops and storage spaces. If it’s broken beyond repair, toss it.
Pro Tip: Evaluate the performance of your appliances. If they no longer work well or are taking up too much space, it’s time to invest in a new one.
3. Plastic Bags from Grocery Stores
Photo Credit: @@swalterpackaging
Grocery store plastic bags can quickly accumulate, taking up valuable space under the sink or in cabinets. While they are handy for trash or small storage needs, the reality is you probably have more than you need. Consider using reusable bags for shopping to reduce plastic bag accumulation.
Eco Tip: Recycle any excess plastic bags or repurpose them for other household needs.
4. Condiment Packets and Plastic Utensils
Photo Credit: @sophia_quotidian
How many packets of ketchup, mustard, or soy sauce do you have lying around? These condiment packets can easily accumulate in kitchen drawers or cabinets, taking up valuable real estate. Similarly, plastic forks, spoons, and knives from takeout can pile up and never get used.
Solution: Only keep the condiments you use regularly and consider donating unused takeout utensils to places like schools or workplaces where they might be more useful.
5. Expired Spices
Photo Credit: @peggywhereshouldigo
Spices lose their potency over time, and expired spices can affect the flavor of your meals. It’s a good practice to regularly check the expiration dates on your spice jars and toss anything that’s past its prime. Spices stored improperly (in a damp or warm environment) can also lose their aroma.
Spice Organization Tip: To avoid this issue, label your spice jars with the purchase or expiration date. This makes it easy to see what needs to be replaced.
6. Old Sponges and Scrub Brushes
Photo Credit: @scourasmr
Sponges and scrub brushes are essential kitchen tools, but they don’t last forever. Once sponges start to show signs of wear, like tearing or excessive odor, it’s time to toss them. Scrub brushes that have bent bristles or are no longer effective should also be replaced.
Cleaning Tip: Be proactive about replacing these items before they get too dirty or ineffective. A clean sponge or brush makes scrubbing dishes and cleaning surfaces much easier.
7. Chipped or Cracked Mugs and Glasses
Photo Credit: @jan_neels content?
It’s tempting to hold on to a chipped mug, especially if it’s a souvenir or holds sentimental value. However, cracked or chipped mugs can be dangerous to use, as they may break further. Similarly, chipped glasses can pose a safety hazard.
Replacement Tip: Donate mugs that no longer serve a practical purpose, and opt for new, matching drinkware to create a more cohesive kitchen aesthetic.
8. Warped Cutting Boards
Photo Credit: @dewinkelbrocante
Cutting boards are prone to wear and tear, especially if they are made of plastic or wood. Over time, they can warp, crack, or become difficult to clean. A warped cutting board can be a breeding ground for bacteria, which can affect food safety.
Pro Tip: Regularly inspect your cutting boards for damage and replace them if they’re no longer in good condition. Bamboo or composite cutting boards are durable and eco-friendly options.
9. Burned or Stained Potholders
Photo Credit: @margaretcooter
Potholders are a kitchen necessity, but over time they can get stained, burned, or lose their effectiveness. While some potholders may be used for decorative purposes, the ones you use for handling hot cookware should be replaced if they’re no longer functional.
Tip: Choose potholders made of heat-resistant materials, such as silicone, for better durability. These are often more effective than cotton ones.
10. Rusty or Worn-Out Bakeware
Photo Credit: @cheriecatchpole
Rusty baking sheets and pans can ruin the taste of your baked goods and may lead to uneven cooking. If you can’t get your bakeware clean, or if it’s warped or rusted, it’s time to replace it. High-quality bakeware can make a noticeable difference in the outcome of your meals.
Baking Tip: Invest in durable, non-stick bakeware that won’t warp with use. A few high-quality pans will serve you better than a collection of cheap, worn-out items.
11. Multiple Sets of Mixing Bowls
Photo Credit: @premiahomeco
While mixing bowls are essential for any kitchen, having multiple sets can quickly become excessive. Many people accumulate bowls over time, whether from gift sets or buying them on a whim. Having too many of the same size or type can lead to clutter in your cabinets.
Solution: Keep only the sizes you regularly use and donate any extras. A set of nesting bowls that fits together neatly is perfect for small kitchens.
12. Old or Broken Cooking Utensils
Photo Credit: @jmackesy
Over time, cooking utensils can break, become melted, or get worn out, especially if they are used with non-stick cookware. Nylon spatulas might melt, wooden spoons can splinter, and silicone utensils can lose their shape. Broken or damaged utensils not only clutter up your drawers but can also be unsafe to use.
Pro Tip: Regularly check your cooking utensils for damage and replace them as needed. Consider investing in durable, high-quality options like stainless steel or silicone that last longer and are safer for non-stick cookware.
13. Unused Kitchen Gadgets
Photo Credit: @bamixuk
We’ve all bought gadgets that promised to make cooking easier, only to use them once and never again. These gadgets take up valuable space in your kitchen, often without providing much utility. Whether it’s an avocado slicer, a popcorn maker, or a milk frother, if you’re not using it regularly, it’s time to say goodbye.
Action Step: Do a kitchen gadget audit. Keep only those that add value to your cooking routine, and donate or sell the rest.
14. Extra Pots, Pans, and Casserole Dishes
Photo Credit: @manetteont
Many kitchens have more pots, pans, and casserole dishes than are necessary. If you have multiple frying pans or large stockpots that you rarely use, consider donating them. A small kitchen can get overwhelmed by these bulky items, so focus on keeping only what you need for your cooking habits.
Space-saving Tip: Opt for versatile cookware that can perform multiple functions. A good set of stainless steel or cast-iron cookware can serve you for years and will reduce the need for duplicate items.
15. Expired Food in the Fridge
Photo Credit: @mkmethod
Your fridge can become a haven for forgotten leftovers, expired condiments, and stale produce. Regularly check your fridge and dispose of anything that is past its expiration date or looks unappetizing. Stale food takes up space that could be used for fresh, nutritious ingredients.
Pro Tip: Organize your fridge by category (e.g., dairy, fruits, leftovers) and rotate items so older products are used first. This can prevent food waste and ensure your fridge is always stocked with fresh items.
16. Expired Food in the Pantry
Photo Credit: @realcanadiansperstorefinds
The pantry can often become the most neglected area of the kitchen when it comes to decluttering. Expired canned goods, expired oils, and stale crackers can take up space and become a breeding ground for pantry pests. Regularly checking the expiration dates and removing old items can make a significant difference.
Storage Tip: Store dry goods in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent pantry pests. Organize pantry items by category (e.g., grains, snacks, canned goods) to make it easier to find what you need.
17. Multiple Cleaning Supplies
Photo Credit: @typealifestyleco
If you store multiple cleaning supplies under the kitchen sink or in a cabinet, you may have more than you actually use. Many people hold onto old or ineffective cleaners that take up space. Check your cleaning supplies for products that are expired, redundant, or no longer necessary.
Solution: Streamline your cleaning supplies by keeping only the essentials—multi-purpose cleaners, dish soap, and a few surface-specific cleaners. Dispose of any old or harsh chemicals and store cleaning products in a safe, designated spot.
19. Old, Worn-Out Dish Towels
Photo Credit: @catherine_this_life
Dish towels are a must-have for any kitchen, but like most textiles, they wear out over time. Old, worn-out dish towels may not absorb moisture effectively and can harbor bacteria. It’s important to regularly replace them to maintain cleanliness and hygiene.
Pro Tip: Invest in a few high-quality dish towels and wash them regularly. Keep a set for drying dishes and another set for cleaning up spills.
20. Old or Unused Cookbooks
Phot Credit: @picket_post_antiques
Cookbooks can quickly pile up, especially if you tend to look up recipes online instead. While they can be a great resource, old cookbooks that you rarely use take up valuable shelf space. Consider donating or selling books that no longer inspire you or are available in digital form.
Space-Saving Tip: Keep a small collection of your most used cookbooks, or digitize recipes you love to reduce physical clutter.
Conclusion
Decluttering your kitchen transforms it into a more functional and enjoyable space. By letting go of unused items, expired food, and duplicates, you can maximize efficiency and reduce clutter. Take it step by step, and soon you’ll have a cleaner, more organized kitchen that makes meal prep and cleanup a breeze.
